Bookends for New Life Theological Seminary Graduates

President Grigg, members of the board, distinguished faculty and staff, graduates and guests: Good afternoon! It’s a pleasure to be here with you to celebrate this graduation for the New Life Theological Seminary. Congratulations on your achievements, graduates!

I have never spoken to a seminary class before you are an intimidating audience to address! Your knowledge of the Word, passion for the Lord, and commitment to serve, is inspiring. I have to wonder if you shouldn’t be speaking to me and my House colleagues instead of the other way around!

So as I was pondering how I could challenge and encourage you, I drew a blank and had to seek the Lord’s perspective on what HE wanted me to share! ☺

So this is what I discovered, as a student at NLTS, you have a gained a wonderful library of knowledge and experience to put to practical use in whatever place He is sending you to serve. The only thing you need now is bookends to keep it all in order for daily access.

I have two bookends to give you as a graduation present!

First, Memorize Scripture! 119:11 “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you”

My calling….. Acts 26: 17-18

My campaign….Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear..”, Ps 37:4-6 “Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you…”, I Peter 3:15 “In your heart, set apart Christ as Lord, Always be prepared to give an answer to any one who asks you to give a reason for the hope that you have…”

My first month of service…..Romans 12:19 “Do not take revenge my friends..”

God gave me this bookend to prepare me for service and then showed me how to use it!

The need for the second bookend didn’t become evident until several years later when I lost an election. I had sensed throughout the entire campaign that something was wrong. By the time I realized that it was spiritual warfare, it was too late. I had not armed myself adequately and failed to make strategic adjustments.

So the second bookend it this, never forget that you are a soldier of Christ and you are going into battle. Every morning you must get up and get dressed.

Put on the full armor of God, Eph 6: 10-18 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God that you may…” (Review amor and how to put it on.) Story about importance of prayer team to cover back.

Fruit of the Spirit, Gal 5:22

Enter the battle without fear, Is 41:10 “Do not fear…”

Story of WRTK