Eternal security of the believer is a wonderful doctrine.  The Bible teaches that Christ died for His sheep and no man is able to pluck them out of His hand becaue the Father gave them to the Son and the Father is greater in power than any other.  That doctrine has been preached and heard by thousands and quite misunderstood by most.  Many of us have heard the preacher say that all one must do is get his free ticket and he is bound for glory, leaving the idea that how he travels after that is not part of the plan.  I'm glad the ticket is free to all who believe, but it was not free to our Savior who paid an awful price for our salvation.  He not only suffered the agony of crucifixion, but He also took our load of sin upon His soul.  We cannot even imagine the suffering He bore, because we know about nothing that compares.  How, then, can the masses go on from day to day living in sin and think they are all going to heaven?  I am telling you it is not so.  Beware of such a lie.  The Bible certainly says that the ticket is free, but one must get on the train in order to make the journey and go through the gate at the final destination. 

I have just come from a Bible Conference that was well represented by aging preachers. One of my greatest fears was confirmed: there are few young preachers in Sovereign Grace circles. This is alarming. Of course, I understand that a young man with a family does not have a grand prospect of receiving a substantial salary in the ministry. Most of my fifty years in the ministry have been bi-vocational, and even when I did not work outside the church, my salary was small. Do not misunderstand, however; I am blessed beyond measure. God has divided the few barley loaves and fishes into an abundance of provisions with twelve baskets full left over. And the joy of seeing the hand of God at work is enough reward in itself. I also understand the disappointments and hardships of the ministry. But God has taught us that it all works for our good if we are the called according to His purpose. God has a plan for each of His children. As our wise heavenly Father, He knows best for every one of us. He has milk and honey to satisfy us and riches to sustain us. My soul, He is wonderful.
 
If I could go back to 1959 when I entered the Seminary, the only thing I would change is myself. I would endeavor to be a better father, a more loving husband and a more dedicated pastor. But I would never ask my master to give me an easier assignment. The Lord is my shepherd. He has led me exactly where He wanted me and provided exactly what was best for me.
 
If I could give one word to every young preacher or every young Christian it would be "love." Love the Lord enough to follow His call. Love your neighbor enough to give him a good example. Love God's Word enough to heed its precepts. Love His church enough to give it your best. Love NOT the world, nor the things that are in the world. Only one life will soon be past, only what is done for God will last.