Growing up in my teens and early 20’s, John Wayne was probably my favorite actor. I read that he built his thriving career based on the people he observed and made the best out of every situation—no matter what he was handed.

One instance occurred while making the movie Red River Range. In one of the scenes, the Duke kept stumbling over something while walking across the porch. Between stumbles John whispered to the leading lady that the blooper was intentional. As it turned out, the extras on the set were just five minutes shy of earning overtime pay, and the blooper added time to the clock to run the work day into overtime.

John Wayne knew how to boost morale and promote positivity on the set which in turn yielded productivity. Boosting morale added confidence and enthusiasm in making of a great movie.

In I Thessalonians 5:16-18 Paul was directed by the Holy Spirit to write, “Be joyful, pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

We read that we are to obey these three (3) commands. By following God’s will, we find it easier to be joyful and thankful. Let us be challenged in practicing these commands - keeping us positive and optimistic.

When we make a conscious decision to be joyful, to pray continually, and to give thanks in all circumstances, these tendencies can be contagious to our church family and to others we meet and interact with in our walk with God.

In Christian Love,

Wayne Chamberlain, Elder