Old Things
Old Things
Good Morning,
My wife and I noticed the decorating styles of young people and are amazed at how many will buy new IKEA furniture and bypass used solid wood or well-built pieces that will last for decades. IKEA will not last the next few years or even until the next yard sale, let alone for decades to be passed down to children. I am not saying there is anything wrong with this kind of idea when it comes to furnishing a home — just an illustration; but, no one will say, "This cool piece of furniture was my grandmas; it came from IKEA." Can you imagine the antique stores of the future?
Old things might be called time-tested. Many people have read a recently written book on John Adams. Nothing personal against the author, but why read a book written in 2001 about our second president when there are so many other writings available from 150 years earlier (written prior to the influence of modern thinking and anti-American sentiment)?
I obtained a digitally copied biography on George Muller. It was written twenty years after his death. This book, written in the mid-1800s, is more likely to be more accurate than anything people might write today. I was thrilled to find the PDF available online for next to nothing.
I had the opportunity to walk through John Adams’ personal library. I took notes of what books I saw in his collection. I looked through the gift shop for books that were written in the time period of Adams, knowing I could find used copies later. I cherish old books; time-tested and proven. I find it strange how many pastors clamor after newly-written books when they have yet to read a fraction of those written by R.A. Torrey, D.L. Moody, C.H. Spurgeon, or even Baptist history books that were written in the 1600s -1800s.
Sadly, this lack of love and respect for solid, old things also fits into the preachers many are following. I love to read and listen to men who are in Heaven. They have finished their course. They have stood the test of time. I need their guidance and example. No offense, but youth has not been tested; too often they are like IKEA: fashionable, trendy, temporary, and will provide little to pass on to future generations.
Jeremiah 6:16 “...ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls…"
Pastor