Roger Meyer

Many people know the value of good counsel. Businesses hire consulting firms with good credentials and reputations to advise them in many areas, including financial, technical, and legal matters. Without that wise counsel, their businesses could suffer significant losses or even failure. National leaders should also seek sound counsel for the good of their nations.

Another school shooting, one of 27 so far in 2022, took place on Tuesday, May 24, in Uvalde, Texas. The public response to it has been the same as to many other similar tragedies in schools, night clubs, and public venues across the nation: heartbreak, anger, cries for action, and an outpouring of thoughts and prayers. But no real solutions ever come for this violence and bloodshed against our fellow human beings.

British secret agent James Bond, fictional character of novelist Ian Fleming, often introduces himself as “Bond, James Bond.” The writer of the biblical epistle of James introduces himself as, “James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.” Of course, the two figures could not be more different.

But what is a bondservant, and who are bondservants of God? Are all Christians bondservants?

When you talk about pillars, you are talking about support structures. Pillars are often made of wood, stone, or metal, and are used as structural support in a building. A pillar may also refer to something shaped like a pillar or to something that functions in a support role.

It is natural for people to be impressed with big things and disregard small things. However, small and insignificant things may become great. There are many examples, including some in the Bible, that illustrate this truism—that great things often have humble beginnings.

A century-old saying is: “Tall oak trees from little acorns grow.” Indeed, a small seed can grow into a giant tree. From this example alone we should learn the lesson.