The Best of Times…and the Worst of Times

The Best of Times…and the Worst of Times
Written from Heidelberg, Germany (1998) By Tommy Franks

Yes, we are living in the BEST of TIMES and the WORST of TIMES! For the sinner, it will get worse. For the Christian, things will only get better! We have a Divine Destiny. How can we have a constant Visitor of this Magnitude (Jesus) living in our houses and for things to get worse? It's impossible! He got up with me this morning. He talked with me as I was getting dressed. He had breakfast with me a little later. I raised both of my hands and arms toward heaven as I praised Him (this heavenly Visitor) before I left my quarters. He said to me personally, "Son, everything is going to be all right today!"

Don't you just have to love someone like this? Things can only get better for the Child of the King. I have already gone to hell and back; therefore, to go to heaven is the best thing that could ever happen to me or to any Christian. As my precious Father-in-law use to say, "I have no sad tales to tell."

Look up. Move out. Move forward. Move on up! You can do it. Make it happen...for you and others! We can do all things through Him! Read on…

WE CAN DO ALL THINGS!
By Tommy Franks

"I (we) can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me (us)" (Phil.4:13). Do we actually believe these words by Paul? Some do. Some do not. Today let me tell you
about one person who did and still does believe the above Scripture.

Years ago, a little child was born in Aurora, North Carolina. He was the fifth of 11 children and grew up in a three-room farm-house. He failed the first grade and was labeled mentally retarded. He also suffered a speech impediment. His so-called friends made fun of him. However, his mother never stopped believing. She had faith in him. She just knew that one day he would be a role model for all America.

As this young lad grew up in rural North Carolina, his class mates jeered him, joked about him, called him names, and made his life difficult. As he grew to manhood, he fell in love with a beautiful young lady and eventually asked her to marry him. She said, "No, I cannot marry you because you are retarded."

This type of rejection almost broke his heart and certainly caused him a lot of grief and sorrow; yet, he continued to have a good attitude and pursue his dreams and goals. He refused to give in and give up. He developed a dynamic philosophy for business and life: "I am, I can, and I will". He developed a tremendous faith in God. He actually believed Phil.4:13.

Today, this African American entrepreneur, who started with a mere ten dollars in 1967, has built a multi-million dollar Beauty and Hair Empire in Kernersville, NC. His international company (Dudley Products, Inc.) is known for quality products all over the world. Mr. Dudley is a very wealthy man today!

In one of his books (WALKING BY FAITH), he describes his trials, errors, difficulties, his faith in God, determination, and hard work. He also discusses some of the following successful principles which have contributed to his wealth and success:

1. Change Your Attitude to Change Your Life
2. Listen and Read Your Way to Success
3. Choose a Good Mentor and Role Model
4. Overcome Adversity with Determination
5. Accept Challenge in Faith
6. Be Committed and Be Concerned
7. Get Faith to Move Your Mountain
8. Make a Difference in the World
9. Be a Bridge Builder

Mr. Joe Louis Dudley, Sr. has used these principles to solve so many problems
that frequently plague today's society. He truly believes in "walking by faith". He
truly believes that our dreams can come true. He truly believes that we can overcome any
type of setback or obstacles...such as a speech impediment, poverty, a mental retardation
label, and even business failure. He believes that his faith-led journey has contributed to
his success. Mr. Joe Louis Dudley, Sr. truly believes: "We can do all things through
Christ Who strengthens us" (Phil.4:13).

In 1995, Dudley Products, Inc., had sales in excess of $35 Million and over
500 employees. Mr. Dudley is also a leader in education with 16 cosmetology
schools located in North Carolina, Illinois, Florida, Washington, D.C.,
Maryland, Zimbabwe, Africa, and Brazil. His company also provides advanced studies and continuing education. Dudley Products, Inc. operates a manufacturing plant, travel agency, convention center, publishing division, hotel and dormitory facilities. Mr. Dudley was the 1995 elite recipient of the Horatio Alger Award.

As I began this article...do we actually believe the words of the Apostle Paul? Do we believe the words, "We can do all things through Christ Who strengthens us" (Phil.4:13)? Do we? Some do. Some don’t. Mr. Dudley does! I do! And I believe that you do too...because you are continuing to read this article! Good Day!