For more than thirty years, MIKE'S MUSINGS has been an included article with every weekly publication I've written for the various churches of Christ with whom I've labored. Very early in my desires to become a gospel preacher, a number of men whose lives had been dedicated to preaching Christ and Him crucified, "mentored" me. Among these men of faith was a gentleman named FRED E. DENNIS. His efforts for Christ remain well respected in the mid-Ohio valley. He had written a number of books containing short sermons in printed, conversational form. In my library, I have a copy of nearly every book brother Dennis published including one of his first called MUSINGS.

     Brother Dennis permitted me serveral hours of study in his living room, and as well as I would drive him to and from various preaching appointments. On one occasion in the early 1980's, we discussed his book MUSINGS, and it was then he said, "Someday, you can use that title." He died in March of 1983, and by April of that year, MIKE'S MUSINGS appeared in the weekly teaching publication from my hand.

     The word "muse" means simply, "to think about something carefully or thoroughly." Indeed, being a gospel preacher is not the only reason I devote considerable time to "musing." Paul instructed Timothy to do so (1 Timothy 4:15 - 16) and to the church at Philippi, he said, "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." (4:8) Taking the simple things of life and reasoning of how God has placed them in our pathway is a marvelous manner by which to recognize His power and might. Therefore, MIKE'S MUSINGS are just my thoughts on various matters ... thought that prayerfully will encourage you to engage in your own "musings."