Blog

By Dr. Rick Lanford, GUMF Regional Vice President

“Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” – James 1:27

God has placed us where we are for a reason. He has given us gifts, talents, and passions we can use for the good of those around us and advance God’s Kingdom. Where will you serve Him today?

Rev. Keith E. Lawder President/CEO 770-449-6726 877-220-5664 404-906-1425 (Cell) klawder@gumf.org

Dr. Laudis H. "Rick" Lanford Regional Vice President 478-256-7130 (Cell) rlanford@gumf.org

By Dr. Rick Lanford, GUMF Regional Vice President

“Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer.” – Psalm 4:1

We are truly living in times of distress. There is unrest among the population of the world. It is unsettling to witness such pain and suffering from those who struggle with COVID-19. Our economy suffers while many go jobless with no foreseeable resources. O God, give relief, hear our prayer, and be merciful!

Rev. Keith E. Lawder President/CEO 770-449-6726 877-220-5664 404-906-1425 (Cell) klawder@gumf.org

Dr. Laudis H. "Rick" Lanford Regional Vice President 478-256-7130 (Cell) rlanford@gumf.org

By Rev. Keith E. Lawder, GUMF President/CEO

“One more thing–prepare a guest room for me …” - Philemon 1:22 (NRSV)

I love the old Moravian blessing. It begins, “Come, Lord Jesus, our Guest to be.” Hospitality was critical to Paul. Are we ready to offer gracious hospitality to all whom the Lord puts in our path?

Rev. Keith E. Lawder President/CEO 770-449-6726 877-220-5664 404-906-1425 (Cell) klawder@gumf.org

Dr. Laudis H. "Rick" Lanford Regional Vice President 478-256-7130 (Cell) rlanford@gumf.org

By Rev. Keith E. Lawder, GUMF President/CEO

“I, Paul, am writing you in my own hand …” - Philemon 1:19 (NRSV)

I rarely open mail addressed to me or current resident. On the other hand, I always open handwritten notes. Handwritten notes bring a feeling of warmth while suggesting the writer cares. Will you write a handwritten note today to someone who needs her or his spirits lifted?

Rev. Keith E. Lawder President/CEO 770-449-6726 877-220-5664 404-906-1425 (Cell) klawder@gumf.org

Dr. Laudis H. "Rick" Lanford Regional Vice President 478-256-7130 (Cell) rlanford@gumf.org

By Rev. Keith E. Lawder, GUMF President/CEO

“When I remember you in my prayers, I always thank my God …” - Philemon 1:4 (NRSV)

Who are you truly thankful for today? Have you thanked God for them? It is so easy to accept without thanksgiving. I try to keep an ever-expanding list. Thanking God for people by name takes a bit longer, but lifts our spirits and reminds us to be grateful.

Rev. Keith E. Lawder President/CEO 770-449-6726 877-220-5664 404-906-1425 (Cell) klawder@gumf.org

Dr. Laudis H. "Rick" Lanford Regional Vice President 478-256-7130 (Cell) rlanford@gumf.org