pastor Johney
November 14th, 2005
Pastor Johney went home to glory a few years back around this time (9 Nov) and I thought it is good if I could share some of the things I learned from this simple man of God as I was close to him and he was my spiritual father.
Firstly, humility. He was an unasumming man who never took credit for all the good and the sacrifices he had made for the Lord he served and still serves.
Secondly, holiness. He walked with God in the ancient and proven path. He read and meditated on God’s Word; he prayed; he believed and obeyed the truth. He walked the talk.
Thirdly, enduring faith. He never lost faith when the chips were down. There was always hope; he was an anchor in the stormy seas of the difficult periods of our church’s history. When others would have given up, he patiently continued in a steady faith and hope-filled outlook.
Fourthly, prayer. He prayed consistently with his wife for all the members and concerns of the church, his family and Malayalee community. His faith in the efficacy of prayer is unshakeable.
Fifthly, self-control. Temperance, moderation and the grace to keep in check the desires of the flesh and the natural tendencies. Few will believe if I say that before he encountered the Holy Spirit, he was ouspoken and of strong opinions.
Sixthly, he managed his family well, training them when young and relying more on prayer and persuasion as they grew older. He was prudent with his finances and trusted God for provision and was able to help others financially too.
Sixthly, he had a lot of short stories and witty sayings. He was like a walking Daily Bread devotional. I used quite a lot of his stuff for personal feeding and sermons.
Seventh, he really believed in Bible school training. I remember his quip, “Be fully baked, not half-baked.” …a reference to long-term versus short-term training.
Eighth, I shall go no further though I could, since seven is the perfect number.But I ask myself, “Have I been a good student?”
May his tribe increase!
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