I had the occasion to remember my friend Paul Dickey this morning as I was reading a comment Mike Ratliff posted about John Owen’s book Mortification of Sin. Paul always wanted us to read Owen.
Next year it will be ten years from his passing. I’m not sure ever publicly posted what I wrote at the time.
One needs friends like this….
Kindred Spirit and Mentor
Shared by: Ron Francis on 10/13/2017
I first really got to know Paul some 10 years ago when I was invited into one of his many men’s small group meetings early Tuesday morning for Breakfast and Bible Study. Over the past years we shared many readings and discussions in the Old Testament and New Testament., including reading the Prophet’s, the Law, Speaches given in the Book of Act’s, every verse about the Apostle Peter, and Faith, Election, and our nearly complete study of the King’s, both Good and Bad.
These times were only of small part of his efforts to lead and encourage men and the many groups that he put time into.
One of my favorites began back in 2009 when we agreed with our friend Art Jackson for begin a weekly reading group, working our way through some of the old neglected writers of faith. This began with a reading of John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress. I mark this as one of the highlights of my own pilgrimage in faith.
We went on to many other works and shared many common thoughts about the church, the Bible and the reformation. Paul’s time with us ended as we were working our way through J.A. Wylie’s epic book – The History of Protestantism. This is a book I plan to finish in memory of Paul.
One of the impressive things I remember about Paul and why he was such a great mentor, was his excitement as I would bring new idea’s I was discovering….only to find out Paul was already so very much familiar with them, and shared his wisdom and learning to encourage me along.
Paul had an extensive library of many of the older writers, much beyond my own, I am certain he will enjoy sharing his thoughts with these men, throughout eternity with them in Christ.
Paul became a dear friend and is missed. Hopefully someday I can live up to his standard.
Ron
Psa 90:10 The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.
Psa 90:11 Who knoweth the power of thine anger? even according to thy fear, so is thy wrath.
Psa 90:12 So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.
Psa 90:13 Return, O LORD, how long? and let it repent thee concerning thy servants.
Psa 90:14 O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.
Rainbow Trout 