Toward the end of August, a lady who, for many years, was my very good friend passed away. Our paths had not crossed during the past ten years. Some years ago, her husband asked if I would do their services when the time came. Sadly, it came sooner than I had expected. As I traveled to Arkansas to conduct her funeral, my mind went back to memories of this dear sister. Allow me to share some of them with you.
The wife of an elder. "He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the LORD." {Proverbs 18:22} No elder could accomplish his God-given work without a godly wife. Sister Chambers was a worthy woman who loved her husband and the people of God. I've never met a woman who showed more concern for the spiritual welfare of others. She often took the younger sisters aside to give them godly counsel. Why? She loved their souls.
Hospitable. "Be hospitable to one another without grumbling." {1 Peter 4:9} I can't count the number of times I visited in their home during the time I was a member at that congregation. There were Sunday dinners, potlucks, and other special occasions; and when I held two gospel meetings for that church, I stayed in their home. Sister Chambers was a gracious hostess who always made you feel at home and thanked you for coming.
Loved God's word. "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night." {Psalm 1:1,2} When I stayed in their home, every morning and evening I saw sister Chambers reading her Bible. On many occasions, we had deep spiritual discussions about many difficult subjects. More than once, I solicited her advice on biblical questions.
Loved her family. "She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her." {Proverbs 31:27,28} The Chambers had two children-a boy and a girl. Both of them grew up to be fine Christians and rear godly families. One of the three grandchildren is a Christian. I am confident that the two young boys also will become Christians. Billie Chambers was a woman who sought to help her husband in every way-in his profession as a teacher and football coach, raising their children, providing a good home, setting the proper Christian example, and working by his side as he shepherded God's people in his work as an elder.
During 1982 and 1983, I experienced an extremely difficult situation in my own personal life. Felix and Billie Chambers helped me survive that ordeal with my faith intact. They spent many late nights listening and praying with me. Why? They loved me and wanted me go to heaven some day.
On an overcast day, we gathered to say goodbye. I struggled to say the proper words to comfort the family and myself. But my tears were selfish. My sister died just the way she wanted to die-faithful to the Lord. My life will be different, but it is richer because I knew Billie Chambers. May her tribe increase!