Jerry Roberts is a businessman, organizer of trade shows, and publisher of a business magazine called Directions. His wife, Nellie Joy, is the publicity person for the magazine. Since three years ago, they are also enthusiastic members of our church. The following, under the editorial title Higher Thoughts, is from a 1998 issue of Directions.

–R. Wresch, M.D.

by Jerry Roberts

My wife, Nellie Joy, doesn't know that I'm writing this. Normally, Higher Thoughts draws upon an essay from The Men's Devotional Bible for its message.

Fairly frequently, people compliment me on DIRECTIONS, or on having had a recent successful show, and its always nice to hear those things. However, I've never been comfortable with receiving such praise, and this dates back to my early radio days. Too many people, most far removed from public view, do much of the work which results in an event or magazine working well. It's always been and always will be a team effort. I'm just the guy who gets to stand up and be publicly recognized. Its okay and I'm not complaining. However, I never lose sight of the real facts. Nor do I forget that, although what I do for a living may bring marketing value to our clients and enjoyment to readers and show attendees, it's nothing when compared to what Nellie Joy does.

She lives her life for the Lord and will praise His name at any given moment. He gives her the strength to help raise our three grandchildren, at least two of whom are with her daily. She also gives attention to a multitude of other family members, as well as our daughter Pennee, now 18, who's easing into womanhood. Did I say easing?

Needless to state, it's a full day, every day. Along with the kids, she does some volunteer work, spreading her personal ministry wherever she goes. And she loves to raise her voice to the Lord, singing and helping to organize events for our church choir. She even handles our accounts receivable collections and brightens the day of those people she's trying to get payment from. I sometimes think that certain customers regularly avoid sending in their check, just so she'll call.

She's also part of a women's prayer network, and I often catch her on the phone, comforting someone who has called with a problem or concern.

And she wishes for me to work less, but she understands the requirements of the job even though I know she doesn't always like it. She pretends to agree with me that someday we'll hire more help and that I can take more time off, or that we'll turn the business over to someone else, but I know she's skeptical that such a day will ever come.

Her accomplishments have eternal value, while mine are fleeting. Indeed, one day, someone else will produce these shows and this magazine, with my involvement and recognition fading away as time passes. The bonds to Christ that she builds each day, with our children, grandchildren, other family members, friends and, indeed, persons unknown to her, will be transferred to yet others and shall cross the boundaries of time. I'm convinced that she's fully unaware of the impact of what she does. As well, she shuns any credit. When she finally gets a chance to read this and well before she finishes, she will remind me that it's Him, not her, that deserves the praise.

How could I possibly disagree? He read my heart and knew all that I wanted. Then, He gave her to me.

People who work long and hard run the risk of losing focus of what is really important. It's not the business or the job. While meaningful, those are temporary things and should not be the center of your life.

Nellie Joy would tell you that it's a relationship with your Creator and the family He has blessed you with.

Don't waste another moment. Tell them all how you feel about them. Now.