I was informed that sometime in the past 24 hours my Aunt
Frankie Stroman had passed away. I recalled something
significant in my life that was influenced by her. She was the
youngest of my mother’s siblings. Aunt Frankie was
Pentecostal by denomination which resulted in some
interesting discussions by my mother and her. Aunt Frankie
always had some religious or biblical response for many
behaviors or ideas we had. However, I am reminded of her
unfeigned faith in Jesus and the word of God. (2Timothy 1:5).
When I was first married I smoked cigarettes daily. On one
occasion when we were visiting my grandparents, she observed
me lighting up a cigarette. Her response was, “God can’t work
out of an unclean vessel.” I quickly and quietly left the room.
Later my mother said Aunt Frankie said she would pray for me
to quit smoking. I had no plans to quit cigarettes. I liked the
taste and effect of tobacco. About three weeks later, I got
ready to go to work; I took a pack from the carton, and started
to leave. But, then I had an urge to not smoke. I had no desire
to do so. I threw the pack back in the box. The desire to smoke
was gone. Two weeks passed and I gave away my cigarettes. I
did not smoke again for about a year when I tried to smoke a cigar.
It made me sick. I threw it away and never smoked again.
I suspected it then, but now I know my Aunt Frankie’s prayers
paid me benefits. She interceded for me and I won the victory
without even trying. Remember, your power in prayer and
faith in Jesus works victory for you and others as well.
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