Life Lessons From Barney Fife

I grew up watching The Andy Griffith Show. Thanks to reruns, several generations can say that, but I really did grow up watching the original prime time CBS shows. I can remember my uncle would come over to my parent’s home and we would all gather around, watch, and laugh. Barney Fife was our favorite character.

Those shows with Don Knotts as Barney are still the best TV ever produced. They were so well done and portrayed such strong values. You can now purchase whole seasons on DVD. I recently bought Season One, which contained The Andy Griffith Show’s only Christmas episode. While I was watching it recently, I was struck by the scene where Andy Griffith and Eleanor Donahue sing “Away in a Manger.” I guess I had not seen it since I was saved, and it took on a whole new meaning. That might be my favorite episode.

Once, long before I walked with the Lord, I attended a class about how The Andy Griffith Show portrays Christian values. At the time I was not a Christian, but I was a fan of the show and it did get me into church. (For more info on an inspirational study using The Andy Griffith Show, Click Here)

The show represents another time and another place. A simpler, honest, more caring time. Many say the world has moved on and there is no Mayberry today. But as Christians, we should live and exhibit Mayberry values everyday. Now when I watch The Andy Griffith Show, I'm often reminded of The Beatitudes:

Matthew 5:3-10

3"Blessed are the poor in spirit,
      for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
  4Blessed are those who mourn,
      for they will be comforted.
  5Blessed are the meek,
      for they will inherit the earth.
  6Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
      for they will be filled.
  7Blessed are the merciful,
      for they will be shown mercy.
  8Blessed are the pure in heart,
      for they will see God.
  9Blessed are the peacemakers,
      for they will be called sons of God.
  10Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
      for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

The Andy Griffith Show is about love, caring, honesty, strong morals, family, friendship, humility, simplicity, and walking the straight path. Values found ultimately in Jesus Christ.

Do you know Him as your Lord and savior?

Below is a prayer of salvation. We offer this prayer for all who would like to accept Jesus Christ into their life. Just pray the following prayer with all your heart:

"God, I recognize that I have not lived my life for You up until now. I have been living for myself and that is wrong. I need You in my life; I want You in my life. I acknowledge the completed work of Your Son Jesus Christ in giving His life for me on the cross at Calvary , and I long to receive the forgiveness you have made freely available to me through this sacrifice. Come into my life now, Lord. Take up residence in my heart and be my king, my Lord, and my Savior. From this day forward, I will no longer be controlled by sin, or the desire to please myself, but I will follow You all the days of my life. Those days are in Your hands. I ask this in Jesus' precious and holy name. Amen."

That’s it. Congratulations if you sincerely prayed that prayer. It's a decision you will never regret and will bring eternal rewards.

Please contact us via email info@amazinggraceradio.com and we will send you material to help you in your new walk with the Lord.