In 1908, a medical doctor, Dr. Kavanagh, stated that the three most important bones one needs to succeed in life are the backbone, wishbone, and funny bone.  This sentiment has been made popular by singers, coaches, and even preachers.

     We each need a backbone.  Yes, physically to give us stability and movement, but spiritually we need spiritual strength, godly character, and the willingness to stand firm on the truths of God’s Word.  Peter instructs Christians with these words in 1 Peter 3:15, “but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,” and Paul asks for prayers in Ephesians 6:19-20 so he might speak the gospel boldly.  So, yes, Christians need to have a spiritual backbone, hold firmly to the word of God, and make it known.  As it has been said, “One must stand for something, or they will fall for anything."

     Second, we need a wishbone.   The Christian faith is more than a wish; it is a reality, and it is going somewhere, Heaven.  But we need a wishbone, figuratively speaking, because we need to have desire, hope, and confidence.  Paul stated in Philippians 1:6, "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."  Each Christians need to have a clear vision, hope, and confidence that our work and labor in Christ is not in vain (1 Cor. 15:58) and moving in the direction of Heaven.  Faith looks beyond our circumstances and trials of this world and looks toward Heaven.

      Third, we need a funny bone, a sense of humor. Proverbs 17:22 teaches, “A cheerful heart is good medicine.”  Then Ecclesiastes 3:4 states there is a time to laugh.  We all need to laugh from time to time and have a sense of humor.  Life is much better when we can laugh and have a sense of humor, plus it is good for our health.

     May we strive to develop all three “bones” in our lives as we look forward to the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. 

Be God's, Mark T. Tonkery