I know this is supposed to be a column on planned giving, but I can't resist writing this! Autumn is a time of thanksgiving to God for the blessings of the year. I just praise the Lord for His many blessings and tender care for us. Above all, I am thankful for the Lord Jesus Christ and the peace He gives to us, even in difficult times.

In a world where so many people live in bondage to sin and circumstances, as believers we are free in Jesus! Some of my favorite verses are John 8:32: "... ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free;" Romans 8:1: "... no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus;" Galatians 4:28: "Now we ... are the children of promise" and Galatians 5:1: "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free ..." I am so thankful for the Lord Jesus Christ and all He has given us. I praise Him!

So what about planned giving? Well, it comes naturally from a heart that is filled with gratitude. And that is why we just want to say a big Thank You to so many of you who have contacted us in the last year to ask about making a gift so that others will also learn to trust fully in the Lord Jesus.

If you haven't yet had opportunity to make such plans, we would love to explain how a will or a trust may be just right for you. Please feel free to e-mail us or call our Planned Giving Department at 800-900-9021.

The Quiet Hour confidently supports the following required statement and encourages prospective donors to give it consideration:

THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE. ANY PROSPECTIVE DONOR SHOULD SEEK THE ADVICE OF A QUALIFIED ESTATE AND/OR TAX PROFESSIONAL TO DETERMINE THE CONSEQUENCES OF HIS OR HER GIFT. Payments made under a charitable gift annuity are backed solely by the full faith and credit of the issuing organization, are not insured or guaranteed by an insurance company, are not protected by any insurance guaranty association and are not backed in any way by the states.