A Note from Kim:
Robert Brawley was a member of the NC Legislature when we lived in Mooresville, NC, in the 1980’s. I knew that Robert was a Christian, as my husband was a friend and supporter of his during our time of ministry at Eastside Baptist Church in Mooresville. I follow Robert’s posts on Facebook as he daily challenges folks to “be in church on Sunday” and to faithfully walk with our Lord Jesus Christ remaining true to the gospel. Through reading his posts and knowing of Robert’s life of integrity in the political arena, I asked Robert to share his thoughts on a favorite Proverb. It is a blessing to know that there are still a few good men, men of integrity, serving in public office throughout our country. We need to pray for the men and women who serve in our government to remain faithful, not ashamed of the gospel of Christ (Romans 1:16) and willing to stand for what is right and just. In fact, the apostle Paul urges us, who are the church in I Timothy 2:1-2:
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
It is interesting the praying for all people is not just about everyone else, but also about US “that WE may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
Thank you, Robert, for sharing your thoughts on Proverbs 3 today.
Proverbs 3:13-22
Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding,
For she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.
She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.
Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor.
Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace.
She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed.
By wisdom the LORD laid the earth’s foundations, by understanding he set the heavens in place;
By his knowledge the watery depths were divided, and the clouds let drop the dew.
My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion;
they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck.
Many times the Lord reminds us that wisdom is better than gold and silver, better than material possessions. Here we are reminded that the Lord used wisdom to lay the foundation for earth and everything in it. He tells us wisdom is the key to long life, productive life and those who hold to wisdom, truth and integrity will share peace and prosperity. We have a responsibility to learn as much as we can about the earth and God’s plan for us, learning is a life long involvement. Learning begins with our first breath and only God knows what we learn with the last breath. God continue to teach us , Amen
Follow Robert’s posts on Facebook.
About Robert
Born and raised in Iredell County, Robert Brawley went to Raleigh in 1962 to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Engineering at NC State University. As a student athlete, Robert was the ACC Wrestling Champion in his division in 1964 and 1966, as well as being voted the ACC Tournament’s Most Outstanding Wrestler in 1964 and 1966. May 15, 2016 Robert was inducted into the North Carolina Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame as an Outstanding American.
In 1967, while attending college, Robert began his service to the people of North Carolina when he joined the N.C. Army National Guard where he served for more than twenty-four years as a helicopter pilot,retiring as a Lt. Colonel and later inducted into the NC National Guard Academy Hall of Fame.
He earned his degree in Engineering Operations from NC State University in 1968 and by 1980, his public service expanded into the political arena when he launched his bid for the North Carolina General Assembly, successfully campaigning to represent the 43rd house district, which included parts of Alexander, Catawba, and Iredell counties. He used his education to build insurance agencies, a construction business, and a ladies’ dress shop. This was for five children to have an opportunity for college.
Robert served the citizens of the 43rd District for eighteen years, from 1981 until his retirement in 1998, and received the “National Legislator of the Year” award in 1995 by the National Republican Legislators Association and serving as President of the National Republican Legislators Association in 1996. During his service he served as chair and/or vice chair of various committees and received numerous awards for meritorious service.
Robert served as Sunday School teacher and church lay speaker for over thirty years. He is a member of and served as officers in the Mooresville Lions Club, Mooresville Rotary Club, Masonic Lodge 496 and a counselor for Boy Scouts.