Appleton Oaksmith's life was marked by controversy and transformation. Born into a life of privilege, he became embroiled in the slave trade, outfitting ships for the slave trade and even working as a Confederate blockade runner. However, he later underwent a remarkable transformation, becoming a pro-black civil rights politician in North Carolina. His story is a complex and intriguing one, full of twists and turns that span the entirety of the Civil War era. [... more]

Appleton Oakesmith, a man born into privilege, took to the sea and led the U.S. on a wild goose chase that became a political crisis in 1864. He was involved in the slave trade, worked as a Confederate blockade runner, and was eventually pardoned by Ulysses S. Grant. Oakesmith's life took a remarkable turn when he became a pro-black civil rights politician in North Carolina, advocating for black political rights and civil rights in the state legislature. [... more]

Abraham Lincoln's decision to refuse a pardon for Nathaniel Gordon, a slave trader, highlights the complexities of morality and humanity during the Civil War. Gordon's story raises questions about the value of human life and the dignity of people, particularly those who were enslaved. [... more]

The importance of maintaining a close relationship with Christ and being mindful of spiritual neglect and carelessness, which can lead to a backslidden condition and affect one's witness and testimony. [... more]

Derelicts of once radiant believers now waste away, useless and without purpose, having deliberately and willfully departed from the truth. The Word of God is the chart to guide believers through life's storms, and neglecting it can lead to shipwreck. Head-on collisions with others, whether in the church or at home, can also cause believers to sink, stealing away their joy and peace. [... more]

Apostle Paul and his companions find themselves shipwrecked on the island of Malta, where they experience extraordinary kindness from the natives, despite being exhausted and in danger. Paul's humility and willingness to serve others are revealed as he gathers sticks in the rain, and he is bitten by a snake, but shows no harm. The islanders are amazed by Paul's character and power, and he uses this opportunity to minister to the people, healing the father of Publius and many others, and producing fruit in the most unusual of places. [... more]

A stormy journey with Apostle Paul serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity. Paul's experiences, as recorded in Acts 27, demonstrate how God's presence can be felt even in the midst of turmoil, and how trusting in His plan can lead to unexpected outcomes. [... more]