Clay Barnett, a lawyer in our Consumer Fraud Section, has been working very hard on the firm’s AWP Litigation. He furnished some verses for this issue. Clay told me he had heard the Matthew verses since he was a teenager, but that the verses finally made sense to him when he reached his 30’s. Clay says these are powerful verses and they are. The verses from Philippians also contain a good message for all lawyers. Incidentally, Clay was married recently to Elise Plauché Lirette, a doctor who practices in Montgomery with my good friend Dr. Steve Maddox. Clay and Elise are a couple who have started their marriage on a solid foundation.

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Matthew 11:28-30

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Philippians 2:3-4

Kristie Smith, an employee in the firm, enjoys reading scripture that affects her children. Kristie sent a verse she especially likes for her children, Blake and Brooke, and which she says will work for any person with children. I totally agree with her and it is good for any parent.

For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and always giving joyful thanks to the Father.

Colossians 1: 9-12

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:19

Scarlette Tuley, a lawyer in our Consumer Fraud Section, sent in two verses for this issue. Scarlette specializes in securities litigation and does excellent work. She is not only a very good lawyer, but she is a good person and a dedicated Christian.

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us – they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation. And this expectation will not disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.

Romans 5:3-5

People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at a person’s thoughts and intentions.

1 Samuel 16:7