Brandon Frymire’s combat experiences (see his testimony) remind me of his grandfather Roy’s warfare of a different sort, although Roy Frymire also served in our country’s military. Brother Roy was the fifth of nine children born to Brandon’s godly great-grandparents. Through the years, dozens of Frymire descendants have faithfully served in Apostolic Faith churches, with many still living and serving.

Brother Roy was among those of his family who quietly, yet effectively, ministered in the work of the Lord. As an elder statesmen of the Gospel, he died at the age of ninety-one. With Paul the Apostle, Brother Roy could certainly have declared, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).

Statesmanship is not simply a matter of becoming elderly. The word statesman describes an individual who has exhibited wisdom and experience over a long and respected career. Brother Roy did not strive for that characterization of himself—it just came with time.

As a new convert in the 1970s, one of my first assignments in the work of the Lord was to make milkshakes in the campground snack bar with Brother Roy. At times the orders piled up, the equipment was uncooperative—and Brother Roy’s new partner proved his inexperience! Yet Brother Roy showed himself kind, patient, and unflappable.

Years later found me working in the Portland headquarters office, with Brother Roy as part of a supportive ministerial staff. Recognizing his statesman qualities, many times I solicited his thoughtful and deliberate perspectives.

Three attributes made Brother Roy the statesman he proved to be. First, he fought the fight. The fight to win an eternal reward is a “good” or worthy fight. Next, he finished the course. In military terms, that is to execute the plan to completion. Finally, he kept the faith. The Scriptural sense draws a parallel with a soldier guarding a fortress. Brother Roy faithfully preserved the Latter Rain Gospel that was entrusted to his keeping.

“Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness” (2 Timothy 4:8). Like the Apostle Paul before him, Brother Roy gained the victor’s reward. We pray that the content of this Higher Way magazine will inspire you to do the same.