Monthly Archives: November 2023

November 30, 2023 · 7:05 am

“If There Was a God…”

My good friend and preaching colleague, Ralph Walker recently sent me an article by Judd Garrett about Megan Rapinoe, a “highly decorated member of the US Women’s National Soccer Team.”

If you watch women’s soccer you may remember she “became a controversial figure due to her protests of our National Anthem.” In her final professional match, Rapinoe tore her Achilles tendon in the first six minutes.

In the post-match press conference, she said, “I’m not a religious person or anything and if there was a god, like, this is proof that there isn’t.” Continue reading →

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November 29, 2023 · 4:29 am

2 John 1-11

Several years ago the pollster, George Barna, wrote a book entitled “What Americans Believe.” It contained his annual survey of the values and religious views of our citizens.

Those interviewed were asked, “Do you agree strongly, agree somewhat, disagree somewhat, or disagree strongly with the following statement: There is no such thing as absolute truth; different people can define truth in conflicting ways and still be correct.” Continue reading →

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November 28, 2023 · 4:28 am

A Special Day of Giving

A New Hampshire man, Geoffrey Holt died last week with a  big secret.

The 83 year old caretaker of a mobile home park in Hinsdale, a town of 4,200 people, lived a curious life. Although he once taught Driver’s Ed, he had given up driving his car and rode around town on a lawn mower. He lived in a trailer with very little furniture, no TV or computer and wore threadbare clothes.

His secret? Continue reading →

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November 27, 2023 · 4:27 am

Increasing Your Capacity

Methuselah is said to be alive and flourishing. No, not the ancient antediluvian in Genesis, but a date palm tree grown from a 2,000 year old seed.

According to Smithsonian Magazine, as well as National Geographic, the antique seed was discovered at the remains of Masada, an ancient fortification perched on a rock plateau in southern Israel.

The seed was planted and has grown into a flourishing tree. A 2022 article in The Jerusalem Post says Methuselah (pictured above) is now 4 meters tall. Also it has pollinated a female tree and is producing dates. Continue reading →

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November 22, 2023 · 6:46 am

Psalm 136:1-3

Sunday our family visited the Skyview Church in Pinellas Park where Charles Murray serves as one of the pastors as well as a preacher.

His sermon text was from Psalm 136 on the topic of “Thanksgiving,” which is a wonderful passage for us to ponder prior to our American Thanksgiving Day. Continue reading →

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November 21, 2023 · 7:12 am

When I Don’t Feel Like It

Conservative columnist, Cal Thomas, just released his Thanksgiving column entitled, “Giving Thanks When I Don’t Feel Like It.”

The column reminds us that Abraham Lincoln issued his Proclamation of Thanksgiving in 1863. It was in the midst of the Civil War. Our nation was divided between North and South. Families were fractured. Even some churches were torn apart with different opinions. Continue reading →

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November 20, 2023 · 6:57 am

Mentors Help Us Grow

For about 20 years during my full time ministry with churches I was privileged to have summer interns working with us who wanted to be gospel preachers.

These were invaluable opportunities for young men to  learn how to research, outline sermons, produce class material, write articles, develop relationships, partner with the Shepherds, address important issues, solve problems, and grow spiritually.  Years later, we continue to have a good relationship with many of these men who consider me as a mentor. Continue reading →

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November 18, 2023 · 7:46 am

Weekly Recap: November 13-17

Greeting from Indian Shores Beach, Florida

We’re blessed for the 7th consecutive year to be spending the Thanksgiving holidays at this beautiful beach with all of our family.

Everyone has arrived early and we’re off to a wonderful start of good food, fun, and making special memories.  We hope that each of you have the opportunity to be with family or friends during this time of the year. Continue reading →

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November 17, 2023 · 8:02 am

The Bigger the “Why”….

Jim Rohn is an American author, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker. His simple, down to earth, even folksy method of communication has inspired audiences for decades.

While Rohn’s writings and speech focus on self improvement, leadership, communication and goal setting, there’s definitely a spiritual basis and application in much of his material.

On his facebook page, Jim Rohn Daily Motivation, he offers this insightful thought. Continue reading →

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November 16, 2023 · 6:16 am

Who Possesses the Greatest Power?

Yesterday two of the most powerful men in the world met for a summit in San Francisco. Joe Biden, the U.S. President, and Xi Jinping, the Chinese leader.

While the leaders of both world powers emphasized the need for mutual respect and understanding, most pundits feel the talks will produce little that is substantive. Continue reading →

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