In looking for some sermon illustrations the other day, I stumbled across this headline that captured my attention: Is it morally wrong to be “filthy rich”?
The article revealed a joint research study by the University of Southern California and the University of Massachusetts Amherst that examined how people across 20 countries judge excessive wealth.
The study exposed an interesting paradox. Continue reading
Filed under Discipleship
Imagine a man commuting to work on the train every morning.
He sits in the same seat, often surrounded by the same group of people. He never preaches a sermon or hands out Bible tracts, but over time, his fellow passengers notice something about him. He’s patient when the train is delayed, kind to the conductor, and quick to give up his seat to someone who needs it. Continue reading
Filed under Passage To Ponder
I frequently use ChatGPT for research and creating graphics for ThePreachersWord, as well as for occasional PowerPoint presentations. However, I never thought about having a “relationship” with AI.
Apparently, for one man, Chris Smith, that’s not the case. Chris created a chatbot he named Sol, developed an emotional relationship with it, and even asked Sol to marry him. Continue reading
Filed under Discipleship
Lord, help me to live from day to day
In such a self-forgetful way
That even when I kneel to pray
My prayer will be for–Others.
You may recognize these words as the first stanza from the hymn “Others” written by Charles D. Meigs. According to some research by Jeff Mowery, Meigs’ inspiration for the hymn came from General Ballington Booth. Continue reading
Filed under Be Zealous. 2025 Theme
Greetings from Beverly Hills, FL
This week has reminded us that we live in a dark world. A world of hate. Vindictiveness. Vengeance. A wicked world of sin that seems to know no shame. We hope that, in some small way, our posts provide a respite from all the negativity around us. It’s our desire to offer a perspective that sheds light and gives you some help, hope, and peace. Continue reading
Filed under Weekly Recap
Filed under Discipleship
Why?
Yesterday’s shocking assassination of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk left pundits and reporters searching for answers. Many are asking, “Why?” Others wonder out loud, “What is wrong with our country?” “With our world?” “And with the political rancor that divides our country? Continue reading
Filed under Discipleship
As football begins, I’m reminded of the story of Johnny, who loved playing sandlot football, but was just a scrawny, little kid and a bench warmer on his high school team.
Johnny’s chance came when the first-string quarterback broke his ankle, and he became a starter. His dream was to play college football at Notre Dame, but he was rejected. The University of Pittsburgh offered him a scholarship, but he failed the entrance exam. Finally, the University of Louisville offered him a scholarship. Continue reading
Filed under Passage To Ponder
My friend and fellow Rotarian, John Grant, publishes a weekly email entitled “Thoughts on Life.” It’s a collection of articles, inspirational stories, motivational quotes, and various lists for living.
Last week, John’s email contained a short, simple list called “7 Secrets of Life.” I’m not sure if this is John’s personal list or from an unknown author. Nevertheless, what struck me was that this practical wisdom has a basis in God’s Word. Continue reading
Many of you likely have a can of WD-40 in your home. My Dad used it often to penetrate tight bolts and squeaky hinges, as well as for lubrication.
But, do you know what WD-40 stands for? Continue reading
Filed under Be Zealous. 2025 Theme
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