Author Archives: ThePreachersWord

Winning Even When You Lose

“Some things are bigger than sports,” correctly opined David Suggs in sportingnews.com.

We were reminded of this fact (again) as a dramatic, and scary scene unfolded in the first inning during a Little League regional tournament game in Waco, Texas, Tuesday.

With 2 on and 2 out, Texas East pitcher Kaiden Shelton lost grip of a fastball and hit Oklahoma batter, Isaiah Jarvis, on the helmet. Jarvin fell to the ground, clutching his head, as concerned coaches rushed to his aid. Continue reading

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Matthew 17:1-8

Mountain top experiences. They are special. Both literally. And figuratively.

Norma Jean and I enjoy the mountains. We honeymooned in the Smoky Mountains and have been to the top of Clingman’s Dome many times, where on a clear day you can see 7 states. We’ve also marveled at the majesty of the Rocky Mountains and enjoyed the view from over 11,000 ft on the Continental Divide. And we’ve been blessed to enjoy the beauty and the break-taking view from Mauna Loa on the Big Island of Hawaii.

However, all of our experiences pale in comparison to the mountain top experience of Peter, James, and John when they stood on the mountain with Jesus in Matthew 17. Continue reading

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In Times Like These

Last night I was watching The Five on Fox News where Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina was one of their guest hosts.

Scott is one of eleven African-Americans to have served in the U.S. Senate and the first to serve in both chambers of Congress. His rags to riches story that raised him up from poverty to his present position is compelling and inspiring.

When the panel was talking about our current polarizing political divide in the United States, Scott offered an interesting insight. This is nothing new, he observed. Throughout our history, there have been times of conflict and sharp disagreements. “Remember the Civil War?” he rhetorically asked. Continue reading

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Word of the Week: Knowledge

Norma Jean and I have recently returned from a trip to Ontario, Canada. We drove 4,000 miles. During the entire time, I used a GPS.

My #1 GPS choice is WAZE. But occasionally, I would use Google maps. Or Apple. And once in a while the GPS on my Ford Expedition.

The GPS mapped the way for us to arrive at our destination. It provided the most direct route. When obstacles such as road closures, traffic jams, or road construction occurred, the GSP either offered us a brief detour or advised us to stay the course because the slowdown would be brief. Continue reading

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Filed under Renew in '22, Word of the Week

Weekly Recap: July 31-August 5

 

Good Morning from Beverly Hills, FL

Although we thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Ohio and our month-long stay in Canada, it’s good to be home after being away for 40 days. We either preached or taught a class 17 times in the past six weeks. We’re thankful for the opportunity to minister in the Word and for the fellowship of these wonderful brethren.   So, to paraphrase Mark Twain, the reports of my retirement from preaching are greatly exaggerated.

Tomorrow, as well as next Sunday, I will be teaching a class and preaching for the West Citrus Church in Crystal River where we worship when we’re home. Continue reading

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Friday’s List To Live By #95

Winston Churchill is credited with saying, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”

Giving is good. It’s God’s will for His people. Giving may include not only our weekly church contribution but charitable organizations, colleges, clubs, foundations, and individuals in need.

Today’s list offers 10 Biblical guidelines for giving Continue reading

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What Do You Do Best?

A ten-year-old girl, Valeria Yezhova, from Ukraine has recently made international headlines.

In an interview, her mother told reporters, “Valeria asked me how she could help the Ukrainian army. I asked her what she does best, [and] she replied that she is good at checkers.”

“Good” is actually an understatement. She’s the European and world champion in her age group Continue reading

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Matthew 18:1-5

Sitting here in the breakfast room (before it opens) of a Hampton Inn in the early morning hours, I hear the voices of little children ringing in my ears.

No. There’s no one else in here. I’m alone. But the voices I hear are the children from last week’s Wellandport VBS just singing their little hearts out.

“Oh, how I love Jesus…”

“I’ve got the joy, joy, joy down in my heart…” Continue reading

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Filed under Passage To Ponder

Give God All The Glory

“I’ll have to start off by saying all the glory to God,” said U.S. Olympic gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin.

McLaughlin made history last Friday after she broke her own world record in the 400-meter hurdles at the World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon with a time of 50.68 seconds.

The 22-year-old University of Kentucky alumnus added, “These past few days getting ready for this race, Hebrews 4:16 has been on my mind – coming boldly to His throne to receive mercy and grace. And I think He really gave me the strength to do it today, so all the glory goes to God.” Continue reading

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Word of the Week: Cooperation

The retired Radio and TV personality, Charles Osgood, known for his daily radio commentary “The Osgood Files,” once shared this poignant story.

Two ladies who lived in a convalescent center had each suffered an incapacitating stroke. Margaret’s stroke left her left side restricted, while Ruth’s stroke damaged her right side. Both of these ladies were accomplished pianists but had given up hope of ever playing again. Continue reading

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Filed under Renew in '22, Word of the Week