Author and minister, Bill Hybels, was once talking with one of his members about some of the “tough topics” he had taught through the years.
Among the difficult lessons he mentioned were hell, money, sex, relational confrontation, and self-discipline.
The member then asked, “Of all the topics you’ve preached on, which has been the hardest to get across?” Continue reading
Filed under Discipleship, Reaching Forward Series
This year one of my Christmas presents was a book written by Dr. David Jeremiah entitled “Forward” with the subtitle “Discovering God’s Presence and Purpose in Your Tomorrow.”
The first thing I do when I receive a new book is look at the table of contents. Then I read the author’s introduction. When I did that, I thought of two things: Continue reading
Filed under Discipleship
Most folks like something new. A new car. A new home. A new job. A new iPhone. Or new clothes. The holiday season brings some new things into our lives that we enjoy. At least for a little while.
The word “new” conjures up an image of something fresh. Pure. Clean. Novel. Advanced. Or different.
Although it’s actually just turning the page on the calendar to another day, we love the thought of a new year. It offers the prospects of something better. Of change. And an improvement over the past. Continue reading
Filed under Sunday Seed Thoughts
Good morning from sunny Florida
We begin 2021 in a very familiar place to us–Temple Terrace. It’s where Norma Jean and I met in 1967 when I was a student at Florida College. We are spending the month of January here as we finalize plans to secure a home for a permanent resident, which we will be announcing later.
We will be returning to Citrus county tomorrow where I’m preaching for the West Citrus church as well as on January 24th and 31st. So, I have two openings this month, if any church in the area needs a guest speaker. Continue reading
Filed under Weekly Recap
People want to be happy. We pursue happiness with passion. But happiness does not come by looking for it. Eric Hoffer correctly stated, “The search for happiness is one of the chief sources of unhappiness.” Happiness is a by-product. It is the result of right living, of seeking something greater than one’s own interest.
Today’s List to Live By is in the form of a simple acrostic wishing you a “Happy New Year” from a spiritual perspective. And offering 12 ways to experience both happiness and joy. Continue reading
Filed under Friday's List to Life By, New Year
“This has been the best year ever,” exclaimed my 6-year-old grandson, Miles, last Sunday after worship.
I doubt that many would echo his sentiment. However, I think little Miles was excited about his bounty of Christmas gifts this year. His narrow view of the world doesn’t extend too much beyond the immediate. His family. His school. And life in old Homosassa.
2020 has been unprecedented by the impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic. It has impacted our nation and world. And it has directly affected communities, businesses, families, and churches. Many believe it even influenced the outcome of our Presidential election. I’m sure most folks can’t wait for 2020 to be over. Continue reading
Filed under Ministry
Today, we conclude our top 10 posts of 2020. The challenge addressed continues to be an issue. Who knew? Hopefully, these thoughts will help guide you to a spiritually-minded conclusion. Additionally, there are a number of good comments to the original post you may find insightful. You are welcome to add your own thoughts–pro or con.
Earlier this week, we asked the question, “Is it wrong for churches to cancel worship services?” I appreciate the many positive comments regarding the post.
However, as one of our readers responded, “This brings up another question. Is it scriptural to partake of the Lord’s Supper individually at home?”
Others have asked and commented on this issue as well. Here are a few thoughts for your serious and prayerful consideration.
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Filed under 2020 Top Posts
This post back during the Presidental primaries received one of the greatest number of ‘hits” during 2020. While Mayor Pete didn’t receive the nomination, the 2 major points are still valid and remind us of our need to be faithful regardless of the political or moral climate in which we live.
We’re only two primaries into the 2020 Presidential race, but the field has already narrowed for the Democratic nominee. Elizabeth Warren is struggling. Joe Biden is fading. Bernie Sanders, to the chagrin of the party, is the current front runner. And Pete Buttigieg, the former Mayor of South Bend, Indiana, is surging.
Have you noticed how the liberal new media seems to be pushing Mayor Pete, often comparing him to President Barack Obama?
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Filed under 2020 Top Posts
Among the top 10 posts for 2020 was the June post addressing the racial tension and civil unrest in our country. It offers 6 specific things we can do to shine our light in a sin-darkened world.
“Close call.” Posted my friend and former college classmate Nancy (Clendening) Reaves.
Saturday evening, Nancy and her husband, Brownie, a preaching colleague of mine, were driving through Atlanta. Suddenly, Nancy, recounted, “A young black man ran out onto Hwy 85 intending to harm whoever was in the next car. It. Was. Me. He threw a big rock at my car window. Brownie was driving. It hit the door rim and was two inches from hitting me.”
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Filed under 2020 Top Posts
ThePreachersWord is taking an end of the year blogging break and reposting the top 10 posts of 2020 based on reader views. Unfortunately, this March post continues to be a reality for some Christians during this COVID-19 pandemic.
Today is an odd and abnormal day for many Christians in the United States and around the world.
Because of health concerns caused by the global pandemic of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) many churches have cancelled their Bible classes and Sunday worship services.
This post is not about the decision of churches and shepherds to cancel public gatherings. It’s about the reality.
So, what is a Christian to do today? Here are 10 suggestions.
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Filed under 2020 Top Posts
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