A few years ago, eight high school seniors received a college scholarship. In addition to being intelligent these students were chosen because they were the first in their family to attend college. All eight winners allowed me to read and quote from their scholarship application letters. Each letter highlights a Read more…
“Are you the preacher?” the voice asked over the phone. “Yes, I am.” I replied. “Why do you ask?” “A few weeks ago, I was a visitor in your church and heard your sermon. Could I ask a few questions?” “Sure.” I said with a smile, expecting a compliment. “You Read more…
We read the stories of two men, who shared no common bonds except a name beginning with the letter J. John was heading home on a ship, disgraced and depressed because of his failed mission. He was heartbroken, seasick and scared out of his wits. Job after losing everything was Read more…
John was born and raised within a large family. His father worked as a small town preacher so John experienced poverty first hand. His mother home-schooled all the children with discipline as rigorous as the best schools in the area. John was raised in a strict environment. As a young Read more…
On just about any computer with Windows you will find the card game, ‘FreeCell.’ I call it my stress reliever. Whenever I come to a stopping place at work, I play a quick game.’ When I’m faced with a tough situation, I’ll pause for another round. When I’m feeling good Read more…
I received many excellent comments on the first five of ten books, I recommended. Some of you suggested your own favorite books and I added them to my list. I hope you like the next five books just as well. They are not all religious but I hope you will Read more…
I have a reputation for saying: “I may not know the answer but I can suggest a book.” In other words, I read a lot and enjoy recommending books to others. At any church where I pastor, I always set up a table full of free books. It’s my way Read more…
“You have a guest speaker,” the principal informed a kindergarten teacher. “He is an education student who will be demonstrating a sample lesson on storytelling to young children. The session needs to be videotaped and your kindergarten class will make a perfect audience. Do you mind helping out?” “I will Read more…
A reader asked: “How do you get others to hunger for a right spiritual relationship with God with the same desire?” The answer has a lot to do with the treatment my wife and I received looking for a place to eat at two different restaurants: one excellent and one Read more…
Recently, I wrote about eating delicious barbecue and receiving encouragement. One reader sent the following comment: “PIERCE’S Pit Cooked BBQ is worth the trip. Food for thought: How do you get others to hunger for a right spiritual relationship with God with the same desire?” — Kim Good question. “How Read more…