Encouragement
The Power of Affirmation
I did not realize how exhausted I had become after working with my children in the Lake of the Ozarks. I was teaching them how to water ski and had spent a considerable amount of time in the water helping them get their skis on, watching as they tried to get up when the boat…
Read MorePassing the Baton
One of the most challenging events in track and field competition is the 4×100 relay race, where four sprinters on a team run one at a time in a single lane, with each athlete doing a 100-meter leg. The most critical aspects of the relay occur within a 20-meter area known as the “changeover box”. …
Read MoreDoes What You Do Make a Difference?
Several years ago my telephone rang. And as soon as I greeted the caller, the voice on the other end said, “I have to tell you about the call I just received.” Quite interested, I listened as my good friend David began to relate the conversation. “You may not remember me, but my name is…
Read MoreHang On or Let Go
“Okay, Watkins. You first! Then we’ll take a turn.” I accepted the challenge that no one could stay on the inner tube for very long. I should have known they were up to something unusual when I noticed my high school buddies grinning while giving me instructions and saying it would be fun. I enjoyed…
Read More“If the Iron Be Blunt …”
…and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength: but wisdom is profitable to direct.” Reading this verse in Ecclesiastes 10:10 recently prompted a recall from my memory banks of several instances in the past which God used to emphasize this important lesson to me. Our Boy Scout troop joined…
Read MoreWhen Being a Man Is Not Enough
“Wipe up those tears.” “You can do it.” “Don’t be a wimp.” “You’re afraid of your own shadow.” “Stop being a baby.” “Real men don’t cry.” “If at first you don’t succeed, another try is what you need.” “No pain, no gain.” “Winners never quit and quitters never win.” “The one who wants it hard enough…
Read MoreThe Point of No Return
“Come on. It’s only thirty-five feet high. After all, you’ve been to the top of the Empire State Building and you’ve looked over the fruited plains from the top of Pike’s Peak. You’ve walked on the bridge spanning Royal Gorge and have experienced the thrill of climbing out on the rocks which rest on the…
Read MoreTwelve Hearts of a Faithful Man
A clean heart vs. a wicked heart Purpose: Salvation – John 13:10 God’s work – Psalm 51:10 Daily cleansing by God’s Word – John 15:3 Husbands: cleanse wives by Word – Ephesians 5:26 A pure heart vs. a double-minded heart Purpose: to be in God’s holy presence – Psalm 24:3-4 Purify your hearts –…
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