We read in the third chapter of the “Epistle of James” about the untamable tongue, and the damage that it can do. James warns us that this “little member,” which “boasts great things,” can be as destructive as a forest fire and can defile the whole body. He notes that while every kind of beast and bird, reptile and sea creature, can be tamed by mankind, “no man can tame the tongue.” He describes the human tongue as “an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.” The Apostle James i

At this time of the year, children are busy making their Christmas “Wish Lists.” Back in the Dark Ages of my youth, we couldn’t wait for the store catalogues to arrive, so that we could use the “Wish Book” for our “Wish Lists.” Today’s children only have to press the screens of their devices and every imaginable gift idea magically appears. With a few more taps on the screen, and a major hit to their bank account, the parents can make those items appear at their doorstep. Yet

Several years ago, while attending the annual meeting of the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board in Nashville, a dear friend who was a pastor in that area lamented that it was more difficult when the convention meets in your own city. He noted that when you go out of town to attend the convention your church understands that you are not going to be “in the office.” However, when the meeting is taking place only a short distance from your church, you are expected to fulfill your n

In just a matter of a few of weeks, I have experienced a good portion of what is involved in “Pastoral Ministries.” We have had a funeral, a baptism and will observe the Lord’s Supper next Sunday. I have made visits to both hospitals and homes. We have celebrated birthdays and our anniversary. The only thing missing is a wedding. Do I have any volunteers or likely candidates? The “Children’s Sermon” that I shared on Sunday continues to speak to my heart. We are told in God’s