James N. Watkins's Blog
April 23, 2026
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Here are some of my favorite posts since starting this site way back in April 1997.
And click here to find even more hope and humor from Faith’s and my book Praise the Lord and Pass the Prozac
CHRISTMASTHE 365 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
No, these aren’t additional verses of that already-too-long song, but an opportunity to experience the love, joy and peace of Christmas throughout the entire year. And in a Leap Year, 365 days!
THE CHRISTMAS STORY IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER
The three gospel accounts harmonized into one complete story.
HAVE YOURSELF AN INTROVERTED CHRISTMAS
It’s not that we hate Christmas and all the Whos in Whoville. It’s simply that the holiday activities tend to suck us as dry as a year-old fruit cake.
HOW CHRISTMAS SAVED A ‘GRINCH’
K-Mart’s decorations had been up since October, the Sunday school program was history, the Advent candles were burned to stubs, and all the angel hair was finally vacuumed up. But I hadn’t felt any change! Gasp! Had I become a Scrooge at the tender age of 16?!
TOP TEN POLITICALLY-CORRECT HOLIDAY SONGS
At the risk of coming across as The Grinch,” Ebenezer Scrooge, and Henry Potter all gift-wrapped into one big “Humbug,” I’d like to propose putting some P.C. in our Christmas celebration. But before you click BACK, let me change the meaning of P.C. to “Purposeful Concession.”
ARE YOU ABSOLUTELY SURE THERE ARE NO ABSOLUTES?
Do you really want a “tolerant” mechanic at the brake shop? “I don’t like to use the words ‘safe’ or ‘unsafe’ when it comes to brake shoes. I prefer to think of them having mechanical diversity.”
THE EMOTIONAL STRAIN OF POLARIZATION
People are not all black or white and neither are issues.
POST-ELECTION STRESS DISORDER
Depending on who you voted for, you’re either ecstatic or experiencing Post Election Stress Disorder.
WE’RE PRO-CHOICE
Ethics is a personal choice, not a political or religious concern. That’s why we’ve established “Planned Bank Robbery.” Now, we personally don’t approve of bank robbery, but we don’t want to inflict our morals on anyone else either.
YEP, I’M INTOLERANT
Do you want a “tolerant” mechanic at the brake shop? “I don’t like to use the words ‘safe’ or ‘unsafe’ when it comes to brake shoes. I prefer to think of them having mechanical diversity.”
I’M GIVING UP FEAR FOR LENT
I have in my right hand, direct from the home office in Corn Borer, Indiana, The Top Ten Things I (Jim) am giving up for Lent.
IT’S SUNDAY, BUT JESUS IS COMIN’
Tony Campolo’s most famous sermon on Easter is “It’s Friday, But Sunday’s Comin.’” But what if it’s Easter and the world is still filled with chaos and corruption?
THEY DON’T MAKE CROSSES LIKE THEY USED TO
Two thousand years ago, the Romans hand-crafted them out of real wood—rugged, solid, durable—stained with natural colors. Awe and respect were felt for the manufacturers of these creations. But not today!
ARE YOU LISTENING TO GOD OR GOLIATH?
One of my favorite keynote talks is “I’m a Giant Killer” based on the classic story of David and Goliath.
KEEPING YOUR DREAMS ALIVE
We all have dreams, no matter what age: to be a firefighter, a princess, a parent, a successful businessperson, pastor of a “mega-church,” a retiree in Florida. But somewhere between the womb and the tomb, those dreams die.We all have dreams, no matter what age: to be a firefighter, a princess, a parent, a successful businessperson, pastor of a “mega-church,” a retiree in Florida. But somewhere between the womb and the tomb, those dreams die.
ACTION-FIGURE JESUS
Most Hollywood portrayals of “Jesus” look like he stepped off the cover of a romance best-seller—blow-dried auburn hair with blonde highlights, immaculately manicured nails, a pure white robe, and of course, heavenly good looks. Nope! Not even close!
A CASE FOR WOMEN IN MINISTRY
Some denominations allow women to be ordained and to fill any pastoral and administrative position. Some limit women to children and women’s ministries. And all believe they have biblical arguments for their case.
‘DO NOT JUDGE,’ BUT BE A GOOD JUROR
Only judges can judge, but all to be discerning in recognizing biblical errors.
IT’S ABOUT OBEDIENCE, NOT ORIENTATION
We will not be judged on how we identify sexually, but how we obey God’s commandments.
THREE WAYS TO ‘FIND’ GOD’S WILL
It would be great if God was still in the business of talking verbally to his kids. God talked with Adam and Eve in “the cool of the day.” He spoke to Moses from a burning bush and Mount Sinai. He talked directly to His prophets. So, we sometimes feel we’re left in the dark!
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY SAY?
With over thirty-one-thousand verses to choose from, you can find a verse to prove your point on almost any subject. So, how do we find the true meaning of God’s Word to us?
WHY? SOME THOUGHTS OF LIFE’S BIG QUESTIONS
Excerpt from God, I Don’t Understand: Unanswered Prayer, Unfulfilled Promises, Unpunished Evil. It’s my most transparent book as I’ve struggled with those questions.
HALLOWEEN
SHOULD CHRISTIANS CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN?
Search Google for “Should Christians celebrate Halloween?” and you’ll get about one thousand sites covering everything from “it’s completely harmless” to “it’s completely hellish.” Here’s site number 1,001 that’s somewhere in the middle.
CELEBRATING ‘DEPENDENCE DAY’
May we acknowledge what our leaders of the past have humbly believed—that we are indeed dependent on God as a nation and as individuals
WERE FOUNDING FATHERS ‘CHRISTIAN’
That’s a complex question! The “revisionist left” would like to make them secular and the “religious right” would like to make them saintly. Let’s take a look at some of the more prominent Founding Fathers’ beliefs . . . in their own words.
NEW YEARS
GOD HAS A PLAN FOR THE NEW YEAR
The tabloids are no longer making their outrageous predictions for the New Year. (Perhaps my mocking of their dismal record had something to do with it.) So, let me make some of my own predictions for the coming year. (Well, actually, I’ve stolen them right out of the Christmas story in the Gospel of Matthew.)
My daughter, Faith Watkins, the licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and I have written a hopeful, helpful, humorous devotional on mental health issues: Praise the Lord and Pass the Prozac.
Here, you’ll find articles, book excerpts, encouraging music and lots of resources for those with mental health issues.
ADDICTIONKICKING HABITS BEFORE THEY KICK YOU
The Who, What, When, Where and Why of breaking habits.
AGINGALL’S NOT LOST WITH ALZHEIMER’S
A dreadful poem, attributed to the Alzheimer’s Association, is being spread across social networks in which the author laments, “The best of me is gone.” Wrong! Wrong! Wrong!
TOP TEN WISHES FOR AGE 50
I have in my wrinkled right hand, direct from my home office in Corn Borer, Indiana, today’s top ten wishes for my fiftieth birthday.
DEATH/GRIEFDEALING WITH DEATH
Here are some excerpts from my book, The Why Files: Is There Really Life After Death?, that I hope will be helpful.
DEALING WITH IMPENDING DEATH
Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, the author of On Death and Dying, believes that the terminally ill—and their families and friends—pass through five stages in [leading up to the] death: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance
EMOTIONSDARK CHOCOLATE IS GOOD FOR YOU
University study after university student reveal dark chocolate has real medical benefits!
EMOTIONS REAL . . . BUT NOT REALITY
The Bible’s psalmists certainly didn’t deny their emotions. (One third all psalms are “laments.”) But neither did that make their emotions their god.
ENCOURAGEMENT
Quick quotations to give you an emotional boost
MOOD ALTERING HUGS
Hugs—not drugs—are actually good for your health.
LOVETHE CHEMISTRY OF LOVE
Hallmark movies and Harlequin Romance novels want us to believe that falling in love is all about that magical chemistry between the hero and heroine. In reality, it is chemistry, but not in the heart but the brain!
CHILDREN WHO MARRY THEIR PARENTS
Researchers believe we begin to fall in love even before we’re born. Here’s how they explain it:
CRAZY LITTLE THING CALLED LOVE
Queen belted out that ditty. Tina Turner pleaded, “What’s Love Got Do with It?” Huey Lewis proclaimed “The Power of Love.” And the BeeGee’s wanted to know “How Deep Is Your Love?” One of the problems is in English, we have one little word for emotions that are as complex as a strand of DNA!
LOOKIN’ FOR LOVE IN ALL THE RIGHT PLACES
How do we find real, lasting love? Love that lasts forever!
SELF CAREDARE TO BE ORDINARY
From motivational posters and speakers to “positive thinking” and “prosperity” preaching, we’ve been taught that we can be whatever we want to be. Jesus, however, would disagree.
FINDING BALANCE IN LIFE
If I hear another pastor, teacher or speaker proclaim, as if from Mount Sinai, “Put God first, your family second, your ministry third and your self last,” my “self” is going to scream! Here’s why:
HAVE YOURSELF AN INTROVERTED CHRISTMAS
It’s not that we hate Christmas and all the Whos in Whoville. It’s simply that the holiday activities tend to suck us as dry as a year-old fruit cake.
TURNING YOUR SHAFT INTO A MINE
We can turn our mental health challenges to our advantage. Here’s how:
SEXUALITYMY GENDER IDENTITY CRISIS
I went through a time of wondering Am I gay? I didn’t feel any attraction to guys, but why didn’t I like “manly” activities?!
THE HIDDEN HABIT
Ninety percent of males and 8.5 percentage of females have dealt with this: masturbation.
NO HABLO ESTROGEN: BECOMING BILINGUAL IN RELATIONSHIPS
Men and women speak two dialects, so how can they communicate?
THREE SECRETS TO SENSATIONAL SEX
Sexual athletics simply cannot provide long-lasting or deeper satisfactions, and to expect them to is asking for disappointment—disappointment that is destructive to all areas of the relationship.
CAN I BECOME A VIRGIN AGAIN?
Yes! It’s possible!
SUICIDAL THOUGHTSARE YOU THINKING ABOUT SUICIDE?
Please know that you are not alone. And please know there is hope and help. Let me share how I’ve walked back from the ledge.
DO THOSE WHO COMMIT SUICIDE GO TO HEAVEN?
Christians are not exempt from depression and, at times, sucumb TO despondency.
Emails
FaithAnne0508@gmail.com
jim@jameswatkins.com
Social media
Faith’s Facebook and Instagram
Jim’s Facebook and Instargram
Agent
Bob Hostetler, The Steve Laube Agency
CONTRIBUTEYou can keep HOPE&HUMOR free and support the ministry of jameswatkins.com with your donation of any amount securely using PayPal.
For a donation of any amount, I’ll send you an eBook copy of one of my favorite books, Squeezing Good Out of Bad.
LEGAL STUFFAll text and graphics on this site are copyrighted © protected by United States copyright law and international copyright law under the Berne Convention. Copyright © Faith Anne Watkins. Copyright © James N. Watkins.
Copying articles and book excerpts
You may post excerpts on your social media or website, but do not re-post entire articles or book excerpts (Instead post a link to this site). Always include:
Reprinted from jameswatkins.com. Copyright © Faith Anne Watkins. All rights reserved. Or Reprinted from jameswatkins.com. Copyright © James N. Watkins. All rights reserved.
You may make up to 25 print copies of articles and book excerpts for group use. For any commercial use, contact jim@jameswatkins.com for written permission
You may post any cartoons on your social media provided the entire cartoon is posted and not edited in any way. For print use, contact < jim@jameswatkins.com for written permission.
WARNINGS
Terms and conditions: Reader assumes full responsibility for the proper and prescribed use of this site. For external use only. Discontinue if rash, redness, irritation, or swelling develops. May contain nuts. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Side-effects may include drowsiness or mild to severe agitation. Do not read while consuming alcohol or operating heavy machinery. Appoint a designated reader if intoxicated. Keep away from open flame. Do not store above 451 degrees. Do not use near or place in water. Void where prohibited by law, taxed or licensed. Any medical information provided is for general educational use only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Some material may not be suitable for young children. Parental discretion advised. Views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of any other person—real or fictitious, living or dead—using the names Faith Anne Watkins and James N Watkins.
THE WHOOPEE CUSHION CODE
“The Bible is filled with hidden humor.” That’s the contention of Dr. Harrison “Harry” Tikk, a para-archeologist who claims to have discovered The Whoopie Cushion Code. Written on a tanned sheep bladder—thought to be the world’s first novelty item—the ancient writing fills in gaps of biblical history with “holy humor.”
For instance, the document reveals that it was Abraham, speaking to the Pharaoh, who first uttered the classic comedy line, “Take my wife . . . please.”
Tikk’s discoveries are somewhat controversial, however, in replacing the ten plagues of Egypt with his list of “Top Ten Practical Jokes of All Time” including fake blood, rubber snakes, and wind up frogs. And, of course, the Hebrews were the inventors of the dribble flask, clay doo-doo, and manna that turned your mouth blue.
Tikk also claims to have decoded Moses’ long-lost opening to his great speech from Mount Sinai. (Good speakers always begin with a joke.)
“Hey, how’s everybody tonight? Well, ‘shofar,’ so good (rim shot). So, how ‘bout that Passover meal? Great menu if you have to be on the lamb (rim shot). Oy, tough room. I’m dying like firstborn in Egypt (rim shot). Holy smoke, have I got some news for you. . . .”
Prof. Tikk also reveals that Abimelech was not killed by a millstone landing on his head, but with an Acme anvil.
The secret inscriptions also reveal that angels used humor to ease into their pronouncements. For instance, before the angels appeared to the shepherds, Gabriel opened with this, until now, undiscovered monologue.
“I just flew in from heaven, and are my arms tired. Hey, don’t be sheepish, flock right up here. Ewe’ll love the good news I have for you.”
In addition to the three wise men, Tikk argues there were three unwise men named Moeshak, Larryshak, and Shemp who brought gold, frankincense and mirth.
The Whoopee Cushion Code reveals its most controversial claim of all: the rapture is actually a hilarious practical joke. Tikk explains, “It’s ‘Candid Camera,’ ‘America’s Funniest Home Videos’ and ‘Punk’d’ all rolled into one.”
From “Irreverent” in Rev. magazine
© Copyright 2007 James N. Watkins
Note
Jesus was a stand-up comic. Really! The hip humor in first century Palestine was hyperbole or intentional exaggeration. So, when Jesus talked about people who “. . . strain out a gnat but swallow a camel” or look for a speck in someone’s eye, when they have a log in his or her eye, he had them rolling on the hillsides! And ridiculous situations are always good for a laugh: pulling a camel through the eye of a needle, hiding a lamp under a bed. And, at that time, a lamp was an open flame and a bed was a dried, grass mat. Whoosh!
Read more at Writing with Banana Peels
April 22, 2026
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Here are some of my favorite posts since starting this site way back in April 1997.
And click here to find even more hope and humor from Faith’s and my book Praise the Lord and Pass the Prozac
CHRISTMASTHE 365 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
No, these aren’t additional verses of that already-too-long song, but an opportunity to experience the love, joy and peace of Christmas throughout the entire year. And in a Leap Year, 365 days!
THE CHRISTMAS STORY IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER
The three gospel accounts harmonized into one complete story.
HAVE YOURSELF AN INTROVERTED CHRISTMAS
It’s not that we hate Christmas and all the Whos in Whoville. It’s simply that the holiday activities tend to suck us as dry as a year-old fruit cake.
HOW CHRISTMAS SAVED A ‘GRINCH’
K-Mart’s decorations had been up since October, the Sunday school program was history, the Advent candles were burned to stubs, and all the angel hair was finally vacuumed up. But I hadn’t felt any change! Gasp! Had I become a Scrooge at the tender age of 16?!
TOP TEN POLITICALLY-CORRECT HOLIDAY SONGS
At the risk of coming across as The Grinch,” Ebenezer Scrooge, and Henry Potter all gift-wrapped into one big “Humbug,” I’d like to propose putting some P.C. in our Christmas celebration. But before you click BACK, let me change the meaning of P.C. to “Purposeful Concession.”
ARE YOU ABSOLUTELY SURE THERE ARE NO ABSOLUTES?
Do you really want a “tolerant” mechanic at the brake shop? “I don’t like to use the words ‘safe’ or ‘unsafe’ when it comes to brake shoes. I prefer to think of them having mechanical diversity.”
THE EMOTIONAL STRAIN OF POLARIZATION
People are not all black or white and neither are issues.
POST-ELECTION STRESS DISORDER
Depending on who you voted for, you’re either ecstatic or experiencing Post Election Stress Disorder.
WE’RE PRO-CHOICE
Ethics is a personal choice, not a political or religious concern. That’s why we’ve established “Planned Bank Robbery.” Now, we personally don’t approve of bank robbery, but we don’t want to inflict our morals on anyone else either.
YEP, I’M INTOLERANT
Do you want a “tolerant” mechanic at the brake shop? “I don’t like to use the words ‘safe’ or ‘unsafe’ when it comes to brake shoes. I prefer to think of them having mechanical diversity.”
I’M GIVING UP FEAR FOR LENT
I have in my right hand, direct from the home office in Corn Borer, Indiana, The Top Ten Things I (Jim) am giving up for Lent.
IT’S SUNDAY, BUT JESUS IS COMIN’
Tony Campolo’s most famous sermon on Easter is “It’s Friday, But Sunday’s Comin.’” But what if it’s Easter and the world is still filled with chaos and corruption?
THEY DON’T MAKE CROSSES LIKE THEY USED TO
Two thousand years ago, the Romans hand-crafted them out of real wood—rugged, solid, durable—stained with natural colors. Awe and respect were felt for the manufacturers of these creations. But not today!
ARE YOU LISTENING TO GOD OR GOLIATH?
One of my favorite keynote talks is “I’m a Giant Killer” based on the classic story of David and Goliath.
KEEPING YOUR DREAMS ALIVE
We all have dreams, no matter what age: to be a firefighter, a princess, a parent, a successful businessperson, pastor of a “mega-church,” a retiree in Florida. But somewhere between the womb and the tomb, those dreams die.We all have dreams, no matter what age: to be a firefighter, a princess, a parent, a successful businessperson, pastor of a “mega-church,” a retiree in Florida. But somewhere between the womb and the tomb, those dreams die.
ACTION-FIGURE JESUS
Most Hollywood portrayals of “Jesus” look like he stepped off the cover of a romance best-seller—blow-dried auburn hair with blonde highlights, immaculately manicured nails, a pure white robe, and of course, heavenly good looks. Nope! Not even close!
A CASE FOR WOMEN IN MINISTRY
Some denominations allow women to be ordained and to fill any pastoral and administrative position. Some limit women to children and women’s ministries. And all believe they have biblical arguments for their case.
‘DO NOT JUDGE,’ BUT BE A GOOD JUROR
Only judges can judge, but all to be discerning in recognizing biblical errors.
IT’S ABOUT OBEDIENCE, NOT ORIENTATION
We will not be judged on how we identify sexually, but how we obey God’s commandments.
THREE WAYS TO ‘FIND’ GOD’S WILL
It would be great if God was still in the business of talking verbally to his kids. God talked with Adam and Eve in “the cool of the day.” He spoke to Moses from a burning bush and Mount Sinai. He talked directly to His prophets. So, we sometimes feel we’re left in the dark!
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY SAY?
With over thirty-one-thousand verses to choose from, you can find a verse to prove your point on almost any subject. So, how do we find the true meaning of God’s Word to us?
WHY? SOME THOUGHTS OF LIFE’S BIG QUESTIONS
Excerpt from God, I Don’t Understand: Unanswered Prayer, Unfulfilled Promises, Unpunished Evil. It’s my most transparent book as I’ve struggled with those questions.
HALLOWEEN
SHOULD CHRISTIANS CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN?
Search Google for “Should Christians celebrate Halloween?” and you’ll get about one thousand sites covering everything from “it’s completely harmless” to “it’s completely hellish.” Here’s site number 1,001 that’s somewhere in the middle.
CELEBRATING ‘DEPENDENCE DAY’
May we acknowledge what our leaders of the past have humbly believed—that we are indeed dependent on God as a nation and as individuals
WERE FOUNDING FATHERS ‘CHRISTIAN’
That’s a complex question! The “revisionist left” would like to make them secular and the “religious right” would like to make them saintly. Let’s take a look at some of the more prominent Founding Fathers’ beliefs . . . in their own words.
NEW YEARS
GOD HAS A PLAN FOR THE NEW YEAR
The tabloids are no longer making their outrageous predictions for the New Year. (Perhaps my mocking of their dismal record had something to do with it.) So, let me make some of my own predictions for the coming year. (Well, actually, I’ve stolen them right out of the Christmas story in the Gospel of Matthew.)
My daughter, Faith Watkins, the licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and I have written a hopeful, helpful, humorous devotional on mental health issues: Praise the Lord and Pass the Prozac.
Here, you’ll find articles, book excerpts, encouraging music and lots of resources for those with mental health issues.
ADDICTIONKICKING HABITS BEFORE THEY KICK YOU
The Who, What, When, Where and Why of breaking habits.
AGINGALL’S NOT LOST WITH ALZHEIMER’S
A dreadful poem, attributed to the Alzheimer’s Association, is being spread across social networks in which the author laments, “The best of me is gone.” Wrong! Wrong! Wrong!
TOP TEN WISHES FOR AGE 50
I have in my wrinkled right hand, direct from my home office in Corn Borer, Indiana, today’s top ten wishes for my fiftieth birthday.
DEATH/GRIEFDEALING WITH DEATH
Here are some excerpts from my book, The Why Files: Is There Really Life After Death?, that I hope will be helpful.
DEALING WITH IMPENDING DEATH
Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, the author of On Death and Dying, believes that the terminally ill—and their families and friends—pass through five stages in [leading up to the] death: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance
EMOTIONSDARK CHOCOLATE IS GOOD FOR YOU
University study after university student reveal dark chocolate has real medical benefits!
EMOTIONS REAL . . . BUT NOT REALITY
The Bible’s psalmists certainly didn’t deny their emotions. (One third all psalms are “laments.”) But neither did that make their emotions their god.
ENCOURAGEMENT
Quick quotations to give you an emotional boost
MOOD ALTERING HUGS
Hugs—not drugs—are actually good for your health.
LOVETHE CHEMISTRY OF LOVE
Hallmark movies and Harlequin Romance novels want us to believe that falling in love is all about that magical chemistry between the hero and heroine. In reality, it is chemistry, but not in the heart but the brain!
CHILDREN WHO MARRY THEIR PARENTS
Researchers believe we begin to fall in love even before we’re born. Here’s how they explain it:
CRAZY LITTLE THING CALLED LOVE
Queen belted out that ditty. Tina Turner pleaded, “What’s Love Got Do with It?” Huey Lewis proclaimed “The Power of Love.” And the BeeGee’s wanted to know “How Deep Is Your Love?” One of the problems is in English, we have one little word for emotions that are as complex as a strand of DNA!
LOOKIN’ FOR LOVE IN ALL THE RIGHT PLACES
How do we find real, lasting love? Love that lasts forever!
SELF CAREDARE TO BE ORDINARY
From motivational posters and speakers to “positive thinking” and “prosperity” preaching, we’ve been taught that we can be whatever we want to be. Jesus, however, would disagree.
FINDING BALANCE IN LIFE
If I hear another pastor, teacher or speaker proclaim, as if from Mount Sinai, “Put God first, your family second, your ministry third and your self last,” my “self” is going to scream! Here’s why:
HAVE YOURSELF AN INTROVERTED CHRISTMAS
It’s not that we hate Christmas and all the Whos in Whoville. It’s simply that the holiday activities tend to suck us as dry as a year-old fruit cake.
TURNING YOUR SHAFT INTO A MINE
We can turn our mental health challenges to our advantage. Here’s how:
SEXUALITYMY GENDER IDENTITY CRISIS
I went through a time of wondering Am I gay? I didn’t feel any attraction to guys, but why didn’t I like “manly” activities?!
THE HIDDEN HABIT
Ninety percent of males and 8.5 percentage of females have dealt with this: masturbation.
NO HABLO ESTROGEN: BECOMING BILINGUAL IN RELATIONSHIPS
Men and women speak two dialects, so how can they communicate?
THREE SECRETS TO SENSATIONAL SEX
Sexual athletics simply cannot provide long-lasting or deeper satisfactions, and to expect them to is asking for disappointment—disappointment that is destructive to all areas of the relationship.
CAN I BECOME A VIRGIN AGAIN?
Yes! It’s possible!
SUICIDAL THOUGHTSARE YOU THINKING ABOUT SUICIDE?
Please know that you are not alone. And please know there is hope and help. Let me share how I’ve walked back from the ledge.
DO THOSE WHO COMMIT SUICIDE GO TO HEAVEN?
Christians are not exempt from depression and, at times, sucumb TO despondency.
Emails
FaithAnne0508@gmail.com
jim@jameswatkins.com
Social media
Faith’s Facebook and Instagram
Jim’s Facebook and Instargram
Agent
Bob Hostetler, The Steve Laube Agency
CONTRIBUTEYou can keep HOPE&HUMOR free and support the ministry of jameswatkins.com with your donation of any amount securely using PayPal.
For a donation of any amount, I’ll send you an eBook copy of one of my favorite books, Squeezing Good Out of Bad.
LEGAL STUFFAll text and graphics on this site are copyrighted © protected by United States copyright law and international copyright law under the Berne Convention. Copyright © Faith Anne Watkins. Copyright © James N. Watkins.
Copying articles and book excerpts
You may post excerpts on your social media or website, but do not re-post entire articles or book excerpts (Instead post a link to this site). Always include:
Reprinted from jameswatkins.com. Copyright © Faith Anne Watkins. All rights reserved. Or Reprinted from jameswatkins.com. Copyright © James N. Watkins. All rights reserved.
You may make up to 25 print copies of articles and book excerpts for group use. For any commercial use, contact jim@jameswatkins.com for written permission
You may post any cartoons on your social media provided the entire cartoon is posted and not edited in any way. For print use, contact < jim@jameswatkins.com for written permission.
WARNINGS
Terms and conditions: Reader assumes full responsibility for the proper and prescribed use of this site. For external use only. Discontinue if rash, redness, irritation, or swelling develops. May contain nuts. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Side-effects may include drowsiness or mild to severe agitation. Do not read while consuming alcohol or operating heavy machinery. Appoint a designated reader if intoxicated. Keep away from open flame. Do not store above 451 degrees. Do not use near or place in water. Void where prohibited by law, taxed or licensed. Any medical information provided is for general educational use only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Some material may not be suitable for young children. Parental discretion advised. Views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of any other person—real or fictitious, living or dead—using the names Faith Anne Watkins and James N Watkins.
PROPOSING ‘DEPENDENCE DAY’
West Asheville Baptist Church in Asheville, North Carolina, has boldly defied proper flag etiquette by flying the Christian flag above the American flag. Pastor Stan Welch acknowledges they’ve done this since 2025 to make a point: “The nation had entered a time when there ought to be an emphasis on God being first, and then country.”
And I must confess at a church my wife was pastoring, I cut off one inch of the American flag pole, so on the platform, the Christian flag was the tallest.
So, with that revolutionary spirit, may I propose Dependence Day!
“Whereas, it is the duty of nations as well as of all people, to own their dependence upon the overruling power of God, to confess their sins and transgressions, in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon; and to recognize the sublime truth, announced in the Holy Scriptures and proven by all history, that only those nations are blessed whose God is the Lord.
“Whereas, we have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven. We have been preserved, these many years, in peace and prosperity. We have grown in numbers, wealth and power, as no other nation has ever grown. But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious hand which preserved us in peace, and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us; and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own. Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us!
“Whereas, it behooves us then, to humble ourselves before the offended Power, to confess our national sins, and to pray for clemency and forgiveness.
“Therefore, proposed that the Sunday immediately preceding the national celebration of Independence Day be set apart each year as Dependence Day.
“Furthermore, all this being done, in sincerity and truth, let us then rest humbly in the hope authorized by the Divine teachings, that the united cry of the Nation will be heard on high, and answered with blessings, no less than the pardon of our national sins, and the restoration of our now divided and suffering Country, to its former happy condition of unity and peace.”
+ + +
While this proclamation seems very relevant to today’s cultural civil war in which the United States seems engaged, it is virtually word for word from the “Proclamation Appointing a National Fast Day” written by Senator James Harlan of Iowa, adopted by the Senate March 3, 1863, signed by President Abraham Lincoln on March 30 and then observed April 30 of that year.
Please share this on your social networks. Copy and paste this and send it to your pastor. Be a Paul Revere and request that the Sunday before July 4 be declared “Dependence Day.” May we acknowledge what our leaders of the past have humbly believed—that we are indeed dependent on God as a nation and as individuals.
Copyright (c) 2025 James N Watkins, Christian patriot
April 20, 2026
FINDING BALANCE IN LIFE
If I hear another pastor, teacher or speaker proclaim, as if from Mount Sinai, “Put God first, your family second, your ministry third and your self last,” my “self” is going to scream! Here’s why:
Let me be clear: putting God at the center of our lives is essential. But if I put time alone with God as first in the hierarchy mentioned, I’m never going to get to my family. I’m going to be a monk cloistered away reading my Bible, praying, journaling, worshipping, and if I’m really spiritual, fasting. If my choice is to read the Bible or read to my kids or grandkids, I’ve got to choose God’s Word if I’m locked into this rigid ranking of priorities.
If I put my family over my ministry, I will never get a word written or leave the house to speak at a conference. My wife has a “honey do list” that will keep me busy until Jesus comes. And pastors would never have time for sermon prep, board meetings, hospital calling, and the thousands of other tasks assigned to them by the congregation.
And if put my ministry over myself, there’s not going to be much of me left except a burnout shell of a person with high blood pressure and ulcers.
That’s why this ranking system is so unrealistic and unworkable. Those who attempt to implement it end up conflicted and stressed—and probably alienated from their family. So, here’s an alternative.
Think of your life as a wheel. For a wheel to work it has to be moving by having regular contact of all its circumference with the surface it’s traveling on. If it stops turning, it stops performing the way it was designed.
So visualize your tasks or roles as the outer surfaces of that wheel. As you’re regularly having time with GOD, FAMILY, MINISTRY and SELF your life is in balance. If it locks up with only one role—having contact with the road for too long—your life will come screeching to a halt.
To me, this makes much more sense than the rigid hierarchy with its demanding priorities. And it give me tremendous freedom.
For instance, just last week I was waiting for Lois to get home from a trip to visit her relatives out of state. I had been speaking at a conference while she was gone. Instead of warm welcome when she got home, I gave her a quick kiss at the door and said, “Victoria’s in ER with stroke symptoms. I’m headed to the hospital.” If we were locked in a rigid hierarchy, I would have ignored this young mom and her husband. And I would have cancelled my speaking engagement to go to Wisconsin with Lois. (See what a dilemma the “priority” model causes?!)
Instead, I had a great time of MINISTRY at the conference. Had a couple of days at home to relax and recuperate (SELF) and have some time alone with GOD. It turned out Victoria was simply having a severe reaction to a migraine and I spent the next day with Lois (FAMILY). I kept the wheel rolling and was able to accomplish all I needed to do without a lot of stress.
I like the way Eugene Peterson paraphrases Matthew 11:28-30:
“Learn the unforced rhythms of grace.” Keep the wheel of your rolling by making sure that all sides of the wheel are getting the attention they need in the long run. Some days, you may have to slow way down for a particular task. But, make sure that when that crisis is past, you continue moving on to the other areas that have been temporarily neglected. I try not to look at my life in smaller sections than a month. This past summer, I spoke at three conference in three weeks. (I know, complete crazy!) And I always get up early every day to have time alone with God. My week home, then, was devoted to my family—and me.
So, ignore the rigid hierarchy of priorities someone may try to force on your life. Just keep rolling through life!
Copyright © 2012 James N. Watkins
March 29, 2026
HAPPY LENT, EASTER
I’M GIVING UP FEAR FOR LENT
I have in my right hand, direct from the home office in Corn Borer, Indiana, The Top Ten Things I (Jim) am giving up for Lent.
IT’S SUNDAY, BUT JESUS IS COMIN’
Tony Campolo’s most famous sermon on Easter is “It’s Friday, But Sunday’s Comin.’” But what if it’s Easter and the world is still filled with chaos and corruption?
THEY DON’T MAKE CROSSES LIKE THEY USED TO
Two thousand years ago, the Romans hand-crafted them out of real wood—rugged, solid, durable—stained with natural colors. Awe and respect were felt for the manufacturers of these creations. But not today!
LENT, GOOD FRIDAY AND EASTER MEMES during the season
March 25, 2026
CHANGE LIVES
Most writing books teach you how to write, but Change Lives in Print and Pixels teaches how to persuade with your words! It’s been used as a text book at Taylor University’s “Professional Writers Major” where Watkins taught for fifteen years.
Holly Miller of The Saturday Evening Post writes, “The author’s advice is logical, original, and is delivered with typical Watkins wit: funny, wise, and authentic. It’s a rare book that entertains even as it teaches. This one does both.”
Best-selling author, Bob Hostetler, notes, “James Watkins is an effective communicator who is successful for all the right reasons: he writes and speaks to change lives. Change Lives is essential for anyone who would do the same.”
Michael R. Smith, professor of writing at Campbell University and author of Freelance Writing, recommends Watkins as “a rare talent who combines humor with keen insight on the craft of good writing and speaking. Be prepared to dog-ear this book because it contains a series of ideas that will help communicators improve and enjoy themselves in the process.”
The award-winning author of twenty traditionally-published books with major publishers, uses Aristotle’s proven elements of life-changing rhetoric: intelligence, intensity, and integrity. The book addresses how to:
I. Change lives with intelligence
1. Know your goal
2. Know your audience
3. Know the techniques of good organization
4. Know the techniques of effective persuasion 5. Know the traps of ineffective persuasion
II. Change lives with intensity
6. Use psychological appeals
7. Use humor as a life-changing tool
8. Use stories, illustrations, testimonies for persuasion
III. Change lives with integrity
9. Have moral integrity and pure motives
10. Have pure motivation not manipulation
11. Have journalistic integrity
IV. Change your life
Mermaids, unicorns and Christian writers
13. Your write role
14. Crossing over with the cross
15. The ministry of writing
This book is the culmination of forty years teaching writing at major conferences across the United States and overseas. His techniques have a proven records of helping writers change readers’ lives.
March 20, 2026
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Here are some of my favorite posts since starting this site way back in April 1997.
And click here to find even more hope and humor from Faith’s and my book Praise the Lord and Pass the Prozac
CHRISTMASTHE 365 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
No, these aren’t additional verses of that already-too-long song, but an opportunity to experience the love, joy and peace of Christmas throughout the entire year. And in a Leap Year, 365 days!
THE CHRISTMAS STORY IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER
The three gospel accounts harmonized into one complete story.
HAVE YOURSELF AN INTROVERTED CHRISTMAS
It’s not that we hate Christmas and all the Whos in Whoville. It’s simply that the holiday activities tend to suck us as dry as a year-old fruit cake.
HOW CHRISTMAS SAVED A ‘GRINCH’
K-Mart’s decorations had been up since October, the Sunday school program was history, the Advent candles were burned to stubs, and all the angel hair was finally vacuumed up. But I hadn’t felt any change! Gasp! Had I become a Scrooge at the tender age of 16?!
TOP TEN POLITICALLY-CORRECT HOLIDAY SONGS
At the risk of coming across as The Grinch,” Ebenezer Scrooge, and Henry Potter all gift-wrapped into one big “Humbug,” I’d like to propose putting some P.C. in our Christmas celebration. But before you click BACK, let me change the meaning of P.C. to “Purposeful Concession.”
ARE YOU ABSOLUTELY SURE THERE ARE NO ABSOLUTES?
Do you really want a “tolerant” mechanic at the brake shop? “I don’t like to use the words ‘safe’ or ‘unsafe’ when it comes to brake shoes. I prefer to think of them having mechanical diversity.”
THE EMOTIONAL STRAIN OF POLARIZATION
People are not all black or white and neither are issues.
POST-ELECTION STRESS DISORDER
Depending on who you voted for, you’re either ecstatic or experiencing Post Election Stress Disorder.
WE’RE PRO-CHOICE
Ethics is a personal choice, not a political or religious concern. That’s why we’ve established “Planned Bank Robbery.” Now, we personally don’t approve of bank robbery, but we don’t want to inflict our morals on anyone else either.
YEP, I’M INTOLERANT
Do you want a “tolerant” mechanic at the brake shop? “I don’t like to use the words ‘safe’ or ‘unsafe’ when it comes to brake shoes. I prefer to think of them having mechanical diversity.”
I’M GIVING UP FEAR FOR LENT
I have in my right hand, direct from the home office in Corn Borer, Indiana, The Top Ten Things I (Jim) am giving up for Lent.
IT’S SUNDAY, BUT JESUS IS COMIN’
Tony Campolo’s most famous sermon on Easter is “It’s Friday, But Sunday’s Comin.’” But what if it’s Easter and the world is still filled with chaos and corruption?
THEY DON’T MAKE CROSSES LIKE THEY USED TO
Two thousand years ago, the Romans hand-crafted them out of real wood—rugged, solid, durable—stained with natural colors. Awe and respect were felt for the manufacturers of these creations. But not today!
ARE YOU LISTENING TO GOD OR GOLIATH?
One of my favorite keynote talks is “I’m a Giant Killer” based on the classic story of David and Goliath.
KEEPING YOUR DREAMS ALIVE
We all have dreams, no matter what age: to be a firefighter, a princess, a parent, a successful businessperson, pastor of a “mega-church,” a retiree in Florida. But somewhere between the womb and the tomb, those dreams die.We all have dreams, no matter what age: to be a firefighter, a princess, a parent, a successful businessperson, pastor of a “mega-church,” a retiree in Florida. But somewhere between the womb and the tomb, those dreams die.
ACTION-FIGURE JESUS
Most Hollywood portrayals of “Jesus” look like he stepped off the cover of a romance best-seller—blow-dried auburn hair with blonde highlights, immaculately manicured nails, a pure white robe, and of course, heavenly good looks. Nope! Not even close!
A CASE FOR WOMEN IN MINISTRY
Some denominations allow women to be ordained and to fill any pastoral and administrative position. Some limit women to children and women’s ministries. And all believe they have biblical arguments for their case.
‘DO NOT JUDGE,’ BUT BE A GOOD JUROR
Only judges can judge, but all to be discerning in recognizing biblical errors.
IT’S ABOUT OBEDIENCE, NOT ORIENTATION
We will not be judged on how we identify sexually, but how we obey God’s commandments.
THREE WAYS TO ‘FIND’ GOD’S WILL
It would be great if God was still in the business of talking verbally to his kids. God talked with Adam and Eve in “the cool of the day.” He spoke to Moses from a burning bush and Mount Sinai. He talked directly to His prophets. So, we sometimes feel we’re left in the dark!
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY SAY?
With over thirty-one-thousand verses to choose from, you can find a verse to prove your point on almost any subject. So, how do we find the true meaning of God’s Word to us?
WHY? SOME THOUGHTS OF LIFE’S BIG QUESTIONS
Excerpt from God, I Don’t Understand: Unanswered Prayer, Unfulfilled Promises, Unpunished Evil. It’s my most transparent book as I’ve struggled with those questions.
SHOULD CHRISTIANS CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN?
Search Google for “Should Christians celebrate Halloween?” and you’ll get about one thousand sites covering everything from “it’s completely harmless” to “it’s completely hellish.” Here’s site number 1,001 that’s somewhere in the middle.
CELEBRATING ‘DEPENDENCE DAY’
May we acknowledge what our leaders of the past have humbly believed—that we are indeed dependent on God as a nation and as individuals
WERE FOUNDING FATHERS ‘CHRISTIAN’
That’s a complex question! The “revisionist left” would like to make them secular and the “religious right” would like to make them saintly. Let’s take a look at some of the more prominent Founding Fathers’ beliefs . . . in their own words.
NEW YEARS
GOD HAS A PLAN FOR THE NEW YEAR
The tabloids are no longer making their outrageous predictions for the New Year. (Perhaps my mocking of their dismal record had something to do with it.) So, let me make some of my own predictions for the coming year. (Well, actually, I’ve stolen them right out of the Christmas story in the Gospel of Matthew.)
My daughter, Faith Watkins, the licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and I have written a hopeful, helpful, humorous devotional on mental health issues: Praise the Lord and Pass the Prozac.
Here, you’ll find articles, book excerpts, encouraging music and lots of resources for those with mental health issues.
ADDICTIONKICKING HABITS BEFORE THEY KICK YOU
The Who, What, When, Where and Why of breaking habits.
AGINGALL’S NOT LOST WITH ALZHEIMER’S
A dreadful poem, attributed to the Alzheimer’s Association, is being spread across social networks in which the author laments, “The best of me is gone.” Wrong! Wrong! Wrong!
TOP TEN WISHES FOR AGE 50
I have in my wrinkled right hand, direct from my home office in Corn Borer, Indiana, today’s top ten wishes for my fiftieth birthday.
DEATH/GRIEFDEALING WITH DEATH
Here are some excerpts from my book, The Why Files: Is There Really Life After Death?, that I hope will be helpful.
DEALING WITH IMPENDING DEATH
Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, the author of On Death and Dying, believes that the terminally ill—and their families and friends—pass through five stages in [leading up to the] death: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance
EMOTIONSDARK CHOCOLATE IS GOOD FOR YOU
University study after university student reveal dark chocolate has real medical benefits!
EMOTIONS REAL . . . BUT NOT REALITY
The Bible’s psalmists certainly didn’t deny their emotions. (One third all psalms are “laments.”) But neither did that make their emotions their god.
ENCOURAGEMENT
Quick quotations to give you an emotional boost
MOOD ALTERING HUGS
Hugs—not drugs—are actually good for your health.
LOVETHE CHEMISTRY OF LOVE
Hallmark movies and Harlequin Romance novels want us to believe that falling in love is all about that magical chemistry between the hero and heroine. In reality, it is chemistry, but not in the heart but the brain!
CHILDREN WHO MARRY THEIR PARENTS
Researchers believe we begin to fall in love even before we’re born. Here’s how they explain it:
CRAZY LITTLE THING CALLED LOVE
Queen belted out that ditty. Tina Turner pleaded, “What’s Love Got Do with It?” Huey Lewis proclaimed “The Power of Love.” And the BeeGee’s wanted to know “How Deep Is Your Love?” One of the problems is in English, we have one little word for emotions that are as complex as a strand of DNA!
LOOKIN’ FOR LOVE IN ALL THE RIGHT PLACES
How do we find real, lasting love? Love that lasts forever!
SELF CAREDARE TO BE ORDINARY
From motivational posters and speakers to “positive thinking” and “prosperity” preaching, we’ve been taught that we can be whatever we want to be. Jesus, however, would disagree.
FINDING BALANCE IN LIFE
If I hear another pastor, teacher or speaker proclaim, as if from Mount Sinai, “Put God first, your family second, your ministry third and your self last,” my “self” is going to scream! Here’s why:
HAVE YOURSELF AN INTROVERTED CHRISTMAS
It’s not that we hate Christmas and all the Whos in Whoville. It’s simply that the holiday activities tend to suck us as dry as a year-old fruit cake.
TURNING YOUR SHAFT INTO A MINE
We can turn our mental health challenges to our advantage. Here’s how:
SEXUALITYMY GENDER IDENTITY CRISIS
I went through a time of wondering Am I gay? I didn’t feel any attraction to guys, but why didn’t I like “manly” activities?!
THE HIDDEN HABIT
Ninety percent of males and 8.5 percentage of females have dealt with this: masturbation.
NO HABLO ESTROGEN: BECOMING BILINGUAL IN RELATIONSHIPS
Men and women speak two dialects, so how can they communicate?
THREE SECRETS TO SENSATIONAL SEX
Sexual athletics simply cannot provide long-lasting or deeper satisfactions, and to expect them to is asking for disappointment—disappointment that is destructive to all areas of the relationship.
CAN I BECOME A VIRGIN AGAIN?
Yes! It’s possible!
SUICIDAL THOUGHTSARE YOU THINKING ABOUT SUICIDE?
Please know that you are not alone. And please know there is hope and help. Let me share how I’ve walked back from the ledge.
DO THOSE WHO COMMIT SUICIDE GO TO HEAVEN?
Christians are not exempt from depression and, at times, sucumb TO despondency.
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March 17, 2026
ST. PATRICK WAS ENGLISH!
The story of Saint Patrick’s Day is filled with false information, myths and downright lies!
First, Saint Patrick’s original name was Maewyn Succat, but he changed it when he became a priest.
Second, it’s Mr. Patrick, thank you very much. He was never officially proclaimed a saint by the Catholic Church. It was the public who gave him the saintly title.
Third, he’s not even Irish! He first arrived in emerald country as a 16-year-old teen kidnapped by Irish raiders and sold into slavery. He escaped, but later returned as a missionary in 432 AD.
Fourth, the whole banishing snakes from Ireland was actually a metaphor for the pagan Druids. There has never been snakes in Ireland!
Fifth, while the holiday is now celebrated with green beer and Jello shots, Patrick wore blue which was the official color of Ireland for centuries until green became a symbol of Irish nationalism in the late 1700s.
Sixth, those three-leaf shamrocks we see everywhere, are an object lesson Patrick used to explain the Trinity: God the Father, Son and Spirit—three in one.
Finally, number seven, for most of the 20th century, St. Patrick’s Day was a dry religious holiday in Ireland where pubs were legally required to close. The tradition of heavy drinking was strictly an Irish-American tradition.
So, basically the only truth of St. Patrick’s day is the name Patrick. He wrote, “My name is Patrick. I am a sinner. I most certainly believe it is the gift of God that I am what I am.” I doubt he would not have parades and drunken parties in his name.
Copyright 2026 James N. Watkins I am a sinner. I most certainly believe it is the gift of God that I am what I am.
March 15, 2026
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Here are some of my favorite posts since starting this site way back in April 1997.
And click here to find even more hope and humor from Faith’s and my book Praise the Lord and Pass the Prozac
CHRISTMASTHE 365 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
No, these aren’t additional verses of that already-too-long song, but an opportunity to experience the love, joy and peace of Christmas throughout the entire year. And in a Leap Year, 365 days!
THE CHRISTMAS STORY IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER
The three gospel accounts harmonized into one complete story.
HAVE YOURSELF AN INTROVERTED CHRISTMAS
It’s not that we hate Christmas and all the Whos in Whoville. It’s simply that the holiday activities tend to suck us as dry as a year-old fruit cake.
HOW CHRISTMAS SAVED A ‘GRINCH’
K-Mart’s decorations had been up since October, the Sunday school program was history, the Advent candles were burned to stubs, and all the angel hair was finally vacuumed up. But I hadn’t felt any change! Gasp! Had I become a Scrooge at the tender age of 16?!
TOP TEN POLITICALLY-CORRECT HOLIDAY SONGS
At the risk of coming across as The Grinch,” Ebenezer Scrooge, and Henry Potter all gift-wrapped into one big “Humbug,” I’d like to propose putting some P.C. in our Christmas celebration. But before you click BACK, let me change the meaning of P.C. to “Purposeful Concession.”
ARE YOU ABSOLUTELY SURE THERE ARE NO ABSOLUTES?
Do you really want a “tolerant” mechanic at the brake shop? “I don’t like to use the words ‘safe’ or ‘unsafe’ when it comes to brake shoes. I prefer to think of them having mechanical diversity.”
THE EMOTIONAL STRAIN OF POLARIZATION
People are not all black or white and neither are issues.
POST-ELECTION STRESS DISORDER
Depending on who you voted for, you’re either ecstatic or experiencing Post Election Stress Disorder.
WE’RE PRO-CHOICE
Ethics is a personal choice, not a political or religious concern. That’s why we’ve established “Planned Bank Robbery.” Now, we personally don’t approve of bank robbery, but we don’t want to inflict our morals on anyone else either.
YEP, I’M INTOLERANT
Do you want a “tolerant” mechanic at the brake shop? “I don’t like to use the words ‘safe’ or ‘unsafe’ when it comes to brake shoes. I prefer to think of them having mechanical diversity.”
I’M GIVING UP FEAR FOR LENT
I have in my right hand, direct from the home office in Corn Borer, Indiana, The Top Ten Things I (Jim) am giving up for Lent.
IT’S SUNDAY, BUT JESUS IS COMIN’
Tony Campolo’s most famous sermon on Easter is “It’s Friday, But Sunday’s Comin.’” But what if it’s Easter and the world is still filled with chaos and corruption?
THEY DON’T MAKE CROSSES LIKE THEY USED TO
Two thousand years ago, the Romans hand-crafted them out of real wood—rugged, solid, durable—stained with natural colors. Awe and respect were felt for the manufacturers of these creations. But not today!
ARE YOU LISTENING TO GOD OR GOLIATH?
One of my favorite keynote talks is “I’m a Giant Killer” based on the classic story of David and Goliath.
KEEPING YOUR DREAMS ALIVE
We all have dreams, no matter what age: to be a firefighter, a princess, a parent, a successful businessperson, pastor of a “mega-church,” a retiree in Florida. But somewhere between the womb and the tomb, those dreams die.We all have dreams, no matter what age: to be a firefighter, a princess, a parent, a successful businessperson, pastor of a “mega-church,” a retiree in Florida. But somewhere between the womb and the tomb, those dreams die.
ACTION-FIGURE JESUS
Most Hollywood portrayals of “Jesus” look like he stepped off the cover of a romance best-seller—blow-dried auburn hair with blonde highlights, immaculately manicured nails, a pure white robe, and of course, heavenly good looks. Nope! Not even close!
A CASE FOR WOMEN IN MINISTRY
Some denominations allow women to be ordained and to fill any pastoral and administrative position. Some limit women to children and women’s ministries. And all believe they have biblical arguments for their case.
‘DO NOT JUDGE,’ BUT BE A GOOD JUROR
Only judges can judge, but all to be discerning in recognizing biblical errors.
IT’S ABOUT OBEDIENCE, NOT ORIENTATION
We will not be judged on how we identify sexually, but how we obey God’s commandments.
THREE WAYS TO ‘FIND’ GOD’S WILL
It would be great if God was still in the business of talking verbally to his kids. God talked with Adam and Eve in “the cool of the day.” He spoke to Moses from a burning bush and Mount Sinai. He talked directly to His prophets. So, we sometimes feel we’re left in the dark!
WHAT DOES THE BIBLE REALLY SAY?
With over thirty-one-thousand verses to choose from, you can find a verse to prove your point on almost any subject. So, how do we find the true meaning of God’s Word to us?
WHY? SOME THOUGHTS OF LIFE’S BIG QUESTIONS
Excerpt from God, I Don’t Understand: Unanswered Prayer, Unfulfilled Promises, Unpunished Evil. It’s my most transparent book as I’ve struggled with those questions.
SHOULD CHRISTIANS CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN?
Search Google for “Should Christians celebrate Halloween?” and you’ll get about one thousand sites covering everything from “it’s completely harmless” to “it’s completely hellish.” Here’s site number 1,001 that’s somewhere in the middle.
CELEBRATING ‘DEPENDENCE DAY’
May we acknowledge what our leaders of the past have humbly believed—that we are indeed dependent on God as a nation and as individuals
WERE FOUNDING FATHERS ‘CHRISTIAN’
That’s a complex question! The “revisionist left” would like to make them secular and the “religious right” would like to make them saintly. Let’s take a look at some of the more prominent Founding Fathers’ beliefs . . . in their own words.
NEW YEARS
GOD HAS A PLAN FOR THE NEW YEAR
The tabloids are no longer making their outrageous predictions for the New Year. (Perhaps my mocking of their dismal record had something to do with it.) So, let me make some of my own predictions for the coming year. (Well, actually, I’ve stolen them right out of the Christmas story in the Gospel of Matthew.)
My daughter, Faith Watkins, the licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and I have written a hopeful, helpful, humorous devotional on mental health issues: Praise the Lord and Pass the Prozac.
Here, you’ll find articles, book excerpts, encouraging music and lots of resources for those with mental health issues.
ADDICTIONKICKING HABITS BEFORE THEY KICK YOU
The Who, What, When, Where and Why of breaking habits.
AGINGALL’S NOT LOST WITH ALZHEIMER’S
A dreadful poem, attributed to the Alzheimer’s Association, is being spread across social networks in which the author laments, “The best of me is gone.” Wrong! Wrong! Wrong!
TOP TEN WISHES FOR AGE 50
I have in my wrinkled right hand, direct from my home office in Corn Borer, Indiana, today’s top ten wishes for my fiftieth birthday.
DEATH/GRIEFDEALING WITH DEATH
Here are some excerpts from my book, The Why Files: Is There Really Life After Death?, that I hope will be helpful.
DEALING WITH IMPENDING DEATH
Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, the author of On Death and Dying, believes that the terminally ill—and their families and friends—pass through five stages in [leading up to the] death: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance
EMOTIONSDARK CHOCOLATE IS GOOD FOR YOU
University study after university student reveal dark chocolate has real medical benefits!
EMOTIONS REAL . . . BUT NOT REALITY
The Bible’s psalmists certainly didn’t deny their emotions. (One third all psalms are “laments.”) But neither did that make their emotions their god.
ENCOURAGEMENT
Quick quotations to give you an emotional boost
MOOD ALTERING HUGS
Hugs—not drugs—are actually good for your health.
LOVETHE CHEMISTRY OF LOVE
Hallmark movies and Harlequin Romance novels want us to believe that falling in love is all about that magical chemistry between the hero and heroine. In reality, it is chemistry, but not in the heart but the brain!
CHILDREN WHO MARRY THEIR PARENTS
Researchers believe we begin to fall in love even before we’re born. Here’s how they explain it:
CRAZY LITTLE THING CALLED LOVE
Queen belted out that ditty. Tina Turner pleaded, “What’s Love Got Do with It?” Huey Lewis proclaimed “The Power of Love.” And the BeeGee’s wanted to know “How Deep Is Your Love?” One of the problems is in English, we have one little word for emotions that are as complex as a strand of DNA!
LOOKIN’ FOR LOVE IN ALL THE RIGHT PLACES
How do we find real, lasting love? Love that lasts forever!
SELF CAREDARE TO BE ORDINARY
From motivational posters and speakers to “positive thinking” and “prosperity” preaching, we’ve been taught that we can be whatever we want to be. Jesus, however, would disagree.
FINDING BALANCE IN LIFE
If I hear another pastor, teacher or speaker proclaim, as if from Mount Sinai, “Put God first, your family second, your ministry third and your self last,” my “self” is going to scream! Here’s why:
HAVE YOURSELF AN INTROVERTED CHRISTMAS
It’s not that we hate Christmas and all the Whos in Whoville. It’s simply that the holiday activities tend to suck us as dry as a year-old fruit cake.
TURNING YOUR SHAFT INTO A MINE
We can turn our mental health challenges to our advantage. Here’s how:
SEXUALITYMY GENDER IDENTITY CRISIS
I went through a time of wondering Am I gay? I didn’t feel any attraction to guys, but why didn’t I like “manly” activities?!
THE HIDDEN HABIT
Ninety percent of males and 8.5 percentage of females have dealt with this: masturbation.
NO HABLO ESTROGEN: BECOMING BILINGUAL IN RELATIONSHIPS
Men and women speak two dialects, so how can they communicate?
THREE SECRETS TO SENSATIONAL SEX
Sexual athletics simply cannot provide long-lasting or deeper satisfactions, and to expect them to is asking for disappointment—disappointment that is destructive to all areas of the relationship.
CAN I BECOME A VIRGIN AGAIN?
Yes! It’s possible!
SUICIDAL THOUGHTSARE YOU THINKING ABOUT SUICIDE?
Please know that you are not alone. And please know there is hope and help. Let me share how I’ve walked back from the ledge.
DO THOSE WHO COMMIT SUICIDE GO TO HEAVEN?
Christians are not exempt from depression and, at times, sucumb TO despondency.
Emails
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