Long Ben’s Big Problem
Henry Every had a nickname. Pirates LOVE nicknames. (It’s basically the best part of being a pirate. For sure, it’s the cheapest part of being a pirate.) His nickname was Long Ben. Nobody called him Henry. Not even his mom. Probably. Now, Long Ben wanted one thing more than anything in the whole entire world. Treasure. Not a little treasure. Not a medium treasure. ALL the treasure. Every last shiny, golden, glittery piece of treasure. “ARRR,” said Long Ben. “One day I shall be the RICHEST pirate who ever sailed the seven seas!” Pirates say “ARRR” when they want to make a point. Or when the point of a sword be pointing at them. Or when they stub a toe. Or sneeze. Basically, “ARRR” works for everything....
Read MoreDrawing Closer Through A Lenten Reflection on God’s Love and Limits
Have You Heard These? “Stay away from this! It is locked for a reason!“ “Don’t touch that!“ “Slow down!” Have you heard or said any of these? What is the first thought? Reaction? Question? Did you hear yourself or someone else ask WHY? Why can’t I? Was your response anything like that of Eve — told to enjoy an entire perfect paradise, but just not this tree? We humans are quick to see, focus on, and become consumed with one tiny thing we can’t do, in the midst of so many pleasures we can! We hear limits, “can’t,” and “NO” — and yet often don’t hear the reasons why. GOD gives us so many opportunities to grow, enjoy, and be blessed! He knows well that some things are off...
Read MoreEaster Poem
An Easter Poem Jesus and his followers went to Jerusalem. As they traveled, great crowds followed them. He went to the temple and drove out merchants there. He said, “This is not for thieves. It is a house of prayer.” He taught at the temple and preached the Good News. Then some priests and elders came to question all his views. They confronted him as if looking for a fight. They asked, “Why are you here? Who gave you the right?” Jesus then asked them a question so they would understand. He asked, “Did John’s right to baptize come from God or man?” The priests and elders could not tell them. So Jesus refused to tell them. Some teachers of the law tried to trick him. But Jesus was calm and ready to answer them. They asked...
Read MoreEaster Brings New Hope
Hook: Have you ever felt sad and hoped something happy would happen? Book: On Easter morning, Jesus’ friends went to the tomb where He had been buried. When they arrived, the stone was rolled away, and Jesus was not there! God had done something wonderful—Jesus was alive! Easter shows us that God always keeps His promises. Matthew 28:6 (NIV) – “He is not here; He has risen, just as He said.” Look: Because Jesus is alive, we can have hope even when things feel hard. Easter reminds us that God brings joy after sadness and light after dark days—not just for us, but for everyone we love. Took: Today, remember that Jesus is alive, and He loves you very much. Charles Smith is a faith-driven author and creator of After the Storm Books & Journals. His...
Read MoreSpeak Life Today
“Kind words are like honey, sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” — Proverbs 16:24 Our words are powerful. Every day, we use words to talk to our friends, our family, and even ourselves. Words can help people feel loved and encouraged, but they can also hurt if we’re not careful. The Bible tells us that kind words are like honey. That means they bring joy, healing, and life. When we choose our words wisely, we can help others feel seen, valued, and loved. Jesus always spoke life. He encouraged people, showed kindness, and reminded others of who God created them to be. And He invites us to do the same. Today, let’s think about our words: Are they kind? Are they helpful? Do they point others toward God’s love? Before you speak today, pause and...
Read MoreGetting Ready for Easter: 40 Days with Jesus
Have you ever wanted to know God better? Maybe you want to learn more about Jesus and the Bible? Good news—you can start today! There’s a special time of year called Lent when we spend 40 days getting ready for Easter. It’s like counting down to the best celebration ever! During these 40 days, we remember how much Jesus loves us and how He gave His life for us. Then on Easter, we celebrate that Jesus is ALIVE! Let’s start our 40-day adventure today! What Can We Do During Lent? Here are some fun ways to grow closer to God: Eat healthier foods and give up treats for a little while Be extra kind with our words instead of arguing Help others more than usual Read Bible stories every day Pray and talk to God about everything There are SO many ways...
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If it’s in the Bible, The Pirate Preacher knows the story. Monday nights he leads a “Jesus Study” in Moore Square, Raleigh, NC. Each Sunday you will find him in the park and at the bus station helping others enjoy the abundant life Jesus promised.
The Pirate Preacher helped launch Christian Devotions Ministries and is the former CEO of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas, a Christian book publishing company. He’s also a “Blessed Selling” author and Writers’ Coach.
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Jehovah Jireh: The Incredible Provider — A super Hero Graphic Novel
