The world’s oldest man recently died at the age of 114. His name was Walter Breuning. In interviews, Walter said his earliest memories were from 111 years ago. He remembered at the age of 3, hearing his grandfather tell stories of his experiences in the Civil War. When asked his advice on how to live a long and good life he said, “Embrace change; eat two meals a day; work as long as you can; help others; and don’t fear death because you’re born to die.”


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About The Author

A third generation preacher, Mike Shannon is Professor of Preaching at Cincinnati Bible Seminary of Cincinnati Christian University. He has served as a preaching minister, church planter, and college professor. His most recent preaching ministry was at the historic First Christian Church of Johnson City, Tennessee. In his nearly two decades at Cincinnati Christian University, Mike has served as both professor and Dean of the Seminary. He has also been an adjunct professor at Milligan College and Northern Kentucky University. Mike is the author or co-author of several books.

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A man was sitting in a doctor’s office waiting room. He kept saying out loud, “I hope I’m sick. I hope I’m sick. I hope I’m sick.” Finally the receptionist asked, “Why in the world would you want to be sick.” He said. “I’d hate to be well and feel this bad.” While happiness is not our primary goal, living by Christian principles and with a Christian attitude will result in more genuine good feeling than any other philosophy.


View more sermon illustrations for inspiration for your next message.

About The Author

A third generation preacher, Mike Shannon is Professor of Preaching at Cincinnati Bible Seminary of Cincinnati Christian University. He has served as a preaching minister, church planter, and college professor. His most recent preaching ministry was at the historic First Christian Church of Johnson City, Tennessee. In his nearly two decades at Cincinnati Christian University, Mike has served as both professor and Dean of the Seminary. He has also been an adjunct professor at Milligan College and Northern Kentucky University. Mike is the author or co-author of several books.

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A man named Roy described the trip his family made last summer to DisneyWorld. The weather was hot and the crowds were enormous. It seemed that they had to wait in line 45 minutes for everything. Roy and his family began to complain and grumble.

Late in the afternoon they took refuge in a shady corner of the park, resting and sipping a soft drink. They noticed a middle-aged couple passing by, the man pushing a crippled teenage boy in a wheelchair. This family was having a wonderful time. The heat, the pushing and even being crippled hadn’t dampened their spirits.

Roy recalls, “Suddenly I saw the contrast between our own family — healthy with three children with strong legs — and the other family. We were complaining and miserable, while they were having a great time. With so many things to be thankful for, how easy it is to forget them all.”
(Bill Bouknight, “Just a Thought”)


View more sermon illustrations for inspiration for your next message.

About The Author

A third generation preacher, Mike Shannon is Professor of Preaching at Cincinnati Bible Seminary of Cincinnati Christian University. He has served as a preaching minister, church planter, and college professor. His most recent preaching ministry was at the historic First Christian Church of Johnson City, Tennessee. In his nearly two decades at Cincinnati Christian University, Mike has served as both professor and Dean of the Seminary. He has also been an adjunct professor at Milligan College and Northern Kentucky University. Mike is the author or co-author of several books.

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