I think it is important to begin with a statement in your speech that grabs the attention of the audience. I try to make my opening line 15 words or less.

While I was raised around churches and had gotten to know a few preachers fairly well, the thought never entered my head that I would one day stand and deliver. Not only was I not interested, I lived with a major struggle: I stuttered.

It's not our church; it's God's - it's not our responsibility to run it!

You can choose to be a drag and a burden, or an inspiration and encouragement.

If God's people are to be living examples of one thing, that thing ought to be - it must be - compassion.

First impressions never have a second chance.

Fortunately Jesus didn't leave [the disciples]-or any of us-without hope or direction. Where we fail, Jesus succeeded. The only One who as able to recognize and follow His purpose from the beginning was Jesus. He alone was able to obey consistently and please God completely. And His divine mission was to make a way for each of us to do the same.