“The wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.”

                                                                                                James 3:17

I’ve realized that sometimes I follow my head, and sometimes I follow my heart. And nowhere is that truer than in preparing sermons. But I’ve learned something from that realization.

Some folks respond more to the intellectual approach. But I’m not sure that’s always the best way to go.

Now for sure, you need substance, research and a deep understanding of your topic and scripture. And if you’re able to carry a discussion far and deep, that’s a great thing.

But speaking to the head alone rarely reaches the heart. So, I can’t just rely on intellect to carry my sermons.

But on the flip side, lots of folk’s respond to “emotional” preaching. Preaching with passion, imagery, emotion. Telling stories that tug at the heart strings. That can produce amazing results.

But just like intellect alone isn’t enough to make a good sermon, emotionalism alone isn’t enough either.

I’ve realized that to reach the most folks and keep them engaged, it takes both. The head and the heart. And here’s why.

If you only reach the head, it’s easy to walk away when a new idea comes along.

If you only reach the heart, it’s easy to walk away when the feeling dies.

But if you preach to both the head and heart, the head will carry the heart in the tough seasons and some days the heart will carry the head.

Preaching intelligently while simultaneously preaching emotionally reaches the whole person. And that’s who God is after. Your head . . . and your heart.

Help my words to honor you and bring you glory, in both the heads and the hearts of my listeners. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.