Play It Where The Monkey Drops It

In his sermon, Pastor Strickland uses the peculiar rule at a golf course in Calcutta—where players must play the ball where monkeys drop it—to draw a parallel to life's unexpected challenges, emphasizing the importance of resilience and faith. He intertwines the biblical story of Joseph, highlighting how maintaining integrity and trust in God during trials can lead to divine fulfillment and purpose. Sermon Outline Introduction - Anecdote about bringing a golf club to the sermon and a humorous description of the pastor's golf style. - Introduction of the sermon theme linked to a past message inspired by a conversation and the Holy Spirit. Main Body 1. The Golf Course in Calcutta: - Description of a unique golf course in Calcutta, surrounded by jungle and frequented by monkeys who disrupt the game by moving golf balls. - Introduction of the sermon's main metaphor: "You have to play it where the monkey drops it." 2. Application to Life: - Transition from the story to life lessons about dealing with unexpected disruptions. - Personal anecdotes about unforeseen difficulties within the church community. 3. Biblical Parallel - The Story of Joseph: - Detailed recounting of Joseph’s life from the Bible, emphasizing his integrity and faith through trials. - Joseph's resilience and trust in God's plan despite being sold into slavery, falsely accused, and forgotten in prison. 4. Spiritual Lessons: - Discussion of facing life's challenges with the right attitude. - The importance of maintaining faith and integrity, similar to playing a golf game where disruptions are frequent. Conclusion - Reiteration of the metaphor and its spiritual significance. - Encouragement to adopt a positive outlook and trust in God's purpose, despite life’s challenges. - Closing prayer and invitation for personal reflection and acceptance of faith.