It was the comments made by those introducing the nominees and the acceptance speeches of the Oscar winners that surprised and pleased me.

Have you ever heard the words “I don’t feel like it”—or used them yourself? Somehow we seem to have slipped into thinking that if we do not feel good, we are off the hook for doing something that is good.

One of the first rules of achievement is that you do not have to feel good in order to do something good. Ask any mother who is exhausted—that is, exhausted until she hears the cry of her baby. She may not feel like responding, but she will every time. Mothers prove the point that feeling good is not a prerequisite for doing what is good. Achievement and accomplishment are reached by rolling up our sleeves and working. Forget about not being in the mood or not having the ambition. That will result in things not getting done at all. Excuses are just that—excuses. They are usually an explanation for failure.

In life there will be many times when we will not "feel like it." That has little to do with doing it. When a job needs doing or someone needs a little help, then that should be the motivation for doing what is needed. When something good needs doing—just do it!

Do you really know why Jesus had to suffer and die? What should the Passover mean for Christians today?

When Saul consulted the witch (medium) of En Dor, was it really the prophet Samuel that appeared?

Does the Bible support one race or ethnic group above another?

Have you ever come to the end of the day and rejoiced in the complete and total luxury of just being able to climb into a warm and comfortable bed? There are few feelings as beautiful as drifting off immediately into a peaceful and restful sleep. That is the result of having done something. Truly completing hard work results in a weariness that demands rest.

Ecclesiastes 5:12 says, “The sleep of a laboring man is sweet, whether he eats little of much.” But the verse continues with a contrast: “But the abundance of the rich will not permit him to sleep.” Solomon knew the worry and mental turmoil that could trouble those who focused on schemes to gain or maintain wealth. And there is a weariness of the mind that comes from unproductive sources. That sort is not the kind that brings a sense of achievement and completeness.

Next time you get the feeling of being weary from hard and productive work, take just a moment to relish the thought of falling into that wonderful bed and blissful sleep. You have earned the rest!

How many times have you reacted in anger only to find out later that things were quite different from what you originally perceived?

In a society where morality and integrity are often lacking, learn how you can choose to always do what is good and right.

How can you save your marriage? Build a happy marriage by applying some simple principles.

Frightening as these events are, we know from the Bible that earthquakes won't end soon.

How do you acknowledge your part in Christ's atoning sacrifice?

Kind words don't cost us a dime—but they often have a huge effect on the person the words are directed toward. The Bible says the right words are beautiful and valuable (Proverbs 25:11). Kind words encourage people and make them feel loved. They also brand us as a kind and caring person. Sometimes we don’t know that our words were encouraging and uplifting to another person. That is not always bad because we should not be looking for thanks or appreciation. We should be using kind words as a part of our daily lives—meaning we always respond with kind words when we can.

Many things in life are expensive and costly, but words are cheap. They cost nothing except learning when and how to use them. Sincere compliments, thoughtful concerns and encouragement are of great value. They cheer the heart. A person with a wealth of wisdom can convey words of kindness. Spend this fortune generously.

In the last few weeks the euro has declined in value as fears over Greece's debt problems fueled international speculation. Could Greece's problems lead to the demise of the common European currency?

As events continue to fulfill end-time prophecy, it is important we keep our eyes focused on Jesus Christ who is guiding and directing all events. He will give us understanding of what it all means.

Controversies over minarets and burkas highlight larger questions about the clash of cultures and whether Europe's religious heritage should be defended.

According to Newsweek, "None of the factors that drove the global food crises in 2008 have gone away" (Dec. 7, 2009). And The Economist stated that "1 billion people will go to bed hungry" (Nov. 21, 2009). But hold on to your hats. The Bible clearly tells us that present conditions are slated to get a lot worse before they get better.

What exactly constitutes idolatry, and how does God's command against idolatry apply to Christians today?

Many ideas about Armageddon can be found in literature and movies. But what does the Bible say about Armageddon?

Is there a difference between simply being alive and living? A man once stated that we make a living by what we gain or get, but we make a life by what we give. The Bible tells us it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35). Inherent in that scripture is the fact that somebody has to receive. Obviously when we are babies or little children, we are receivers. As we grow into adulthood and become stronger and more independent, we have the responsibility to give to those in need. Indeed we are our brother’s keeper in a way.

We all need food, clothing and shelter. These necessities are the elements of living that we are able to obtain by what we earn. We also need love, friendship, family and social networks. We cannot buy love or friendship; they are gained by first giving them to others. By giving wisely where and when we can, we develop these priceless avenues of life. We give of our time, our ears, our hearts, our comfort and our sympathy, as well as our wealth. Love is a natural outgrowth, and when it is first given away, it can flourish and develop. In the end, it is the greatest gift life can offer. That is a real life.

What about an app that would give you relevant answers to life's toughest questions?