On HSN they feature a gentleman named John Edward who purports to sell spiritual items. But really how spiritual can they be if he's hocking them on HSN so he can turn a profit? I put him on the same level as televangelists. I can help you find salvation, for 3 easy payments of $39.95.

Growing up, my parents always tithed to our church, even when we had no money. That same church, however, kept us clothed and feed on several occasions when we had no money. Tithing to your community church helps the people of that church and community. They are truly doing God's work. But these televangilists and authors of multi-million dollar christian books are nothing but self-serving opportunists. Using the faith people have in God to drain them of their bank accounts. Now, normally in these situations, I would say of the people being taken advantage of, oh well, they should use common sense. However, the victims of these schemes are usually older folks, confined to their homes and no longer able to attend their local churches. They turn to these farces on TV to give them spiritual guidance and in turn "tithe" to those "churches". Unlike their local church, however, they will never see this money again. Not unless they become a business associate of the "preacher". Those funds line the pockets of men who are out for themselves, they are not out to do God's work.

There are so many debates about religion and spirituality, none of which I want to get into. But I think we can all agree on one thing: you don't have to hock merchandise on HSN to get closer to God. You will only be getting closer to the poor house.