hope and assurance

March 16, 2011

The End

. . . no, not the end of our problems in America, but the end of these current-events messages, at least for now.  I hope you’ve been informed and encouraged by them, and I hope you will remain engaged because of them.

With the recent events in the Middle East, Christians all over the world are quick to imagine Jesus coming back very soon.  It seems as though everything is lining up as the Bible said it would for the Rapture and the Great Tribulation . . . America’s relationship with Israel is somewhat compromised by the current Administration; the European Union is evolving as the revived Roman Empire; apostasy has infiltrated the church as a whole, embracing immorality, false teachings and secularism; Islamic influence is on the rise in our culture; and Christian persecution is becoming commonplace even in the United States.  Are you ready for Christ’s return?

As I mentioned in my first message six months ago, there is a source of real “hope and change.”  That source is Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world.

. . . “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”  They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.”  (Acts 16:30-31)

You may ask, What about all the turmoil?  How do I handle all of these things?

For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. (1 John 5:4)

The righteous person faces many troubles, but the Lord comes to the rescue each time. (Psalm 34:19)

When will Jesus return for his people?

So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return.  (Matthew 25:13)

. . . in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. (1 Corinthians 15:52)

Now, here’s some good news I can’t keep to myself.  God knew when he created the earth and its inhabitants that mankind would fall into sin.  He knew from the beginning of time that he would send his only son to earth to die for the sins of every single person.  Jesus suffered a cruel, brutal death to pay the penalty for your sins and mine.  He loves you that much.  If you haven’t yet accepted his gift of eternal life that he offers through his sacrifice, what are you waiting for?  From the looks of today’s headlines, the end is near!

Teach them to obey everything that I have taught you, and I will be with you always, even until the end of this age. (words of Jesus, Matthew 28:20)

March 2, 2011

The Heartbeat of America

Our country is burdened with so many problems—we face an economic meltdown that could impact the entire world . . . we walk the wider path of rampant immorality . . . we find less and less integrity in the stock of leadership, both nationally and abroad . . . we no longer look to God for guidance in good times and bad.  And have you noticed that the current Administration bombards us with one crisis after another, at rapid-fire speed, causing major distractions while they pull their dirty stunts when seemingly no one else is looking?  So much chaos!  Where do all these problems stem from?  I believe it’s a matter of the heart.

What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? (James 4:1)

The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked.  Who really knows how bad it is? (Jeremiah 17:9)

Greed on Capitol Hill stems from greedy hearts that occupy there.  Laws that permit and even promote immorality and wickedness come from hearts bent on defying the God whose heart still beats with love, even for the greedy and the immoral and the wicked.  Our problems come from within our own hearts, and our decisions are based on choices we make in life, whether individually or as a nation.  There is usually only one of two choices—right or wrong.  Good or evil.  Life or death.

But if your heart turns away and you refuse to listen, and if you are drawn away to serve and worship other gods then I warn you now that you will certainly be destroyed. . . . Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. . . . (Deuteronomy 30:17-20)

What’s in your heart today as you listen to newscasts of the problems in this country?  Are you more concerned with your own personal desires being met, or does your heart beat with God’s for righteousness to return to our people? 

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. (Psalm 139:23)

We the people are the heartbeat of America.  Let us dare to ask God what’s best for this nation.

The heart of a fool is in his mouth, but the mouth of a wise man is in his heart.
 - Benjamin Franklin

QUESTIONS TO PONDER

1.     What are two things in your own heart that you are certain do not line up with God’s will for you?

2.     Jesus faced every temptation known to man, yet he did not give in to those temptations.  He’s the best source of help to change hearts.  Would you be willing to sincerely ask him to help you overcome one of those two heart issues you identified above?

February 16, 2011

Surefire Strategies for Survival in America’s Sinking Economy

No surprise here—our nation’s economy is going bottoms-up.  There’s a lot of finger pointing in attempts to lay blame on others and avoid personal (and corporate) responsibility.  For example, the housing crisis has often been blamed on lenders allowing borrowers to buy more house than they could afford.  Did it ever occur to the borrower to take a little personal responsibility and calculate the costs before choosing a home that’s way out of their price range?  And of course, our government seems to follow the same irresponsible patterns of thinking when it comes to spending our hard-earned tax dollars.

As followers of Christ, we don’t have to stay on the runaway train to financial ruin.  There are steps we can take to protect our families and our personal investments as much as possible.  When we do our part as good stewards of the finances God has entrusted to us, it helps our economy as a whole.  However, the only way these strategies will work is if we choose God as our Financial Advisor.

First, we must ask for help.  Ask God for guidance, and seek godly counsel.  As our pastor once told us, “before you pay for it, pray for it.”  Scripture confirms that common-sense approach in the following Scripture:

Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete. (John 16:24)

Secondly, we need to learn to be content with what God has blessed us with, regardless of our economic status.  While it’s OK to have goals and desires, happiness is not found in “stuff.”  The Apostle Paul knew this principle very well.

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. (Philippians 4:12)

We must also practice generosity, all the while having faith that when we give as God leads, it will be returned to us in ways that only he could provide.  I have seen God’s law of the harvest manifest in my own life time and time again.  His math isn’t like ours—it’s much more interesting!

 Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the first and best part of all your income.  Then your barns will be full, and your vats will overflow with fresh wine. (Proverbs 3:9-10)

In all things—financial and otherwise—we must maintain integrity through obedience to God’s will.  Contrary to what some would have you believe, he wants us to enjoy an abundant, anxiety-free life!  To do so requires that we trust God in every area of life. 

Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment.  (1 Timothy 6:17)

Yes, there are economic troubles in this nation, and yes, problems will come our way.  But as long as we remember that our God is much bigger than our problems and choose to follow HIS economic strategy, everything will work out for our good.  Trust me on this one—I’ve been there!

Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it.

- Ronald Reagan

QUESTIONS TO PONDER

1.      What would our nation’s economy look like if our Administration used the same budget strategies that your household uses?

2.      Would you be willing to make some rational but difficult changes personally in order to help stabilize the U.S. economy, if such changes were proposed in Congress?

February 2, 2011

The Role of Church in America – Part IV: Mission Impossible?

In my last writing, I spoke of the church as the moral compass for our nation as a whole and as individuals.  Nowadays it seems that our country’s compass is quite out of whack, and we as believers in Christ need to realign ourselves the truths found in the Bible in order to help turn this nation back to God.  Remember, we are called to INFORM, CONNECT, BUILD and SERVE.  Here are some ideas of what that looks like regarding the church’s role in America.

We are to inform others that there is only one way to God.  Many people sincerely believe there is more than one way to heaven, but they are sincerely wrong.  I once read a church marquee that stated, “Eternity is a very long time to be wrong.” 

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”  (John 14:6)

The church is called to connect with fellow believers, encourage each other in the faith and hold each other accountable to Christ’s moral standards.  We all can attest to how easy it is to fall prey to the temptations of this world, and our connection with other believers strengthens us to stay on course.

Let us not neglect our church meetings, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near. (Hebrews 10:25)

The Body of Christ is also called to build relationships with others who may not yet be a Christ follower.  They may be different from us in their lifestyles or beliefs, but every human being has a longing for a meaningful relationship with their Savior and is seeking a better life in this crazy, mixed-up world—they just may not realize it yet. 

Now an angel of the Lord spoke to Philip, saying, “Arise and go toward the south along the road which goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” . . . So he arose and went.  And behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority . . . was returning.  And sitting in his chariot, he was reading Isaiah the prophet.  Then the Spirit said to Philip, “Go near and overtake this chariot.”  So Philip ran to him, and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, “Do you understand what you are reading?”  And he said, “How can I, unless someone guides me?”  And he asked Philip to come up and sit with him. (Acts 8:26-31)

We can serve people in many ways—meeting physical or financial needs, lending a hand in times of difficulty or tragedy, or simply just being available to listen and encourage.  We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, wherever we are.

God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. (1 Peter 4:10)

The role of the church in America is not “Mission Impossible.”  With God, ALL things are possible, and he promises to equip us for that mission.  Should you decide to accept it, the challenge will be greatly rewarding, especially as we see our country transforming back into a country of moral absolutes.

Let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.

-           George Washington

QUESTIONS TO PONDER

1.        Of the people you interact with regularly, where is your most critical mission field to encourage morality?

2.        Is your personal moral compass helping or hindering your mission for God?

 

January 19, 2011

The Role of Church in America – Part III: The Moral Compass

No question—our country is morally bankrupt. God has been forced out of our schools and places of government and replaced with politically-correct pantheistic nonsense. What was once taught as biblical truth regarding immorality is now considered hate speech and is punishable by law. Marriage and family are being destroyed by divorce and deviant lifestyles that are now accepted as normal. Government has become one big, greedy power grab, dragging the well-being of the American people down a path of depravity and financial ruin. Our country was founded on moral absolutes, but morality is now laughed at from the late-night TV shows all the way up to the political podiums. And sadly, many of our mainline churches are following in the same direction.

God created mankind with a purpose in mind. Each of us are wired differently but fit together to form the Body of Christ—the church. All throughout Scripture we learn that the church’s function is to serve as the moral compass for our society. Perhaps we who belong to a church should ask ourselves, “How are we doing in that department?” The church I attend has as its mission statement: INFORM, CONNECT, BUILD and SERVE. As the moral compass of America, the church is to be the standard for what is good and right and decent, drawing others to the One who saves.

“And I, when I am lifted up from the earth [onto the cross at Calvary], will draw all people to myself." (John 12:32)

As we inform, connect, build and serve, we shine a light for others to see their way out of the darkness and into God’s light.  We can influence our legislators to return to the moral benchmark set by our founding fathers.  I will write on these more specifically in Part IV of “The Role of Church in America.”

Morality cannot be legislated but behavior can be regulated. Judicial decrees may not change the heart, but they can restrain the heartless.

 

- Martin Luther King, Jr.

QUESTIONS TO PONDER

1.      In what ways does your church serve as a moral compass for this lost nation?

2.      What do you believe are things that strongly hold many people captive in moral depravity?

January 5, 2011

The Role of Church in America – Part II: Our Welfare System: Compassion or Socialism?

While some of those recipients are legitimately poor or unable to provide for themselves, many who claim poverty are living much better than you would suspect. It’s interesting to note that 46% of all poor households actually own their own homes, most of which is a three-bedroom house with 1 ½ baths, a garage, and a porch or patio. Nearly three quarters of poor households own a car; 30% own two or more cars. Ninety-seven percent of poor households have a color television; over half own two or more color televisions. Seventy-eight percent have a VCR or DVD player; 62 percent have cable or satellite TV reception. Currently, one in six Americans now receives some form of taxpayer-funded government assistance such as TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), food stamps, utility assistance, childcare assistance, medical assistance, and unemployment benefits. As has been proven in the past, throwing money at the problem hasn’t reduced poverty, it’s only made the poor more dependent on the government. The current welfare system is driving America into bankruptcy, weakening America’s work ethic, contributing to increasing crime, and deteriorating the institution of marriage. According to the Heritage Foundation, when Lyndon Johnson implemented his War on Poverty in 1964, 7% of children were born out of wedlock; today the figure is over 40%! (http://www.heritage.org/Research/Reports/2010/08/The-Unsustainable-Growth-of-Welfare) And whether unemployment benefits are the standard 26 weeks or the current 99 weeks, it’s human nature that some of the unemployed will wait until the last minute to really look for work.

For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”  (2 Thessalonians 3:10)

For a startling insight into the “benefits” of welfare, please read this article by Wyatt Emmerich of Mississippi: http://www.northsidesun.com/view/full_story/9915498/article-With-welfare-it-makes-sense-to-work-less. Government is not our savior, God is. He provides for the needy through families and friends in the body of Christ.

 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. (James 1:17)

Charles Colson writes, “Calling people to responsibility--that's the approach the Church used in the nineteenth century, and it works just as well in the twentieth. It's the only approach consistent with the Christian view of our nature and our dignity as God-created individuals.” (Charles Colson, “Understanding the Underclass”, September 1991, http://www.breakpoint.org/)

Anyone who does not provide for their relatives, and especially for their own household, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.  (1 Timothy 5:8)

We are called to give a hand up, not a hand out. Let’s be mindful of that as we monitor the legislation being proposed in 2011 regarding welfare.

I am for doing good to the poor, but I differ in opinion of the means. I think the best way of doing good to the poor, is not making them easy in poverty, but leading or driving them out of it. In my youth I traveled much, and I observed in different countries, that the more public provisions were made for the poor, the less they provided for themselves, and of course became poorer. And, on the contrary, the less was done for them, the more they did for themselves, and became richer.

- Benjamin Franklin

QUESTIONS TO PONDER

1.        Is there a difference between compassion and welfare?

2.        If you were (or are) unemployed and have been for a while, would you consider working a job below your skill level until something more suitable becomes available?

December 24, 2010
MERRY CHRISTMAS, AMERICA

Christmas is about giving.  God himself gave the most wonderful Christmas gift:

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders.  And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

Jesus was born to give his life for us.  We were born to live our lives for him—why else would God have created humanity?  You may recall not too long ago the campaign to “keep Christ in Christmas.”  Christmas was declared a federal holiday in 1870.  Though it’s still a federal holiday, we see more and more how Christmas is being forced out of our society, thanks to the ever-encroaching ideology of political correctness.  Christmas trees are now “holiday trees.”  Nativity scenes are banned in the public squares, and sadly they are absent even in many churches!  School kids are forbidden to distribute traditional Christmas candy canes with a spiritual message attached.

Why is there such an attack on Christmas?  Because Christmas is about CHRIST, and his name is offensive to many in today’s society.  Jesus is the Reason for the Season, and he is a stumbling block to those who refuse to accept his gift of salvation.

For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)

How do we reclaim Christmas in America?  The American Family Association often posts action alerts regarding companies that have replaced “Christmas” with “holidays” in their advertising.  AFA’s website allows you to contact these companies to urge them to keep the focus on Christmas (http://action.afa.net/Detail.aspx?id=2147500939).  We can also respond with “Merry Christmas” when we are greeted in places of business with “Happy Holidays.” 

If you have never accepted God’s gift of eternal life through faith in his Son, there’s no time like the present.   Merry Christmas to all!

To the American People: Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind. To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. If we think on these things, there will be born in us a Savior and over us will shine a star sending its gleam of hope to the world.

-        Calvin Coolidge

QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

1. Is your place of business Christmas-friendly?
2. What are you personally doing to keep Christ in Christmas and reclaim Christmas in America?

December 7, 2010

THE ROLE OF CHURCH IN AMERICA

      PART I: MIXED MESSAGES

It’s impossible to miss the handprint of God in nearly every document or letter written by the founding fathers.  Faith in God was of utmost important to them.  Did you know that the White House actually served as a place of worship for America’s first leaders?  (http://www.wallbuilders.com/libissuesarticles.asp?id=90)  Clearly, today’s liberal definition of “separation of church and state” was not what the writers of the Constitution had in mind.

The church—the body of Christ—is called to act as the moral conscience of America, but as God is pushed out of our society, it seems that many churches are leaning more toward a sensory experience with a watered-down, feel-good message. I’ve visited several local churches, and it’s rare to experience God’s presence and a much-needed message of conviction of sin.  If our spiritual shepherds feel compelled to “wow” the flock in order not to offend some, is it any wonder that even Christians are sometimes unable to detect sin around them, or even in their own lives?  It’s a sad day when pastors refuse to address sin from the pulpit for fear of losing some members and the money that follows them.

For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to right teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever they want to hear. (2 Timothy 4:3)

The body of Christ desperately needs a firm foundation on which to develop a strong moral worldview so that we can be well equipped to choose government leaders of principle and hold them accountable to higher standards.  We need to be bold to speak out when we see injustice and moral depravity being normalized in this country.

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2)

Regular time in God’s Word is the surest way to develop that worldview.  Studying the Bible with others and agreeing to keep each other accountable develops a keen sense of discernment of what’s truly right and wrong.  No doubt this was the practice of many of our nation’s leaders.  God honors a nation that honors Him and His church.

For millions of men and women, the church has been the hospital for the soul,

the school for the mind and the safe depository for moral ideas.

-          Gerald R. Ford

QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

1. Can you honestly say that you are aware of God’s presence when you attend your regular church services?

2. When was the last time you felt prompted by a sermon to make a change in your life?

November 23, 2010

LET FREEDOM RING

What is freedom, really? Is it freedom to badmouth our country and all that it stands for after entering the country illegally without fear of consequences?  Is it freedom to be able to flaunt immorality and mock God and claim that it’s your right to file a lawsuit because you are offended if anyone suggests your behavior is wrong?  Our founding fathers pledged their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor to defend the God-given rights and freedoms of America’s citizens.  Freedom to vote--without intimidation by radical racist groups.  Freedom of conscience regarding hiring or doing business according to one’s moral principles.  Freedom to choose what goods to purchase, such as health insurance and McDonalds Happy Meals, without government intrusion.

Patrick Henry said, “Bad men cannot make good citizens. It is when a people forget God that tyrants forge their chains. A vitiated state of morals, a corrupted public conscience, is incompatible with freedom.”  Therein lies the answer to the question of freedom:

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

(2 Corinthians 3:17)

The spirit of God has been pushed out of our country, starting with the White House and moving all the way down to school districts.  How can we ever hope to reclaim our freedoms if we don’t put first things first and restore God to His rightful place?  A good start is to discern the lies from the truth.  Jesus is the source of all truth and embodies all that is right and good.

Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you keep obeying my teachings.  And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.

(John 8:31-32)

True freedom comes only through complete trust in Christ.  Can you imagine how different America would be if our government leaders would follow the teachings of Christ?! 

But even some of us who’ve accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior sometimes forget that and tend to focus on all the chaos that surrounds us. 

If the Son sets you free, you will indeed be free. (John 8:36)

. . . freedom from deception, freedom to be bold to take a stand for what’s right, freedom from fear of the future, freedom to live as God created us to live.

The God who gave us life, gave us liberty at the same time.

-          Thomas Jefferson

QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

1.                   How do you define freedom, both on a personal level and as a nation?

2.                   Have you experienced the freedom Jesus offers in the good news of the Gospel?

November 10, 2010  

TAXED ENOUGH ALREADY!

You’ve heard the saying that “the only sure things in life are death and taxes.”  That may be true, and I thought we might take a look at what the Bible has to say about taxes.

1. INCOME TAX – God intended a single flat rate for everyone:  “The rich shall not give more and the poor shall not give less than half a shekel.” (Exodus 30: 15)
2. CAPITAL GAINS TAX – God’s Word says the more profit you make, the more you are to be rewarded.  The parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 is a good example.  Verse 29 tells us, “For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance.” 
3. INHERITANCE TAX – The current Estate Tax can take up to 55% of a person’s estate upon his death.  Ezekiel 46:18 says “The prince must not take any of the inheritance of the people, driving them off their property.”

Our founding fathers recognized the need to impose taxes for revenue, not on individuals but on imported goods.  Later in our history, the income tax was imposed during the Civil War in order to pay war expenses, and it was repealed 10 years later.  (Obviously, it was later reinstated!)  We know that many of the current tax laws are unfair, and our hard-earned tax dollars are frequently wasted through frivolous government spending.  However, we are commanded to obey the laws and pay our taxes. 

Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing.

(Romans 13:5-6)

Becoming informed on the constitutionality of certain taxes and other options such as the Fair Tax will help us make better decisions at election time.  Meanwhile, we can voice our specific concerns to our legislators, remembering this is a government of the people!

"...a national revenue must be obtained; but the system must be such a one, that, while it secures the object of revenue it shall not be oppressive to our constituents."

 – James Madison

QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

1.       As Christians we give 10% to God’s work.  In comparison, do you think the current tax rates are fair?

2.       If a government can seize a landowner’s property for non-payment of property taxes, does that landowner really own his property, or is he merely leasing it from the government?
 

October 27, 2010  

TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES

It’s difficult to believe much of what comes out of Washington these days.  Leadership by example now seems to be driven by excessive dishonesty, and we the people are paying the consequences.  We have been lied to about jobs and the economy.  We have been lied to about taxes.  We have been lied to about healthcare choices and cost.  We have been lied to about our national security. We have been lied to about moral issues that affect every facet of our lives.  All this from an Administration that promised transparency!

Deception is nothing new, but why does it seem to be so rampant now?  Our country was founded on Christian principles, including truth and morality, but many leaders of today—our current Administration at the top of the list—want no part in a moral society. 

If a ruler honors liars, all his advisers will be wicked. (Proverbs 29:12)

Jesus explained it this way to the leaders of his day:

Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot bear to hear my word. You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. . . . Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God.”  (John 8:43-47)

Let’s pray for wisdom to take action in an appropriate way.  We have a major election coming up in a week, and it is our duty to do all we can to put truth back into our legislative system. With God’s help we can reclaim our country for righteousness.

He changes times and seasons; he sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. (Daniel 2:21)

Truth will ultimately prevail where there is pains taken to bring it to light. 

- George Washington

QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

1.      Is it possible to omit some of the truth of a matter and still be honest?

2.      Why does it seem so easy for many people to accept dishonesty in their political leaders?

October 13, 2010
NATIONAL SECURITY

Terrorism is defined as the unlawful use or threat of violence especially against the state or the public as a politically motivated means of attack or coercion.  (Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary of Law)  Reports of terrorist attacks, and even failed plots, are frequent nowadays.  It’s particularly alarming for American citizens to watch our government “play footsies” with enemy international leaders; it is equally disturbing to see our leaders fall all over themselves in attempts to avoid “offending” others by allowing them to practically take over the country and threaten the freedoms we cherish and fought so hard to obtain. 

Now this Administration chooses to install warning signs rather than secure our borders against illegal immigration, further illustrating that they would rather cater to illegals rather than “man up” and protect the citizens they serve.  See the link below.

http://img813.imageshack.us/img813/4083/blmwarningsign.jpg

 Our enemy is no longer “out there.”  Our enemy also lurks within the halls of Big Government.  We feel our national security is being compromised with inept leadership.  What are we to do?

For today, we can do what Jesus did with the political leaders of his day—call them to account for their decisions and actions.  Write a letter or make a phone call expressing our concern, help others around us become aware of the dangerous changes taking place in our government.  And certainly we must pray.  Pray for wisdom for our President and his advisors, pray for God’s salvation for our leaders and our enemies, and pray for necessary changes in our own lives.  Real change starts with you and me.

These are the numbers of the men armed for battle who came to David at Hebron to turn Saul's kingdom over to him, as the LORD had said . . .  men of Issachar, who understood the times and knew what Israel should do—200 chiefs, with all their relatives under their command . . .  (1 Chronicles 12:23, 32)

But what about the future?  Well, those of us who put our trust in Christ can take comfort in John 14:27:

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

God never promised that we wouldn’t experience difficulties or even tragedy.  But he does promise peace in times of peril.  Once we make the decision to place our life in HIS hands, our future is secure forever.

"One man's terrorist is another man's hero."

Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf, organizer of the proposed 9/11 mosque

QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

1. Is Islam a peaceful religion, as our political leaders would have you believe?

2. What should be our response to the mass immigration of illegals into the U.S.?

September 29, 2010

THE ORIGIN OF GOVERNMENT

Government is God’s idea.  Hard to believe, given what we see in the daily news, but it’s true.  To be more specific, God instituted lawful government, and government leaders are ordained as ministers to ensure justice and national security.  Period.  No bailouts, no pandering to special-interest groups, no mandates on our healthcare choices, and certainly no apologies to our enemies for the moral values of our nation.  It’s written in Romans 13: 1-7:

Obey the government, for God is the one who pout it there.  All governments have been placed in power by God.  So those who refuse to obey the laws of the land are refusing to obey God, and punishment will follow.  For the authorities do not frighten people who are doing right, but they frighten those who do wrong.  So do what they say, and you will get along well.  The authorities are sent by God to help you.  But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for you will be punished.  The authorities are established by God for that very purpose, to punish those who do wrong.  So you must obey the government for two reasons: to keep from being punished and to keep a clear conscience.  Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons.  For government workers need to be paid so they can keep on doing the work God intended them to do.  Give to everyone what you owe them:  Pay your taxes and import duties, and give respect and honor to all to whom it is due.

Clergy or layperson, we should not be afraid to confront corruption in government.  After all, Jesus was involved in politics.  He openly challenged the political leaders of the day—the Pharisees and Sadducees—for their ignorance of the true Law of God and their heavy-handed control over the people with burdensome rules.  In the way of the Pharisees, many leaders of the current Administration seem to ignore the basic tenets of our American Constitution, twisting its meaning to conform to their political agendas.  We cannot allow those who represent us to sit back and permit this to happen.

If God is for us, who can be against us?  (Romans 8:31)

If we claim to follow Christ, we are called to be salt and light and use our God-given talents to speak truth to power in order to reclaim the rights endowed to us by our Creator.  Hopefully you are beginning to see that God wants to use you in this cultural and political battle.  Are you ready to do your part?

The origin of lawful government among men had formed a subject of profound investigation and of ardent discussion among the philosophers of ancient Greece. The theocratic government of the Hebrews had been founded upon a covenant between God and man; a law, given by the Creator of the world, and solemnly accepted by the people of Israel. It derived all its powers, therefore, from the consent of the governed, and gave the sanction of Heaven itself to the principle, that the consent of the governed is the only legitimate source of authority to man over man.

-  John Quincy Adams, July 4, 1837

QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

1. As you read about government in the Bible, can you see that the widely misused argument of separation of church and state is wearing thin?

2. Where do our rights come from:  government or God?  To whose authority do you submit your life?

 

September 15, 2010
IN THE BEGINNING

From its beginning, THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA was bathed in passionate prayer.  Many of our founding fathers were Bible-believing Christians, and those who were not Christians supported biblical principles as the foundation of our Constitution, our laws and our way of life.  God was at the core of every decision concerning our country. 

We can’t say that’s true today.  In the 1960’s, prayer was removed from our schools because one person was “offended.”  Military chaplains are challenged for praying “in Jesus’ name” because it’s not politically correct.  There has even been a move against lunchtime prayer in senior-citizen facilities because those agencies receive federal funds!  We’ve allowed intimidation to erode our religious freedoms and frivolous lawsuits to scare us into submission.  We get busy with our own personal issues and assume someone else is fighting that battle.  We’ve deluded ourselves into thinking “it’s not that big a deal” and turn a blind eye as our very foundation crumbles beneath us. And now and then, we look up and find ourselves wondering,  “What’s happening to America?”

Then if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves, if they will pray and seek me and stop their evil ways, I will hear them from heaven. I will forgive their sin, and I will heal their land.  Now I will see them, and I will listen to the prayers prayed in this place. (2 Chronicles 7:14-15)

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYs6KZfzo0c

This is our country, and it’s being taken away from us with lightning speed.  If we want to keep our freedoms, we’d better drop to our knees and pray now!  Prayer doesn’t have to be a long, formal ordeal.  It can be as simple as a single sentence while watching the news (Lord, what would you have me do about this issue?) or driving to work (God, please give wisdom to our legislators to solve this problem!).  But it can’t be absent from public life anymore.  It’s time to put God back where he belongs—front and center in our lives and in the government of our nation.

We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties of heaven. …We have grown in numbers, wealth and power, as no other nation has ever grown. But we have forgotten God. … Intoxicated with unbroken success, we have become too self-sufficient to feel the necessity of redeeming and preserving grace, too proud to pray to the God that made us! It behooves us, then to humble ourselves before the offended Power, to confess our national sins, and to pray for clemency and forgiveness.

 - Abraham Lincoln

QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

1. Have you ever witnessed an answer to prayer (it doesn’t matter if it’s major or minor—prayer is prayer)?

2. Would you commit to pray until Election Day for our country and its leaders?

September 1, 2010
SO . . . HOW DID WE GET HERE ANYWAY?

Let me start by confessing that, up until the last presidential campaign, I had no interest in politics and current events.  Now that we are bombarded on a daily basis with news of outrageous statements and actions on the part of our leaders, I realize that it is vital on the part of every citizen to stay informed and seek biblical wisdom in order to do our part to move this country back on track.

He leads the humble in what is right, teaching them his way.  The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all those who keep his covenant and obey his decrees.  (Psalm 25:9-10)

The will of the people—the basis of our government as stated in the preamble of the Constitution–has been substituted with the will of the President, and common sense has been replaced with the agendas of special interest groups (most of which represent a minority of our population).  When you take the time to listen and learn, you realize just how very far we’ve strayed from the original intentions of our founding fathers.  God and prayer were deeply imbedded in much of their activities, both public and private, as well as their legislation.  I’d highly recommend a visit to http://www.wallbuilders.com/LIBdefault.asp to view a library of historical documents and writings that will clarify just how far we’ve shifted from our original course.  America’s founders recognized that God is the one who ordained government, and they understood that the success of a nation is in direct proportion to its faith in God. 

Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he alone has all wisdom and power.  He determines the course of world events; he removes kings and sets others on the throne.  (Daniel 2:20-21)

Take out a dollar bill from your wallet.  “In God We Trust” is boldly printed on each piece of currency minted in the U.S.  Does that phrase mean anything to us anymore?

If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a nation gone under.

                                                - Ronald Reagan

QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

1. Many of those who oppose religious freedom cite “separation of church and state” from the Constitution.  Do you know what the writers of the Constitution meant by that?

2.       Accountability and responsibility begin with each individual citizen.  We cannot expect our government leaders to be accountable if we ourselves are not.  What are you willing to do personally to begin getting back on track and become a source of truth and wisdom to others?




August 18, 2010
REAL HOPE AND CHANGE

“Hope and Change” is the mantra of our current Administration.  I don’t know about you, but for me it’s hard to feel hopeful, and I’m a bit afraid of the changes I see appearing, almost without my knowledge, definitely without my consent.

There is a source of real hope and change.

For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.  In those days when you pray, I will listen.  (Jeremiah 29:11-12).

God is our only hope, and as we seek him, he will change us—our hearts, our shortcomings, our fears.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Change around us must begin with change within us.  I’m ready for some real hope and change.   How about you?

QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

1. Do you believe that things need to change in our country, in our world?
2. Are you ready to begin praying for that change to begin with you?