Most of you have probably seen this already but we're at the end of the "campaign" and the strongest effort is needed now:
This is the time of year for the annual Wizbang Blog Awards (think the Oscars for blogs). This year, Spunky (a.k.a. Mrs. Braun, a homeschooling mom from Michigan) has been nominated in the Best Educational blog category. She is currently trailing her two primary competitors—one a Ivy league news, gossip, and sex blog, and the other, a professor at Penn State—by 200 votes.
This wouldn't be so bad by itself—homeschoolers can accept defeat graciously—but both of these blogs, besides being exceedingly secular, are also exceedingly elitist. They seem to have a built in disdain for homeschoolers. A sampling of comments from their blogs:
The important thing is that IvyGate and I crush the homeschoolers."
"Homeschoolers suck!"
"And seriously, we do need to beat the cr*p out of those homeschool freaks."
For all these reasons, I'd like to encourage all of you to get behind SpunkyHomeschool and help vote her to victory. You are allowed to vote once a day (from every available computer) until the end of December 15th. For more information, click here. You can also visit The Rebelution blog for updates.
To vote for SpunkyHomeschool, click here.
Spunky has a tight lead, keep voting to keep her there!!!!
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
My Hard Thing
My previous post probably left most of you wondering what the point was.
Simply put I was indirectly stating my “Hard Thing”.
My family recently joined a baptist church and upon doing that, I was thrown out of my comfort zone. Affiliating ourselves with the church is not in and of itself hard. The ramifications of that decision, however, is what has turned into my seemingly impossible “hard thing”.
For the first time four weeks ago, I found myself doing something I had been told would never happen. I was in a classroom with about one hundred youths ages 12 to 18. each week, chatter about their latest boyfriend, and last night's football game escalates to an almost intolerable level. I had been told to be there to give a different view and in a sense regenerate the culture. I wasn't ready, but I went anyway.
“But I listened when You said to go
And I set out in spite of my fears
About truth mixed with my imperfection
And the question of what to say when I got here... What should I tell them when
They're thirsty Lord
My cup is empty Lord
Come and lead me here in this place
Cuz I'm honest, yeah, but I'm unprepared
And I'm just plain afraid ”(emphasis mine)
Those verses from “What Should I Tell Them” sums up what I've been facing. The difference is they're not thirsty and my cup isn't quite empty.
The discussions held in the small groups are mere milk, yet no one yearns for more.
I offer meat as often as possible, yet my voice is constantly drowned out – often times glossed over or laughed at. My attempts at trying to show a different angle are blocked at every turn, I seemingly fail each time.
Failure – the thing that scares me more than apathy, a democrat controlled congress, and “normal” guys combined; The one thing that can make me cry every time it strikes. Yet, I seem to repeat it every Sunday morning when my attempts to speak are blocked.
Out side the small group I am drowned out by the chatter and cliques that have been formed. There's no way to jump into a conversation, they seem to speak in Greek.
My Hard thing is two-fold: 1. the constant reminder of blocked attempts and 2. trying to get through the barrier.
My hard thing cannot and will not overcome me, I need to overcome it. My hard thing cannot remain impossible, at some point a hole will be made in it's impervious structure, and it shall be overcome.
Friday, December 01, 2006
"Should I Tell Them?"
"Should I tell them?"
by Shaun Groves:
by Shaun Groves:
Walking with you is not without hazards
Trippings this traveler's curse
Price paid for falling is more than my stumble
In a world that is watching and waiting for words
But I listened when You said to go
And I set out in spite of my fears
About truth mixed with my imperfection
And the question of what to say when I got here
And now that I'm here
Should I tell them that
You are the one who has made me
And saved me and set up a home there inside
Should I tell them that I am a perfect example
Of all You can do with a life.
What should I say to them?
What if I'm failing them?
What should I tell them tonight?
Now don't get me wrong
I'm thankful to be here
With this song to sing and a spotlight on me,
But lately I'm wondering if you are mistaken,
If you're seeing all of me there is to see.
Cause on every face I detect
The same questions I've posed to you
Like do you speak through the imperfect
Are we too dirty for your light to get through?
I want your light to get through.
What should I tell them when
They're thirsty Lord
My cup is empty Lord
Come and lead me here in this place
Cuz I'm honest, yeah, but I'm unprepared
And I'm just plain afraid
Trippings this traveler's curse
Price paid for falling is more than my stumble
In a world that is watching and waiting for words
But I listened when You said to go
And I set out in spite of my fears
About truth mixed with my imperfection
And the question of what to say when I got here
And now that I'm here
Should I tell them that
You are the one who has made me
And saved me and set up a home there inside
Should I tell them that I am a perfect example
Of all You can do with a life.
What should I say to them?
What if I'm failing them?
What should I tell them tonight?
Now don't get me wrong
I'm thankful to be here
With this song to sing and a spotlight on me,
But lately I'm wondering if you are mistaken,
If you're seeing all of me there is to see.
Cause on every face I detect
The same questions I've posed to you
Like do you speak through the imperfect
Are we too dirty for your light to get through?
I want your light to get through.
What should I tell them when
They're thirsty Lord
My cup is empty Lord
Come and lead me here in this place
Cuz I'm honest, yeah, but I'm unprepared
And I'm just plain afraid
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Be Thankful!
Be Thankful
As Americans we have a lot to be thankful for. Some people forget the meaning of thanksgiving, and overlook the things they're thankful for. Sometimes the simplest things in life are the most overlooked, yet are the most important. So here is the list of what I'm thankful for:
Christ, for without Him, I wouldn't be here.
My Family – They have had to put up with more of my antics than anyone and love me anyway.
My friends – few and far between, most times out of State. They'll fight for me or die trying. I appreciate and thank God for each and every one of them!
The United States military and the price they have paid to give us the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave!
May we never forget this precious gift.
These are a few of the things I'm thankful for. The question is: what are YOU thankful for?
Saturday, November 18, 2006
A Poem
My mom forwarded this poem to me from my grandma. I have no idea who wrote it, but it's a great reminder.
~Let us Never Forget~
The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.
Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.
My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.
The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,
Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the
snow. My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.
A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my
child. "What are you doing?" I asked without
fear, "Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your
sleeve, You should be at home on a cold
Christmas Eve!"
For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in
drifts. To the window that danced with a
warm fire's light, Then he sighed and he said
"Its really all right, I'm out here by choice. I'm
here every night."
"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me, I'm
proud to stand here like my fathers before me.
My Gramps died at 'Pearl on a day in December,"
Then he sighed, "that's a Christmas 'Gram
always remembers." My dad stood his watch
in the jungles of 'Nam', And now it is my turn
and so, here I am. I've not seen my own son in
more than a while, But my wife sends me
pictures, he's sure got her smile.
Then he bent and he carefully pulled from
his bag, The red, white, and blue ... an American flag.
I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home. I
can stand at my post through the rain and the
sleet, I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.
I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..
Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall."
"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."
"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a
feast? It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son."
Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just tell us you love us, and never forget.
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.
For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled.
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."
~Let us Never Forget~
The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light,
I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight.
My wife was asleep, her head on my chest,
My daughter beside me, angelic in rest.
Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,
Transforming the yard to a winter delight.
The sparkling lights in the tree I believe,
Completed the magic that was Christmas Eve.
My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep,
Secure and surrounded by love I would sleep.
In perfect contentment, or so it would seem,
So I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream.
The sound wasn't loud, and it wasn't too near,
But I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear.
Perhaps just a cough, I didn't quite know,
Then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the
snow. My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear,
And I crept to the door just to see who was near.
Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night,
A lone figure stood, his face weary and tight.
A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old,
Perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold.
Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled,
Standing watch over me, and my wife and my
child. "What are you doing?" I asked without
fear, "Come in this moment, it's freezing out here!
Put down your pack, brush the snow from your
sleeve, You should be at home on a cold
Christmas Eve!"
For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift,
Away from the cold and the snow blown in
drifts. To the window that danced with a
warm fire's light, Then he sighed and he said
"Its really all right, I'm out here by choice. I'm
here every night."
"It's my duty to stand at the front of the line,
That separates you from the darkest of times.
No one had to ask or beg or implore me, I'm
proud to stand here like my fathers before me.
My Gramps died at 'Pearl on a day in December,"
Then he sighed, "that's a Christmas 'Gram
always remembers." My dad stood his watch
in the jungles of 'Nam', And now it is my turn
and so, here I am. I've not seen my own son in
more than a while, But my wife sends me
pictures, he's sure got her smile.
Then he bent and he carefully pulled from
his bag, The red, white, and blue ... an American flag.
I can live through the cold and the being alone,
Away from my family, my house and my home. I
can stand at my post through the rain and the
sleet, I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat.
I can carry the weight of killing another,
Or lay down my life with my sister and brother..
Who stand at the front against any and all,
To ensure for all time that this flag will not fall."
"So go back inside," he said, "harbor no fright,
Your family is waiting and I'll be all right."
"But isn't there something I can do, at the least,
"Give you money," I asked, "or prepare you a
feast? It seems all too little for all that you've done,
For being away from your wife and your son."
Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret,
"Just tell us you love us, and never forget.
To fight for our rights back at home while we're gone,
To stand your own watch, no matter how long.
For when we come home, either standing or dead,
To know you remember we fought and we bled.
Is payment enough, and with that we will trust,
That we mattered to you as you mattered to us."
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Final Election Update (10)
Last night we went to bed wondering what the final out come would be in the United States Congress. This morning, we woke up with the democrats in control and new Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. The Senate has been reported to be in the democrat's hands as well. Although I believe we are still waiting for the official results.
Defense Secretary Rumsfeld has also resigned today. The Press conference that the President had today was rough as well.
This was a bad day for conservatives, however , it's not the end of the world...Yet. Just because we lost congress does not mean that we can no longer make a difference. In fact, now more than ever is the time we need to get involved. We also need to remember that the key to changing our Nation lies in 2nd Chronicles 7:14.
Defense Secretary Rumsfeld has also resigned today. The Press conference that the President had today was rough as well.
This was a bad day for conservatives, however , it's not the end of the world...Yet. Just because we lost congress does not mean that we can no longer make a difference. In fact, now more than ever is the time we need to get involved. We also need to remember that the key to changing our Nation lies in 2nd Chronicles 7:14.
Election Update 9
We're back with more results. The candidate I've been working for since august lost.
Corker is still in the lead in Tennessee.
Maine is still in Snowe's hands.
There are mixed reports of the Virginia race.
Maryland:
MD - U.S. Senate
69% Precincts Reporting
Corker is still in the lead in Tennessee.
Maine is still in Snowe's hands.
There are mixed reports of the Virginia race.
Maryland:
MD - U.S. Senate
69% Precincts Reporting
 | Ben Cardin | Democrat | 540,676 (53%) |  |
| Michael Steele | Republican | 473,048 (46%) | ||
| Kevin Zeese | Green | 16,021 (2%) | ||
| Click Here for Race Analysis and Latest Polls | ||||
South Dakota is still leaning against the refferrendum:
SD - Bans all abortions unless one is needed to prevent the death of the mother
59% Precincts Reporting
59% Precincts Reporting
| No | - | 98,182 (55%) | |
| Yes | - | 79,444 (45%) |
Kyl is still leading in Arizona:
| Jon Kyl (i) | Republican | 402,955 (52%) | |
| Jim Pederson | Democrat | 351,190 (45%) | ||
| Richard Mack | Libertarian | 25,547 (3%) |
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Election Update 8
Senator George Allen is in the lead by a few votes!
Corker is ahead 51-48% with 82% of precincts reporting.
In Georgia, Casey Cagle became the first Republican Lt. Governor in history.
Interesting results in the Arizona US Senate race:
63% Precincts Reporting
Maryland turned around with 48% of precincts reporting:
48% Precincts Reporting
The Senate race in Maine is still Snowe's.
Finally, something good may come out of California!
A - Proposition 85 - Would prohibit abortions on minors until 48 hours after a doctor notifies parents or legal guardians, except in cases of medical emergency or with parental waiver
Polls Close at 8:00PM PST (11:00PM EST) *
Corker is ahead 51-48% with 82% of precincts reporting.
In Georgia, Casey Cagle became the first Republican Lt. Governor in history.
Interesting results in the Arizona US Senate race:
63% Precincts Reporting
| Jon Kyl (i) | Republican | 359,692 (53%) | |
| Jim Pederson | Democrat | 293,783 (43%) | ||
| Richard Mack | Libertarian | 22,068 (3%) |
Maryland turned around with 48% of precincts reporting:
48% Precincts Reporting
| Michael Steele | Republican | 348,232 (50%) | | |
| Ben Cardin | Democrat | 331,924 (48%) | |
| Kevin Zeese | Green | 11,242 (2%) |
The Senate race in Maine is still Snowe's.
Finally, something good may come out of California!
A - Proposition 85 - Would prohibit abortions on minors until 48 hours after a doctor notifies parents or legal guardians, except in cases of medical emergency or with parental waiver
Polls Close at 8:00PM PST (11:00PM EST) *
| Yes | - | 94,643 (55%) | | |
| No | - | 77,961 (45%) |
Election Update 7
Georgia's Governor Sonny Perdue won re-election!
Corker is still ahead in Tennessee.
Allen still leads by 1% (or approx 30,000 votes) in Virginia.
The Maryland race is at a tie between Steele and Cardin. 34% of precincts have reported.
Olympia Snowe still has the lead in Maine.
In Pennsylvania the race is 60-40 in Casey's favor.
In South Dakota the refferrendum results are:
SD - Bans all abortions unless one is needed to prevent the death of the mother
20% Precincts Reporting
Also, Matt A. gave me some insight into the "checks". As far as he can tell, it was the FoxNews election prediction.
Corker is still ahead in Tennessee.
Allen still leads by 1% (or approx 30,000 votes) in Virginia.
The Maryland race is at a tie between Steele and Cardin. 34% of precincts have reported.
Olympia Snowe still has the lead in Maine.
In Pennsylvania the race is 60-40 in Casey's favor.
In South Dakota the refferrendum results are:
SD - Bans all abortions unless one is needed to prevent the death of the mother
20% Precincts Reporting
| No | - | 29,543 (55%) | ||
| Yes | - | 24,657 (45%) |
Also, Matt A. gave me some insight into the "checks". As far as he can tell, it was the FoxNews election prediction.
Election Update 6
The Maryland results are up:
5% Precincts Reporting
It has been asked several times if the check means anything, in all honesty I don't know. I do know, however, that it's still early for election night and results are subject to change.
The Maine results are now at 7% reporting. Snowe is still in the lead:
7% Precincts Reporting
In Pennsylvania at 16is Casey is still ahead:
16% Precincts Reporting
With 34% of precincts reporting in Tennessee, Corker is still in the lead:
34% Precincts Reporting
Virginia is still very tight with Allen ahead and 83% of precincts reporting:
83% Precincts Reporting
Finally, Georgia is still majorly Republican in the state races. The Attorney General's race is still tight.
(statistics from foxnews.com and 11alive.com)
5% Precincts Reporting
| Michael Steele | Republican | 28,880 (53%) | ||
| Ben Cardin | Democrat | 24,240 (45%) | |
| Kevin Zeese | Green | 944 (2%) | ||
| Click Here for Race Analysis and Latest Polls | ||||
It has been asked several times if the check means anything, in all honesty I don't know. I do know, however, that it's still early for election night and results are subject to change.
The Maine results are now at 7% reporting. Snowe is still in the lead:
7% Precincts Reporting
| Olympia Snowe (i) | Republican | 17,041 (59%) | |
| Jean Hay Bright | Democrat | 8,904 (31%) | ||
| William Slavick | Unenrolled | 2,874 (10%) | ||
| Click Here for Race Analysis and Latest Polls | ||||
In Pennsylvania at 16is Casey is still ahead:
16% Precincts Reporting
| Bob Casey | Democrat | 311,819 (63%) | |
| Rick Santorum (i) | Republican | 184,660 (37%) | ||
| Click Here for Race Analysis and Latest Polls | ||||
With 34% of precincts reporting in Tennessee, Corker is still in the lead:
34% Precincts Reporting
| Bob Corker | Republican | 478,888 (51%) | | |
| Harold Ford | Democrat | 448,219 (48%) |
Virginia is still very tight with Allen ahead and 83% of precincts reporting:
83% Precincts Reporting
| George Allen (i) | Republican | 938,633 (50%) | | |
| Jim Webb | Democrat | 908,054 (49%) | ||
| Glenda Parker | Independent Grassroots | 20,580 (1%) | ||
| Click Here for Race Analysis and Latest Polls | ||||
Finally, Georgia is still majorly Republican in the state races. The Attorney General's race is still tight.
(statistics from foxnews.com and 11alive.com)
Elections Update 5
The results are coming in for South Dakota's refferendum:
Don't be discouraged, the night isn't over yet!
SD - Bans all abortions unless one is needed to prevent the death of the mother
Polls Close at 8:00PM CST (9:00PM EST) *
Polls Close at 8:00PM CST (9:00PM EST) *
| No | - | 545 (57%) | ||
| Yes | - | 410 (43%) |
Don't be discouraged, the night isn't over yet!
Elections Update 4
The Virginia race is really tight with 64% of precincts reporting:
64% Precincts Reporting
Things are definately heating up! Hopefully the results will be in for the Maryland race and South Dakota abortion refferrendum shortly.
64% Precincts Reporting
| George Allen (i) | Republican | 717,626 (50%) | ||
| Jim Webb | Democrat | 703,570 (49%) | ||
| Glenda Parker | Independent Grassroots | 15,925 (1%) |
Things are definately heating up! Hopefully the results will be in for the Maryland race and South Dakota abortion refferrendum shortly.
Election Update 3
Tennessee:
Corker is ahead!
4% Precincts Reporting
Pennsylvania:
Polls Close at 8:00PM EST *
Corker is ahead!
4% Precincts Reporting
| Bob Corker | Republican | 133,878 (56%) | ||
| Harold Ford | Democrat | 103,035 (43%) |
Pennsylvania:
Polls Close at 8:00PM EST *
| Bob Casey | Democrat | 7,009 (61%) | |
| Rick Santorum (i) | Republican | 4,413 (39%) |
Election Update 2
The results are slowly coming in...
In Georgia's State races:
Governor Perdue is off to a strong lead, and so is most of the Republican ticket. The downside is that only 11% of precincts are reporting.
In other races:
Maine seems to have declared Olympia Snow to win re-election. (see www.foxnews.com)
Pennsylvania is still tight, I've only been able to see the polls from Real Clear Politics. I don't know the official results yet.
The information of Tennessee and South Dakota are in the works.
In Georgia's State races:
Governor Perdue is off to a strong lead, and so is most of the Republican ticket. The downside is that only 11% of precincts are reporting.
In other races:
Maine seems to have declared Olympia Snow to win re-election. (see www.foxnews.com)
Pennsylvania is still tight, I've only been able to see the polls from Real Clear Politics. I don't know the official results yet.
The information of Tennessee and South Dakota are in the works.
Election Day! (Update 1)
It's finally here!
Many dedicated people have spent all year campaigning for this day. The time has arrived. If you haven't already voted now is the time to do it!
Evidently on the east coast it seems to be rainy while people are headed to work and the polls. In my State it is forecasted to rain all day. The rain is a great thing for the turn-out, not so great for Floridians like me who aren't used to 50 degree weather and rain occurring simultaneously.
In other news, it looks like Maine's senate race is going well, the poll is a little old. Although, with the campaigning going on up there this week, I think it might end up being close to accurate.
There will be more election updates later on today, keep watching, and if you're old enough, GO VOTE!
Many dedicated people have spent all year campaigning for this day. The time has arrived. If you haven't already voted now is the time to do it!
Evidently on the east coast it seems to be rainy while people are headed to work and the polls. In my State it is forecasted to rain all day. The rain is a great thing for the turn-out, not so great for Floridians like me who aren't used to 50 degree weather and rain occurring simultaneously.
In other news, it looks like Maine's senate race is going well, the poll is a little old. Although, with the campaigning going on up there this week, I think it might end up being close to accurate.
There will be more election updates later on today, keep watching, and if you're old enough, GO VOTE!
Sunday, November 05, 2006
A Day of Prayer and Fasting
The 2006 midterm elections are almost here! As Christians we need to act, this election is crucial!
We can not skip this election day, likewise, we cannot go into this election without prayer.
I stated in part 2 of "Lessons Learned On The Trail" that prayer is vital.
As Christian Americans we have a duty to pray for our nation and leaders, what more crucial time than an election year?
We can not skip this election day, likewise, we cannot go into this election without prayer.
I stated in part 2 of "Lessons Learned On The Trail" that prayer is vital.
Pray for America!
It is evident that God DOES hear our prayers. He also says “You have not because you ask not”. Prayer is our best weapon, so why don't we pray for America and the up coming elections? Mr. Steven Givler had a great idea about prayer and fasting for the elections on his blog. I'm planning on setting aside Monday as well. Even if the results aren't as we hoped, God does have a plan. He even tells us He will heal our land! However, we can't just say “Okay Lord, heal America”, we have to do as 2 Chronicles 7:14 says “If my people will humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land”.
I think it's time we put America back in God's hands!
As Christian Americans we have a duty to pray for our nation and leaders, what more crucial time than an election year?
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Voting is Amazing!
How do I know voting is amazing when I'm not yet old enough to officially cast a ballot?
I know, because I was permitted to cast an official ballot this evening. Of course, my dad had to fill out the necessary paper-work since he is registered. However, when it came to cast the ballot, I was the one voting. I also learned a few things in the 10 minutes I was at the polls.
1. In my state, evidently, ID isn't necessary to cast a ballot.
don't appreciate this aspect of voting for a very good reason, anyone – illegals, terrorists, convicts, you name it - can vote. Last I checked, the right to vote was only supposed to apply to American citizens.
2. Poll workers have no idea how to judge ages.
They are very friendly, however, both times I went with my dad to the polls they asked me if I was voting. I wish I was, unfortunately, I have to wait 5 more years until there is an election I can vote in.
3. In the “write ins” you can write in anyone!
When I came to the judicial part of the ballot, it was mostly incumbent races. In that part of the ballot there was another box as well, labeled “write ins”. This is where I began to have the most fun. I voted for:
Travis Henry, Tim Sweetman, Alex King, Jake Smith, Lee C., Matt A., Michael D., Stephen H., and David Ketter.
(As a side note: I have really enjoyed working with these guys, they've been a great encouragement and great brothers in Christ. I encourage you to check out their blogs!)
I don't plan on missing any elections, and if you're old enough to vote, and registered, I urge you to go out and vote in this year's midterms! We're at a time when we can not afford to be apathetic, what happens in these elections will affect us for the coming years.
Edmund Burke was right when he stated “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing”. Don't let evil triumph!
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Lessons Learned On The Trail Part II
Prayer Works
Lessons Learned On The Trail
From the aspect of a Teenage campaigner
Part II
Ronald Reagan once said “If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, we will be one nation gone under”. That doesn't only apply to the Nation as a whole, it applies to all Americans and in this case, even campaigns.
Affecting our every day life.
For a Christian, prayer is probably one of the most important things in our walk with God. It is also our most powerful weapon. There are many times when people have been directly affected by prayer.
Last year, a friend of mine had a brain hemorrhage, the word traveled throughout the blogsphere and emails were passed along to pray for him. He had an entire nation, and possibly people all over the world constantly praying for his health and safety. Our prayers were answered and he was healed and able to continue leading Operation Completion.
There was also a time when a missionary was about to be robbed. He had spent a night alone, out in the open after doing some work in a nearby village. The next morning, the people intending to rob him came up and told him their intent, and that the only reason they didn't follow through was because he had 26 guards surrounding him that night. When the missionary came back to the states he found out that at the time he was going to be robbed, 26 men in the church came together and prayed for him.
On The Trail
Prayer is important in every situation. Sometimes people don't think to pray for campaigns, candidates, volunteers, or leaders. These people need a lot of prayers, especially while they're on the campaign trail. The most valuable thing in a campaign, is knowing people are praying for you. Without prayers, it is very hard to keep pressing on.
Candidates need prayers for wisdom and energy. Campaigning is exhausting and there are so many ways to make mistakes. If you ask a (republican) candidate what you can do for them, most should say you can do three things: pray, donate, and volunteer. It is vital in the middle of a race to be praying for the candidates, and their team.
Every good candidate has a dedicated team and volunteers behind him. Often times, the people behind the candidate get neglected prayer-wise as well. As a volunteer on many campaigns this year, I can honestly say the only thing that has gotten me through has been prayer. The candidate has a crazy schedule and is out most of the time, while his team and volunteers are working constantly. The work never stops on a trail and the closer to election day, the longer the hours are. It is very easy to get burned out during this time, and there is no worse time to burn out than right before elections.
In Florida during a campaign for a state representative's race, I was suffering from a head cold the whole time. Working 16 hour days in the Florida heat and having a head-cold don't mix well. I sent out an email to my parents and a few friends of mine asking for prayer for energy and my health. The rest of the week was a complete “God thing”. He granted me, and the rest of the staff the energy to make it through each day.
Prayers do matter!
We learned the hard way this year, to be careful what you pray for. You might just get it.
Throughout this year, we've been praying for God's will to be done. When we pray for that, we can't be too upset when we don't get the results we hoped for. If there is one thing that can be learned about prayer it is that God hears it, but doesn't necessarily answer the way we hoped. We are still praying for God's will to be done, I believe it is, even if we don't like the results.
The campaign trail isn't the safest place to be, but God is sovereign. On the way back up from Florida, we had a lot of people praying for safety. That sounds typical, however, on the way off of an exit one of our vehicles was sideswiped by a semi. The people in the car came out without a scratch, when they should have been injured. The prayers that we prayed and that many others prayed without our knowing it were answered and we all made it back safely.
Pray for America!
It is evident that God DOES hear our prayers. He also says “You have not because you ask not”. Prayer is our best weapon, so why don't we pray for America and the up coming elections? Mr. Steven Givler had a great idea about prayer and fasting for the elections on his blog. I'm planning on setting aside Monday as well. Even if the results aren't as we hoped, God does have a plan. He even tells us He will heal our land! However, we can't just say “Okay Lord, heal America”, we have to do as 2 Chronicles 7:14 says “If my people will humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land”.
I think it's time we put America back in God's hands!
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Announcement! ROC opportunity
Update: Thanks to everyone for the great response! The deadline for those who haven’t applied yet is 12:00pm EST, on October 27th. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!
for those of you who keep tabs on ROC and would like to help out, you have a chance :)
Regenerate Our Culture is looking for young adults (teens) who have a passion for the written word, desire to help change the culture, and can commit time to proofreading a few articles each issue. You’ll get to read articles ahead of everyone else, gain experience in editing, and be part of the magazine team! If your interested, just email applications@regenerateourculture.com, tell us a little about yourself, and mention the errors you found in this post.
The spots tend to fill up quickly, so be sure to get your application in soon!
Sunday, October 15, 2006
I'm Sorry, You Have A Disease Called Apathy.
Apathy is a disease that most people obtain. It spreads like cancer throughout every aspect of life. One danger of this disease is that very few people realize it's a problem...until too late.When they do find out, they are typically to apathetic to change.
There are, however, a few that have found out about their disease, and recovered. Such as Allyssa Chua. There are other's who didn't even realize they had this disease, found out, and decided to change.
These people have found the cure for their disease, and are no longer apathetic.
What is the cure?
Regenerate Our Culture has an entire issue researching the disease of apathy.
In this issue, Alex King and I co- authored an article entitled "Defeating Apathy" that you will definately want to check out. But it doesn't stop there, the rest of the issue is packed with details on apathy and how to cure it!
"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." - Edmund Burke.
Don't let evil triumph!
-Kierstyn
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Lessons Learned On The Trail
The 2006 election is bound to be an interesting year. We had tough primaries and are now less than 40 days away from the general elections. While the results of the races may look like some of the more conservative candidates were defeated in the primaries, there was also
triumph.
Lessons Learned On The Trail
from the aspect of a "teenage campaigner"
If I were only able to name one benefit of being homeschooled, it would be the ability to learn "hands on". To someone with political aspirations, gaining some experience in campaigns is definitely the best way to learn the election process.
I have been involved with 5 campaigns since May. Only two candidates out of the five have made it out of the summer primaries. Throughout the summer I have seen many candidates run hard, but not make it. It's hard to see the candidate you believed in be eliminated in primaries; and many people have dropped out of involvement altogether because of it. These people have failed to recognize that even if our candidate didn't win the election, we didn't fail altogether.
It is amazing how God uses people and events to teach us lifelong lessons. Being involved in campaigns on a level where I've had a lot of responsibility put on my shoulders has taught me to give all of my problems to Him because there is no way I can work it out on my own.
This summer has been the most chaotic and stressful summer I've ever had. However, through it all I've learned to not give up, rely on God, and do my best even if my best doesn't seem to effect the situation.
Just learning the lesson doesn't mean anything if it isn't applied. Perseverance is one lesson that has been learned and applied and re-applied in every campaign I've worked on this year. As a result, I've become stronger and more reliable.
One thing to keep in mind as we face the general elections: Never, never, never, give up! Our effort will pay off, if not in votes, in character.
Kp
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Patriotism
This Speech was delivered Sept 10 2006 to 500 people in honor of Patriot's day. You can see the video here, or if you're "special" you'll get a package in the mail.
The text of the speech is below:
--------------------------------
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights,
that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. —
That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, —
That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it,
and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. ...
We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions,
do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare,
That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States,
that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved;
and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. —
And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor. -Declaration of Independence July 4 1776
Patriotism, a word we hear so often, yet how many of us give thought to what it really means? Of who the PATRIOTS were, are, and will be?
Patriotism is a broad topic and everyone seems to have their own ideas or definition of it.
However, before we can go into details about this vital concept called PATRIOTISM, we need to understand what it means.
#1 Webster’s Dictionary defines it as “ Love, Loyalty and zealous support for one’s country.” Pledging their Love, Fortunes and Sacred Honor.
Patrick Henry made the call to patriotism in 1775 when he said “:
Shall we gather strength by irresolution and inaction? Shall we acquire the means of effectual resistance by lying supinely on our backs and hugging the delusive phantom of hope, until our enemies shall have bound us hand and foot?
Sir, we are not weak if we make a proper use of those means which the God of nature hath placed in our power.
The millions of people, armed in the holy cause of liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess, are invincible by any force which our enemy can send against us.
There is no retreat but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged! Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! The war is inevitable--and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come.
It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter.
Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace-- but there is no peace.
The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms!
Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle?
What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God!
I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!
The patriots are those who love and zealously support their nation, who are willing to and have given their lives, fortunes and sacred honor for it.
Our Founders made that commitment to America in the 1700’s.
Patrick Henry in his “War is Inevitable” Speech stated “Give me liberty of give me death.”
Benjamin Franklin, when signing the Declaration stated “ We must all hang together or we will all hang separately”.
TODAY, what so many don’t seam to grasp is when those 55 men signed the Declaration they understood that if they lost the war, they and just signed away their life. Treason was punishable by torture and hanging. Yet, they were willing to DIE FOR LIBERTY.
Since then, many patriots have risen. Our soldiers from the American Revolution, the World wars, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, Iraq again, and many others have given and sacrificed their lives for this nation.
On September 11th 2001, Firemen, policemen, and first Responders, RAN into the burning buildings. Many were trapped or killed when the towers collapsed as they tried to rescue fellow Americans.
That same day on UNITED AIRLINES Flight 93, Todd Beamer, Jeremy Glick , Tom Burnett, Jr. and Mike Bingham also decided to sacrifice themselves.
United 93 was only an hour on its way when hijackers armed with box cutters took over the Cock Pit. These men and maybe others on the plane decided to TAKE IT BACK.
While all the passengers died, Their HEROISM saved many other lives that day!
OUR FOUNDERS, OUR SOLDIERS, OUR FIREMEN and POLICEMEN have shown how to live Patriotically, BUT like those on United 93, OUR Citizens must be PATRIOTS as well.
It would not be “going too far” to that they TRUE PATRIOTISM requires sacrifice. As Citizens we need to avidly support our nation. Defending the heritage of this great nation demonstrates patriotism. Honoring, Supporting, and encouraging our military demonstrates patriotism as well!
In order to be patriotic, we must remember, that the freedom we are fighting to preserve, DID NOT COME WITHOUT A PRICE.
That SACFRICE, however, does not have to mean dying for your Country. There are many endeavors citizens can get involved in. The people sending care packages overseas, and writing letters are being patriotic and the people bake cookies for firemen and policemen are supporting those in the field, and showing patriotism as well.
Ronald Reagan once said “We stand here on the only island of freedom that is left in the whole world. There is no place to fee to, no place to escape to.
We defend our freedom here or it is gone.
There is no place for us to run. Only make a stand, and if we fail I think we face telling our children, and our children’s children, what it is we found more precious than freedom.
Because I am sure that someday, if we fail, there will be a generation that will ASK!
We are the only Island of Freedom left in the world. It is our DUTY to support it and those who protect and defend it. We are in a WAR. Like no other, we are fighting against an ideal, not an army. We were attacked on our CONTINENT, our HOME FRONT, and now we have soldiers defending us overseas for something, THEY consider PRICELESS: FREEDOM
Will we continue to support our Nation? One of the problems with this generation, MY GENERATION, is that so many of us are selfish. Taking everything for granted, even, in most cases, our FREEDOM. WE must NOT continue this trend! We must appreciate our freedom. Appreciate the lives that it cost to get us this far and are keeping us free.
As a Christian American Citizen, I KNOW that our freedom was obtained and preserved by Patriots who gave their lives to give us liberty! The most significant display was Christ on the cross. Setting us free from the bonds of sin. Second, to Christ on that cross, is OUR AMERICAN PATRIOTS of the past and present who DAILY sacrifice their time, fortune and lives for the CAUSE of Freedom.
Darryl Worrly wrote a song not long after 9/11 entitled “Have You Forgotten?” In the Chorus he states
“_Have you forgotten how it felt that day
To see your homeland under fire And her people blown away? Have you forgotten when those towers fell? We had neighbors still inside Going through a living hell now you say we shouldn't worry 'bout Bin Laden Have you forgotten?
I've been there with the soldiers Who've gone away to war And you can bet they remember Just what they're fighting for
Have you forgotten all the people killed? Some went down like heroes in that Pennsylvania field Have you forgotten about our Pentagon? All the loved ones that we lost And those left to carry on Don't you tell me not to worry about Bin Laden Have you forgotten?
Have we forgotten? Immediately after 9/11 this country was united, there were flags on every street corner.
We all cheered from our guts when President bush came out on September 14th and stood on that rubble and stated “ I hear you, the rest of the world hears you, and the people that attacked these buildings are going to hear from all of us soon!”
Has America forgotten? I hope not, but it is hard to tell. Life has returned to normal while is nation is still at war. Now more than ever we need to be patriots, we need to tell America to WAKE UP! And show the World that we support our troops.
Christ died to free us for eternity and our Founders and servicemen have labored and died to keep America, that CITY ON A HILL, as Reagan called it. It is OUR DUTY to support AMERICA. Like the Founders pledged their lives, fortunes and Sacred Honor, we need to sacrifice for our nations as well. Sending letters and care packages to soldiers, volunteering in various organizations, getting involved in politics on the local, state, or federal level are different ways to get involved. Others have sacrificed and we MUST NOT FORGET!
Some Americans have forgotten, the question is, WILL WE? Or WILL WE BE THE 2nd GREATEST GENERATION?
The text of the speech is below:
--------------------------------
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights,
that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. —
That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, —
That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it,
and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. ...
We, therefore, the Representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions,
do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare,
That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States,
that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved;
and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. —
And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor. -Declaration of Independence July 4 1776
Patriotism, a word we hear so often, yet how many of us give thought to what it really means? Of who the PATRIOTS were, are, and will be?
Patriotism is a broad topic and everyone seems to have their own ideas or definition of it.
However, before we can go into details about this vital concept called PATRIOTISM, we need to understand what it means.
#1 Webster’s Dictionary defines it as “ Love, Loyalty and zealous support for one’s country.” Pledging their Love, Fortunes and Sacred Honor.
Patrick Henry made the call to patriotism in 1775 when he said “:
Shall we gather strength by irresolution and inaction? Shall we acquire the means of effectual resistance by lying supinely on our backs and hugging the delusive phantom of hope, until our enemies shall have bound us hand and foot?
Sir, we are not weak if we make a proper use of those means which the God of nature hath placed in our power.
The millions of people, armed in the holy cause of liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess, are invincible by any force which our enemy can send against us.
There is no retreat but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged! Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! The war is inevitable--and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come.
It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter.
Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace-- but there is no peace.
The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms!
Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle?
What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God!
I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!
The patriots are those who love and zealously support their nation, who are willing to and have given their lives, fortunes and sacred honor for it.
Our Founders made that commitment to America in the 1700’s.
Patrick Henry in his “War is Inevitable” Speech stated “Give me liberty of give me death.”
Benjamin Franklin, when signing the Declaration stated “ We must all hang together or we will all hang separately”.
TODAY, what so many don’t seam to grasp is when those 55 men signed the Declaration they understood that if they lost the war, they and just signed away their life. Treason was punishable by torture and hanging. Yet, they were willing to DIE FOR LIBERTY.
Since then, many patriots have risen. Our soldiers from the American Revolution, the World wars, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, Iraq again, and many others have given and sacrificed their lives for this nation.
On September 11th 2001, Firemen, policemen, and first Responders, RAN into the burning buildings. Many were trapped or killed when the towers collapsed as they tried to rescue fellow Americans.
That same day on UNITED AIRLINES Flight 93, Todd Beamer, Jeremy Glick , Tom Burnett, Jr. and Mike Bingham also decided to sacrifice themselves.
United 93 was only an hour on its way when hijackers armed with box cutters took over the Cock Pit. These men and maybe others on the plane decided to TAKE IT BACK.
While all the passengers died, Their HEROISM saved many other lives that day!
OUR FOUNDERS, OUR SOLDIERS, OUR FIREMEN and POLICEMEN have shown how to live Patriotically, BUT like those on United 93, OUR Citizens must be PATRIOTS as well.
It would not be “going too far” to that they TRUE PATRIOTISM requires sacrifice. As Citizens we need to avidly support our nation. Defending the heritage of this great nation demonstrates patriotism. Honoring, Supporting, and encouraging our military demonstrates patriotism as well!
In order to be patriotic, we must remember, that the freedom we are fighting to preserve, DID NOT COME WITHOUT A PRICE.
That SACFRICE, however, does not have to mean dying for your Country. There are many endeavors citizens can get involved in. The people sending care packages overseas, and writing letters are being patriotic and the people bake cookies for firemen and policemen are supporting those in the field, and showing patriotism as well.
Ronald Reagan once said “We stand here on the only island of freedom that is left in the whole world. There is no place to fee to, no place to escape to.
We defend our freedom here or it is gone.
There is no place for us to run. Only make a stand, and if we fail I think we face telling our children, and our children’s children, what it is we found more precious than freedom.
Because I am sure that someday, if we fail, there will be a generation that will ASK!
We are the only Island of Freedom left in the world. It is our DUTY to support it and those who protect and defend it. We are in a WAR. Like no other, we are fighting against an ideal, not an army. We were attacked on our CONTINENT, our HOME FRONT, and now we have soldiers defending us overseas for something, THEY consider PRICELESS: FREEDOM
Will we continue to support our Nation? One of the problems with this generation, MY GENERATION, is that so many of us are selfish. Taking everything for granted, even, in most cases, our FREEDOM. WE must NOT continue this trend! We must appreciate our freedom. Appreciate the lives that it cost to get us this far and are keeping us free.
As a Christian American Citizen, I KNOW that our freedom was obtained and preserved by Patriots who gave their lives to give us liberty! The most significant display was Christ on the cross. Setting us free from the bonds of sin. Second, to Christ on that cross, is OUR AMERICAN PATRIOTS of the past and present who DAILY sacrifice their time, fortune and lives for the CAUSE of Freedom.
Darryl Worrly wrote a song not long after 9/11 entitled “Have You Forgotten?” In the Chorus he states
“_Have you forgotten how it felt that day
To see your homeland under fire And her people blown away? Have you forgotten when those towers fell? We had neighbors still inside Going through a living hell now you say we shouldn't worry 'bout Bin Laden Have you forgotten?
I've been there with the soldiers Who've gone away to war And you can bet they remember Just what they're fighting for
Have you forgotten all the people killed? Some went down like heroes in that Pennsylvania field Have you forgotten about our Pentagon? All the loved ones that we lost And those left to carry on Don't you tell me not to worry about Bin Laden Have you forgotten?
Have we forgotten? Immediately after 9/11 this country was united, there were flags on every street corner.
We all cheered from our guts when President bush came out on September 14th and stood on that rubble and stated “ I hear you, the rest of the world hears you, and the people that attacked these buildings are going to hear from all of us soon!”
Has America forgotten? I hope not, but it is hard to tell. Life has returned to normal while is nation is still at war. Now more than ever we need to be patriots, we need to tell America to WAKE UP! And show the World that we support our troops.
Christ died to free us for eternity and our Founders and servicemen have labored and died to keep America, that CITY ON A HILL, as Reagan called it. It is OUR DUTY to support AMERICA. Like the Founders pledged their lives, fortunes and Sacred Honor, we need to sacrifice for our nations as well. Sending letters and care packages to soldiers, volunteering in various organizations, getting involved in politics on the local, state, or federal level are different ways to get involved. Others have sacrificed and we MUST NOT FORGET!
Some Americans have forgotten, the question is, WILL WE? Or WILL WE BE THE 2nd GREATEST GENERATION?
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
The Case for Christians in Government
The good people of this country have really let this country down. We’ve let pop culture, drive our culture in the ground.
And I’ve stood by and watched it, shook my head and wondered why
Nobody’s putting up a fight – “From Here on Out” by The Right Brothers.
In addition, many Christians have stayed out of politics because of peer pressure and being told that they can’t change the outcome, so their involvement doesn’t matter. We have been indoctrinated to believe that there is no biblical basis for Christians in government. All of these allegations against Christians in government are false. We do have an important job to do in our government and we are the only people that can get it done.
When I am asked the question, “what do you want to do when you “grow up”?” I respond, “I’ll be somewhere in politics.” The reaction I receive is always priceless. I typically get one of two types of responses. The first is a shocked expression and a “well, I hope you do ok” or “great, keep it up girl!” The second is deeper and generally results in a good discussion, the response boils down to a simple question: Why can’t we just stay out?The answer is simple. We can’t stay out because we are to be the light of the world. Our founding fathers built this land on Judeo-Christianity, and we have strayed too far from Christ. The reason our ancestors came to America was that she was and is a free, God-fearing nation.
Having established this, we have another question. Since we have strayed so far, does it even matter if we continue on this downhill journey? Does it even matter if we get involved? After all, we can’t make a difference.
Yes, it does matter. We are going down the wrong road; following pop-culture stars and Hollywood actors who have no sense of reality. We are soaking in phrases and taking them as fact because we don’t have the determination to make sure what we are being spoon-fed is right. We are being taught that there is no right and wrong and we must tolerate everyone except those that don’t agree. We are becoming a society run on emotions, not facts and logic. If we continue down this path we will crumble, not from the outside, but from within. Our freedoms will eventually be lost, and rather than a republic form of government, we will have nothing but tyranny.
If we stay apathetic and do not get involved, we will end up with tyranny, the only way to stop this is to get involved and change!
The allegation that we can have no impact on our culture is false. Samuel Adams, a founding father, and founder of the Sons of Liberty in the American Revolution once stated, “It does not take a majority to prevail, but rather an irate, tireless minority keen to set brushfires in people’s minds”. Throughout history it has been proven repeatedly that a handful of people have the potential to make a dynamic impact.
Now that we know that we can make an impact, we have to ask the question: Is it Biblical? Does God raise His people to be involved in the government?
There are many instances throughout the Bible where God chose His people to be involved in government, not only their government, but pagan government’s as well. The stories of Joseph, Esther, and Daniel are perfect illustrations. In all three instances God took them from their home, or “comfort zone” into a pagan environment and used them to impact the culture.
In Daniel 2:21 it states: And he changes the times and the seasons: he removes kings, and sets up kings: he gives wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:
Psalms 75:7 also reads: But God [is] the judge: he puts down one, and sets up another.
In 1Corinthians 12:28 it says:
And God has set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
These verses are just a few that prove that God does govern in the affairs of men, and he does raise up leaders. Many people in the church today have put down the calling into politics and government saying that it is not “of God” to be involved in that arena.
In the Bible times the Jewish people didn’t have the right to vote and express themselves like we do today. However, you did see many of His people involved in the political system of their time. Whether it was by birth, choice, or just because God opened a door, they were involved in the government.We have succumbed to believe that for some reason we should not be involved anymore. Yet, we have just proven this allegation wrong. Since we have the ability to be freely involved, it is our duty to. We are supposed to be a light to the world, one way to effect change, is to exercise our citizen’s rights by voting, supporting candidates, and getting involved ourselves. In the chorus of the song “From here on out” it says:
From here on out I’m gonna do my part. From here on out I’m gonna listen to my heart. It may just be one voice, but I’m gonna make it heardAnd I’m not giving in or backing down, From here on out
Not only is it our job to do what we can, but if we don’t we will continue on this road downhill to tyranny. From here on out, I’m going to do my part, the question is, will you do yours?