The 'Word' on the Street

Social Security: Food for Thought

2011-02-17T06:16:00.001-08:00

I have seen since the 1990's that the Social Security program was unworkable and only a tax for my generation, that we would receive little if any benefit from it. I expect it was somewhat intuitive as it seemed like an attempt to produce perpetual motion, a violation of the law of conservation of matter and energy.

I mention all of this because of a quote I saw recently:

"Social Security is an unfunded pay-as-you-go system, fundamentally flawed and analogous in design to illegal pyramid schemes. Government accounting creates the illusion of a trust fund, but in fact, excess receipts are spent immediately. The government’s own actuaries predict the system will be bankrupt by 2030, but Social Security could face financial crisis as early as 2014. Moreover, Social Security’s relatively poor rate of return makes the program an increasingly worse investment for today’s young worker. ... The system design itself is fundamentally flawed and cannot be repaired. It must instead be replaced by one derived from free markets and operated by free citizenry making individual economic decisions in their own self-interest. ... Reform is long overdue. If we fail to act soon, our children will either inherit a bankrupt system or be forced to pay an impossibly high level of taxes. Only private pensions with individual property rights to accumulate fund balances can create a secure pension system. Chile, which privatized its system in 1981, provides evidence of such a system’s effectiveness."
-- Karl Borden
Professor of financial economics at University of Nebraska
Source: The CATO Project on Social Security, DISMANTLING THE PYRAMID: THE WHY AND HOW OF PRIVATIZING SOCIAL SECURITY, August 14, 1995.
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Karl.Borden.Quote.D8F7

Chapter 27 of Proverbs comes to mind, more specifically verses 23-27:

Pro 27:23-27 ESV
(23) Know well the condition of your flocks,
and give attention to your herds,
(24) for riches do not last forever;
and does a crown endure to all generations?
(25) When the grass is gone and the new growth appears
and the vegetation of the mountains is gathered,
(26) the lambs will provide your clothing,
and the goats the price of a field.
(27) There will be enough goats' milk for your food,
for the food of your household and maintenance for your girls.

We need to recognize that it is God who provides for us and WE are the stewards of that which He provides. We are responsible for the management of HIS resources.

Be blessed, Be a blessing.

Book Review: What He Must Be...

2010-12-28T21:45:00.001-08:00

As a father raising children to become God-fearing, responsible adults, I have often wanted a manual, a play book for how to prepare my children for courtship, for selecting the God-fearing mate that has been prepared for them. I have read a number books related to this subject and I find "What He Must Be: ...if he wants to marry my daughter" by Voddie Baucham, Jr. to be the easiest to read on the subject while compromising on nothing. His thinking parallels that of Phil Lancaster in "Family Man, Family Leader," who I believe does a more through examination of the subject. Yet, Mr. Baucham has produced a more direct book with more potential to change the way Christian fathers lead their families through the courtship process. In the end I wholeheartedly endorse both books. I am more likely to hand any man "What He Must Be", and "Family Man, Family Leader" to those who are deeper thinkers.

Throughout the book, Mr. Baucham uses well researched statistics, numerous personal antidotes (which as particular value as he illustrates how God has saved his marriage from the troubled backgrounds of both he and his wife). More importantly he clearly illustrates the how God's Word applies to the institution of marriage.

Multigenerational Vision

Mr. Baucham writes not with the purpose of helping a man chose a daughter's mate. Nor is it about prearranged marriages. Instead he writes to help his readers learn what to look for in suitors and that daughters might be discerning about those who come calling, instead of allowing momentary, physical impulses to make life long decisions. He writes to encourage partnership between daughter and parents in the decision making process. He also writes to recognize our dependence on God.

Mr. Baucham recognizes the purpose of marriage is to bring glory to God, to produce Godly offspring, and the decisions we make in this regard have lasting influence over generations.

Ministry of Marriage

Mr. Baucham drives home the various aspects of the ministry that is to be accomplished through marriage: transformation of the culture, spiritual health and growth, training future leaders, illustrating God's relationship with the church. Baucham further explains that marriage is the preferred state, and expected state at some time in the future of our children and that they need to be prepared to be a minister in their marriage and family.

A Father's Role

Mr. Baucham defines the role fathers have to fulfill by looking at Old testament patriarchy and what he calls Gospel patriarchy. The bottom line is fathers have a responsibility to protect and provide for their families both physically and spiritually. This includes, yet is not limited to, seeing that their children are situated well in marriages that bless the children.

He must be

Voddie Baucham spends a chapter on each of the essential qualities a candidate must have. With each of these he provides details on why these are requirements and what they should look like. Among these are:

Follower of Christ
Prepared to Lead
Lead like Christ (Ephesians 5)
Committed to Children

A qualified candidate must also practice the four P's as Voddie Baucham calls them: provide Protection (physical of course, but more importantly spiritual protection from living a holy life); provision (employment, work ethic, and vision); prophet and priest.

Mr. Baucham spends an entire chapter focusing on the father's responsibility to protect in the courtship process. Just what does he maintain needs to be protected? Our Daughter's purity, her heart, her focus (the specific calling God has for her life), her future spouse (from errors made from settling for less) and her hope (that there is a man who is worthy).

Can't Find One... Build One

This chapter was the most influential of those in the book in my life. I was reminded that my role as a gospel patriarch is to be more than a protector of my daughter. I came to recognize that whether or not a courtship ends in the marriage of my daughter, the young man who seeks her should leave encouraged, blessed and built up, better prepared for his future role as a gospel patriarch.

In regards to communicating the need for preparing for proper courtship (on the part of the son and daughter) and the qualities desired in a man, I cannot recommend "What He Must Be: ...if he wants to marry my daughter" by Voddie Baucham, Jr. highly enough. In fact, this is likely to become one of the books I hand out to dads I encounter in my journey to eternity, to encourage them in preparing their children for marriage.

Next Review:
Radical, by David Platt

Current Reading:
Cost of Discipleship, Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Crazy Love, Francis Chan

Sarah Palin and 'Neanderthals'

2010-12-04T09:01:00.001-08:00

Once it again it becomes painfully clear that Feminism has become entrenched in the ranks of conservatives. Sarah Palin has made it clear that she believes working outside the home is a more noble task than staying home and rearing Godly offspring, passing on the faith to the next generation and encouraging them to do so with their children.

"It kind of seems, Geraldine, that some things haven't changed," Palin said. "There are still the Neanderthals out there who pick on the petty, little, superficial, meaningless things – like looks, like whether you can or can't work outside of the home if you have small children – all those type of things where I would so hope that at some point those Neanderthals will evolve into something a bit more with it, a bit more modern, and a bit more understanding that, yeah, women can accomplish much."
--Palin blasts 'Neanderthals,' defends Democrat woman

Mrs. Palin implies here that working in the home, rearing Godly children, is less of an accomplishment than say, running for office, being a brain surgeon... and perhaps even working at a fast food restaurant. It disappoints me that it is necessary to resort to name calling, appealing to modern culture and stigmatizing rather than addressing issues with reason and reference to the scriptures.

Are women forbidden to work outside the home?
No, a quick look at Proverbs 31 clearly indicates that this is not necessarily the case.

However, this does not give a blanket affirmation that working outside the home is the best option. One must examine the roles of men and women as presented in God's Word, if we are to function as intended. We should be looking for what is normative in God's eyes, not the exceptions which we than seek to be the new normative.

Gen 2:20-22 ESV
(20) The man gave names
to all livestock and to the birds of the heavens and to every beast of the field.
But for Adam there was not found a helper fit for him.
(21) So the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man,
and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh.
(22) And the rib that the LORD God had taken from the man
he made into a woman and brought her to the man.

In this narrative it is clear that God has created with clear intention. There is an order, and woman was separated from man, for man, to help him accomplish God's intended purpose through them. Just as man's purpose is to fulfill God's will, the woman is to assist the man in fulfilling what God has given him to do.

This is also not an isolated, misinterpretation. Consider Jesus words:

Mat 19:3-6 ESV
(3) And Pharisees came up to him and tested him by asking,
"Is it lawful to divorce one's wife for any cause?"
(4) He answered,
"Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female,
(5) and said,
'Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh'?
(6) So they are no longer two but one flesh.
What therefore God has joined together,
let not man separate."

While this passage speaks to divorce, Jesus makes the foundation of his statement the historical reality of the Genesis account.

The issue at hand is "Will we recognize, accept and obey God's Word as given to us, or not?"

I've been the 'Mr. Mom' for 8-10 years of our marriage; homeschooling, child rearing and keeping house. I know first hand the joys, struggles and most importantly the value of raising Godly children. I also recognize how much against my nature it was to fulfill that role, and that I only did it out of the necessity of love for my God, my wife and my children. Even now we are dealing with the aftermath of this situation.

1Co 6:12 ESV
(12) "All things are lawful for me," but not all things are helpful.
"All things are lawful for me," but I will not be enslaved by anything.

These words of Paul speak to how one eats, specifically to how a believer should eat, yet clearly have application to a broader range of topics related to the example of how a believer behaves. The bottom line for the believer is to be obedient to God's design, purpose and HIS Word.

Respectfully, Mrs. Palin, your accessment of raising children and assisting your man to achieve God's purposes is highly inaccurate, as there is no higher calling for a woman.
--
BE

A Tree with a Rotten Core

2010-09-30T07:54:00.001-07:00

"The strength or weakness of a society depends more on the level of its spiritual life than on its level of industrialization. Neither a market economy nor even general abundance constitutes the crowning achievement of human life.
If a nation’s spiritual energies have been exhausted, it will not be saved from collapse by the most perfect government structure or by any industrial development.
A tree with a rotten core
cannot stand."
-- Alexander Solzhenitsyn
(1918-2008) Russian novelist, Soviet dissident, imprisoned for 8 years for critizing Stalin in a personal letter, Nobel Prize for Literature, 1970
Source: National Review article (Sept. 23, 1991, p.24)
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Alexander.Solzhenitsyn.Quote.CF81

I need to take time to read again, especially books like this man’s biography. I have heard quotes from him and each time I am impressed with his depth of insight into the nature of man and government.

The Answer for Today's Issues

2010-09-23T06:38:00.001-07:00

Browsing the news this morning I ran across this article "Renewed Hearts vs. Renewed Ballot Boxes" by Jan Markell (I also happen to listen to her podcast on a regular basis). Miss Markell shares what I have believed and shared for years, that the only real anwser to the issues we face today (yesterday and tomorrow) is the transformation of human hearts, turning away from sin and toward God through Jesus Christ.

If only we would listen and take the message to heart.

BE

Radioactive Decay Rates Are NOT FIXED

2010-09-03T15:33:00.001-07:00

Apparently a connection has been found that indicates radioactivity rates change based seasonally, i.e. on the Earth's relationship with the Sun. The implications of this is profound.

We have been brainwashed by evolution to believe that the rate of decay is constant, and as a result the Earth is millions, if not billions of years old. If the rates fluctuate, then it is clearly possible that radioactive dating methods are not as accurate as assumed.

For more details see the article: The Sun Alters Radioactive Decay Rates

BE

The Second Amendment and John Adams

2010-09-03T06:56:00.001-07:00

When I read these quotes, I had to share them. So many think that the Second Amendment is a right for the states, or like the NRA, it is about hunting.

This could not be further from the truth. Consider the words of John Adams, one of the Founding Fathers, was from Boston when the British army was used to disarm the citizens of Boston:

"Arms in the hands of individual citizens
may be used at individual discretion
for the defence of the country,
the over-throw of tyranny,
or in private self-defense."
-- John Adams
(1735-1826) Founding Father, 2nd US President
Source: A DEFENSE OF THE CONSTITUTIONS OF GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, at 475, (Philadelphia 1788)
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/John.Adams.Quote.7D51

"Resistance to sudden violence,
for the preservation not only of my person,
my limbs and life,
but of my property,
is an indisputable right of nature
which I have never surrendered
to the public by the compact of society,
and which perhaps,
I could not surrender if I would.
Nor is there anything in the common law of England ... inconsistent with that right."
-- John Adams
(1735-1826) Founding Father, 2nd US President
Source: BOSTON GAZETTE, September 5, 1763, The Works of John Adams, p.438 (Charles F. Adams ed., 1851).
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/John.Adams.Quote.7B8A

How much more clear can it be regarding what those who wrote the Constitution and the Bill of Rights were thinking when it was written.

Consider also the words of George Washington regarding the nature of government.

Until the return of Jesus the Messiah, we must be vigilant in protecting protecting the rights of the people.

The Forgotten Amendment

2010-08-23T05:21:00.001-07:00

Article IX (Amendment 9)

The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.

The Constitution lays out the right and responsibilities of the Federal government. It lays the boundaries of Congress, the President (and his bureaucracy) and the Courts. The ninth amendment, like the 10th, is intended to limit government, not the people. The Founders of our nation understood first hand the abuse, the oppression, of an unchecked centralized government, and they deliberately meant to decentralize and LIMIT Federal control of power and authority.

How we have forgotten the lessens of the past, …
only to repeat them again.

Government, Power and Abuse

2010-08-13T14:27:00.001-07:00

"Government is not reason;
it is not eloquence;
it is force.
Like fire,
it is a dangerous servant
and a fearful master."
-- George Washington (1732-1799)
Founding Father,
1st US President, 'Father of the Country'
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/George.Washington.Quote.5786

Alan Keyes is the first from whom I heard this quote. If it was quoted to me in Civics or US Government, I don't recall. Yet it should be taught in every classroom and home, and hung in front of every polling place.

George Washington was not the most learned or intelligent man of his day (not that he was lacking in these attributes). Yet he not only stood above most of his peers, he seemed more self-controlled. His motives were seldom/questioned. He did not seek the Presidency. And he refused to serve more than two terms, setting a precedence which would be unchallenged until FDR. When leaving the Presidency, he warned against the evil of the spirit of party (of which we are all too familiar today).

With this in mind, we should heed his warning about the nature of government:

Government is FORCE.
Government is a DANGEROUS SERVANT.
Government is a FEARFUL MASTER.

Consider the warnings of some of his contemporaries:

"The greater the power
the more dangerous the abuse."
-- Edmund Burke (1729-1797)
Irish-born British statesman,
parliamentary orator, and political thinker
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Edmund.Burke.Quote.7322

"There is no crueler tyranny
than that which is perpetrated
under the shield of law and in the name of justice."
-- Charles-Louis de Secondat (1689-1755)
Baron de Montesquieu
Source: The Spirit of the Laws, 1748
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Charles-Louis.de.Secondat.Quote.4760

Also consider C.S. Lewis' thoughts on the matter. He writes nearly a century later, and was a first hand witness of the results of such application of government (he was a civilian in Brittan during the air raids by the Third Reich).

" 'Useful,' and 'necessity'
was always 'the tyrant's plea'."
-- C. S. Lewis (1898-1963),
British novelist
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/C..S..Lewis.Quote.7377

Government is not a solution to all of our problems (God responsibility). The role of government is to provide for the common defense and provide justice

Be subject for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him [God] to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good.
(1Pe 2:13-14 ESV)

For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God's servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain. For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer.
(Rom 13:3-4 ESV)

While these verses do not address this particular issue directly, they do indicate the purpose of government.

Government has its place.
Yet its place is to be well defined.

This article has interesting news, and possibly implications.
Obama closes curtain on transparency

State vs. General Governement

2010-08-09T06:45:00.001-07:00

"In the next place, the state governments are, by the very theory of the constitution, essential constituent parts of the general government. They can exist without the latter, but the latter cannot exist without them."
--Joseph Story, Commentaries on the Constitution, 1833

"Few men desire liberty;
most men wish only for a just master."
-- Sallust
[Gaius Sallustius Crispus] (86-34 BC) Statesman and Historian during the last century of the Roman Republic
Source: Sallust (Gaius Sallustius Crispus) in Histories
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Sallust.Quote.EEC5

All things are full of weariness;
a man cannot utter it;
the eye is not satisfied with seeing,
nor the ear filled with hearing.
What has been is what will be,
and what has been done is what will be done,
and there is nothing new under the sun.
Is there a thing of which it is said,
"See, this is new"?
It has been already in the ages before us.
There is no remembrance of former things,
nor will there be any remembrance of later things
yet to be among those who come after.
(Ecc 1:8-11 ESV)

As there has been nothing new under the sun, let us learn from the past and seek to learn our lessons from those who have gone before.

Oh I forget, evolution. “We have progressed beyond those behind us. We are better than our forefathers.”

My hope lies not with making ‘heaven on earth’ but in seeking the one who made the heavens and the earth. I look forward to the day he says,

His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.'
(Mat 25:21 ESV)

Jefferson: On Government

2010-08-07T09:35:00.001-07:00

"[W]hen all government,
domestic and foreign,
in little as in great things,
shall be drawn to Washington
as the center of all power,
it will render powerless the checks
provided of one government on another."
--Thomas Jefferson, letter to Charles Hammond, 1821

When will we learn the lessons of history?
I expect only when we are willing to listen to the past, rather than trying to rewrite it.

The Harness of Regulation(s)

2010-08-05T12:50:00.001-07:00

"As government regulations grow slowly, we become used to the harness. Habit is a powerful force, and we no longer feel as intensely as we once would have [the] constriction of our liberties that would have been utterly intolerable a mere half century ago."
-- Judge Robert Bork
(1927- ) Cricuit Judge for US Court of Appeals
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Robert.Bork.Quote.B48D

Too true, as anyone who has tried to operate their own business knows, Judge Bork rings true. Why else was he opposed as a Supreme Court Justice?

Limited (Enumerated) Powers of the Federal Government

2010-08-05T07:40:00.001-07:00

Check the contrast of the following quotes (found at Patriot Post) and consider why I might be concerned about the state of our nation:

"[W]hen all government, domestic and foreign, in little as in great
things, shall be drawn to Washington as the center of all power, it will
render powerless the checks provided of one government on another."
--Thomas Jefferson

"I think that there are very few constitutional limits that would
prevent the federal government from rules that could affect your private
life. ... The federal government, uh, yes, can do most anything in this
country." --Rep.
Pete Stark (D-CA),

Our Founding Fathers understood that centralized power corrupts. Our leaders today understand that from a first hand basis, and revel in it.

If our country to is truly recover, it is time for us to repent for having turned our backs on God, expecting the Federal Government to replace him, among other things.

Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain
is a righteous man
who gives way before the wicked.
(Pro 25:26 ESV)

Correction on MO Senate Race District 28

2010-08-03T08:39:00.001-07:00

Given new information I would have placed my vote for:

State Senator
Larry D. Wilson http://larrydwilson.com/

I have received new information about Mike Parsons, unfortunately after I had submitted my ballot. Apparently, Mr. Parsons has been taking contributions from Gambling, Brewing, and perhaps embryonic stem cell interests. While I would not deny the right of those to make and accept those contributions, I would not vote for those who do so.

The websites below are from the first 2 quarters of the year. I didn’t believe it necessary to follow up further at this late hour.

http://www.mec.mo.gov/CampaignFinanceReports/CFFilerHTML/ReportMenu/SummaryCD1.asp?CDRCP_id=809&MECID=C091129&MyYear=2010&Com=PARSON%20FOR%20STATE%20SENATE

http://www.mec.mo.gov/CampaignFinanceReports/CFFilerHTML/ReportMenu/SummaryCD1.asp?CDRCP_id=4751&MECID=C091129&MyYear=2010&Com=PARSON%20FOR%20STATE%20SENATE

Vote Your Conscience August 3rd

2010-08-02T09:52:00.001-07:00

MO primaries are tomorrow. While we have the freedom to vote in secrecy, I wanted to share my recommendations, for those who are interested, for the Republican primary in MO Congressional District 4.

My selections are not based on electability, but rather understanding of their position on the issues. Career politicians, incumbents, and those who emphasis party have an up-hill battle getting my vote.

I FIRMLY believe that I am accountable to God for my vote, that I MUST vote my conscience and trust God for the results.

Federal
For United States Senator
Chuck Purgason http://purgasonforsenate.com/

Federal
For United States Representative in Congress-
4th District
Jeff Parnell http://www.jeffparnell.com/

MO State Auditor
Allen Icet http://www.icetforauditor.com/

MO Sate Senator-District 28
Mike Parson http://www.teammikeparson.com/

MO State Representative-126th District
David Jerome http://www.citizensforjerome.com/

Non-Partisan Issue: Statutory Measure Proposition C
My summary of the summary to amend our constitution: Vote yes to prevent ObamaCare from penalizing us for rejecting it and keeping our freedom of decision about our own healthcare.
Vote: YES

Once again Robin Carnahan (MO Secretary of State) has confused the wording so as to make it appear that you need to vote opposite.

On local races I have insufficient knowledge of the individuals to recommend any particular individual.

Be blessed, and again, vote your conscience.

Declaration of Independence

2010-07-05T08:48:00.001-07:00

If you haven’t read the Declaration of Independence recently, it would well be worth your time to do so. In fact, read it to your children and explain it to them. For extra credit, read the Constitution of the United States and ask the question about the functions of our government, “Is this Constitutional?” You might be surprised by the answers you get.

BE
____________________

The Declaration of Independence of the United STATES of America

IN CONGRESS, JULY 4, 1776

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America

When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

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.

Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.

He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.

He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their Public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.

He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.

He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected, whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.

He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.

He has obstructed the Administration of Justice by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers.

He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.

He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.

He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.

He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power.

He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:

For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:

For protecting them, by a mock Trial from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:

For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:

For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:

For depriving us in many cases, of the benefit of Trial by Jury:

For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:

For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies

For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:

For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.

He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.

He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & Perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.

He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.

Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

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.

— John Hancock

New Hampshire:
Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton

Massachusetts:
John Hancock, Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry

Rhode Island:
Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery

Connecticut:
Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver Wolcott

New York:
William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris

New Jersey:
Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart, Abraham Clark

Pennsylvania:
Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton, George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross

Delaware:
Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean

Maryland:
Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll of Carrollton

Virginia:
George Wythe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson, Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton

North Carolina:
William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn

South Carolina:
Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Thomas Lynch, Jr., Arthur Middleton

Georgia:
Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton

HR 5175: Congress Threatens 1st & 2nd Amendment Rights Again!

2010-06-16T08:01:00.000-07:00

I am so tired to communicating to my 'UNrepresentatives' in Congress.
Why do we have to hound them to do what is right?
And then they seldom listen!

HR 5175 is the resuscitated version of the 'Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002, McCain–Feingold
Act' which declared unconstitutional by the Supreme court in 2007. Only this time they have enlisted the 'non'-help of the NRA.

Details and opportuntity for action can be found at Gun Owners of America, House Democrats Close to Reinstituting
Penalties for Criticizing Congress article.

The bottom line appears to be that The House is looking to fix the holes in the BCRA of 2002, and have made an exception for the NRA in exchange for their non-opposition, and the NRA TOOK THE BAIT.

I urge you to read the article and take action.

BE

Quote: Conscience, Patriots and Perseverance

2010-06-03T17:51:00.001-07:00

Quotes shared with me today, which I find encouraging, to do and to be, even in the face of opposition if necessary.

"Never do anything against conscience
even if the state demands it."
-- Albert Einstein
(1879-1955) Physicist and Professor, Nobel Prize 1921
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Albert.Einstein.Quote.D405

Mister Einstein experienced this in a way few of us today do, he and his family was a persecuted by Hitler as he grew to power. He saw first hand the results of compromising character, especially when the ‘state’ demands it. He was a fortunate Jew in that he was abroad before the borders were closed.

"If ever a time should come, when vain and aspiring men shall possess the highest seats in Government, our country will stand in need of its experienced patriots to prevent its ruin."
-- Samuel Adams
(1722-1803), was known as the "Father of the American Revolution."
1780
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Samuel.Adams.Quote.414E

Samuel Adams, one of the fathers of our country, experienced first hand the British oppression as Boston was blockaded.

"Never give in.

Never, never, never, never,
in nothing great or small,
large or petty,
never give in
except to convictions of honour and good sense.

Never yield to force;
never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy."
-- Sir Winston Churchill
(1874-1965) Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Winston.Churchill.Quote.EB68

Words shared by the British leader who lead a people ‘trapped’ on an island nation against the Nazi war machine.

Let us not forget the past.

Be blessed, be a blessing.

Quotes: On Government

2010-06-02T21:14:00.001-07:00

As I watch the radar with amazement (severe weather just seems to part around Barton County, MO), I ran across these quotes and thought they were worthy of being shared.

"No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth!"
-- Ronald Reagan
(1911-2004) 40th US President
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Ronald.Reagan.Quote.F1B8

"Government is not the generator of economic growth; working people are."
-- Sen. Phil Gramm
(1942- ) US Senator
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Phil.Gramm.Quote.FAA2

Quote: Trust versus Usurpation, Thomas Paine

2010-06-01T17:32:00.001-07:00

"A constitution is not the act of a government, but of a people constituting a government; and government without a constitution is power without a right. All power exercised over a nation, must have some beginning. It must be either delegated, or assumed. There are not other sources. All delegated power is trust, and all assumed power is usurpation. Time does not alter the nature and quality of either."
-- Thomas Paine
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Thomas.Paine.Quote.9D6F

Thomas Paine is far from my favorite person to quote, a Quaker who seemed to border on atheist. However, he had many thoughts which are very appropriate for expressing issues surrounding government, freedom and power.

As has been said else where, our form of government is only suitable for a moral and upright people what exercise self control (control from within). Should we lose these qualities, it will be necessary to control us, as a people, from without (hence the government).

As a final thought to reflect on today, consider the words of George Washington:

"Government is not reason; it is not eloquence; it is force. Like fire, it is a dangerous servant and a fearful master."
-- George Washington
(1732-1799) Founding Father, 1st US President, 'Father of the Country'
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/George.Washington.Quote.5786

Apple--The 'Family Friendly' Computer Producer?

2010-05-24T07:58:00.001-07:00

Just saw Dr. Mohler's Blog in my email today, and was very impressed by the content of his discussion today, Apple's avoidance of pornograhy.

Apparently Steve Job's is trying to keep Apple (iphone, ipad, app store) pornography free. This comes from an exchange between Ryan Tate of Gawker and Steve Jobs of Apple, referred to in an article by Eric Felten in the Wall Street Journal.

Dr. Mohler's blog is well worth reading...

BE

Quips from Reagan, Chesterton and a Jewish Carpenter

2010-05-18T19:29:00.001-07:00

From Reagan:

"Government is the people's business and every man, woman and child becomes a shareholder with the first penny of tax paid."
-- Ronald Reagan
(1911-2004) 40th US President
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Ronald.Reagan.Quote.68B3

While Ronald Reagan was far from perfect (he gave us some of our most liberal supreme court justices), he has several if not many sayings which are very applicable to our lives today.

From Chesterton:

"Tolerance is the virtue of a man without convictions."
-- Gilbert Keith Chesterton
(1874-1936) British essayist, critic, poet, and novelist
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Gilbert.Keith.Chesterton.Quote.D443

I need to find time to actually read Chesterton. I have heard much about him and his writings, but have yet to really evaluate him and his writing. However, the few quotes I have seen have really been 'spot-on' so to speak.

These quotes remind me of something some one else said:

Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.
(Mat 12:30 ESV)

Our answers today do not lie in government programs, or laws passed by congress, or supreme court decisions. All of these things are in the hand of God. No, the real question for us is are we on the Lord's side,... or not.

I know where I want to be found.

Senators stand for what is Right and Just!!

2010-05-17T17:53:00.001-07:00

This is my request sent to my senators regarding CRC treaty and Senate Resolution 519.

Senator McCaskill/Bond,

I ask that you read and support the resolution in opposition to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (SR 519).

Please understand this issue is side issue for my family. This cuts to the very core of our liberties and responsibilities as parents before God.

I expect my senators not to simply represent my interested, but rather to stand for what is right and just. I expect them to abide by the words and intent of the Constitution, which they swore to uphold. It is not an organism, but a standard by which to run our country. If it changes, there are methods by which to change it called amendments, not treaties, not judges, not unconstitutional laws.

Again, I ask that you read and support the resolution in opposition to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (SR 519).

Feeling VERY unrepresented, [to McCaskill]
Asking you to stand for what is right and just, [to Bond]

William Emmerling

I have had enough. I am tired to asking my senators to do what they are elected to do (to stand by the Constitution, and what is right), and won’t.

The Lord God Almighty is my King. It is to him that I look for my salvation. Not the government.

God's Sovereignty... or sympathy for me?

2010-04-23T06:31:00.001-07:00

As I sought to begin my day. once again, John Courson had words of wisdom that struck home. Perhaps they will strike home with you.

Be blessed, be a blessing,
BE

[I only copy this as there is no perma link on his sight for this particular article.]

------

Daily Devotional with Pastor John

April 23

"And Jacob their father said unto them, Me have ye bereaved of my children: Joseph is not, and Simeon is not, and ye will take Benjamin away: all these things are against me." Genesis 42:36

Here’s the question: How will I react to difficulty? Will I be like Jacob and say, “All things are working against me”—even though I know in my heart such is not the case? Or will I be like Joseph and say, “Man may have meant this for evil, but God meant it for good” (see Genesis 50:20)?

Unfortunately, all too often, I choose the sniveling of Jacob over the security of Joseph. Why? To elicit sympathy. What is it about our flesh that wants people to think we have it hard? While this may seem an insignificant quirk, in reality, it borders on blasphemy. In getting you to feel sorry for me, I get you to question God’s goodness, provision, and protection in my life. Thus, your pity for me is at God’s expense.

Who will I be? I can be self-indulgent and allow God to be cast in a bad light, even though I know in my heart the promise given to me, the price paid for me, and the peace available within me. I can deny all of this and say, “I want you to feel sorry for me. Listen to my tragedy.”

Or, I can say, “I will not dishonor this good, gracious, loving God, who has been so kind to me, so good to me. He’s my Creator and my Father. Therefore, I will not bring shame to His name in seeking sympathy from anyone.” That is called the fear of the Lord. It’s saying, “Father, I care more about Your reputation than I do about getting sympathy from the congregation. I don’t want them to think questioningly, negatively, or blasphemously of You.”

Where are the men and women who say, “We fear God. We will not snivel. God is good and we know deep within our hearts that He is working all things together for good”?

Here’s the question: In the name of compassion, are you one who constantly weeps with others? Perhaps what we need in the Christian community during this time of self-centered Christianity are men and women who say, “I fear God. So, dear brother, precious sister, even if you don’t understand, even if you think this is cold-hearted or lacking compassion, you know that this difficulty or tragedy will work for good. Stand on that knowledge. Cling to it. I will weep for you if you don’t get it. But I’m not going to weep with you as you question God. He’s too good for that.”

May God give us wisdom. May God give us peace. May God give us understanding. All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). I know it. And so do you.

This Daily Devotional is an excerpt from the book "A Pillar By Day" by Pastor Jon. "A Pillar By Day" is a collection of 365 short devotions from the Old Testament books of Genesis through Deuteronomy. If you would like your own copy of "A Pillar By Day" you may click here to go to the SearchLight Store

Facing our Struggles and Finding Intimacy with God

2010-04-12T10:28:00.001-07:00

From Jon Courson’s website (I cut and paste as there is not permanent link.)

April 10

And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.

Genesis 32:26

Why did God wrestle Jacob? Why does He want to wrestle with you and me? For the same reason I used to wrestle with my sons. It’s something called intimacy. God likes to wrestle things through with me and you because He enjoys us. It’s as if He says to us, “Let’s wrestle this thing through hour after hour, day after day, even month after month because not only will you find that I’ll come through eventually, but in the process, we will develop a wonderful intimacy.”
That’s why the original Greek text makes it clear that we are to “keep asking, keep seeking, keep knocking” (see Matthew 7:7), for that is how intimacy is developed; that is how prayer is answered.
Wrestling provides unique opportunities for discovery. As you measure your strength against that of your opponent, as you assume various positions and are held in numerous holds, you discover things about yourself and your opponent you couldn’t have known otherwise. So too, God invites us to wrestle with Him in order that we might discover things about Him and ourselves we could learn in no other way. As you wrestle in prayer, you might find that what God gives to you and does for you is entirely different than what you had expected. Jacob asked to be blessed, instead he was broken, but the answer was better, because our Father knows best.
Keep on wrestling, gang. You’ll have intimacy with the Lord. You’ll make discoveries about the Lord. And you’ll be changed radically by the Lord in the very process of praying.

Quotes, In Light of Recent Events

2010-03-22T05:24:00.001-07:00

The following is in honor of passing the 'healthcare' bill.

"Human beings will generally exercise power when they can get it, and they will exercise it most undoubtedly in popular governments
under pretense of public safety."
-- Daniel Webster
(1782-1852), US Senator
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Daniel.Webster.Quote.F9CC

"Authority intoxicates, And makes mere sots of magistrates; The fumes of it invade the brain, And make men giddy, proud and vain."
-- Samuel Butler
(1835-1902)
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Samuel.Butler.Quote.C66A

"The great masses of the people ... will more easily fall victims to a big lie than to a small one."
-- Adolf Hitler
(1889-1945) German Nazi Dictator
Source: Mein Kampf, 1933
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Adolf.Hitler.Quote.0C27

Let us also remember that God is sovereign, EVEN when evil prevails.

Pro 21:1-3 ESV
(1) The king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will.
(2) Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the heart.
(3) To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

Parable: THE ANT AND THE GRASSHOPPER

2009-12-17T18:55:00.001-08:00

I generally try to refrain from forwarding emails which have been forwarded to me. However, this ‘parable’ hits home. Please see my know at the end.

THE ANT AND THE GRASSHOPPER
This one is a little different... . Two Different Versions.... .......... ..... Two Different Morals

OLD VERSION
The ant works hard in the withering heat all summer long, building his house and laying up supplies for the winter.

The grasshopper thinks the ant is a fool and laughs and dances and plays the summer away..

Come winter, the ant is warm and well fed.
The grasshopper has no food or shelter, so he dies out in the cold.

MORAL OF THE STORY: Be responsible for yourself!

MODERN VERSION
The ant works hard in the withering heat and the rain all summer long, building his house and laying up supplies for the winter.

The grasshopper thinks the ant is a fool and laughs and dances and plays the summer away.
Come winter, the shivering grasshopper calls a press conference and demands to know why the ant should be allowed to be warm and well fed while he is cold and starving.

CBS, NBC , PBS, CNN, and ABC show up to provide pictures of the shivering grasshopper next to a video of the ant in his comfortable home with a table filled with food.

America is stunned by the sharp contrast.

How can this be, that in a country of such wealth, this poor grasshopper is allowed to suffer so?

Kermit the Frog appears on Oprah with the grasshopper and everybody cries when they sing, 'It's Not Easy Being Green.'

ACORN stages a demonstration in front of the ant's house where the news stations film the group singing, “We shall overcome.” Then Rev. Jeremiah Wright has the group kneel down to pray to God for the grasshopper's sake.

President Obama condemns the ant and blames President Bush, President Reagan, Christopher Columbus, and the Pope for the grasshopper's plight.

Nancy Pelosi & Harry Reid exclaim in an interview with Larry King that the ant has gotten rich off the back of the grasshopper, and both call for an immediate tax hike on theant to make him pay his fair share.
Finally, the EEOC drafts the Economic Equity & Anti-Grasshopper Act retroactive to the beginning of the summer.

The ant is fined for failing to hire a proportionate number of green bugs and, having nothing left to pay his retroactive taxes, his home is confiscated by the Government Green Czar and given to the grasshopper.

The story ends as we see the grasshopper and his free-loading friends finishing up the last bits of the ant’s food while the government house he is in, which, as you recall, just happens to be the ant's old house, crumbles around them because the grasshopper doesn't maintain it.

The ant has disappeared in the snow, never to be seen again.

The grasshopper is found dead in a drug related incident, and the house, now abandoned, is taken over by a gang of spiders who terrorize the ramshackle, once prosperous and once peaceful, neighborhood.
The entire Nation collapses bringing the rest of the free world with it.

MORAL OF THE STORY: Be careful how you vote in 2010.

____________________________________

I have seen this played out in my own extended family and it grieves me that some of my own ‘kinfolk’ play the role of grasshopper. As family we have tried to be the ant, going on to even help, yet, they continue to play the grasshopper role, milking the system for all it is worth.

I believe it was John Wesley that once spoke to believers in Jesus Christ about money: “Make as much as you can. Save as much as you can. Give as much as you can.”

This life is not about earning. It is not about getting. Life is about living, by giving and helping as we are directed by God, not compelled by the Government, to give to those who will not work.

_____

Quote: Right to Bear Arms

2009-12-17T18:54:00.001-08:00

"A government that does not trust it's law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms is itself unworthy of trust."
-- James Madison
(1751-1836), Father of the Constitution for the USA, 4th US President
Source: Federalist Papers
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/James.Madison.Quote.B15E

"The maintenance of the right to bear arms is a most essential one to every free people and should not be whittled down by technical constructions."
-- State vs. Kerner
Source: 181 N.C. 574, 107 S.E. 222, at 224 (1921)
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/State.vs..Kerner.Quote.CA0B

"To prohibit a citizen from wearing or carrying a war arm ... is an unwarranted restriction upon the constitutional right to keep and bear arms. If cowardly and dishonorable men sometimes shoot unarmed men with army pistols or guns, the evil must be prevented by the penitentiary and gallows, and not by a general deprivation of constitutional privilege."
-- Wilson v. State
Source: 33 Ark. 557, at 560, 34Am. Rep. 52, at 54 (1878)
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Wilson.v..State.Quote.CA00

_____

Health Care Reform: Marriage Penalty

2009-12-11T07:19:00.001-08:00

It is no surprise that the leaders of our government are opposed to the Judeo-Christian heritage we have enjoyed for nearly two hundred years in our government. Yet you would not expect legislative attacks against families. Yet, this is part of what is hidden in the 2000+ page 'health' care plan in the senate.

Marriage Penalty Hidden in Health Care Reform, an article from Citizen Link, clearly indicates that Congress intends to penalize couples who marry, in a significant way. For example:

For instance, in the House version, an unmarried couple each making $30,000 a year would pay $1,320 combined each year for private health insurance. If that couple chose to marry, their premium would jump to $12,000 a year, a difference of $10,680.

Refusing to prohibit abortion funding, end of life care management (euthanazia), and now penalizing couples what want to life according to God's standards. Clearly this legislation is not about reform, but about control and opposing what is Right and Just.

If you haven't, contact your legislator, specifically your senator, and let them know that voting for this 'health care reform' is an act of treason against the people of the United States of America.
_____
BE

Psalm 50

2009-12-10T08:46:00.001-08:00

A Psalm of Asaph.

The Mighty One, God the LORD,
speaks and summons the earth
from the rising of the sun to its setting.
Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty,
God shines forth.
Our God comes;
he does not keep silence;
before him is a devouring fire,
around him a mighty tempest.

He calls to the heavens above and to the earth,
that he may judge his people:

"Gather to me my faithful ones,
who made a covenant with me by sacrifice!"

The heavens declare his righteousness,
for God himself is judge!
Selah

"Hear, O my people, and I will speak;
O Israel, I will testify against you.
I am God, your God.
Not for your sacrifices do I rebuke you;
your burnt offerings are continually before me.
I will not accept a bull from your house or goats from your folds.
For every beast of the forest is mine,
the cattle on a thousand hills.
I know all the birds of the hills,
and all that moves in the field is mine.

"If I were hungry, I would not tell you,
for the world and its fullness are mine.
Do I eat the flesh of bulls or
drink the blood of goats?
Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving,
and perform your vows to the Most High,
and call upon me in the day of trouble;
I will deliver you,
and you shall glorify me."

But to the wicked God says:

"What right have you to recite my statutes
or take my covenant on your lips?
For you hate discipline,
and you cast my words behind you.
If you see a thief,
you are pleased with him,
and you keep company with adulterers.

"You give your mouth free rein for evil,
and your tongue frames deceit.
You sit and speak against your brother;
you slander your own mother's son.
These things you have done,
and I have been silent;
you thought that I was one like yourself.
But now I rebuke you
and lay the charge before you.

"Mark this, then,
you who forget God,
lest I tear you apart,
and there be none to deliver!
The one who offers thanksgiving as his sacrifice glorifies me;
to one who orders his way rightly I will show the salvation of God!"

(Psa 50:1-23 ESV)

______

I was reminded this morning during my time with the Lord, that he is the one who orders the days and seasons. I was reminded that He is not silent. I was reminded that I must offer thanks and order my life rightly. And regardless of what happens, ultimately, He, the Lord my God, will deliver me.

Quote: Constitutional Rights

2009-12-10T08:05:00.001-08:00

"The right of a citizen to bear arms, in lawful defense of himself or the State, is absolute. He does not derive it from the State government. It is one of the "high powers" delegated directly to the citizen, and `is excepted out of the general powers of government.' A law cannot be passed to infringe upon or impair it, because it is above the law, and independent of the lawmaking power."
-- Cockrum v. State
Source: 24 Tex. 394, at 401-402 (1859)
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Cockrum.v..State.Quote.CA0E

"The claim and exercise of a Constitutional right cannot be converted into a crime."
-- Miller v. U.S.
Source: 230 F 2d 486, 489.
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Miller.v..U.S..Quote.CA12

_____

Quote: The Righteous vs. Wicked Rulers

2009-12-08T16:57:00.001-08:00

"It is when a people forget God that tyrants forge their chains."

— Patrick Henry

When the righteous triumph, there is great glory, but when the wicked rise, people hide themselves. (Pro 28:12 ESV)

_____

Quote: Government, Control and Banking

2009-11-20T18:13:00.001-08:00

"I am one of those who do not believe that a national debt is a national blessing, but rather a curse to a republic; inasmuch as it is calculated to raise around the administration a moneyed aristocracy dangerous to the liberties of the country."
-- Andrew Jackson (1767-1845) 7th US President
Source: in a letter to T. H. Colman, 26 April 1824
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Andrew.Jackson.Quote.5038

"Governments do not govern, but merely control the machinery of government, being themselves controlled by the hidden hand."
-- Benjamin Disraeli (1804-1881) Prime Minister of England, British statesman, novelist
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Benjamin.Disraeli.Quote.504D

"And I sincerely believe, with you, that banking establishments are more dangerous than standing armies; and that the principle of spending money to be paid by posterity, under the name of funding, is but swindling futurity on a large scale."
-- Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), US Founding Father, drafted the Declaration of Independence, 3rd US President
Source: letter to John Taylor in 1816
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Thomas.Jefferson.Quote.3778

_____

Quote: The Listener is Responsible?

2009-11-20T17:27:00.001-08:00

"It is frequently said that speech that is intentionally provocative and therefore invites physical retaliation can be punished or suppressed. Yet, plainly no such general proposition can be sustained. Quite the contrary…. The provocative nature of the communication does not make it any the less expression. Indeed, the whole theory of free expression contemplates that expression will in many circumstances be provocative and arouse hostility. The audience, just as the speaker, has an obligation to maintain physical restraint."
-- Thomas I. Emerson
Source: The System of Freedom of Expression, 1970
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Thomas.Emerson.Quote.3FD0

I found this quote very interesting. Just think, the hearer, the audience, ... the listener is responsible for his own actions. What a novel idea!

-----

Quotes: Socialism

2009-11-19T07:27:00.001-08:00

"There’s no longer any left or right. There’s the system and the enemies of the system."
-- Eduard Limonov
founder of the National Bolshevik Party in Russia
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Eduard.Limonov.Quote.E418

"We are sure living in a peculiar time. You get more for not working than you will for working, and more for not raising a hog than for raising it."
-- Will Rogers
(1879-1935) American humorist
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Will.Rogers.Quote.250E

-----

Quotes: Enumerated Powers, What are they?

2009-11-10T10:04:00.001-08:00

Enumerated Powers refer to the Federal Government having only the powers numbered/listed in the constitution. This is made clear in the Tenth Amendment.

"The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people."
Quote by: U.S. Constitution, Tenth Amendment

The importance of this is that the Federal Government is be a government of LIMITED POWERS.

Below are quotes referring to these enumerated powers. Please note of the persons who made the statements.

"This government is acknowledged by all, to be one of enumerated powers."
-- Justice John Marshall,(1755-1835) US Supreme Court Chief Justice
Source: McCulloch v. Maryland
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/John.Marshall.Quote.A3D9

"If any state in the Union will declare that it prefers separation... to a continuance in union... I have no hesitation in saying, 'let us separate.' "
-- Thomas Jefferson, (1743-1826), US Founding Father, drafted the Declaration of Independence, 3rd US President
Source: letter to W. Crawford, June 20, 1816
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Thomas.Jefferson.Quote.2551

"We start with first principles. The Constitution
creates a Federal Government of enumerated powers."
-- William H. Rehnquist, Chief Justice, U. S. Supreme Court
Source: United States v. Lopez
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/William.Rehnquist.Quote.ECFF

_____

I find Mr. Jefferson’s statement of particular interest.

Children are a Blessing, not a Curse

2009-11-10T09:06:00.001-08:00

Albert Mohler alerts us to the a troubling mindset of many of the cultural elite. Muslims are becoming the majority in Europe by simple biological math, Russia is paying mothers to have more babies, and this article Mr. Mohler sites is ecstatic about falling fertility rates.

Children are a blessing, not a curse.

Psa 127:1-5 ESV
(1) A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches o ver the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.
(2) It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.
(3) Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.
(4) Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth.
(5) Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.

Please read Mr. Mohler’s comments on the article in the current issue of “The Economist”.

_____

Another Response from Senator McCaskill

2009-11-09T20:27:00.001-08:00

Please see my initial correspondence to the senator, and her initial response, and then her most recent reply below:

November 9, 2009

Dear Mr. Emmerling,

Thank you for contacting me regarding Medicare physician payment cuts. I appreciate your comments and welcome the opportunity to respond.

As you may know, in the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, Congress introduced the sustainable growth rate (SGR) which is the mechanism currently used to determine payment to physicians in the Medicare program. The SGR compares yearly changes in payments made to physicians providing care to Medicare beneficiaries to the growth of the overall economy. If the data shows that reimbursement rates are too high, they are then set to be reduced in accordance with the SGR formula. However, as health care costs have skyrocketed, the formula has produced skewed results and left physicians facing significant Medicare payment cuts at the same time they are experiencing increased costs. Physicians are, in fact, facing a staggering 21.5 percent cut in reimbursement starting in January, 2010. Congress has consistently acted to prevent any cuts to physician payments. I have supported these efforts because I recognize that the SGR formula is flawed. I support efforts to simplify the Medicare payment system and to address the SGR formula problem in a more principled fashion.

Furthermore, I am concerned that these recurring Medicare cuts to physicians could put patient access to their doctors in jeopardy by preventing physicians from accepting new Medicare patients. On October 13th, Senator Stabenow (D-MI) introduced the Medicare Physician Fairness Act of 2009 (S. 1776). The bill would permanently repeal the SGR formula. In addition to S. 1776, there are proposals within the Senate and House versions of the health reform bill that would improve physicians' payment schedules.

I agree that it is essential for Congress to replace the flawed physician payment system with one that reflects the cost of treating our Medicare patients. However, I also believe that we must do so in a fiscally sustainable and responsible manner. I will be closely reviewing what the best method is to address the problems associated with the SGR formula, but agree that a fix must be made.

Again, thank you for writing. Please do not hesitate contacting me in the future regarding other matters of interest or concern to you.

Sincerely,

Claire McCaskill
United States Senator

P.S. If you would like more information about resources that can help Missourians, or what I am doing in the Senate on your behalf, please sign up for my email newsletter at www.mccaskill.senate.gov.

--------------------

What more can I say? "Clearly", she has addressed "all" of my concerns.

Quotes: Power of Federal Government

2009-11-09T06:33:00.001-08:00

"The powers delegated by the proposed Constitution to the federal government are few and defined. Those which are to remain in the State governments are numerous and indefinite. The former will be exercised principally on external objects, as war, peace, negotiation and foreign commerce."
-- James Madison
(1751-1836), Father of the Constitution for the USA, 4th US President
Source: Federalist No. 45
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/James.Madison.Quote.FEF7

"The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people."
-- U.S. Constitution, Ninth Amendment
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/U.S..Constitution,.Ninth.Amendment.Quote.3EF3

"The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people."
-- U.S. Constitution, Tenth Amendment
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/U.S..Constitution,.Tenth.Amendment.Quote.6FB6

Enough said.

Book Review: How Long, O Lord?

2009-11-05T09:08:00.001-08:00

How Long, O Lord? Reflections on Suffering & Evil.
D.A. Carson, 1990 Baker Books, Grand Rapids, MI.

How Long, O Lord? was my vacation reading this year, as we travelled to and from the Grand Canyon. Travelling with teenage drivers is a new experience, very relaxing with my daughters and wife driving. The scenery made it difficult to read, but camping made up for it.

How Long, O Lord? was not written to comfort those who are suffering. It was written to help Disciples of Jesus think Biblically about suffering. Some might appreciate the thoughts of D.A. Carson on this subject when suffering; but when we suffer as humans, we tend to emote rather than think. Therefore, “How Long, O Lord?” would be better read before, than during, suffering.

Mr. Carson states what the book is:
"Primarily, this is a book of preventative medicine. One of the major causes of devastating grief and confusion among Christians is that our expectations are false." (Carson, preface, pg. 9)

Further he states:
"But I shall be satisfied if it helps some Christians establish patterns and habits of thoughts that are so strong that when the hardest questions batter the soul there is less wavering and more faith, joy, and hope." (Carson, preface, pg. 10)

This is not an feel good book with easy, glib answers about suffering. D.A. Carson is a pastor and theologian who thinks from the Bible about its teachings (which is orthodoxy = right teaching). Mr. Carson looks at suffering from the scriptures:

Where did it come from?
What are its sources and forms?
How does God respond to suffering?
How should we respond to suffering(which is orthopraxy -right practices)?

Mr. Carson does an excellent job of examining this as a fellow sojourner in suffering. His conclusions are from the Lord, the Word, and are not his own.

Biblically, as Mr. Carson reminds us, suffering is a result of the Fall of Adam and Eve after Creation.

Suffering originated with sin. In fact, Mr. Carson would maintain that all suffering is a result of sin, though only sometimes is it the direct result of the sinner. Some, like natural disasters are the result of the original sin of Adam & Eve (all suffering has its origins here). Others, like lung cancer MAY be a direct result of abusing ones own body. In between is a range of sin and suffering that we ALL struggle with in some way. And we see this throughout the Bible.

God is NOT surprised by suffering, nor is he impotent to deal with it. His response is to provide an eternal solution and provide us with an example for responding to suffering in our lives; that of Jesus Christ.

Our response to suffering should not be to question "Why?" as if we deserve not to suffer. Rather, we might better ask "Why should our suffering not be worse?" Suffering should help us to see God's goodness, holiness, mercy and grace.

Part 1 Thinking about Suffering and Evil

Mr. Carson first recognizes that thinking about suffering is HARD. He then examines false starts that we may have in our thinking. This is critical as where we start thinking defines the presuppositions we have.

Part 2 Parts of the Puzzle: Biblical Themes for Suffering People

These are the Themes he explorers, hardly exhaustive, but VERY COMPREHENSIVE in scope.

The Price of Sin
Social Evils, Poverty, War, Natural Disasters
The Suffering People of God
Curses and Holy Wars—and Hell
Illness, Death and Bereavement
From the Vantage of the End
Job: Mystery and Faith
The Suffering God

Part 3 Glimpses of the Whole Puzzles: Evil and Suffering in the World of a Good and Sovereign God

Finally, he addresses the questions of how are we to see God’s actions in the midst of our suffering.

the Mystery of Providence
The Comfort of Providence: Learning to Trust
Some Pastoral Reflections

While Mr. Carson only scratches the surface of the Biblical discussion, and I only scratch the surface of his examination and contemplation.

To whom would I recommend this book?

Pastors- -to help them better think about suffering Biblically, and equip them to better shepherd the flock the Lord has charged them with protecting and caring.
Believers/ Disciples of Jesus -who should want to minister to those whom are suffering.
New Believers-who need to know what the Bible says about suffering before they encounter suffering for themselves.

Personally, I cannot recommend this book on suffering enough.

In closing, I quote form his chapter “First Steps”:

"They [Christians] draw comfort only from the living Lord himself, from the Spirit whom he has graciously given, from a renewed grasp, a felt experience, of the love of God in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 3: 14-21). That is not to say, however, that the set of beliefs is irrelevant. It is to say that, in addition to holding that Christian beliefs are true and consistent, the Christian, to find comfort in them, must learn how to use (Carson's emphasis) them. Christian beliefs are not to be stacked in the warehouse of the mind; they are to be handled and applied to the challenges of life and discipleship." (Carson, pp. 20-21)

_____

Next Review(s):

What He Must Be. Voddie Baucham
Last of the Mohicans. Cooper (? I really enjoy this book, but novels are low on my review list, just depends on their impact)

Currently Reading:

Already Gone. Ken Ham
Do Hard Things. Harris Brothers

_____

Response from Senator Claire McCaskill

2009-11-03T19:57:00.000-08:00

Below is the response from Senator
Claire McCaskill:

November 3, 2009
Dear Mr. Emmerling,

Thank you for contacting me regarding Medicare and Congressional proposals for health care reform. I appreciate your comments and apologize for the delay in my response.

Medicare has been the foundation of health insurance for our nation's seniors since 1965 and has provided a crucial health care safety net for nearly 45 million elderly Americans. I know how important Medicare is for seniors living on a fixed income, and I assure you that I am committed to strengthening this vital benefit program.

There is, however, no denying that our health care system is in need of reform. The soaring cost of medical care is crippling our economy, bankrupting our nation's families, and becoming an unsustainable financial burden for American employers. Federal entitlement programs, such as Medicare, will face financial insolvency if burgeoning health care costs are not addressed. In fact, it's estimated that Medicare will begin to run a deficit by 2017 and there is growing concern that the federal government will not be able to keep pace with the aging baby-boomer demand for medical services. It is clear that reforms must be made to our health care system so that we can maintain seniors' access to medical treatment in a fiscally sustainable manner.

As you may know, the President's budget includes a number of proposals which will generate an estimated savings of $92.3 billion over five years in the Medicare program. Congress is also exploring other ways to bring down health care costs and to produce savings in Medicare. Some of the proposals being debated include adjusting Medicare drug coverage premiums for the wealthy; bundling hospital Medicare payments to incentivize better follow-up care and decrease hospital readmission rates; and improving Medicare payment accuracy to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse.

Many of the potential savings for Medicare are expected to come from establishing a competitive bidding system for Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. Currently, the federal government is paying private insurers up to 12 percent more than it costs to treat comparable beneficiaries through traditional Medicare. In fact, a recent GAO report revealed that MA insurance companies made $3.36 billion in profits in 2006, with some companies making profits in excess of $1 billion more than they had projected. These overpayments are making sustaining Medicare more difficult. The proposed savings plan would require private insurance companies to competitively bid to cover Medicare beneficiaries in a certain geographic area and be paid the average of the bids. Generating competition within the private insurance market will lower overall prices and would save Medicare nearly $177 billion over 10 years.

Options like these will not only provide higher quality and value of care to patients, but also produce the savings we so desperately need to ensure that future generations can receive this benefit. Congress, as it considers health care reform, must work toward creating a Medicare program that serves the interests of seniors rather than private insurance companies.

Although there is not a final version of the health reform bill in the Senate, I understand that there has been a lot of confusion surrounding certain provisions in the various versions of this legislation. There is also misinformation being propagated, especially with regard to seniors. You may be interested to know that the Special Committee on Aging, of which I am a member, has prepared a document entitled "Health Care Reform, Fact vs. Fiction". I encourage you to visit the website http://www.aging.senate.gov/issues/healthcare/factvsfiction.pdf to gather factual information regarding some of these rumors.

As health reform legislation comes to the Senate floor, please be assured I remain committed to making sure all of our nation's seniors have access to affordable quality coverage.

Again, I appreciate your letter. Please do not hesitate to contact me in the future about other matters of interest or concern to you.

Sincerely,

Claire McCaskill
United States Senator

P.S. If you would like more information about resources that can help Missourians, or what I am doing in the Senate on your behalf, please sign up for my email newsletter at www.mccaskill.senate.gov.

----

BE

An Open Letter to My Congressmen

2009-11-03T07:12:00.001-08:00

RE: the Healthcare Package

Dear Congressman,

Please understand that voting for the Healthcare Package before Congress is an act of TREASON!

Allow me to explain why:

No bill should be passed UNREAD BY YOU PERSONALLY. If you cannot read it, VOTE NO. At ~2000 pages, you cannot possibly have read AND analyzed the document. You were not sent to Washington, D.C. to be a "Yes Man".
Any bill of this nature is clearly UNCONSTITUTIONAL. I expect you feel otherwise, if so please indicate which sections and paragraphs of the US Constitution apply.
This bill is over reaching and clearly an attempt at socialism/communism. Our Founding Fathers, those who fought WWII, Korea and Veitnam laid down their lives for against such things, and we are willing to do the same. (Yes, I know I am labeled by our government as a Right Wing Domestic Terrorist simply for SAYING this.)

You have attacked my 1st Amendment right of free speech and freedom of religion. This alone is an act of TREASON, for which you should be recalled, replaced and tried in the courts of Missouri.

I expect those who represent me to represent my values, and to stand for what is truly right, regardless of opposition.

Vote No on healthcare reform as it is presented.

Feeling VERY unrepresented,

William & Sharri Emmerling

P.S. Please note, I will post this on my blog, http://the-word-on-the-street.blogspot.com/, along with your response.

cc:
Representative Ike Skelton (D-MO 4th)
Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO)
Senator Christopher S. Bond (R-MO) [His letter was modified as he voted against the 'Hate Crimes' Law.]

Where is America Headed?

2009-10-28T21:01:00.001-07:00

In recent weeks I have been reluctant to share much of what I have learned about where the current Presidential Administration is taking our nation. I wanted to encourage rather than discourage. I needed God to transform my mind.

Therefore, before I share the following, please be reminded that the LORD is in control. He is not surprised at anything which occurs; and we need to keep our eyes on Him.

Dismantling America By Thomas Sowell at Jewish World Review, is very much a short must read to put things in perspective. I will simply share the first and last paragraph to help give his perspective.

Just one year ago, would you have believed that an unelected government official, not even a Cabinet member confirmed by the Senate but simply one of the many "czars" appointed by the President, could arbitrarily cut the pay of executives in private businesses by 50 percent or 90 percent?

Nothing so epitomizes President Obama's own contempt for American values and traditions like trying to ram two bills through Congress in his first year — each bill more than a thousand pages long — too fast for either of them to be read, much less discussed. That he succeeded only the first time says that some people are starting to wake up. Whether enough people will wake up in time to keep America from being dismantled, piece by piece, is another question — and the biggest question for this generation.

As case in point, please visit the following linksabout the legislation Mr. Obama signed today 28 Oct 2009. (Sadly on my son's birthday)

Obama signs 'hate-crimes' bill into law
'It's a very sad day for America and for religious liberties'

Obama signs 'hate crimes' bill - Christian broadcasters concerned

There is more that needs to be said, but the most important are the words of repentance we need to share with the LORD.

More to follow, as the LORD wills.

Jefferson--"A wise and frugal government..."

2009-09-24T09:56:00.001-07:00

"A wise and frugal government which shall leave men free to regulate their
own pursuits of industry and improvement, and shall not take from the mouth
of labor the bread it has earned — this is the sum of good government."
— Thomas Jefferson
(1743-1826), US Founding Father, drafted the Declaration of Independence, 3rd US President

the gratitude campaign

2009-09-11T12:48:00.000-07:00

While I have struck up conversations with those who serve and said thank-you; I would have said it even more often with this. Thank you, to all those who serve and have served.

the gratitude campaign http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MSfFYxSdKdo

Psalm 12, Save from Lying Lips

2009-09-11T04:14:00.000-07:00

Simply by 'chance' this was the first Psalm I read in my personal worship time.

Psa 12:1-8 ESV
To the choirmaster: according to The Sheminith. A Psalm of David.

Save, O LORD, for the godly one is gone;
for the faithful have vanished from among the children of man.

Everyone utters lies to his neighbor;
with flattering lips and a double heart they speak.
May the LORD cut off all flattering lips,
the tongue that makes great boasts,
those who say,
"With our tongue we will prevail,
our lips are with us;
who is master over us?"

"Because the poor are plundered,
because the needy groan,
I will now arise," says the LORD;
"I will place him in the safety for which he longs."

The words of the LORD are pure words,
like silver refined in a furnace on the ground,
purified seven times.

You, O LORD, will keep them;
you will guard us from this generation forever.
On every side the wicked prowl,
as vileness is exalted among the children of man.

----
BE

Samuel Adams: Virtue & Liberty

2009-09-05T20:05:00.001-07:00

"No people will tamely surrender their Liberties, nor can
any be easily subdued, when knowledge is diffused and Virtue is
preserved. On the Contrary, when People are universally ignorant,
and debauched in their Manners, they will sink under their own
weight without the Aid of foreign Invaders."

by:	Samuel Adams (1722-1803), was known as the "Father of the American Revolution."
Source:	letter to James Warren, 4 November 1775. Reference: Our Sacred Honor, Bennett (261)

Does God Still Control the Weather?

2009-08-24T21:33:00.001-07:00

When I saw the content of the email this page was linked to, I was shocked. I have since found another article to confirm its validity. Rather than elaborate, I will let the author's words convey.

Read this first:
WAS GOD IN THE WHIRLWIND?

ELCA Assembly: Was God in Either Whirlwind?

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
BE

Inflation, Government and Contentment

2009-07-31T13:51:00.000-07:00

Recently, I was reading financial publication which had the following quote:

"By a continuing process of inflation
governments can confiscate, secretly and unobserved,
an important part of the wealth of their citizens."

Would you like to guess who made this statement?
Would you consider who follows the principles of this man today?

Read the quote again.

"By a continuing process of inflation
governments can confiscate, secretly and unobserved,
an important part of the wealth of their citizens."
John Maynard Keyes, The Economic Consequences of the Peace, 1919, p. 235.

How is inflation produced?
If a nation's monetary system used fiat money, say paper money with no tangible backing,
then it is only necessary to print large amounts of this money to create inflation.

Why would a nation print such large sums of money?
Perhaps to cover a debt which the nation owes.
Or perhaps, as Mr. John Maynard Keyes indicates, there might be another reason.

Frankly, I prefer to reflect on the words of another knowledgeable man:

"Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.

But as for you, O man of God, flee these things.

Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. "
Paul of Tarsus, Holy Bible, (1Ti 6:6-11 ESV)

Be blessed and Be a blessing,
BE

Do the 'Royals' support Abortion?

2009-06-23T07:49:00.001-07:00

I was going through my email this morning and ran across this link about Royals Balk at Recognizing Pro-Life Group.

I thought baseball was a symbol of America, its innocence, and how we stood to protect those less fortunate. I was no fan of professional baseball before, but I am even less endeared to the past-time now.

BE

George Washington on the End of a Republican government

2009-06-23T07:42:00.000-07:00

"If the laws are to be so trampled upon, with impunity, and a minority (a small one too) is to dictate to the majority, there is an end put, at one stroke, to republican government."

— George Washington
as quoted in a Citizenlink email.

America and Jeremiah 5

2009-06-22T05:02:00.000-07:00

I was riding my bike this morning and listening to Jeremiah.
As I listened to Jeremiah 5, I wondered at the likeness of America, her people and her leaders, to Jerusalem and Judah. While America has no covenant with the Lord, he judges nations on the basis of the justice that they administer.

Jer 5:1-31 ESV

(1) Run to and fro through the streets of Jerusalem, look and take note!
Search her squares to see if you can find a man,
one who does justice and seeks truth,
that I may pardon her.
(2) Though they say, "As the LORD lives," yet they swear falsely.

(3) O LORD, do not your eyes look for truth?
You have struck them down,
but they felt no anguish;
you have consumed them,
but they refused to take correction.
They have made their faces harder than rock;
they have refused to repent.

(4) Then I said, "These are only the poor; they have no sense;
for they do not know the way of the LORD, the justice of their God.
(5) I will go to the great and will speak to them,
for they know the way of the LORD,
the justice of their God."

But they all alike had broken the yoke; they had burst the bonds.

(6) Therefore a lion from the forest shall strike them down;
a wolf from the desert shall devastate them.
A leopard is watching their cities;
everyone who goes out of them shall be torn in pieces,
because their transgressions are many,
their apostasies are great.

(7) "How can I pardon you?
Your children have forsaken me
and have sworn by those who are no gods.
When I fed them to the full,
they committed adultery
and trooped to the houses of whores.
(8) They were well-fed, lusty stallions,
each neighing for his neighbor's wife.

While this speaks directly to sexual immorality, I believe this is also a reference to the nation seeking after other gods. Our 'other gods' range from the desire for more things to actually worshiping other gods, i.e. Islam, Hinduism, pantheism, etc. These are incompatible with a true and living God.

(9) Shall I not punish them for these things? declares the LORD;
and shall I not avenge myself on a nation such as this?
(10) "Go up through her vine rows and destroy, but make not a full end;
strip away her branches, for they are not the LORD's.

(11) For the house of Israel and the house of Judah have been utterly treacherous to me, declares the LORD.
(12) They have spoken falsely of the LORD and have said,
'He will do nothing;
no disaster will come upon us,
nor shall we see sword or famine.
(13) The prophets will become wind;
the word is not in them.
Thus shall it be done to them!'"

(14) Therefore thus says the LORD, the God of hosts:
"Because you have spoken this word,
behold, I am making my words in your mouth a fire,
and this people wood,
and the fire shall consume them.

(15) Behold, I am bringing against you a nation from afar,
O house of Israel, declares the LORD.
It is an enduring nation;
it is an ancient nation,
a nation whose language you do not know,
nor can you understand what they say.
(16) Their quiver is like an open tomb; they are all mighty warriors.
(17) They shall eat up your harvest and your food;
they shall eat up your sons and your daughters;
they shall eat up your flocks and your herds;
they shall eat up your vines and your fig trees;
your fortified cities in which you trust they shall beat down with the sword."

(18) "But even in those days, declares the LORD,
I will not make a full end of you.
(19) And when your people say,
'Why has the LORD our God done all these things to us?'
you shall say to them,
'As you have forsaken me and served foreign gods in your land,
so you shall serve foreigners in a land that is not yours.'"

(20) Declare this in the house of Jacob; proclaim it in Judah:
(21) "Hear this, O foolish and senseless people,
who have eyes, but see not,
who have ears, but hear not.
(22) Do you not fear me? declares the LORD.
Do you not tremble before me?
I placed the sand as the boundary for the sea, a perpetual barrier that it cannot pass;
though the waves toss, they cannot prevail;
though they roar, they cannot pass over it.

(23) But this people has a stubborn and rebellious heart;
they have turned aside and gone away.
(24) They do not say in their hearts,
'Let us fear the LORD our God,
who gives the rain in its season,
the autumn rain and the spring rain,
and keeps for us the weeks appointed for the harvest.'
(25) Your iniquities have turned these away,
and your sins have kept good from you.

(26) For wicked men are found among my people;
they lurk like fowlers lying in wait.
They set a trap;
they catch men.
(27) Like a cage full of birds, their houses are full of deceit;
therefore they have become great and rich;
(28) they have grown fat and sleek.
They know no bounds in deeds of evil;
they judge not with justice the cause of the fatherless, to make it prosper,
and they do not defend the rights of the needy.

(29) Shall I not punish them for these things? declares the LORD,
and shall I not avenge myself on a nation such as this?"

(30) An appalling and horrible thing has happened in the land:
(31) the prophets prophesy falsely,
and the priests rule at their direction;
my people love to have it so,
but what will you do when the end comes?

Like Israel of old, our churches today bow down to political correctness, rather than submitting to the holiness of the True and Living God.

Our true hope is in the one who came to set us free, Jesus the Messiah. That freedom does not mean insulation from the wrong and sin in the world. No, instead it means freedom from the penalty of our own sin, as individuals.

As more of us benefit from this,
the nation is preserved.
God receives the glory.

However,
as fewer of us benefit from this,
the nation suffers, as evil is done by it members,
until God avenges in justice.

Ultimately, God will see that justice is applied completely. Mercy will be given for those of us accept Jesus as has son and seek to obey him out of love. Yet, evil will be punished.

As John the apostle said, "Come quickly, Lord Jesus."

BE

We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work. (Joh 9:4 ESV)

Reagan on the Federal Government

2009-06-18T08:32:00.001-07:00

Going through the Inbox and found this quote by Ronald Regan:

"The federal government has taken
too much tax money from the people,
too much authority from the states, and
too much liberty with the Constitution."
-- Ronald Reagan
(1911-2004) 40th US President
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Ronald.Reagan.Quote.70F8

On Liberty: Jefferson, Locke and Lindsay

2009-06-18T08:23:00.000-07:00

"... whenever the Legislators endeavour to take away, and destroy the Property of the People, or to reduce them to Slavery under Arbitrary Power, they put themselves into a state of War with the People, who are thereupon absolved from any farther Obedience, and are left to the common refuge which God hath provided for all men against force and violence. ... [Power then] devolves to the People, who have a Right to resume their original Liberty, and, by the Establishment of a new Legislative (such as they shall think fit) provide for their own Safety and Security, which is the end for which they are in Society."
-- John Locke
(1632-1704) English philosopher and political theorist. Considered the ideological progenitor of the American Revolution and who, by far, was the most often non-biblical writer quoted by the Founding Fathers of the USA.
Source: Second Treatise of Civil Government [1690], #222 (Lasslet Edition, Cambridge University Press, 1960), p. 460-461; French translation by David Mazel (1691): Traité de gouvernement civil (Paris: Garnier-Flammarion, 1984), pp. 348-349
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/John.Locke.Quote.7F16

"Those who suppress freedom always do so in the name of law and order."
-- John V. Lindsay
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/John.Lindsay.Quote.3FCD

"We have the greatest opportunity the world has ever seen, as long as we remain honest -- which will be as long as we can keep the attention of our people alive. If they once become inattentive to public affairs, you and I, and Congress and Assemblies, judges and governors would all become wolves."
-- Thomas Jefferson
(1743-1826), US Founding Father, drafted the Declaration of Independence, 3rd US President
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Thomas.Jefferson.Quote.B372

Truth & Error: Today's Quotes

2009-06-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

"Whenever there is a simple error that most laymen fall for,
there is always a slightly more sophisticated version
of the same problem that experts fall for."

-- Amos Tversky
Source: The Mind's New Science
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Amos.Tversky.Quote.E295

"Society is composed of men, and every man is a FREE agent. Since man is free, he can choose; since he can choose, he can err; since he can err, he can suffer. I go further: He must err and he must suffer; for his starting point is ignorance, and in his ignorance he sees before him an infinite number of unknown roads, all of which save one lead to error."

-- Frederic Bastiat
(1801-1850) French economist, statesman, and author. He did most of his writing during the years just before -- and immediately following -- the French Revolution of February 1848
Source: Harmonies, XXX
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Frederic.Bastiat.Quote.1925

"The main thing is to have a soul that loves the truth and harbours it where he finds it. And another thing: truth requires constant repetition, because error is being preached about us all the time, and not only by isolated individuals but by the masses. In the newspapers and encyclopedias, in schools and universities, everywhere error rides high and basks in the consciousness of having the majority on its side."

-- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
(1749-1832)
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Johann.Wolfgang.von.Goethe.Quote.74EB

So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

(Joh 8:31-32 ESV)

04 June 09: Today's Quotes on Liberty

2009-06-04T06:27:00.000-07:00

"Foolish liberals who are trying to read the Second Amendment out of the constitution by claiming it’s not an individual right or that it’s too much of a safety hazard don’t see the danger of the big picture. They’re courting disaster by encouraging others to use this same means to eliminate portions of the Constitution they don’t like."
-- Alan Dershowitz
(1938- ) Felix Frankfurter Professor of Law at Harvard Law School
Source: The Conceptual Foundations of Anglo-American Jurisprudence in Religion and Reason, 82 Mich L. Rev., 204 (Dan Gifford), 1995
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Alan.Dershowitz.Quote.35FD

The above quote reminds me of how some do interpretation of the Scriptures. You cannot remove what you don't like without damaging the whole.

"I cannot assent to the view, if it be meant that the legislature may impair or bridge the rights of a free press and of free speech whenever it thinks that the public welfare requires that it be done. The public welfare cannot override constitutional privilege."
-- John Marshall Harlan
(1899-1971) U. S. Supreme Court Justice
Source: Patterson v. Chicago
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/John.Harlan.Quote.4051

Have a blessed day.
BE

The Murder of George Tiller

2009-06-01T19:29:00.000-07:00

After two nights and roughly two days of relaxation way from the responsibilities of the home, and what was essentially a media black out, my wife and I returned to home to this headline:

Abortionist Tiller shot, killed in church

Doctor accused of late-term law violations was attending service

"Lord Jesus, what has just happened," was my next thought.

I have spend the last 24 hours considering what my response, the response of my family, and the response of the Church should be to this murder.

As I have considered this I have encounter the writings of two men on this subject that are worth reading.

The first, Doug Phillips of Vision Forum at:
George Tiller is Dead: For Whom Shall We Mourn?
In asking the question, "For Whom Shall We Mourn?" Mr. Phillips addresses the complexities of the situation which goes beyond simply the emotions involved on both sides of this this issue and gets to the core of this issues at hand.

The second, David Kupelian of WorldNetDaily.com:
The real danger of right-wing extremists
Mr. Kupelian addresses the long term ramlifications of events like the murder of George Tiller, which could be quite serious.

As I cannot truly add anything of value to what these to men have said, I end with saying,

Yes, I mourn for the lives which George Tiller has taken over the years.

And Yes, I mourn for the man George Tiller, made in the image of God, and for the loss his family is experiencing.

Yet . . . I also mourn for our Nation and the Lord's Church, who no longer stands with or for righteousness.

BE

And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.

(Heb 9:27-28 ESV)

Recent Items of Interest

2009-05-23T20:04:00.001-07:00

Starting with the good news first.

$20,000 offered for listing 10 Commandments

Entrepreneur creates incentive to memorize God's laws

Home: No place for Bible study

County demands pastor obtain $10,000 permit to host friends

Friends, this is in the USA, specifically San Diego, CA.

Upholding values will shield US from terror: Obama

Now, just what values does he mean?

Responsible drinking for prostitutes? Your tax $ at work...

The Obama administration will pay $2.6 million to train China's prostitutes to drink responsibly on the job.

I find this very ironic given what he recently said, that we cannot borrow from China forever.

Do You Want Your OTV?

Obama White House officials decided to do their own media report on the
visit, complete with cuts, interviews, and chyrons identifying who's
speaking.

Even the media who put him in office are offended by this one. However, they seem to miss the real issue: This seems to be state controlled access to the White House. This sounds too much like the beginnings of socialism, or communism, neither of which permits unfavorable coverage of the government.

Note: Mr. Obama spending time with another sports team.

Sobbing Kindergarteners Snubbed for Steelers?

Kids locked out of White House; officials say they were too late

Mr. Obama is spending a lot of time with sports teams, talks of values, and turns away kindergartners.

Have a blessed Memorial Day.
Remember to honor those who have fallen for our freedoms and values.
Remember most of all the one who died to free us from our sins.
Worship Jesus.

BE

Right-Wing Extremist ID Card

2009-05-21T14:21:00.001-07:00

From Liberty Counsel, The 'Official Liberty Counsel card-carrying Right-Wing Extremist' card. Get yours today.

BE

Today's Quotes on Liberty

2009-05-21T06:29:00.000-07:00

"Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called.
Were you a slave when called? Do not be concerned about it.
(But if you can gain your freedom, avail yourself of the opportunity.)

"For he who was called in the Lord as a slave is a freedman of the Lord.
Likewise he who was free when called is a slave of Christ.

"You were bought with a price;
do not become slaves of men.

"So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God. "
(1Co 7:20-24 ESV)

"Good intentions will always be pleaded for every assumption of authority. It is hardly too strong to say that the Constitution was made to guard the people against the dangers of good intentions. There are men in all ages who mean to govern well, but they mean to govern. They promise to be good masters, but they mean to be masters."
-- Daniel Webster
(1782-1852), US Senator
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Daniel.Webster.Quote.9BFA

"Today, when a concerted effort is made to obliterate this point, it cannot be repeated too often that the Constitution is a limitation on the government, not on private individuals -- that it does not prescribe the conduct of private individuals, only the conduct of the government -- that it is not a charter _for_ government power, but a charter of the citizen's protection _against_ the government."
-- Ayn Rand
(1905-1982) Author
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Ayn.Rand.Quote.DE9E

"The deterioration of every government
begins with the decay of the principles
on which it was founded."
-- C. L. De Montesquieu
[Montesquieu, Charles Louis de Secondat] (1689-1755) Baron de Montesquieu
Source: The Spirit of the Laws, VIII, 1752
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/C..L..De.Montesquieu.Quote.8108

Liberty and Government

2009-05-20T07:30:00.000-07:00

Just received the following quotes this morning, and got more excited with each one.
Hope you are blessed with the sentiments as much as I was.

BE

"Liberty has never come from the government.
Liberty has always come from the subjects of government.
The history of liberty is the history of resistance.
The history of liberty is a history
of the limitation of governmental power,
not the increase of it."
-- Woodrow Wilson
(1856-1924) 28th US President
Speech, 1912
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Woodrow.Wilson.Quote.2AEF

"That the sole object and only legitimate end of government is to protect the citizen in the enjoyment of life, liberty, and property, and when the government assumes other functions it is usurpation and oppression."
-- Alabama, Declaration of Rights Article I Section 35
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Alabama,.Declaration.of.Rights.Article.I.Section.35.Quote.5244

"I have little interest in streamlining government or in making it more efficient, for I mean to reduce its size. I do not undertake to promote welfare, for I propose to extend freedom. My aim is not to pass laws, but to repeal them. It is not to inaugurate new programs, but to cancel old ones that do violence to the Constitution ... or have failed their purpose ... or that impose on the people an unwarranted financial burden. I will not attempt to discover whether legislation is 'needed' before I have first determined whether it is constitutionally permissible. And if I should be attacked for neglecting my constituents' 'interests,' I shall reply that I was informed that their main interest is liberty, and in that cause I am doing the very best I can."
-- Barry Goldwater
(1909-1998) US Senator (R-Arizona)
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Barry.Goldwater.Quote.401D

Recent Headlines of Interest

2009-05-19T19:46:00.001-07:00

Of Issachar, men who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, . . .
(1Ch 12:32 ESV)

Google joins Bilderberg cabal
Rich, powerful meet secretly in Greece

Former British cabinet minister, Lord Denis Healey, one of the founders of the group, explained the purpose of the group to Jon Ronson of the Guardian: "Those of us in Bilderberg felt we couldn't go on forever fighting one another for nothing and killing people and rendering millions homeless. So we felt that a single community throughout the world would be a good thing."

With Google's propensity for collecting information, I'm not certain I'm comfortable about this.

'Killer Chip' tracks humans, releases poison
Saudi inventor applies for rights to GPS-linked lethal security device

The tiny semiconductor device is intended to be surgically implanted or injected into the body, according to the patent application, for the purpose of tracking visitors from other nations by global-positioning satellites and preventing them from overstaying their visas.
. . .

The application included a request to patent a model B of the device that could release poison to "eliminate" the individual if he or she became a security risk.

First, pets and cattle, now this.

Should a Christian be a Mason?
By Dr. David R. Reagan

At that point, he handed me the handbook and told me I could keep it. I immediately turned to page 95 and found the following paragraph:¹

"Masonry makes no profession of Christianity... but looks forward to the time when the labor of our ancient brethren shall be symbolized by the erection of a spiritual temple... in which there
shall be but one altar and one worship; one common altar of Masonry on which the Veda [Hinduism], Shastras [Buddhism], Sade [Astrology],
Zend-Avesta [Zoroastrianism], Koran [Islam], and Holy Bible shall lie untouched by sacrilegious hands, and at whose shrine the Hindoo (sic),
the Persian, the Assyrian, the Chaldean, the Egyptian, the Chinese, the Mohammedan, the Jew, and the Christian may kneel and with one united
voice celebrate the praises of the Supreme Architect of the Universe."
Notice how this paragraph equates the Bible with the
pagan scriptures and then asserts it is possible to obtain salvation
through any religion. In short, this paragraph refutes the Gospel which
maintains that "there is salvation in no other name under heaven except the name of Jesus" (Acts 4:12).

Girl Scouts exposed: Lessons in lesbianism
Communists, radical feminists cited as role models for troops

You need to read this for yourself. I cannot quote enough to do it justice.

'Hate crimes' a bogus argument for raising funds

The activist is Andrew Sullivan, one of the movers and shakers in the international homosexual movement. "The real reason for hate crime laws is not the defense of human beings from crime.
. . .

Sullivan continues: "The real reason for the invention of hate crimes
was a hard-left critique of conventional liberal justice and the
emergence of special interest groups which need boutique legislation to
raise funds for their large staffs and luxurious buildings.

GM bankruptcy plan eyes quick sale to gov't

General Motors Corp's (GM.N) plan for a bankruptcy filing involves a quick sale of the company's healthy assets to a new company initially owned by the U.S. government, a source familiar with the situation said on Tuesday.

Sounds very much like socialism, perhaps even communism.

Chinese imports could bring GM political troubles

As thousands of General Motors workers await word on more U.S. plant closures, reports that the company plans to import Chinese-made vehicles to the U.S. have created a political problem for the automaker and the White House.

Obama Says U.S. Long-Term Debt Load ‘Unsustainable’

President Barack Obama, calling current deficit spending “unsustainable,” warned of skyrocketing interest rates for consumers if the U.S. continues to finance government by borrowing from other countries.

“We can’t keep on just borrowing from China,” Obama said at a town-hall meeting in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, outside Albuquerque. “We have to pay interest on that debt, and that means we are mortgaging our children’s future with more and more debt.”

This is beyond comprehension. Here the tax payers have been on the verge of revolt, and Mr. Obama acts like the spending is not his idea, and we are responsible.

BE

Parental Right Amendment: Another Reason We Need It

2009-05-19T18:40:00.000-07:00

He said to them, "But now let the one who has a moneybag take it, and likewise a knapsack. And let the one who has no sword sell his cloak and buy one.
(Luk 22:36 ESV)

This just (well was just in, been delayed by life, thought I had already posted this) in from Michael P. Farris @ www.parentalrights.org
The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child:The Impact on Private Gun-Ownership in America.

“The spread of small arms creates a serious global problem and requires an equally urgent response because the lives and futures of children are at stake. These weapons have extinguished more young lives than they have protected.” – Carol Bellamy, Executive Director, UNICEF

This is the opening quote in Mr. Farris' article. Clearly the UN officials are not well studied in history. We live in a fallen world and the right to self-protection is from God.

Michael Faraday, Father of Electromagnetism on Creation & God

2009-05-19T09:21:00.000-07:00

"Yet even in earthly matters I believe that 'invisible things of Him from the creation of the world were clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead.'"
--Michael Faraday, Father of Electromagnetism
Acts & Facts, February 2009, www.icr.org

Robert Boyle, Father of Modern Chemistry on Nature

2009-05-19T09:17:00.000-07:00

"[When] I study the book of nature I find myself oftentimes reduced to exclaim with the Psalmist, How manifold are Thy works, O Lord! in wisdom hast made them all!"
--Robert Boyle, Father of Modern Chemistry
Acts & Facts, February 2009, www.icr.org

To Start the Week Right

2009-05-18T04:56:00.000-07:00

Some encouraging words to start the week.

"This most beautiful system of the sun, planets, and comets, could only proceed from the counsel and dominion of an intelligent and powerful Being."
--Isaac Newton, Father of Universal Graviation Theory
Acts & Facts, February 2009, www.icr.org

"The principle of free speech is no new doctrine
born of the Constitution of the United States.
It is a heritage of English-speaking peoples,
which has been won by incalculable sacrifice,
and which they must preserve
so long as they hope to live as free men."
-- Robert M. Lafollette, Sr.
(1855-1925) U.S. Senator
Source: Speech, 6 October 1917
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Robert.Lafollette.Quote.A338

Of Miss CA, Beauty Contests and the Christian Faith

2009-05-12T08:38:00.001-07:00

Eph 1:3-6 ESV
(3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places,
(4) even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love
(5) he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will,
(6) to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved.

Ms. Prejean has made a courageous stand for biblical marriage. I cannot argue this. However, I must ask, "Has she thought through the consistency of her witness?"

As I perused the news I happened upon a link this is article,
Miss California: I’ll fight on despite racy photos. No racy photos in the article, for which I am thankful. However, the quote that got my attention was this:

“I am a Christian, and I am a model,” Prejean said in a statement released overnight to the media. “Models pose for pictures, including lingerie and swimwear photos. Recently, photos taken of me as a teenager have been released surreptitiously to a tabloid Web site that openly mocks me for my Christian faith. I am not perfect, and I will never claim to be.”

She makes no apologies for posing in lingerie and swimwear, none of which I would allow my teenage daughter to appear in public in, however, she sees no inconsistency with this and the call for the christian to be holy.

I'm not trying to be legalistic here, but the world knows the difference between modesty and sensuality, why don't we as christians.

This last year my daughter decided to participate in our community's fair queen contest. Even in hometown, rural America it is difficult to make a stand. Thankfully, there was no swimsuit competition (she would not have had her father's blessing in that). Yet even in evening gowns, no one seemed to show any sense of shame in the amount of cloth, or lack there of, of the dresses.

My daughter decided to make a point. Did she win? Not this year, however, she was very beautiful and it didn't require the exposure of much of her body. She very pointedly made a dress that didn't call attention to physical features, but instead she tried to direct attention to woman inside, not what she is, but who she is.

What is the real point of these contests?
Are they really compatible with our values?
Can we really represent Christ in such an environment?

As long as the bodies of young women are being exposed, exploited for the arousal of men, I don't believe a Christian witness is likely, or perhaps even possible. Men aren't listening to the words of women in bathing suits, they are ogling the flesh. Women don't hear the witness, they are wondering how they can ever measure up.

Please don't miss understand.
I don't question Ms. Prejean's salvation.
That is between her and the Lord.

My question is "How must we live differently, that the world knows we are not the same?"

Joh 17:13-16 ESV
(13) But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves.
(14) I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.
(15) I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one.
(16) They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.

Ultimately, we need to question ourselves.
Is the nature of what I am doing pleasing to the Lord?
Are we holy, like he is holy?
We are called to live in contrast to the World, not like them.

BE

WND: Census GPS-tagging your home's front door

2009-05-11T20:34:00.001-07:00

Rev 13:16-18 ESV
(16) Also it causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to be marked on the right hand or the forehead,
(17) so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name.
(18) This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666.

WorldNetDaily (WND) reports that the US government is recording the GPS coordinates of your door, accurate to 40 feet.

"Enhancing the concerns is the Obama administration's recent decision to put White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel in an oversight role over the census, which will be used to determine a reapportionment of congressional seats and could be used to solidify a single political party's control over the nation, its budget, military and future."

The first concern about this relates to the political climate created by the simply how people are counted for congressional districts. However, the concerns are greater than this.

But at American Daily Review, blogger Douglas Gibbs had more than a few doubts.

"GPS coordinates of your front door will make it easier for the government to monitor you," he said. "The U.S. Census Bureau is simply an excuse – a harmless looking means of obtaining the front door coordinates. The creation of GPS coordinates for front doors has nothing to do with the census, in all honesty, no matter how much the United States government tries to convince you that it does."

All of this begs questions to be answered.

"Why does the Obama administration need or want the latitude and longitude coordinates for every home in America? Why the rush to GPS paint every home in the next 90 days? Why must the marker be within 40 feet of every front door? For what possible purpose does the Fed need GPS coordinates for every home, and under what authority do they have the right?"

We must be vigilant.

(Mat 10:16 ESV) "Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves."

Friends, none of this surprises the Lord. He is still in control and this somehow accomplishes his purposes. We must keep our eyes on him.

BE

WND: 'Electronic Police State' report cites U.S.

2009-05-11T14:16:00.001-07:00

Rev 13:16-18 ESV
(16) Also it causes all, both small and great, both rich and poor, both free and slave, to be marked on the right hand or the forehead,
(17) so that no one can buy or sell unless he has the mark, that is, the name of the beast or the number of its name.
(18) This calls for wisdom: let the one who has understanding calculate the number of the beast, for it is the number of a man, and his number is 666.

WorldNetDaily (WND) cites a report about the state of electronic surveillance in the world, in which the United States takes Number 6!

"Not surprisingly, China and North Korea ranked No. 1 and No. 2, with Belarus and Russia following up. But the United Kingdom ranked fifth followed by the United States."

What we don't understand is that this makes what Hitler and Stalin did look small in the hands of tyrants today. How long will we have to wait before we see this implemented in our own country?

"Most of us are aware that our governments monitor nearly every form of electronic communication. We are also aware of private companies doing the same. This strikes most of us as slightly troubling, but very few of us say or do much about it. There are two primary reasons for this," the report said.

"We really don't see how it is going to hurt us. Mass surveillance is certainly a new, odd, and perhaps an ominous thing, but we just don't see a complete picture or a smoking gun," the report continued. Also, "We are constantly surrounded with messages that say, 'Only crazy people complain about the government.'"

Presently, this type of thing is going on in China and North Korea, and we see the results, repression and persecution.

Let's suppose that an administration took control of the White House and the Department of Homeland Security declared those who are Bible believing, pro-life, and opposed to homosexual marriage to be terrorists, i.e. enemies of the USA. What are the implications of this type of government having control over all communications and records of communications, say such as this blog? Hitler would have loved this kind of clearing house for intelligence gathering about the people themselves.

I had to read in high school 1984, by Orwell, and Brave New World, by Huxley. Somehow it seems that we are moving down the road of both books.

Friends, we need to be careful about what we put on-line, say on the phone, etc. Not that we should hold back the truth.

Only that we should be careful.
And be ready.

BE

SB 909: Hate Crime Legislation

2009-05-11T06:23:00.000-07:00

This is my latest message to our MO senators on the hate crimes bill. (Specifically Senator McCaskill, the one to Senator Bond slightly modified)

Senator McCaskill,

We again implore you to oppose SB 909. Please consider the following:

Because of pressure from homosexual groups, Congress has refused to define what is meant by sexual orientation in S.909. By doing so, this means that the 30 different sexual orientations will be federally protected classes.

Laws already exist in all 50 states to punish violent crime, making S.909 unnecessary, unfair, indefinable, un-American and constitutionally suspect. S.909 is not designed to aid in crime fighting. Instead, punishing wrong beliefs about homosexuality is its sole purpose. Further it creates a class of people how have greater value than others in the eyes of the government, a violation of the very principles upon which our government was founded.

Additionally, legislation of this nature HAS BEEN USED in other countries, such as Canada, to bully and oppress those who hold to a Biblical Worldview, included immorality. Given the current state of our judicial system, I would expect to be arrested and tried for simply sharing my beliefs about what the God the universe has stated in his word.

S.909 is one more step in the campaign to legitimize homosexuality in our culture by treating it as a protected class along with race, gender, and religion. This is wrong, the Bible clearly states that sexuality outside of marriage is wrong, and our government should not be condoning, much less promoting such behavior.

"Together, we can work to bring the values of the heartland to Washington."

This is what you state on the front page of you website. Senator, your support of SB 909 indicates your values do not match with the values of the heartland, nor of your constituents.

Please reconsider your position on this bill, for the future of our nation, and our children.

Feeling VERY Disenfranchised,

William and Sharri Emmerling

Lamar, MO

No White House ceremony to be held on Nat'l Day of Prayer

2009-05-06T20:16:00.001-07:00

No White House ceremony to be held on Nat'l Day of Prayer

We have officially turned our back on God.
May God have mercy on us.
Enough Said.

Encouragement for the Downcast

2009-05-04T20:59:00.001-07:00

Browsing the news, I found this article encouraging, "Couples save first kiss for wedding day."

How I hope that all my children would receive this blessing, and be able to share it with the one God provides for them.

How I wish that I had do this for my wife. God is faithful, and forgiving, as is my wife.

BE

Hate Crimes Legislation on Fast Track

2009-05-04T20:33:00.001-07:00

Friends, our legislature is truly out of touch, worse, is without principle.

WorldNetDaily is reporting (Next on Senate agenda? 'Pedophile Protection Act')that both the House and Senate are poised to vote as early as tomorrow in favor of hate crimes legislation.

I urge you to call your Senators and Representatives in opposition to this legislation. The legislation makes special punishments for crimes which already have punishments legislated. This is truly more an attempt to punish thoughts and free speech related to 'politically INcorrect' speech.

Senator McCaskill (D-MO) who 'represents' me assures me that this is not the case, however, analysis has shown that the language of the bill is far to vague. Further, such legislation applied over-seas and Canada has been used in attempts to silence 'politically INcorrect' speech.

Remember, laws are morality and ethics codified. The issue is by whose morality and ethics will we be living.

Regarding Judges: Consider the Constitution

2009-05-04T19:15:00.000-07:00

"That text is known to them that have the patience to read it, possibly one one-hundredth of one percent of the denizens. They forget it, all save a few Western states. I think somebody in Dakota once read it. The Constitution."
-- Ezra Pound
(1885-1972) American poet
June 30, 1943
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Ezra.Pound.Quote.9EBA

"I spent three years getting my law degree at Yale Law School. From the moment
I enrolled, I was assigned huge, leather-bound editions of legal cases to study
and discuss. I read what lawyers and judges, professors and historians said
about the Constitution. But never once was I assigned the task of reading the
Constitution itself...Over the last decade, however, I have become a student of
the Constitution, searching each line for its meaning and intent. Studying the
Constitution is like studying the Bible. It is amazing how much more you will
learn when you quit studying about it and pick it up to read it for yourself."
-- Pat Robertson
Source: 'America's Dates With Destiny' (1986)
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Pat.Robertson.Quote.4FA3

"This Constitution...shall be the SUPREME LAW OF THE LAND;
and the Judges in every State shall be bound thereby"
-- U.S. Constitution Article VI
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/U.S..Constitution.Article.VI.Quote.4FA9

Liberty Cannot be Inherited

2009-05-04T19:04:00.000-07:00

"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, ...
That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends,
it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it."
-- Declaration of Independence
July 4, 1776
Source: written by Thomas Jefferson
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Declaration.of.Independence.Quote.517A

"Liberty cannot be caged into a charter or
handed on ready-made to the next generation.
Each generation must recreate liberty for its own times.
Whether or not we establish freedom rests with ourselves."
-- Florence Ellinwood Allen
(1884-1966)
Source: This Constitution of Ours, 1940
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Florence.Allen.Quote.8183

"Constitutions are made of paper;
Bayonets are made of steel."
-- French Aphorism
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/French.Aphorism.Quote.96EE

Quotes about Taxes

2009-04-23T07:35:00.000-07:00

[Started this post some time ago. I hopeyou appreciate the comments on taxation. ]

I have found a new website that specializes in quotes about liberty. Additionally, they will also send notable quotes out daily. I thought I would share yesterday's. Check them out at
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/

BE

"Tax reform is taking the taxes off things
that have been taxed in the past and putting taxes on things that haven't been taxed before."
-- Art Buchwald
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Art.Buchwald.Quote.FAC
(1925-2006) American Humorist and Columnist

"The IRS is an extraordinary example of the end justifying the means. The means of this agency is growth. It is interesting that the revenue officers within the IRS refer to taxpayers as 'inventory'. The IRS embodies the political realities of the selfish human desire to dominate others. Thus the end of this gigantic pretense of officialdom is power, pure and simple. The meek may inherit the earth, but they will never receive a promotion in an agency where efficiency is measured by the number of seizures of taxpayers' property and by the number of citizens and businesses driven into bankruptcy."
-- George Hansen
Congressman and author of "To Harass Our People"
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/George.Hansen.Quote.2E15

"100% of what is collected is absorbed solely by interest on the Federal Debt ... all individual income tax revenues are gone before one nickel is spent on the services taxpayers expect from government."
-- Grace Commission
Source: report submitted to President Ronald Reagan on January 15, 1984
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Grace.Commission.Quote.C455

Please note! this quote was made before Stimulus Package 1.

-----

Can this be the 9th Circuit Court?

2009-04-23T06:38:00.001-07:00

WorldNetDaily article, Court: 2nd Amendment trumps local gun limits, cites a recent decision by the 9th Circuit Court of appeals, which is notorious for it extreme, ultra liberal decisions.

Check this quote out:

That we have a lawfully armed populace adds a measure of security for all of us and makes it less likely that a band of terrorists could make headway in an attack on any community before more professional forces arrived. Second, the right to bear arms is a protection against the possibility that even our own government could degenerate into tyranny, and though this may seem unlikely, this possibility should be guarded against with individual diligence. --Judge Ronald M. Gould

This from a court that isn't afraid to legislate from the bench.

Perhaps there is hope for our country yet . . .
However, I am still waiting for the other shoe to drop.

BE

U.S. Constitution, Second Amendment quotes:

A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms shall not be infringed.

Americorps related to Nazi Youth?

2009-04-22T20:33:00.001-07:00

Before you write me off as an extremist, you should check out the second video on the page of this article, 'GIVE' creating youth brigades?

The nature of Obama worship ranks very closely to that which Hitler was granted during the 1930's. Hitler didn't start as a dictator, Germany didn't start as a socialist country. He and others used the events of the day to create what history calls Nazi Germany.

Why are we so reluctant to learn from history?

Unfortunately, I am slow in responding to this. The bill has already pass the congress and Mr. Obama has signed it.

BE

TEA Parties and the FBI

2009-04-22T20:18:00.001-07:00

This article addresses something that I was concerned about regarding the TEA parties and the current administration, Were FBI agents at 'TEA parties'?

While I am sure that there is no record of Mr. Obama giving such a directive, I am also sure that infrastructure he has put into place would not hesitate to implement this.

The following statement from the article is very disturbing:

Northeast Intelligence Network director Doug Hagmann says his FBI source alleges that a second directive, issued on or about April 6, instructed each special agent in charge to coordinate and conduct covert video surveillance and data collection of the participants of the TEA parties. Most of those gatherings occurred on April 15 -- "Tax Day."

I am also concerned that there will an incident at one or more of these events, planned again for July 4th, which might give the current administration some reason to implement martial law. Studying the history of Germany could provide some powerful insights.

Only time will tell.

BE

Obama Pushing Treaty To Ban Reloading

2009-04-21T15:46:00.001-07:00

Inter-American Convention Against Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives, and Other Related Materials

This is the title of one of the alarming documents that threaten our rights as American citizens.

Friends and Fellow Patriots,

Again our freedoms are under assault. Please read this article on the treaty and prayerfully take action. Our government is doing almost everything possible to make law abiding citizens criminals and answerable to foreign governments. When will enough be enough.

The purpose of the second amendment was not for hunting and fishing.

It was to protect the more important first amendment, Freedom of Speech and Religion/Faith of the people (individuals) from the government. Consider the events of history and why these amendments were added. If we do not learn from history, we will be condemned to repeat it.

Please prayerfully consider the information below and take action (such as contacting your congressmen) as you are prompted.

Sincerely,
Bill Emmerling

"The said constitution shall never be construed to authorize Congress
to prevent the people of the United States who are peaceable citizens from keeping their own arms."

by:	Samuel Adams (1722-1803), was known as the "Father of the American Revolution."

God Remains Merciful. . . for Now!

2009-03-20T11:54:00.001-07:00

How can we expect God to have mercy on our nation when we not only turn our back on him, but have state sanctioned schools attacking those who seek his comfort, protection and guidance. See the article below:

ACLJ • American Center for Law & Justice

The situation arose after the mother of a student who attends the school was killed in a tragic accident. Many students gathered at school the next day between classes to pray for the family. Some teachers told the students to stop praying immediately.

School officials called in the police to stop prayer???
Are we living in the United States of America, or in a communist country?!

Father in Heaven, have mercy on us.

Are You a Domestic Terrorist?

2009-03-19T20:04:00.001-07:00

This is a very distrubing report regarding internal memos of the Missouri Highway Patrol. Consider the words of Martin Niemoeller:

"They came first for the communists, and I did not speak up-
because I was not a communist; And then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak up - because I was not a trade unionist; And then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak up because I was not a Jew; And then they came for me-and there was no one left to speak up."

Missouri State Police Think You and I are Terrorists.
Politics, Banners seen as suspect

U.S. Army forces sent to Alabama town after shooting spree

2009-03-19T19:56:00.001-07:00

While a civilian policy force might need assistance, I find it very distrubing to find that U.S. MILITARY patroling domestic streets, especially during peace times.

Webster's dictionary redefines 'marriage'

2009-03-19T19:49:00.000-07:00

Noah Webster initially wrote his first dictionary using the Bible for illustrations. Today, Webster's has turned its back on that foundation. How can we expect God to bliss our nation if we turn our back on Him and His Word.

What is a Godly response the events around us?

2009-03-14T21:57:00.000-07:00

This posting is a response which developed to a comment on one of my previous posts. It is not so much as a direct response, as it is a wrestling out of my own thoughts and convictions which are the result of prayer and supplication before the Lord.

In the midst of our frustration, our hurt, our anger and outrage against sin and evil in our government, we must remember that God is sovereign and it is he who raises up and brings down our leaders. (1 Peter 2:13-14; Rom 13:3-4)

He is not surprised by the events which trouble us so much. His SITS calmly on his throne in complete control, SOVEREIGN, in majesty. (Reference Revelation 4:2 is the first of 10 times the one on the throne is referred to as seated. He is never depicted as standing or agitated.)

Does this mean that we do nothing? NO!!!

First and foremost, we must PRAY, not to ask him to change things, but to submit ourselves to HIS WILL, seeking him. (See Psalm 37, esp verse 4-5)

Once submitted we need to be obedient to his will. Our actions must be in response to his leading, not out of need or our frustration.

Further, without changing the heart of our nation, the hearts of those who rote, who lead our government, there will be no change. This is the source, the core of the problem with our nation. WE HAVE REJECTED GOD AND ARE SUFFERING HIS WRATH. (see Romans 1-2)

Jeremiah 29 is the letter from God, through Jeremiah, to Israel (God’s people) in EXILE. In it God speaks to Israel and tells them to buckle down for the long haul. Israel had robbed God, and the land, of the Sabbath years, and they were ‘restore’ them by leaving the land to rest. If God disciplined Israel, his chosen people, why should we not expect him to disciple America, who is not God’s covenant people.

. . .

All of this said, below are the sites/organizations I am aware of that keep me informed, and prompt action. I do not (cannot) act on all of them, I do not have the time. I should probably prioritize them, however time has not allowed. We live in a REPUBLIC, our representatives are to represent us, our values and make decisions ON OUR BEHALF. Frankly, I question the effectiveness of constantly badgering our representatives, who ignore our values and refuse to act on principles. Yet I cannot remain silent (Proverbs 28:12,28; 29:2).

www.ParentalRights.org

www.MissouriFamilyNetwork.net

www.gunowners.org

www.actforamerica.org

http://www.joelrosenberg.com/ (current events related to the epicenter)

Each of these organizations will send e-mails to keep your informed about the multitude of issues that you can take action on. Frankly, it is a full time job just responding to all the issues that need attention. This is evidence that we have lost the war for our culture. We have lost the hearts and minds of the people and their leaders.

Pray. Submit yourselves to God. Obey. Resist the Devil. And he will flee. James 4:6-7 (whole chapter is also applicable).

Ultimately, we must trust God; we must understand that HE, and no one else, is in COMPLETE control.

Be Blessed. Bill

P.S. I will be preaching Palm Sunday, April 5, from John 12 and I expect to touch on some of these issues.

"No enactment of man can be considered law unless it conforms to the law of God." — William Blackstone, English jurist and professor

"If the freedom of speech is taken away then dumb and silent we may be led,

like sheep to the slaughter." — President George Washington

"The care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and

only object of good government." — Thomas Jefferson

"A government is like fire, a handy servant, but a dangerous master." -- George Washington

"No people will tamely surrender their Liberties, nor can any be easily subdued, when knowledge is diffused and Virtue is preserved. On the Contrary, when People are universally ignorant, and debauched in their Manners, they will sink under their own weight without the Aid of foreign Invaders." — Samuel Adams, Founding Father

"The American people will never knowingly adopt socialism. But, under the name of 'liberalism,' they will adopt every principle of our socialist program, until one day America will be a socialist nation, without ever knowing how it happened."--Norman Mattoon Thomas (November 20, 1884 - December 19, 1968) was a leading American socialist, pacifist, and six-time presidential candidate for the Socialist Party of America.

“The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work
and give to those who would not. To compel a man to furnish funds for the propagation of ideas he disbelieves
and abhors is sinful and tyrannical.

“I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them. To take from one because it is thought that his own industry and that of his father’s has acquired too much, in order to spare to others, who, or whose fathers, have not exercised equal industry and skill, is to violate arbitrarily the first principle of association—the guarantee to every one of a free exercise of his industry and the fruits acquired by it. “

Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826)

Do we really want Wal-Mart handling our health records?

2009-03-11T07:44:00.001-07:00

Wal-Mart plans to market digital health records system, article at the International Herald Tribune, is a troubling piece of news.

Now I understand that Wal-Mart is not preposing to sell our health-care records, not yet. However, Wal-Mart is a retail business, made up of fallen people, as all people are fallen, we live in a fallen state.

Up to this point our health care, and the related records, have been a matter of trust of our doctor and the other professionals. If implemented, we will now have to trust an entire industry with our records, with whom we have now personal relationship.

The article states:

Wal-Mart's move comes as the Obama administration is trying to jumpstart the adoption of digital medical records with $19 billion of incentives in the stimulus package.

I have come to see socialist package any time I see stimulus package. This is more an 'crisis of opportunity' for our lives, information, etc. to come under government control.

These things do not happen all at once. No, generally such changes are incremental. The HIPPA laws already make me uncomfortable, this will only allow the government to control our healthcare, and make decisions about our lives, when the matter should be ours to decide.

The nose of the camel is under the tent.
Smack it before it joins us.

Glenn Beck: WE Surround Them

2009-03-09T12:10:00.000-07:00

I was forwarded this link from my brother.
WE Surround Them.

The basic premise is that we are being deceived into believing that we are actually minority, when in fact we are a majority. We being God fearing Americans.

I pray to the Father in Heaven that Glenn is right.
However, I am inclined to wonder about the accuracy of his belief. Two major reasons.

1. Mr. Obama (BO) should never have even been considered as a senator, much less as president, if this were true.

2. The Socialists have been brainwashing in the public schools for years. Too many children have been affected.

However, perhaps he is right. Read his article, consider his instructions at the bottom. I'm still deciding if I'm going to participate.

Personally, I believe anything short of a national recognition of God and total banning of abortion is insufficient to abate God's wrath on our country.

David Wilkerson Warns of Impending Calamity

2009-03-09T12:00:00.001-07:00

David Wilkerson is quoted in WND daily article, Famed pastor predicts imminent catastrophe, as being directed by Holy Spirit to share that social break down and riots in cities are coming.

He further goes on to encourage stockpiling food for 30 days.

Whether or not he has heard accurately remains to be seen, however, given the current state of our nation, the hightened tensions between social groups and the actions of our current administration, I would not say that his concerns are unfounded.

Regardless, it would be prudent to have at least a 30 day stockpile of food on hand. Frankly, more would be better, as you can expect that if a crisis hits, family and friends are likely to be caught unprepared.

Asteroid in close Earth proximity

2009-03-08T07:15:00.001-07:00

Events such as those mentions in this article, Space rock gives Earth a close shave, give me reason to pause as I reflect on many of the events going on the world, and as I reflect on scripture.

The third angel blew his trumpet, and a great star fell from heaven, blazing like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of water. The name of the star is Wormwood. A third of the waters became wormwood, and many people died from the water, because it had been made bitter.
(Rev 8:10-11 ESV)

Now I recognize this may not be an asteroid, yet God has been know to orchestrate events to accomplish his purposes. Therefore, it would not surprise me if this passage doesn't represent the impact of such a massive object.

Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.
(Php 2:9-13 ESV)

All the more reason for us to be ready for that soon and coming day.

The Spirit and the Bride say, "Come."
And let the one who hears say, "Come."
And let the one who is thirsty come;
let the one who desires take the water of life without price.
(Rev 22:17 ESV)

The Core Issue in the Infanticide Debate

2009-02-18T13:05:00.001-08:00

I was forwarded a link to this article by my father, which reports that ND is addressing the very issue that should have been addressed in 1973.

We must address the issue based on facts not feelings; we must not seek solutions incrementally, but address the underlying root issues. This bill in ND proposes to address one of the primary issues in the arguement.

Human life begins at conception. Period!!

Now we must address the reason human life as value at all, and this is the more (most) important question in this debate.

Human life ONLY has value when we understand what makes it valuable. GOD CLEARLY SAID SO IN THE SCRIPTURES. Man is made in His (God's) image. Every time a human life is killed/murdered for any reason, God's image is assaulted.

Therefore, ONLY God has the authority to determine when human life (the carrier of his image) can or should be terminated. He makes it clear in His Word that these times are well defined instances when another human life (His Image Carrier) is killed, or when His direct commands are violated.

We must answer to a higher, absolute authority, or we will experience chaos and anarchy, ultimately leading to tyranny. History shows us clearly the future, if we insist on ignoring the past. The nature of man has not changed. We only have different toys.

See the article:

ND House Passes Abortion Ban

Out of the Mouthes of Babes

2009-02-17T13:28:00.001-08:00

Friends,

Check out this page at WorldnetDaily.
12-year-old steals day with pro-life speech

This little lady should inspire all of us just how simple the issues are, and how we need to speak up for the preborn.

Lord Jesus have mercy on our nation for having turned our back on you.

FIREPROOF the movie! A Must See!!

2008-11-07T08:11:00.001-08:00

FIREPROOF is a movie every married couple should see!

I once heard a seminary chapel sermon that emphasized that the message was most important.
The messenger is important, yes, but the message was most important.
The method was important, yes, but the message was most important.
The message was most important.

FIREPROOF is the effort of faithful church of God trying to reach the world with the Word of God, period. They are trying to do it through the movies. And doing a very good job of it.

Official Website
www.fireproofthemovie.com

Reviews (in decreasing approval order):
Pluggedinonline.com (very good analysis/review)
Challies.com (I enjoy reading from this blog, good review)
Worldmag.com (quoting The Point)(I am becoming more and more disappointed with Worldmag)
The Point (Just checking it out because of reference from WorldMag)

Podcast @ Family Life Today with writers, producers, directors of FIREPROOF (1st of 3 episodes):
Lights! Camera! Action!

Series Title: Making Movies for God's Glory (Day 1 of 3)

Program: FamilyLife Today

Airdate: 9/24/2008 12:00:00 AM

Is Obama God?

2008-11-07T08:10:00.000-08:00

I can perhaps see where someone might believe that God should receive the glory for Obama's victory (though personally, I don't believe that his victory was for God's glory, but our judgement).

However, this photo in FL found on WorldNetDaily makes one wonder where his supporters place there hope ... in God or in Obama.

Obama's administration is not God's kingdom.

WGEJ

Homosexual 'Tolerance', CA Style

2008-11-05T20:51:00.000-08:00

WorldNetDaily Report " 'Gay' threats target Christians over same-sex 'marriage' ban"

This report about blogs concerning Prop 8 in CA are very disturbing and points to the intolerance which radical homosexuals practice. May it only be talk, but I fear it will be more. It reminds me again of Romans 1 and James 4:1-4.

Excerpts from the article:

"Burn their f---ing churches to the ground, and then tax the charred timbers," wrote "World O Jeff" on the JoeMyGod blogspot today within hours of California officials declaring Proposition 8 had been approved by a margin of 52 percent to 48 percent. Confirmation on voter approval of amendments in Florida and Arizona came earlier.

"If you're planning a heterosexual wedding in California … be prepared for picketers. Designate someone to watch the parking lot … You're going to have lots of unexpected expenses. Add $500 to your budget for security. … Be prepared for the flowers not lasting to the reception or the tuxedos showing up two sizes too small or the music at the reception being a way too loud or the cake tasting a little funny," stated another threat. "Be afraid. Be very afraid. We are everywhere."

Come quickly, Lord Jesus, come quickly.

WGEJ

Election Reflection

2008-11-05T13:40:00.000-08:00

President, Barak Obama
Congress, both houses controlled by Democrats
Ballot issues for life, defeated

Only amendments for restricting marriage to one man and one women succeeding.

Upon reflecting about the results of the elections and decisions voiced around the nation, I was prompted that I must remain in God's word, or I might be driven to despair.

Given a Choice

"See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil. If you obey the commandments of the LORD your God that I command you today, by loving the LORD your God, by walking in his ways, and by keeping his commandments and his statutes and his rules, then you shall live and multiply, and the LORD your God will bless you in the land that you are entering to take possession of it. But if your heart turns away, and you will not hear, but are drawn away to worship other gods and serve them, I declare to you today, that you shall surely perish. You shall not live long in the land that you are going over the Jordan to enter and possess. I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live, loving the LORD your God, obeying his voice and holding fast to him, for he is your life and length of days, that you may dwell in the land that the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them."
(Deu 30:15-20 ESV)

As Israel was offered a choice in the wilderness before entering the land, so we are also offered that same choice with each election. This election seems to clearly indicate that as a country, we are choosing death, both by party platform and by ballot initiatives/amendments

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things. Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen.
(Rom 1:18-25 ESV)

Again, if we do not acknowledge God, he gives us over the sinfulness of our hearts. Looking over the TV/Cable program listings, the news reports and college curriculum is enough to convince me that our nation/culture is under the judgment of God.

Who is Really in Control
"Then the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision of the night. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven. Daniel answered and said:

"Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belong wisdom and might. He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding; "
(Dan 2:19-21 ESV)

When the leaders of and from my state have chosen death (determined from the party platform from which they 'stand'), I need this reminder that God ultimately is the one in control. Whatever the future brings, it has not be caught God by surprise. No, instead he is orchestrating it for his glory and ultimately for the good of his people and the world. Yet, it does not do to oppose him.

"O Lord, according to all your righteous acts, let your anger and your wrath turn away from your city Jerusalem, your holy hill, because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and your people have become a byword among all who are around us. Now therefore, O our God, listen to the prayer of your servant and to his pleas for mercy, and for your own sake, O Lord, make your face to shine upon your sanctuary, which is desolate. O my God, incline your ear and hear. Open your eyes and see our desolations, and the city that is called by your name. For we do not present our pleas before you because of our righteousness, but because of your great mercy. O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive. O Lord, pay attention and act. Delay not, for your own sake, O my God, because your city and your people are called by your name."
(Dan 9:16-19 ESV) (Read entire chapter)

Acknowledging our sinfulness before God is the appropriate posture. As Daniel petitioned the Holy One, have mercy, O my God.

Thoughts from Men Wiser than myself
Joel Rosenberg, "EPICENTER REACTS TO OBAMA VICTORY"

"First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. "
(1Ti 2:1-2 ESV)

"I know many of you are very worried about the direction of our country. I certainly understand this sentiment, but as I wrote yesterday, let us not lose heart. The Lord knew who would win. He allowed it to happen. He has a plan. He has a purpose. And now He is calling us to serve Him faithfully — to do whatever He tells us to do, to go wherever He tells us to go, to say whatever He tells us to say. Now is the time to draw close to Christ, to advance His kingdom, and prepare for His return. He is, after all, the King of kings and the Lord of lords. Now is certainly no time to forget, or to be discouraged."

Voddie Bachum, "Is it Over?"

"How ironic. We sent our children to Caesar for their education, and yesterday they voted just like Romans (the majority of 18-30 year-olds flooded the polls for Obama whether they were professing “Christian” or not). These young people believe hatred and racism are America’s biggest problems, and that the election of Mr. Obama is the cure (along with Hate Crimes Legislation)."

But do not despair. We survived Presidents like Wilson, Carter, and Clinton. We can survive President Obama. “...Even so, come Lord Jesus.” (Revelation 22:2)

Amen, Voddie, Amen.

WGEJ

Google and Marriage

2008-10-01T12:52:00.001-07:00

"Don't Be Evil"
This was/is Google's motto at start up.
But censoring internet material into and out of China isn't evil.
Now apparently, Google has decided that defining Marriage as between one man and one woman is evil.

Found on Worldnet Daily this quote by Sergey Brin:

"It is the chilling and discriminatory effect of the proposition on
many of our employees that brings Google to publicly oppose Proposition
8," said the statement, posted on the blog by Sergey Brin, co-founder
and president of technology. "While we respect the strongly held
beliefs that people have on both sides of this argument, we see this
fundamentally as an issue of equality.
"We hope that California voters will vote no on Proposition 8 – we
should not eliminate anyone's fundamental rights, whatever their
sexuality, to marry the person they love," Brin continued.
The corporation, in an e-mail signed "SG," said, "We are opposed to
Proposition 8 because it will remove the existing right of Googlers in
California to marry the person they love."

Found on OneNewsNow.com this quote of Randy Thomasson:

Randy Thomasson of the Campaign for Children and Families says
young billionaires Sergey Brin and Larry Page (Google co-founder) have
"replaced all notions of God's truth by worshiping money as god."

"You
might have noticed that their website...actually avoids...Thanksgiving,
diminishes holidays like the Fourth of July, gives sarcastic tribute to
Easter and Christmas, and actually elevates more pagan-type holidays to
their liking," he points out. "So, it's no surprise whatsoever."

For my own internet searching I have turned to DogPile.com and GoodSearch.com
Neither are what I would consider ideal, but at present I don't know of specific issues that they openly support that I find unacceptable. In a fallen world, it is probably just a matter of time.

In all things, To God be the Glory.

Bill

Ray Boltz: How should I respond to sin in the lives of Celebraties

2008-09-18T07:12:00.003-07:00

I am not generally driven by the Contemporary Christian Music scene, especially by recent artists. However, a limited few have made an impact on me, always based on the content of the lyrics, then by the music (well most of the time). So when one of those who have impacted me falls, it grieves me.

Ray Boltz announced to the 'Washington Blade' that he is a homosexual. I heard about it at 'Onenews Now' and went so far as to confirm it at the 'Blade' website [I will not link to the website as I do not wish to promote. A simple search will locate it though]. I also visited his website.

He has divorced his wife and is pursuing an 'alternate lifestyle.' After all these years, he gives into sin, publically, as a leader in the Christian community. He is not in a repentant state, but one of pride and arrogance before God.

I recommend reading Matt Friedeman's column on this matter, Ray Boltz and his sexually confused generation.

As for myself, I found myself wrestling about how to handle this matter. How do I lead my family in situations like this? I was blessed a pastor who had words of wisdom to share on this. He pointed me to Romans 14 (whole chapter is best here), and in further conversation I remembered Philippians 1:12-18 (though he had to give me the reference).

The question I posed to the men I was meeting with was, "What do I do with the Ray Boltz's music that I already had?" It was agreed that we should avoid his new music as long as he was in rebellion with God. But most of us had been touched by his music in the past. This is where Romans 14 came in to add clarity. The bottom line is, that the music had a valid message and the messenger represented God admirably, even more so with hindsight, now knowing the intensity and nature of struggles he was having. However, if my listening to the music of a homosexual might cause someone else to stumble, then I need to let go of my freedom in this matter.

I was reminded of Philippians 1 at this point in the discussion. Paul was in prison and others were preaching Christ to create problems for him. Yet he rejoiced that the message as bring proclaimed. God's glory is foremost in Paul's mind, not his comfort. With this in mind, I try to apply it to my own life in this situation. I can rejoice that God has used Mr. Boltz's music in the past. However, as long as he is in rebellion to God and his word, I must question his ability to represent God.

My desire is not to harm Mr. Boltz. My desire is to bring glory to God. God does not change; man changes. My heart grieves because Mr. Boltz has separated himself from God and rebells against His Word.

Lord, have mercy on Mr. Boltz.
Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner. Psalm 51.
Praise be to God he has saved me. Ephesian 2:4-7

Visiting "The Shack"

2008-09-10T05:56:00.000-07:00

The motivation for this post is that as we are moving forward with a ministry to men in our community, some of our small group leaders have encountered comments and questions about "The Shack" by William P. Young. I am in the process of gathering some material for them about it. Our pastor and I are encouraging them to read it, though with a discerning eye. Below are some of my own thoughts, and then links what others are saying about the book.

A Moving Story
While I didn't find "The Shack" on par with what I would consider to be classic works, it was a very moving, even compelling book. The story line about the abducted, abused and murdered daughter and the father's struggle with the aftermath is enough to move any father or mother. Mr. Young has great potential as a writer of fiction.

Taking Every Thought Captive
While I enjoy reading novels (frankly I find novels addictive and try to avoid them that I might get regular sleep, as I often read through the night if it will hold me interest), I always ask questions:

What is the author saying? His words in the text are his thoughts, and he is trying to communicate them. It is not about what I am 'hearing' but what is he trying to say.
What is the author's worldview? This makes a lot of difference in understanding what he is trying to say.
Is this book something that should fill my mind? After reading a book, hearing a story, watching a movie, even hearing a song for the first time, we are never the same. Our minds have been changed. Further, the content we put in is likely to be replayed over and over again. This is especially true if we don't analyze the content when it goes in. The apostle Paul tells us in 2Co 10:3-7 (ESV):
"(3) For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh.
(4) For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.
(5) We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,
(6) being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.
(7) Look at what is before your eyes. If anyone is confident that he is Christ's, let him remind himself that just as he is Christ's, so also are we."
Is this something which to think on? Again the apostle Paul in Php 4:8-9 (ESV):
"(8) Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
(9) What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me--practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you."
I use these verse as a filter for everything that enters my mind, and my family's home, as best I can. It is my sword for taking every thought captive.

As a result, I read "The Shack" with a critical eye, even as I enjoyed the story. My analysis is that there are many theological issues that make, in my opinion, this book acceptable for general consumption. However, I believe it is an excellent tool for instructing in worldview training and being able to discern heresy.

Mr. Young does make some very valid points about the church as an institution and how it handles hurting people. However, he largely rejects the church, and even disparages the Word of God in attempt to deal with the problem of suffering.

The most positive aspect of this book is that he really drives home the need for us to have a relationship with God, and to have a relationship with others to help them deal with their problems and issues. However, this does not offset his theology.

Not Just Fiction
He has claimed that "The Shack" is just a work of fiction, not a work of systematic theology. Perhaps. However, the whole point of the book is to deal with issues in theology. You cannot deny this. Reading the book will make this abundantly clear. If you are going to focus your dialog on conversations with God in his various forms, you are making theological statements. They are not even hidden, but right our in the open. Please don't insult our intelligence by saying it is not a theological work.

Further, the website for "The Shack" promotes use of the book like a track. By doing so they are in effect saying that you should proselytize to this way of thinking with this book.
http://theshackbook.com/missy-project.html
Here are a couple of quotes from the site:

"It offers one of the most poignant views of God and how he relates to humanity that has been written in our time. It will not only encourage those who already know him but also engage those who have not yet recognized his work in their lives."

"Give the book to friends, even strangers, as a gift. They not only get a compelling page-turning thrill ride, but also an magnificent glimpse into the nature of God that is not often presented in our culture. "

These are not isolated quotes but very representative of how they are trying to promote the ideology of this book. No where is the Bible mentioned, only "The Shack."

The Narnia Herring
When someone expresses concerns about "The Shack" (and other fictional works like "Harry Potter"), others throw out the "Well what about "The Chronicles of Narnia". While it is of value to discuss and analyze the works of C.S. Lewis, it is a 'red-herring' to throw you off the scent. The issue at hand is the work of Mr. Young in "The Shack." Each work should be evaluated on its own before the Bible, not in comparison to other works. After "The Shack" is evaluated, then one could consider the other works. The Bible is the standard, not other works of fiction.

Below are links to resources that might help you sort things out about "The Shack." I would ask that regardless of your current thoughts, examine this book in light of the whole counsel of God, His Word, asking him to show you the true about this matter. Don't let your emotions rule over the truth in this matter.

Written review(s) and analysis:
Tim Challies has written what I believe is a very fair and balanced analysis of "The Shack" which discusses the seriousness of the biblical issues involved.
http://www.challies.com/archives/book-reviews/the-shack-by-william-p-young.php

"Second, we must also realize that, because of the emotional impact of reading good fiction, it can be easy to allow it to become manipulative and to allow the emotion of a moment to bypass our ability to discern what is true and what is not. This is another thing the reader must keep in mind. We cannot trust our laughter or our tears but must allow our powers of discernment to be trained to distinguish good from evil (see Hebrews 5:14). Discernment is primarily a Spirit-empowered discipline of the mind rather than an emotional response."

Joe Holland offers his thoughts on "The Shack" but most useful I think is his collection of links of reviews and responses by Tim Challies, in various locations.
http://mininggrace.com/2008/09/09/my-thoughts-on-the-shack/
One very useful quote from his blog.

"The common retort to negative reviews of The Shack is, “But it is only fiction.” The assumption behind this plea for unconditional grace is that fiction 1) can’t be that bad and 2) should be judged by different standards than other written media. I disagree. My disagreement was further solidified by a quote from CS Lewis I heard this past Thursday night. Lewis said,
…any amount of theology can now be smuggled into people’s minds under cover of romance [romantic, imaginative literature, fiction] without their knowing it.

Lewis saw that an author could “smuggle” truth into people’s heads and hearts through fiction. He sought to use this profoundly influential genre of literature–theological fiction–to introduce hundreds of thousands of people to Christian themes."

Podcast discussions:
Earreverent w/ Bob Lapine interviews William P. Young, Tim Challies, and Steve Brown
http://www.familylife.com/site/apps/nlnet/content3.aspx?c=dnJHKLNnFoG&b=3961711&content_id={335ACEC9-A786-42C2-987B-B5EDA3D37318}&notoc=1

Radio Worldview w/ Bill Jack and Dell Cook
http://www.worldview.org/podcast/individual.php?mode=individual&post_id=95
http://www.worldview.org/podcast/individual.php?mode=individual&post_id=96

Understanding the Times w/ Jan Markel interviews Eric Barger and Pastor Larry DeBruyn
http://mp3.olivetreeviews.org/OTM2008_08_16A.mp3
http://mp3.olivetreeviews.org/OTM2008_08_16B.mp3

GOP VP Choice: Sarah Palin (Part 2)

2008-09-05T21:30:00.000-07:00

Doug Phillips thoughts on this issue are also what I would consider as excellent reasoning from a Christian worldview. The bottom line is this: "Is Scripture God's Word? And if it is, are we willing to accept it?"

Check out this link to his blog.

John McCain Picks Mother of Five and Member of 'Feminists for Life' as VP Candidate

GOP VP Choice: Sarah Palin (Part 3)

2008-09-05T21:29:00.000-07:00

One last note on this subject (at least for now).

Ingrid Schlueter as a women's perspective to this topic as well. I had trouble tracking this particular blog back down, as she was receiving rather troubling feedback.

I don't agree with Mrs. Schlueter on everything. However, I appreciate her insights on this particular subject.

Updated Thoughts on Sarah Palin and Babies

For addition views about this matter from women see Doug Phillips blog as well.

The 'Word' on the Street

Social Security: Food for Thought

Book Review: What He Must Be...

Sarah Palin and 'Neanderthals'

A Tree with a Rotten Core

The Answer for Today's Issues

Radioactive Decay Rates Are NOT FIXED

The Second Amendment and John Adams

The Forgotten Amendment

Government, Power and Abuse

State vs. General Governement

Jefferson: On Government

The Harness of Regulation(s)

Limited (Enumerated) Powers of the Federal Government

Correction on MO Senate Race District 28

Vote Your Conscience August 3rd

Declaration of Independence

HR 5175: Congress Threatens 1st & 2nd Amendment Rights Again!

Quote: Conscience, Patriots and Perseverance

Quotes: On Government

Quote: Trust versus Usurpation, Thomas Paine

Apple--The 'Family Friendly' Computer Producer?

Quips from Reagan, Chesterton and a Jewish Carpenter

Senators stand for what is Right and Just!!

God's Sovereignty... or sympathy for me?

Facing our Struggles and Finding Intimacy with God

Quotes, In Light of Recent Events

Parable: THE ANT AND THE GRASSHOPPER

Quote: Right to Bear Arms

Health Care Reform: Marriage Penalty

Psalm 50

Quote: Constitutional Rights

Quote: The Righteous vs. Wicked Rulers

Quote: Government, Control and Banking

Quote: The Listener is Responsible?

Quotes: Socialism

Quotes: Enumerated Powers, What are they?

Children are a Blessing, not a Curse

Another Response from Senator McCaskill

Quotes: Power of Federal Government

Book Review: How Long, O Lord?

Part 1 Thinking about Suffering and Evil

Part 2 Parts of the Puzzle: Biblical Themes for Suffering People

Part 3 Glimpses of the Whole Puzzles: Evil and Suffering in the World of a Good and Sovereign God

Response from Senator Claire McCaskill

An Open Letter to My Congressmen

Where is America Headed?

Jefferson--"A wise and frugal government..."

the gratitude campaign

Psalm 12, Save from Lying Lips

Samuel Adams: Virtue & Liberty

Does God Still Control the Weather?

Inflation, Government and Contentment

Do the 'Royals' support Abortion?

George Washington on the End of a Republican government

America and Jeremiah 5

Reagan on the Federal Government

On Liberty: Jefferson, Locke and Lindsay

Truth & Error: Today's Quotes

04 June 09: Today's Quotes on Liberty

The Murder of George Tiller

Recent Items of Interest

Right-Wing Extremist ID Card

Today's Quotes on Liberty

Liberty and Government

Recent Headlines of Interest

Parental Right Amendment: Another Reason We Need It

Michael Faraday, Father of Electromagnetism on Creation & God

Robert Boyle, Father of Modern Chemistry on Nature

To Start the Week Right

Of Miss CA, Beauty Contests and the Christian Faith

WND: Census GPS-tagging your home's front door

WND: 'Electronic Police State' report cites U.S.

SB 909: Hate Crime Legislation

No White House ceremony to be held on Nat'l Day of Prayer

We have officially turned our back on God.May God have mercy on us.Enough Said.

Encouragement for the Downcast

Hate Crimes Legislation on Fast Track

Regarding Judges: Consider the Constitution

Liberty Cannot be Inherited

We have officially turned our back on God.
May God have mercy on us.
Enough Said.

Updated Thoughts on Sarah Palin and Babies

Christian Mothers, Pastors, Writers, Students
Communicate Their Opposition To A Feminist Vision of Family Life and
the American Presidency