Whew! Deep Breath...1...2...3...My heart is somewhat "heavy" as I write this, I'm sure many of you feel the same way...
What a journey these past months have been, so many have diligently prayed, have become actively involved in this election process, and have pleaded with God on behalf of our country. Please be encouraged, your work is not in vain! I believe we HAVE made a difference. I believe we HAVE had a voice. Maybe we didn't get all of the "results" we wanted (maybe some of you did), but we were willing to stand & fight for what we believe in. THAT in itself is victory & we can REST in that & leave the outcome up to God.
I am glad for President-elect Obama for what this victory means to him & his family personally, and definitely for what it means for many of our dear African-American friends. What a historical marker this is in our country, what a milestone. We've come a long ways, with our racial differences & boundaries, we've needed to, for that, I am grateful!
Where we still have miles to go is our differences in moral issues, social issues, economic issues - will we ever get there? Probably not.
So what does that mean for us now? Where do we go from here?
WE KEEP GOING!
WE KEEP PRAYING!
WE KEEP STANDING STRONG!
WE KEEP BELIEVING THAT WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THIS WORLD & WE KEEP TEACHING OUR CHILDREN THAT VERY THING!
WE KEEP BELIEVING IN THE ONLY ONE WHO REMAINS CONSTANT IN THIS LIFE, OUR LORD & SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST!
He is the ONLY One who is the same, yesterday, today and tomorrow. That & that alone, is our REAL HOPE! He's still the same, no matter who is president, no matter what battles we face in this life, no matter what Wall Street is up or down to today, etc.. He is still God, He is still on the throne, He is still Sovereign, nothing takes Him by surprise, He is not up there wringing His mighty hands over what to do with this Obama Presidency, we can REST in the fact that He is ultimately in control and will work His good in EVERY situation.
My dear friend Pam Schulz who started the website http://www.pray-the-vote.org/ wrote some encouraging words this morning in an email, these are some things that we CAN be grateful for from this election process:
"While the election did not go as most of us hoped and prayed, there are some bright spots. It looks as though all of the marriage amendments - including the one in California! - will pass. Even the amendment in Florida where the bar was set very high (60% needed to pass) will indeed pass. The gains in the House were not as large as most predicted and it does not appear that the Senate will get a 60 vote filibuster-proof majority.
Praise God that we are citizens of America by birth or by choice, but we are citizens of heaven because of God's great love for each of us. As a citizen of heaven, we have the promise that "our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." I am fully confident that every prayer we've prayed for righteousness will be answered. There will be a day when the nations are judged. On that day the "our righteousness will be like the dawn and the justice of our cause like the noonday sun." (Psalm 37:6)"
Yesterday, Nov. 4th, I got up in the morning, got my Bible out to read, had coffee with my husband, hugged my kids as they woke up one by one for the day, etc..., etc...
And you know what? Today, Nov. 5th, I did the exact same thing.
And hopefully, for the next 4 years, I'll keep doing that same thing.
Even in the midst of this huge historical event, my life remained pretty much the same...that kind of gives me a little reality check. No matter WHO'S President, life goes on, the journey goes on...we keep loving our families, we keep loving our God, we keep doing what He's called us to do. And maybe it's for this reason alone, God didn't intend for the "government" to stand the test of time, He never says that the "government" will stand forever or that our government is eternal.
God says that He is forever and the church, His people, are forever - that is what is eternal, ever-lasting, that is what matters most!
Here's our responsibility now - pray for President-elect Obama, his family, and for those who will be in positions of authority in our country. He needs our support, he needs our prayers, He needs God to be his counsel, and our nation needs unity.
If you're struggling in knowing where to start, here's a few thoughts:
1. Pray that President-elect Obama would govern our nation in the fear of the Lord, that he would have an amazing awareness that he is accountable to God for every decision made and every action taken.
2. Pray that God would give him wisdom & guidance as he sets up his team of advisers & counsel for the years ahead. Pray that God would intervene in positioning godly leaders & counsel to surround our new president.
3. Pray that Pres.-elect Obama would humbly recognize his complete dependence and need for God to lead him in this most important place of authority.
4. Pray that God will protect him & his family from evil and evil influence and that God will guard his way.
5. Pray that he will become known as a leader of integrity, honesty, a man who seeks after God's heart. (God can do anything! Our responsibility is just to pray!)
I'll close with this great verse from 1 Timothy 2:1-2 :
"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness."
Yep - there it is fine print - PRAY - not only when we "agree" with those in authority, not only because we "like" those in authority, not only when those in authority are who "we" want there - God's heart is just that we, His people, will PRAY.
Love you friends, thinking of you today, continuing to pray for our nation. God bless America!
Showing posts with label Is God Interested in Politics?. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Is God Interested in Politics?. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Monday, November 3, 2008
Very Encouraged and Still Very Burdened
I keep waking up at night...3:30 AM seems to be the normal call to prayer these days. Sometimes I pray till I fall back asleep, sometimes I just go ahead & get up for the day, and sometimes, I have to confess, I just kind of moan something like "Lord help us" & turn over & fall back to sleep.
I know so many others who have similar stories of just feeling very burdened & led to pray, to motivate others and to make others aware of what we stand to lose in this country, as Christians, as American citizens, if certain candidates are elected tomorrow.
It's always my heart to "not offend" anyone, so if you can tell where this note is going, and think you may feel offended, please stop reading it now. I do love you & know we all have a right to our own decisions & choices, so I respect yours.
But today, it's more in my heart to honestly share what I've been wrestling with, so here goes...
Like many of you who have fervently prayed for this election tomorrow, I am incredibly burdened today, still. I do feel encouraged, I do have a strong faith that God can do ANYTHING! But I keep thinking of all the potential implications that this election can & will have in our country for the years ahead, depending on who's elected. Like many of you, I've read countless emails and articles and have watched numerous segments both online & on TV about the candidates, about where they stand on the big issues of our day, and where they stand on the big issues in God's heart. I'm weary of the polls, of the ups & downs, of everyone saying how this may be virtually impossible for McCain to pull off, of hearing how many possible Obama supporters have already voted, etc.., etc... O.K., enough already, whew! I know you don't need yet another person like me to tell you where the candidates stand on every issue, if you don't know that yet, please call me!
But here's what I love about God's goodness...
I've been reminded of the countless incredible stories all through the Bible of how God is for the "underdog" - how God LOVES to take the "impossible" situations & do a complete miracle. Something that can only be explained by the word - GOD. That's what I just love about God, He's so amazing in that way!
Stories like David & Goliath (Dawson & Noah's personal favorite). Who would have ever dreamed that a mere young boy could have defeated the GIANT with a slingshot of all things! GOD WAS WITH HIM!
What about the Israelites as they fled from the Egyptians? A vast army of strength chasing this mass of people, many women & children, but God intervened! He parted the seas & allowed His people to pass through on dry ground, yet destroyed the enemy after them. GOD WAS WITH THEM!
And then there's Paul & Silas, who had been thrown in prison, you might as well as thrown away the key. But who needs a key when you have God??? There they were praying & singing that night in jail, & God sends an earthquake to set them free! GOD WAS WITH THEM!
So many other countless stories, Joshua, Caleb, Gideon, Rahab, Abigail, Peter, Abraham, Sarah, Elijah, Daniel, etc.., etc... People of faith who were willing to keep their eyes on their BIG GOD, rather than on the big giant in front of them, whatever that big giant was. And God is always faithful to intervene in amazing ways when His people call out to Him & depend on Him!!!
And I believe HE CAN DO THAT FOR US, TOMORROW! HE IS WITH US!
But here's the other thing that keeps gnawing at me these few weeks, and in the midst of all my hope for God to work on our behalf, it keeps me rather "somber" about this election.
It's the story from 1 Sam. 8, when the people gathered together & came to Samuel & basically said, "you're old, we don't like your sons, we want a king like the other nations have." So, translated into the year 2008, maybe it would sound something like this, "we don't like these same old ideas anymore, we don't like this party, we want something new, something young, we want universal health care like all the other nations have, we want change, etc...etc..." Now, not that any of those desires in themselves are that terrible (except maybe the health care one), but I'm seeing that our nation is not THAT unlike the previous generations before us, not that unlike the Israelites. Hmmm, scary thought. It leaves me wondering if ALL of the Israelites felt that way? Or if there were some that remained silent? Or, just went along with the crowd? Or, didn't want to ruffle any feathers? Where were those that disagreed? That still wanted God's authority to rule in the land? Hmmmm, another sombering thought. I have to believe that there were some, and maybe they did try to speak up, maybe they were outnumbered?
So God even told Samuel to go & WARN the people, He said to tell them just how bad this might be for them! It might "look good," it might "look like other nations they were wanting to be like," but He even went so far as to say, "when that day comes, you will cry out for relief from the king you have chosen, and the Lord will not answer you in that day." 1 Sam. 8:18
The story goes on to say that the people refused to listen...and God gave them that king they so desired. His name was Saul and what a journey they had from that day on.
Now in God, there's always HOPE, no matter what we face, so just a few chapters over from that one, we see His amazing mercy already in play, Samuel tells the people, "Do not be afraid...for the sake of his great name the Lord will not reject his people, because the Lord was pleased to make you his own....be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart, consider what great things he has done for you..." 1 Sam. 12: 20, 22, 24 But along with that hope, there was a strong word of warning again, read it in verse 25.
So, I guess through all of these pieces & thoughts today...here's the nuggets...
1. DON'T GIVE UP BECAUSE OF THE GIANT WE FACE
2. KEEP PRAYING, KEEP SPEAKING UP, KEEP MOTIVATING OTHERS
3. KEEP BELIEVING
4. VOTE - IT DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE, DON'T LET ANYONE TELL YOU IT DOESN'T
5. NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS, GOD SAYS "DON'T BE AFRAID!" FOR THE SAKE OF HIS OWN NAME, HE WILL BE WITH US!
I'm with you friends!
May God bless our nation with godly leaders and men & women of integrity!
Lord, have mercy on us!
Bless you today as you pray, as you go to vote tomorrow, and as you pray for the millions of others who will vote also.
I know so many others who have similar stories of just feeling very burdened & led to pray, to motivate others and to make others aware of what we stand to lose in this country, as Christians, as American citizens, if certain candidates are elected tomorrow.
It's always my heart to "not offend" anyone, so if you can tell where this note is going, and think you may feel offended, please stop reading it now. I do love you & know we all have a right to our own decisions & choices, so I respect yours.
But today, it's more in my heart to honestly share what I've been wrestling with, so here goes...
Like many of you who have fervently prayed for this election tomorrow, I am incredibly burdened today, still. I do feel encouraged, I do have a strong faith that God can do ANYTHING! But I keep thinking of all the potential implications that this election can & will have in our country for the years ahead, depending on who's elected. Like many of you, I've read countless emails and articles and have watched numerous segments both online & on TV about the candidates, about where they stand on the big issues of our day, and where they stand on the big issues in God's heart. I'm weary of the polls, of the ups & downs, of everyone saying how this may be virtually impossible for McCain to pull off, of hearing how many possible Obama supporters have already voted, etc.., etc... O.K., enough already, whew! I know you don't need yet another person like me to tell you where the candidates stand on every issue, if you don't know that yet, please call me!
But here's what I love about God's goodness...
I've been reminded of the countless incredible stories all through the Bible of how God is for the "underdog" - how God LOVES to take the "impossible" situations & do a complete miracle. Something that can only be explained by the word - GOD. That's what I just love about God, He's so amazing in that way!
Stories like David & Goliath (Dawson & Noah's personal favorite). Who would have ever dreamed that a mere young boy could have defeated the GIANT with a slingshot of all things! GOD WAS WITH HIM!
What about the Israelites as they fled from the Egyptians? A vast army of strength chasing this mass of people, many women & children, but God intervened! He parted the seas & allowed His people to pass through on dry ground, yet destroyed the enemy after them. GOD WAS WITH THEM!
And then there's Paul & Silas, who had been thrown in prison, you might as well as thrown away the key. But who needs a key when you have God??? There they were praying & singing that night in jail, & God sends an earthquake to set them free! GOD WAS WITH THEM!
So many other countless stories, Joshua, Caleb, Gideon, Rahab, Abigail, Peter, Abraham, Sarah, Elijah, Daniel, etc.., etc... People of faith who were willing to keep their eyes on their BIG GOD, rather than on the big giant in front of them, whatever that big giant was. And God is always faithful to intervene in amazing ways when His people call out to Him & depend on Him!!!
And I believe HE CAN DO THAT FOR US, TOMORROW! HE IS WITH US!
But here's the other thing that keeps gnawing at me these few weeks, and in the midst of all my hope for God to work on our behalf, it keeps me rather "somber" about this election.
It's the story from 1 Sam. 8, when the people gathered together & came to Samuel & basically said, "you're old, we don't like your sons, we want a king like the other nations have." So, translated into the year 2008, maybe it would sound something like this, "we don't like these same old ideas anymore, we don't like this party, we want something new, something young, we want universal health care like all the other nations have, we want change, etc...etc..." Now, not that any of those desires in themselves are that terrible (except maybe the health care one), but I'm seeing that our nation is not THAT unlike the previous generations before us, not that unlike the Israelites. Hmmm, scary thought. It leaves me wondering if ALL of the Israelites felt that way? Or if there were some that remained silent? Or, just went along with the crowd? Or, didn't want to ruffle any feathers? Where were those that disagreed? That still wanted God's authority to rule in the land? Hmmmm, another sombering thought. I have to believe that there were some, and maybe they did try to speak up, maybe they were outnumbered?
So God even told Samuel to go & WARN the people, He said to tell them just how bad this might be for them! It might "look good," it might "look like other nations they were wanting to be like," but He even went so far as to say, "when that day comes, you will cry out for relief from the king you have chosen, and the Lord will not answer you in that day." 1 Sam. 8:18
The story goes on to say that the people refused to listen...and God gave them that king they so desired. His name was Saul and what a journey they had from that day on.
Now in God, there's always HOPE, no matter what we face, so just a few chapters over from that one, we see His amazing mercy already in play, Samuel tells the people, "Do not be afraid...for the sake of his great name the Lord will not reject his people, because the Lord was pleased to make you his own....be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart, consider what great things he has done for you..." 1 Sam. 12: 20, 22, 24 But along with that hope, there was a strong word of warning again, read it in verse 25.
So, I guess through all of these pieces & thoughts today...here's the nuggets...
1. DON'T GIVE UP BECAUSE OF THE GIANT WE FACE
2. KEEP PRAYING, KEEP SPEAKING UP, KEEP MOTIVATING OTHERS
3. KEEP BELIEVING
4. VOTE - IT DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE, DON'T LET ANYONE TELL YOU IT DOESN'T
5. NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS, GOD SAYS "DON'T BE AFRAID!" FOR THE SAKE OF HIS OWN NAME, HE WILL BE WITH US!
I'm with you friends!
May God bless our nation with godly leaders and men & women of integrity!
Lord, have mercy on us!
Bless you today as you pray, as you go to vote tomorrow, and as you pray for the millions of others who will vote also.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Winds of Change Blowing a Bit Too Much?
Are the "winds of change" blowing a bit too much for your comfort these days?
Feeling kind of "blue"?
Feeling rather "sour" about the media coverage of the election?
Feeling like you're going "head to head" with the more liberal mindset of today's culture?
Like you're just not "seeing things" the same way as CNN or other news reports?
Having a little "paper trouble" like our friends over at ACORN?
Tired of riding the "waves" of the up & down economy?
Wondering what's going to happen next????
Concerned about the future of your children? Feeling the need to tuck your sweet babies in a little tighter at night?
Be encouraged! You're not alone! We're in this thing together...and sometimes it helps to just have a few reminders in our day of what's really most important in life...
Take the time to hold hands with those you love.
Give someone else a "lift."
Keep going for the goal, aim high!
Don't be afraid to keep climbing.
Be prepared to flex your muscles & stand strong for what you believe!
Before you go out the door, always put on a "smile." (and cool sunglasses won't hurt either)
Keep your sense of humor throughout the day, even if your brother doesn't "appreciate" your jokes!
And always, always remember this one important thing...no matter who or what we face in life, the Greatest "Force" of all, our Lord Jesus Christ, is always and forever with you!
God bless you today!
Thinking of you and praying with you for our nation,
Stay STRONG!
The McDaniel's (:
Feeling kind of "blue"?
Feeling rather "sour" about the media coverage of the election?
Feeling like you're going "head to head" with the more liberal mindset of today's culture?
Like you're just not "seeing things" the same way as CNN or other news reports?
Having a little "paper trouble" like our friends over at ACORN?
Tired of riding the "waves" of the up & down economy?
Wondering what's going to happen next????
Concerned about the future of your children? Feeling the need to tuck your sweet babies in a little tighter at night?
Be encouraged! You're not alone! We're in this thing together...and sometimes it helps to just have a few reminders in our day of what's really most important in life...
Take the time to hold hands with those you love.
Give someone else a "lift."
Keep going for the goal, aim high!
Don't be afraid to keep climbing.
Be prepared to flex your muscles & stand strong for what you believe!
Before you go out the door, always put on a "smile." (and cool sunglasses won't hurt either)
Keep your sense of humor throughout the day, even if your brother doesn't "appreciate" your jokes!
And always, always remember this one important thing...no matter who or what we face in life, the Greatest "Force" of all, our Lord Jesus Christ, is always and forever with you!
God bless you today!
Thinking of you and praying with you for our nation,
Stay STRONG!
The McDaniel's (:
Friday, October 17, 2008
It Just Takes An Average Joe...
Wow! Joe the Plumber is my hero! He has single-handedly, amazingly, and quite possibly, changed the course of this upcoming election. I am astounded. As I'm sure he is! I look at this situation and think, God you are INCREDIBLE!
Here is a guy, an average Joe, a hard worker, probably much like you & me, who has come out of seemingly nowhere. And now, because of his willingness to ask some hard questions, he has become the TALK of the week, has been thrust into the media spotlight, was addressed directly by both presidential candidates during the national debate on Wednesday, and has been invited to appear on countless news & talk shows. Why??? How???
I don't even think any of us have all the answers, but I do know that this morning I am HOPEFUL, very encouraged, & believe strongly that this is a CLOSE race, and both sides do stand a chance to win. Whoever you're voting for...it just ain't over till it's over!
And I'm encouraged by this thought too...we CAN all make a difference in this world! It doesn't take fame, it doesn't take a lot of money, it doesn't take a big education, it just takes our willingness to take a STAND & SPEAK UP!
So, here's my top 5 things I've learned this week from an average Joe, Joe the Plumber from Ohio...
1. BELIEVE THAT YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! This is America, and anything is possible! I love the verse that says those words exactly, "Everything is possible to him who believes." Mark 9:23
2. Don't be afraid to ask hard questions. Joe wasn't afraid. Are you? Because of his questions, some important information has been shared that the public may want to be aware of!
3. Be involved, let your voice be heard, take a stand, make a difference! One great thing is this, Joe was there! He spoke out, he didn't even just stop at one hard question, he clarified, he pursued information, he got involved. Are you willing to get involved, even when things are kind of, well, "uncomfortable?" I mean, he could have just shaken Senator Obama's hand, he could have said something "really sweet & nice," but he chose to ask some questions & get some answers! Thank you Joe for doing that!
4. Ask God to lead your path every day, every moment. Ask God for His leadership over your time, who you meet, where you go, etc... Joe was in the "right place at the right time." I don't even know if Joe's a Christian, but I'm thankful that he was where he was on that particular day. And I do know this...those of us who are Christians & who are led by the Holy Spirit, can ALWAYS be in God's right place at God's right time! That's the way to live!
5. And lastly, don't be afraid to be an "Average Joe." In this nation, I think so many people are infatuated with & quite preoccupied with Hollywood, with stars, their lifestyles, who they marry, what they do, who their babies are, where they're spending jail time today, etc.., etc...and I ask this...who really cares? As I've become a "bit" older, I've become much more interested in just "plain" people, like me, like you, like Joe! Like those of us who are just trying to live this life to make simple, but important decisions that will last a lifetime, like those of us who are seeking, not the media spotlight, but God's spotlight, those who want to bring honor to the God of the Universe! He is so concerned about where we are right now at this moment in our nation, and in our lives. God is involved, God is here, He does care!
Thank you to Joe the Plumber for making a difference this week. I'm praying that WE will be willing to make a difference in the circles of our influence, especially in these next important few weeks of history. Bless you all today!
P.S. Joe will be on Mike Huckabee's show on the Fox network Saturday evening. He had already been booked before this week's debate, but now I'm sure many more people will be tuning in to see this guy who has caused such an uproar this week, yet is so much "like us."
Here is a guy, an average Joe, a hard worker, probably much like you & me, who has come out of seemingly nowhere. And now, because of his willingness to ask some hard questions, he has become the TALK of the week, has been thrust into the media spotlight, was addressed directly by both presidential candidates during the national debate on Wednesday, and has been invited to appear on countless news & talk shows. Why??? How???
I don't even think any of us have all the answers, but I do know that this morning I am HOPEFUL, very encouraged, & believe strongly that this is a CLOSE race, and both sides do stand a chance to win. Whoever you're voting for...it just ain't over till it's over!
And I'm encouraged by this thought too...we CAN all make a difference in this world! It doesn't take fame, it doesn't take a lot of money, it doesn't take a big education, it just takes our willingness to take a STAND & SPEAK UP!
So, here's my top 5 things I've learned this week from an average Joe, Joe the Plumber from Ohio...
1. BELIEVE THAT YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! This is America, and anything is possible! I love the verse that says those words exactly, "Everything is possible to him who believes." Mark 9:23
2. Don't be afraid to ask hard questions. Joe wasn't afraid. Are you? Because of his questions, some important information has been shared that the public may want to be aware of!
3. Be involved, let your voice be heard, take a stand, make a difference! One great thing is this, Joe was there! He spoke out, he didn't even just stop at one hard question, he clarified, he pursued information, he got involved. Are you willing to get involved, even when things are kind of, well, "uncomfortable?" I mean, he could have just shaken Senator Obama's hand, he could have said something "really sweet & nice," but he chose to ask some questions & get some answers! Thank you Joe for doing that!
4. Ask God to lead your path every day, every moment. Ask God for His leadership over your time, who you meet, where you go, etc... Joe was in the "right place at the right time." I don't even know if Joe's a Christian, but I'm thankful that he was where he was on that particular day. And I do know this...those of us who are Christians & who are led by the Holy Spirit, can ALWAYS be in God's right place at God's right time! That's the way to live!
5. And lastly, don't be afraid to be an "Average Joe." In this nation, I think so many people are infatuated with & quite preoccupied with Hollywood, with stars, their lifestyles, who they marry, what they do, who their babies are, where they're spending jail time today, etc.., etc...and I ask this...who really cares? As I've become a "bit" older, I've become much more interested in just "plain" people, like me, like you, like Joe! Like those of us who are just trying to live this life to make simple, but important decisions that will last a lifetime, like those of us who are seeking, not the media spotlight, but God's spotlight, those who want to bring honor to the God of the Universe! He is so concerned about where we are right now at this moment in our nation, and in our lives. God is involved, God is here, He does care!
Thank you to Joe the Plumber for making a difference this week. I'm praying that WE will be willing to make a difference in the circles of our influence, especially in these next important few weeks of history. Bless you all today!
P.S. Joe will be on Mike Huckabee's show on the Fox network Saturday evening. He had already been booked before this week's debate, but now I'm sure many more people will be tuning in to see this guy who has caused such an uproar this week, yet is so much "like us."
Thursday, October 9, 2008
My 3 Biggest Reasons To Vote This Election...
Here are my 3 biggest reasons to get involved in this election & VOTE!
1. Gracie
2. Noah
3. Dawson
If you're anything like I have been in the past, you might find yourself saying things like, "what election?" "who's running anyway?" "what day did you say voting day was?" "am I even registered to vote?" My parents were both very hard working people as I grew up, but we just didn't talk about "politics" much at home, & it's taken me a long time to even be remotely interested in that whole scene.
But with the wonderful gifts of children in our lives, I've become very aware of the reality that the decisions our nation makes now will greatly impact their lives later. There's just so much at stake in this election that will make significant impact on the next generation - both now & in the years to come. This reality has just fueled my fire! It's created in me a passion to BE INVOLVED, BE AWARE, HAVE A VOICE & PRAY!
No matter what you may hear in the media, neither candidate has a magic wand to wave over the economic situation in our nation. Neither candidate will be able to "fix it" immediately, whoever is elected is in for one big ride...along with all of us in America. When you spend more than you bring in over time, there are consequences! Simple as that. You don't need a law degree from Harvard to figure that out, right?
Neither candidate is going be able to "fix" our health care situation immediately either, quite possibly ever. Neither candidate has all the answers when it comes to ending the war in Iraq, foreign policy, protecting our nation against terroists, etc.. Neither candidate is perfect, both have flaws & weaknesses. But, let's not end on that "happy" note...
Besides these big huge topics that we hear so much about, there are other issues that I believe are HUGE in God's heart. Depending on who wins, this election has the potential to positively or negatively impact our future generations in areas that so many of us have taken a firm stand against over years....like abortion...like the homosexual lifestyle being taught in public schools...like the threat of the traditional definition of marriage - which, last time I checked is still between one man & one woman. Our next president will be in THE key political position to choose to nominate godly or ungodly men & women to places of authority in our land. Depending on what that picture looks like, the stage will be set for further moral or immoral decisions to be made &/or laws to be passed.
Let me encourage you & myself:
1. Do the homework - do the research. There are great websites to see how our candidates have voted in the past & what they stand for today, like the following links:
McCain vs. Obama
campaign for working families
2. Don't check out - check in - check WAY in.
3. Get involved.
4. VOTE.
5. Encourage other people to vote.
6. Vote early if you want to avoid the long lines on Nov. 4th. (Google search early voting sites for your county, Troy & I already know where we're going on Oct. 21st.)
7. If you don't vote early, WAIT IN LINE, DON'T LEAVE.
8. PRAY, please PRAY. Pray for our nation, pray for God to intervene as He chooses, pray for His people to have the voice He would want us to have. If you, like me, just feel like you don't even know how to pray for such a big political battle, this great website can help:
pray-the-vote.org
9. Don't lose hope, BELIEVE.
10. And, lastly, here's my big heart reason to write this today...TALK TO YOUR KIDS about this election at age appropriate levels. Whether you have children at home, or teach children, or have neices & nephews, or grandchildren, help them get involved! Tell them who's running, tell them who you're planning to vote for & why, tell them what you can do as a family to be involved in this process, tell them why it's important to have a voice in our land & then HAVE A VOICE, let them see you're willing to spend some time & effort to make a difference for what you say is important, pray together about the election, let them hear your heart, remind them that more than anything - God is in control.
Dawson is in 1st grade, he seems to care more about Star Wars than about political wars right now. But he does know who's running, he knows what we believe in & what we stand for, and who we're voting for based on those reasons. Noah just knows he wants to be "king." Gracie attempts to "de-throne" him constantly. But, in spite of where we're at right now, I have to believe that in the long run, our efforts to talk with them about "politics," about taking a stand & having a voice, WILL pay off.
We CAN raise up a generation of young people in this land who have learned what it is to TAKE A STAND FOR SOMETHING THEY BELIEVE IN. Our kids are watching us more than we could ever know. Let's raise them to know - they have a voice - let's raise them to know how to use it in a way that would bring honor to God & to His purposes!
Now THAT is something to vote for!
1. Gracie
2. Noah
3. Dawson
If you're anything like I have been in the past, you might find yourself saying things like, "what election?" "who's running anyway?" "what day did you say voting day was?" "am I even registered to vote?" My parents were both very hard working people as I grew up, but we just didn't talk about "politics" much at home, & it's taken me a long time to even be remotely interested in that whole scene.
But with the wonderful gifts of children in our lives, I've become very aware of the reality that the decisions our nation makes now will greatly impact their lives later. There's just so much at stake in this election that will make significant impact on the next generation - both now & in the years to come. This reality has just fueled my fire! It's created in me a passion to BE INVOLVED, BE AWARE, HAVE A VOICE & PRAY!
No matter what you may hear in the media, neither candidate has a magic wand to wave over the economic situation in our nation. Neither candidate will be able to "fix it" immediately, whoever is elected is in for one big ride...along with all of us in America. When you spend more than you bring in over time, there are consequences! Simple as that. You don't need a law degree from Harvard to figure that out, right?
Neither candidate is going be able to "fix" our health care situation immediately either, quite possibly ever. Neither candidate has all the answers when it comes to ending the war in Iraq, foreign policy, protecting our nation against terroists, etc.. Neither candidate is perfect, both have flaws & weaknesses. But, let's not end on that "happy" note...
Besides these big huge topics that we hear so much about, there are other issues that I believe are HUGE in God's heart. Depending on who wins, this election has the potential to positively or negatively impact our future generations in areas that so many of us have taken a firm stand against over years....like abortion...like the homosexual lifestyle being taught in public schools...like the threat of the traditional definition of marriage - which, last time I checked is still between one man & one woman. Our next president will be in THE key political position to choose to nominate godly or ungodly men & women to places of authority in our land. Depending on what that picture looks like, the stage will be set for further moral or immoral decisions to be made &/or laws to be passed.
Let me encourage you & myself:
1. Do the homework - do the research. There are great websites to see how our candidates have voted in the past & what they stand for today, like the following links:
McCain vs. Obama
campaign for working families
2. Don't check out - check in - check WAY in.
3. Get involved.
4. VOTE.
5. Encourage other people to vote.
6. Vote early if you want to avoid the long lines on Nov. 4th. (Google search early voting sites for your county, Troy & I already know where we're going on Oct. 21st.)
7. If you don't vote early, WAIT IN LINE, DON'T LEAVE.
8. PRAY, please PRAY. Pray for our nation, pray for God to intervene as He chooses, pray for His people to have the voice He would want us to have. If you, like me, just feel like you don't even know how to pray for such a big political battle, this great website can help:
pray-the-vote.org
9. Don't lose hope, BELIEVE.
10. And, lastly, here's my big heart reason to write this today...TALK TO YOUR KIDS about this election at age appropriate levels. Whether you have children at home, or teach children, or have neices & nephews, or grandchildren, help them get involved! Tell them who's running, tell them who you're planning to vote for & why, tell them what you can do as a family to be involved in this process, tell them why it's important to have a voice in our land & then HAVE A VOICE, let them see you're willing to spend some time & effort to make a difference for what you say is important, pray together about the election, let them hear your heart, remind them that more than anything - God is in control.
Dawson is in 1st grade, he seems to care more about Star Wars than about political wars right now. But he does know who's running, he knows what we believe in & what we stand for, and who we're voting for based on those reasons. Noah just knows he wants to be "king." Gracie attempts to "de-throne" him constantly. But, in spite of where we're at right now, I have to believe that in the long run, our efforts to talk with them about "politics," about taking a stand & having a voice, WILL pay off.
We CAN raise up a generation of young people in this land who have learned what it is to TAKE A STAND FOR SOMETHING THEY BELIEVE IN. Our kids are watching us more than we could ever know. Let's raise them to know - they have a voice - let's raise them to know how to use it in a way that would bring honor to God & to His purposes!
Now THAT is something to vote for!
Friday, October 3, 2008
The Sarah Palin "Connectibility" Factor
Well, whether you like her or not, whether you're a Republican or Democrat, liberal or conservative, there's just something about Sarah Palin that many people feel like they can "connect" with, relate to...know what I mean?
Maybe it's the mom thing, maybe it's because we know she's spent a lot of time on the soccer fields or hockey games, maybe it's because she was involved in PTA, or because she has a precious special needs baby, or just the fact that she even has a baby at all!
Maybe it's that she has 5 kids & she seems to love her husband & family more than anything, maybe it's because her family isn't "perfect" and the media has constantly reminded us of that as they have attempted to parade their mistakes or flaws in front of all of us.
Maybe it's because she talks in a way, that makes us feel like we could sit down & have a cup of coffee with her.
Maybe it's because she's a working mom, juggling lots of activities & events that so many of us can relate to, maybe it's because she's a part of the "middle class" America where so many of us find our own lives.
Maybe it's because she's young, she's a woman, she's bold, not afraid to take a stand & fight, able to communicate effectively what she believes in & where she wants to go & where she wants to lead.
Maybe it's simply because she obviously has a taste for style & we all loved her red heels or we want a pair of those adorable glasses that she wears.
Or maybe, it goes much deeper than that...maybe we sense that she, like us, has a strong belief in the God of the Universe & His Son Jesus Christ, maybe we trust that about her, maybe our nation is longing to have someone in the White House that is more "like" us.
Maybe it's because, as the media re-played again & again, over & over, a few moments of blunders with Katie Couric or the Saturday Night Live spoof, we realized that, like us, she's just not perfect. And just who is? Who out of all the many presidents & vice-presidents over the years, Democrat & Republican both, have ever been perfect????
Why is it that our nation has set the bar so seemingly high for Sarah Palin? Almost as if to say, "you could never attain that level or position"?
I've been fascinated at watching how so many have either become her " biggest fans" or sought to bring her down in one big swoop. I almost laughed when I saw they even had "action figures" of Sarah Palin, who else of the presidential / vice-presidential nominees have ever had action heros made of them???
Now that the Vice-Presidential debate is over and many of us are THRILLED that things went so well with that debate...we hear new criticisms. At first it was, she's just not "ready" or "qualified enough." Although, if being a Governor of the huge state of Alaska & fighting corruption with the big wigs in the oil industry & being a skilled communicator & effective leader over years in the political arena isn't some type of preparation, I don't know what is! She hasn't been a Senator or lived in D.C., I think that's why many of us like what she brings to the table!
The new spin I heard today is this, maybe she's just too much "like us." O.K., whatever. Of course that was spoken from the opposing side, what else would anyone expect? Whatever the biggest strength is for a candidate, there must be an attempt to bring it down. And, to be fair, we all understand that both sides do that.
That's why I want to encourage you to stand on your beliefs & not allow the media to sway your thoughts, ask God for wisdom on who to support. He always will lead us & make clear what His heart is, what His thoughts are, if we ask Him. I have dear friends & family on both sides of the issue, that's what makes us America, that's what makes us wonderfully "different." I'm joining with many of you in continuing to pray for our nation & for this upcoming election. Whatever the outcome, I will continue to pray for our President & Vice-President, McCain or Obama, Palin or Biden. I trust that God who already knows the outcome in the month ahead, will help us in the years to come as we draw near to Him & pray for His help & mercy on our nation.
If you haven't checked it out yet, the website www.pray-the-vote.org has links on the site to view Pro-Life, Pro-Family candidates for each particular state, and on www.cwfpac.com you can actually view the chart of what each candidate stands for & how they've voted on major issues in the past.
Praying that God will guide us on the journey over the next weeks, that we will take the time to know what we really believe in & stand for, that we would be willing to have a voice & VOTE.
Bless you all today & may GOD BLESS AMERICA! We need HIM more than anything else!
P.S. Be sure you're registered to vote! Voter registration deadline for Texas is Monday, Oct. 6th, you can follow links on either of the above websites to register, if you haven't already!
Maybe it's the mom thing, maybe it's because we know she's spent a lot of time on the soccer fields or hockey games, maybe it's because she was involved in PTA, or because she has a precious special needs baby, or just the fact that she even has a baby at all!
Maybe it's that she has 5 kids & she seems to love her husband & family more than anything, maybe it's because her family isn't "perfect" and the media has constantly reminded us of that as they have attempted to parade their mistakes or flaws in front of all of us.
Maybe it's because she talks in a way, that makes us feel like we could sit down & have a cup of coffee with her.
Maybe it's because she's a working mom, juggling lots of activities & events that so many of us can relate to, maybe it's because she's a part of the "middle class" America where so many of us find our own lives.
Maybe it's because she's young, she's a woman, she's bold, not afraid to take a stand & fight, able to communicate effectively what she believes in & where she wants to go & where she wants to lead.
Maybe it's simply because she obviously has a taste for style & we all loved her red heels or we want a pair of those adorable glasses that she wears.
Or maybe, it goes much deeper than that...maybe we sense that she, like us, has a strong belief in the God of the Universe & His Son Jesus Christ, maybe we trust that about her, maybe our nation is longing to have someone in the White House that is more "like" us.
Maybe it's because, as the media re-played again & again, over & over, a few moments of blunders with Katie Couric or the Saturday Night Live spoof, we realized that, like us, she's just not perfect. And just who is? Who out of all the many presidents & vice-presidents over the years, Democrat & Republican both, have ever been perfect????
Why is it that our nation has set the bar so seemingly high for Sarah Palin? Almost as if to say, "you could never attain that level or position"?
I've been fascinated at watching how so many have either become her " biggest fans" or sought to bring her down in one big swoop. I almost laughed when I saw they even had "action figures" of Sarah Palin, who else of the presidential / vice-presidential nominees have ever had action heros made of them???
Now that the Vice-Presidential debate is over and many of us are THRILLED that things went so well with that debate...we hear new criticisms. At first it was, she's just not "ready" or "qualified enough." Although, if being a Governor of the huge state of Alaska & fighting corruption with the big wigs in the oil industry & being a skilled communicator & effective leader over years in the political arena isn't some type of preparation, I don't know what is! She hasn't been a Senator or lived in D.C., I think that's why many of us like what she brings to the table!
The new spin I heard today is this, maybe she's just too much "like us." O.K., whatever. Of course that was spoken from the opposing side, what else would anyone expect? Whatever the biggest strength is for a candidate, there must be an attempt to bring it down. And, to be fair, we all understand that both sides do that.
That's why I want to encourage you to stand on your beliefs & not allow the media to sway your thoughts, ask God for wisdom on who to support. He always will lead us & make clear what His heart is, what His thoughts are, if we ask Him. I have dear friends & family on both sides of the issue, that's what makes us America, that's what makes us wonderfully "different." I'm joining with many of you in continuing to pray for our nation & for this upcoming election. Whatever the outcome, I will continue to pray for our President & Vice-President, McCain or Obama, Palin or Biden. I trust that God who already knows the outcome in the month ahead, will help us in the years to come as we draw near to Him & pray for His help & mercy on our nation.
If you haven't checked it out yet, the website www.pray-the-vote.org has links on the site to view Pro-Life, Pro-Family candidates for each particular state, and on www.cwfpac.com you can actually view the chart of what each candidate stands for & how they've voted on major issues in the past.
Praying that God will guide us on the journey over the next weeks, that we will take the time to know what we really believe in & stand for, that we would be willing to have a voice & VOTE.
Bless you all today & may GOD BLESS AMERICA! We need HIM more than anything else!
P.S. Be sure you're registered to vote! Voter registration deadline for Texas is Monday, Oct. 6th, you can follow links on either of the above websites to register, if you haven't already!
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