Guided By Faith

The enemy would like to keep us distracted, to distort the truth, and to deceive us into believing his lies. We have to keep our hearts and minds focused on the Lord, as we're reminded to do in Hebrews 12:
1 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
3 For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.

There is evidence that a spiritual awakening is at hand in our world today - you see pockets of revival, certainly, but could that become more widespread?

A well-known actor think so; in fact, The Christian Post quotes him, saying: "I think there's a spiritual awakening actually going on in our country right now," adding, "There's been a lot of turmoil, and that's what spiritual awakenings look like because of what it takes to get there. I think we're right at the beginning of it."  He relates that he has seen it in Hollywood, which has demonstrated a receptivity to faith being integrated into films.

He's seen it in his own life, as well.  He now claims to have read through the Bible four times, and he has publicly expressed his faith in Jesus.

The Christian Post article says that after a period in which he became a spiritual seeker, exploring a variety of religious teachings, he became involved with drugs and was addicted to cocaine.  The, in the mid-90's, he discovered the truth.  He said:

"I went back, and I read the Bible again, cover to cover, and what really struck being that this time were the red words of Jesus and who He really was," he recalled. "That was the beginning of my personal relationship with Jesus Christ. And that's really what it's all about. From there, it's grown, and it does fill up that hole inside me. I was there all along; my mother taught me that, but we have to learn things for ourselves. It led me right back to where I started."

As of late, he's recorded a gospel album and been featured in a documentary that includes an interview with Bill Gaither.

This weekend, this actor, Dennis Quaid, will be featured in a new film, in which he portrays former President of the United States, Ronald Reagan.

Movieguide reports that...

...Quaid was initially unsure about accepting the role.

“I didn’t say no, and I didn’t say yes because, really, fear,” he told Fox News Digital in an exclusive interview. “Reagan was my favorite president personally, and he was also such a recognizable figure around the world, sort of like Muhammad Ali.

“Everybody knew what he looked like, sounded like, and so that was a pretty scary proposition,” Quaid continued. “It was about feeling like I was going to be judged and feeling unworthy. He was the great communicator and all that. But I didn’t want to do an impersonation of him. I wanted to really kind of get to the core of who he was as a person. So, I put off saying yes.”

But when Quaid visited Reagan’s ranch in Southern California, he got the sense that the former president was a “humble man.”

So Quaid agreed to do the film. At the film's premiere in Nashville earlier this week, Quaid told The Christian Post: “The film is about family values; one of the most important things in the nuclear family and being raised with family is that feeling of constancy, that people being around to have your back. That's where those values get instilled. They don't get taught to you. You live them..."

That Christian Post article also relates:

Screenwriter Howard Klausner echoed the sentiment that Reagan’s faith was central to his story. He told CP he wanted the script to highlight Reagan’s quest for purpose, a journey that took him from small-town Illinois to Hollywood and eventually to the White House.

“Reagan’s faith was integral from childhood on,” Klausner explained. “It wasn’t just politically expedient. The man believed in the Lord, and that belief guided him throughout his life. To leave that out wouldn’t be true to who he was.”

“Reagan lived so many lives,” Klausner said. “He was an actor, a sports announcer, a union president, and it wasn’t until he was shot that he truly understood his purpose. That’s the spine of the movie — his search for meaning.”

Reagan made a profound impact on the decade of the 1980's and on American and world history. He stared down the Soviet threat, and was a President who demonstrated a reliance on God.  

It's important to know what drives you.  Why do we do what we do?  Is it a search for meaning, as the filmmaker contends that it was for Reagan?  If it is, then we can be confident that a relationship with Jesus can give us the sense of meaning that we seek. 

If our motivation is to please God, then we can be confident that He is with us, and will fulfill His purposes for us.  However, if the love of worldly things, the pursuit of wealth, or fame, or power and control, are our guiding factors, then we miss the plan of God.  If our eyes are not on the right things, then our selfish desires will lead to bad decisions; the worst of all being to not accept Jesus as your Savior.  We have to keep focused and keep our eyes squarely focused on Christ. 

God's Stories

The entirety of the Scriptures are inspired by God so that we can know Him and discover the way to salvation through Jesus and grow in the Lord. 2nd Timothy 3 underscores the usefulness of the Scriptures:
14 But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them,
15 and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,
17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

A recent survey relative to Bible knowledge asked this question: “How much of the story of Romulus and Remus found in the Bible could you tell from memory?”  Just over a third of "Protestant churchgoers" recognized that it wasn't a Bible story. 

That's according to a Faithwire article on a recent Lifeway Research study on how well Protestants who attend church know their Old Testament. Romulus and Remus are "twin brothers whose story is part of the legend surrounding the founding of Rome," but that story is not, as the article notes, "mentioned in Scripture."

Also, the study indicates "more than one-in-10 (11%) of Protestant churchgoers accidentally offer a New Testament story when asked to share their favorite Old Testament narrative, showcasing a notable level of confusion among some believers."

Faithwire notes that "The three most popular Old Testament stories among churchgoers were Moses and the Exodus (13%), Noah (11%), and Genesis (10%)."

Lifeway Research Executive Director Scott McConnell is quoted as saying, “While churchgoers may open a Bible at church, at least 1-in-5 may not be familiar with how it’s organized and what distinguishes the New Testament from the Old Testament..."

A deeper dive into the data shows some encouraging signs; Lifeway Research indicates that 82% of respondents "say they could tell the story of Noah and the ark from memory."  Now about half of those say they could tell it "accurately."

74% said they could share the story of David and Goliath from memory, 64% on the story of Abraham and his almost-sacrifice of Isaac, and 63% for Daniel and the lion's den.  So, all is not lost, but Faithwire notes: "In the end, McConnell said the research shows the need for churches to routinely continue teaching the Bible."  He also stated, “Most churchgoers remember and can tell more than just the highlights of major Old Testament events, but the majority also admit they need a refresher on some of the details..."

The Old Testament is rich with stories of God's faithfulness to human beings, and how ordinary men and women did extraordinary things.  A working knowledge of those stories can positively impact our faith.  That is, if we make the connection between the God whom we read about in Scripture and the God who works in our lives today, who has saved us through His sending of Jesus, His only Son, into the world.

In fact, as Donna Amidon of Back to the Bible reminded us recently on The Meeting House, we can see the presence of Jesus throughout the Old Testament.  The pages are replete with prophecies that point to the Messiah who would come as the Savior of God's people - a salvation that is extended to you and me through Christ.  In the Scriptures, we see a loving God who desires to bring His people into a vibrant relationship with Himself. 

So, we should never cast aside the act of reading and studying the Old Testament - Jesus Himself said He didn't come to abolish the Law and Prophets, but to fulfill them.  The Bible says in Galatians that the Law, found in the Old Testament, is a "tutor," in order that we may come to Jesus.  When we read the stories of the Bible, we can see ourselves in those stories, and realize that we're part of the bigger, overall story of God's redemptive work - when we accept Jesus, we are inducted into the greatest love story that has ever been composed.  

In God Do We Trust?

Our national motto reflects a collective reliance on the One who has established our nation, to whom we should ideally be looking to solve the dilemmas we face. Psalm 143 states:
5 I remember the days of old; I meditate on all Your works; I muse on the work of Your hands.
6 I spread out my hands to You; My soul longs for You like a thirsty land. Selah
7 Answer me speedily, O Lord; My spirit fails! Do not hide Your face from me, Lest I be like those who go down into the pit.
8 Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning, For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You.

I would say that most Americans can at least sing some of the words of our National Anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner.  The first stanza.  Well, what about the last one?

The Providence Forum website published those lyrics, including these words:

Blest with vict’ry and peace, may the Heav’n-rescued land

Praise the Pow’r that hath made and preserved us a nation!

Then to conquer we must, when our cause it is just;

And this be our motto, “In God is our trust!”

And the star spangled banner in triumph shall wave

O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

Even though Francis Scott Key included those lyrics in his text, the phrase, "In God We Trust," did not become our national motto officially until 1956.  The CBN.com website notes that the lyrics of the final verse of our National Anthem inspired that motto.  The website notes:

While the motto made its first appearance on U.S. coins in 1864, during the Civil War, it wouldn't be declared the official national motto until much later.

In 1954, the term "under God" was added to the Pledge of Allegiance. Then in 1955, Congress passed a federal law to require the national motto be printed on all American currency. While it had previously appeared on coins, it was not required.

But it wasn't until July 30, 1956, that Congress passed a bill and President Dwight Eisenhower signed it into law, declaring "In God We Trust" as the nation's official motto. It replaced the earlier unofficial Latin motto: "E pluribus unum," which stands for "out of many one."

The law was passed unanimously by Congress requiring the phrase to be printed on all U.S. paper currency in capital letters.

And, fast forward to recent times...CBN.com related:

Over the past few years, a movement has sprung up to remind Americans of our national motto in a variety of settings from public school buildings to law enforcement vehicles.

One of the latest examples is in West Virginia where the legislature voted a few months ago to require state schools to display "In God We Trust."

When asked if the move was constitutional, state Del. Tom Fast told West Virginia Watch, "This is our national motto, 'In God We Trust,' and it has been litigated, and it has been upheld. We can display our national motto in public schools and in our higher education institutions."

The move in West Virginia comes after Louisiana passed a law last year that requires the U.S. national motto to be displayed in every public school classroom. Other states that have adopted similar policies in recent years include Texas and South Dakota.

Historian and commentator William Federer notes that in 1864...

Treasury Secretary Salmon P. Chase, who Lincoln later appointed Chief Justice, assigned James Pollock, Director of the U.S. Mint, with the task of adding the phrase "In God We Trust" to the two cent coin.

He notes that Pollock replied: "We claim to be a Christian nation -- why should we not vindicate our character by honoring the God of Nations ... Our national coinage should do this. Its legends and devices should declare our trust in God - in Him who is 'King of Kings and Lord of Lords.'"

Pollock also stated, according to Federer:

"The motto suggested, 'God our Trust,' is taken from our National Hymn, the 'Star-Spangled Banner.'

The sentiment is familiar to every citizen of our country -- it has thrilled the hearts and fallen in song from the lips of millions of American Freemen ...

The time for the introduction of this ... is propitious and appropriate. 'Tis an hour of National peril and danger -- an hour when man's strength is weakness -- when our strength and our nation's strength and salvation, must be in the God of Battles and of Nations.

Let us reverently acknowledge his sovereignty, and let our coinage declare our trust in God."

Chase approved the use of the motto and adjust the words to the current, "In God We Trust." It was approved by Congress for one- and two-cent coins, then about a year later for all coins.  

The use of the motto was re-affirmed by Congress in 2006, on the 50th anniversary of its implementation, and its use has been upheld in the courts. 

Someone might say that this motto doesn't mean anything - it's just an empty phrase. I think when you reflect on the history of our nation and the hand of God upon it, dating back to before its foundation, you can gain a great appreciation for those words. 

Personally, can we say that we trust in God?  Do we allow Him to originate our plans, to govern our desires, or do we make our own decisions, with the hope that maybe He'll bless them, and be there when we get into a tight. We have to make sure that we are growing in our faith and reliant on the God who has been faithful to us. 

Reigning Confusion

In the first chapter of the very first book of the Bible, the book of Genesis, the Scriptures speak to us about the two distinct biological sexes that God created in human beings. We can read these words:
26 Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth."
27 So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.
28 Then God blessed them, and God said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth."

The Paris Summer Olympics are now history, and while there were some incredible achievements on display by athletes at the top of their game, the controversies may have outweighed the athleticism that was presented.

As a piece at The Hill stated:

At the Olympics in Paris, two controversial individuals won gold medals in women’s boxing: Lin Yu-Ting of Taiwan in the 57kg weight class and Imane Khalif of Algeria in the 66kg class.

Both of these boxers had previously been barred from competing as females by the International Boxing Association, which stands by its decisions, citing “DNA evidence.” The International Olympic Committee, however, claims that the association’s ruling was “arbitrary,” and therefore allowed Khalif and Yu-Ting to fight against women — that is, athletes with XX chromosomes — despite reports they may actually be men, who by definition have XY chromosomes.

The writer, Elizabeth Grace Matthew, goes on to call for women to absolutely boycott any sporting event that involves competing against men. She also chided those who criticized rugby star Ilona Maher, who "has been the subject of particularly hateful attacks, with a predominantly male cadre of online trash talkers questioning her sex. Why? Because compared to other women, Maher is large, fast and strong — as befits a rugby star."

Emily Washburn writes at The Daily Citizen:

In an Olympics characterized by blasphemy, forced veganism, televised domestic violence and swimming in sewage — women’s rugby sensation Ilona Maher is an undeniably wholesome highlight.

The bubbly athlete, who led the Americans to a bronze medal in Paris, is a budding social media star. Millions of people follow Maher on Instagram and TikTok for her relatable humor and positivity. She routinely uses her platform to remind women that strength and femininity aren’t mutually exclusive.

So, naturally, millions of social media users felt compelled to call her a man on X (formerly Twitter).

Washburn notes: "In reality, Maher illustrates the foundational argument against gender ideology: that sex is biological, not socially constructed."  She goes on to say:

Bullying Maher for her so-called masculine features comes straight out of the gender ideology playbook. Though gender idealogues frequently claim to transcend social constructions of sex, they rely on sex stereotypes to determine “gender identity” — what transgender activists say is “a person’s internal feeling of being male or female.”

And why wouldn’t they? After all, there’s no way a biological male can truly “feel” like a female — and vice-versa. Nor is there any way to quantify these “feelings”. Sex stereotypes, then, are the only ways these “gender identities” can be identified.

The article continues:

Maher encourages women to feel comfortable in their skin, even if they don’t fit people’s expectations of femininity. It’s a message of freedom that should be broadcast far and wide, especially to a generation of children being told that failing to adhere to sex stereotypes could mean that they were “born in the wrong body.”

We have to be so careful not to heed the lies of the enemy - and our young people are especially susceptible to these suggestions that they are not who they appear to be, compounded, as January Littlejohn said on The Meeting House program, by peer pressure. January and her husband have walked through a season in which officials at their daughter's school hid important information about gender struggles she was having.  

Society has embraced these dangerous suggestions, and high-profile officials have endorsed what has been mislabeled as "gender-affirming care."  It is gender deception that could lead to genital mutilation - permanent decisions being encouraged that can lead to lifelong misery.  And, there is data available that points to young people suffering from gender dysphoria actually outgrowing those feelings they may encounter. 

The confusion over gender has become a major issue, and the move to allow boys to participate in female athletic events is a denial of the hand of the Creator, whom we are told in Scripture makes human beings "male and female."  We must always be courageous to uphold the truth of God's Word.

Saying "No" To the World

We can recognize that we are called to a life of obedience to Jesus, and the impact of our obedience can not only affect people here and now, but into the future, even after He takes us from this earth. Psalm 78 speaks to that concept, when it references...
(4b) Telling to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, And His strength and His wonderful works that He has done.
5 For He established a testimony in Jacob, And appointed a law in Israel, Which He commanded our fathers, That they should make them known to their children;
6 That the generation to come might know them, The children who would be born, That they may arise and declare them to their children,
7 That they may set their hope in God, And not forget the works of God, But keep His commandments...

Amber was one of so many thousands of talented singers who wanted to have the American Idol experience. She actually won a ticket to an audition by winning a local contest. Her mother talked to their pastor, who said, "just go till God puts a stop in it."

Her mom related in a church setting over a decade ago that the owner of the competition even predicted she would be in the Top 10 and make "more money than you could ever possibly imagine."

So Amber made it to Hollywood and stood before the judges at the time: Randy Jackson, Stephen Tyler, and Jennifer Lopez. After her first song, Tyler asked her to share about herself, and she told them that she sang gospel music with her family.  Lopez interjected that Idol was not a "gospel competition," and Amber responded that she was "not of the world."

She sang again, and J-Lo asked her if she were willing to sing "secular music," to which Amber responded, according to her mother, "I'm willing to sing songs that have a positive message that don't compromise what I believe..."

The story goes on: 

Jennifer said, "Amber are you willing to sing only secular music, no more gospel, and do things that we need for you to do, like dress provocatively for the audience and the TV camera?"

Her mother shared the testimony that Amber said no, so "American Idol said no."  But, on stage at Shadow Mountain Community Church in San Diego, in a moment that is chronicled on YouTube, Kelly Nelon Clark reminded the audience that, "the Lord Jesus says yes," adding, "anything that we need in our life the Lord can provide, because He is a wonderful, wonderful God that we serve..."

Recently, in my conversation with Babbie Mason at the Christian Product Expo, we were reflecting on the gospel music legacy of the Nelons - Kelly and her husband, as well as her daughter, Amber Nelon Kistler, and her husband, perished in a plane crash recently as group members were on their way to Alaska for a Gaither Homecoming cruise.  The story about Amber's Idol audition has been circulating, and it's such a moving story. 

And, it can move us to be stalwart in our faith. We have to know who we are and who we are in Christ. We recognize that we are in the world but not of it, and our desire should always be to please our Heavenly Father. 

This exchange took place years ago, and it's interesting that it is circulating now, after the death of the young woman who took such a strong stand for Jesus.  We should live in a manner so that our stories can outlive us.  What we have done for Christ in this life can and should be passed on and impact others.  So, we don't live just for the moment, but for eternity. 

Influence

Jesus described Himself as the light of the world and told His disciples that they are the light of the world - that is because He lives in us. Ephesians 5 challenges us to allow the presence of the risen Lord to shine through us, when it says:
8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light
9 (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth),
10 finding out what is acceptable to the Lord.
11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.

There is a new role that we have seen emerge in our culture, a position of power that moves especially those in younger generations.  Performing in that role are communicators who are skilled not only with the word, but they are also surrounded with the technology to disseminate their views on a widespread basis. 

They are the social media influencers. 

While we must be discerning regarding the theological accuracy of these new types of communicators, we can also hopeful regarding the platform that God has provided for them. 

Crosswalk Headlines published a piece recently about some of these Christian influencers.  I am not necessarily endorsing any of them, but I do want to make you aware of this exciting new front in Christian communication.

There's Ally Yost, the host of the podcast, Christ With Coffee On Ice, which is described as a "new Jesus-loving podcast where you are encouraged to come exactly as you are. No matter your relationship with God, we welcome ALL - messy or put together. Our host, Ally Yost, has made it her mission to spread God's love and encouragement through this podcast."

Carew Ellington hosts The Secret Place podcast. It's described on Spotify in this way: "We live in a generation that is more focused on posting about Jesus than actually knowing Him. What would life look like if talking about Jesus and serving others came from the overflow and not a way to feel better about ourselves? The Bible tells us the key to this kind of peace...The Secret Place Podcast is the thoughts, ideas, and revelations God gives me in my time with Him. Are you ready to go deeper?"

Also, the article described Ashley Hetherington as "the founder of The Honey Scoop blog and a Christian content creator..." She has authored multiple books, and a description of her latest book states: "Are you sick of waiting for your 'real' life to begin? This joy-filled daily devotional offers the abundant peace that comes when you place your trust in God's plan and start living today—from the founder of the Honey Scoop..."

I believe that I have mentioned Bryce Crawford before - he received news coverage recently for posting a conversation with a Satanist. On YouTube, he related: "My name is Bryce Crawford, and I am a full-time missionary in Los Angeles, California. After graduating from high school recently, the main question a young person asks is, 'What do I do?' After prayer and seeking Jesus, the Lord called me out to do full-time ministry in Los Angeles." 

Finally, there's Emy Moore, who hosts the Saved Not Soft podcast, described in this way: "Navigating the Christian lifestyle is beyond challenging, especially facing the obstacles of today's world...Each week, we'll be diving into topics of; how to rise up from culture, modeling Christ to others, theology, hot topics and much more! Buckle up with your host, Emy Moore; we're going on a fruitful journey!"

These are individuals who have chosen to take hold of the circumstances around them and allowed God to establish a platform for them.  The question for each of us can be: to what platform is God calling you?  Not necessarily a podcast or a blog or even having a major presence of social media.  But, we are all placed in positions of influence. 

Not everyone is called to teach or to speak publicly - but we all have a story, a testimony of what Jesus has done in our lives.  That story is on display every single day.  We should always be conscientious of how we are radiating Christ in our everyday actions and interactions, humbling ourselves before the Lord so that when people look at us and encounter us, they can see the presence of Christ.

God in the Mix

Within us and around us, creation shouts that God exists and that Jesus is alive; the testimony is given in Psalm 8, which includes these words:
3 When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, The moon and the stars, which You have ordained,
4 What is man that You are mindful of him, And the son of man that You visit him?
5 For You have made him a little lower than the angels, And You have crowned him with glory and honor.
6 You have made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet...

When we consider the existence of God and how heaven and earth originated, there are deep questions that we must answer.  If we believe that humanity has evolved over time, we have to consider how we got here in the first place?  Are we simply the outcome of random processes?  Or does the beauty around us in the skies, the stars, and here on the earth, as well as the intricacies of our own minds and bodies reflect a creative hand?

I believe the Bible - God created the heavens and earth.  And, I believe He did it in six literal days.  I believe that the so-called "fossil record" came not as the product of evolution over millions and billions of years, but as the result of an upheaval created by a worldwide flood.  You may disagree with that, and a recent survey shows that while people may have that point of disagreement, that God was involved in the process.

Lifeway Research reported on its website about a Gallup survey, which "finds 37% of Americans believe God created human beings pretty much in their present form at one time within the last 10,000 years or so. Additionally, 34% say human beings developed over millions of years from less advanced forms of life but God guided this process."  If you combine these two distinct categories, that means a total of 71% believe that God was somehow involved in the development of human beings. Almost one-quarter believe He did not - that's the highest level recorded for that category. And the 37% in the "creation" category was lower than the previous low of 38% back in 2017.

Back in 2015, Lifeway Research polled views of origins and found that "79% of Americans, including 43% of nonreligious adults, said the fact that humans exist means someone created us. Additionally, 72% of Americans, including 46% of nonreligious adults, said the universe’s organization points to a creator who designed it."  The Lifeway article notes that:

Creation, including humanity, can present apologetic and evangelistic opportunities for observant Christians to listen to those around them and be ready to start a conversation.

While it can be heartening to recognize that almost three-quarters of Americans believe that God had some role in our origin story, we also have to consider the truth of the Scriptures.  When you consider the incredible beauty of creation, the order by which the earth rotates and its placement at just the right distance from the sun, and the intricacies of the human body, mind, and spirit, we know that there is a greater power at work.  So, while many recognize that someone did it, the Bible teaches us who did it and how he did it. And, the reliability of the Scriptures is related to the truth in the book of Genesis. 

And, as Lifeway Research pointed out, those who are open to consider that there was a higher power, even God, at work, can perhaps be persuaded, in partnership with the Holy Spirit, to consider the identity of that Creator.  Jesus, One with God the Father and the Spirit, was involved in the creation process.  Generally, it's important that people move from merely paying lip-service to God and His existence and surrender their lives in obedience to Him, beginning with accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior and then walking in obedience to His ways.

Evangelicals For...

In these upside-down times, it seems that you have those who say that Christians should not be actively involved in politics. But, as a Christian, wouldn't you rather have someone who governs from a Biblical perspective than someone who does not? After all, Proverbs 29 tells us:
2 When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan.

In verse 4, we can read:
4 The king establishes the land by justice, But he who receives bribes overthrows it.

Justice involves fairness and right decisions. And, there is a present threat to the ability of Christians to live out their faith.

I would contend that those in the Church who identify as evangelicals are much more than a voting bloc. There has been much analysis of the impact of the so-called "evangelical vote," which I see more as faithful Christians who are letting their voice be heard through their ballot.  And, we have a responsibility to be prayerful and informed in our choices.

David Brody of CBN wrote a piece recently, in which he provided this analysis:

In 2008, Barack Obama received 26% of the White Born Again Evangelical Vote and won. In 2016, Hillary Clinton received 16% of the White Born Again Evangelical Vote and lost. In 2020, Joe Biden received 24% of the White Born Again Evangelical Vote and won. So if Kamala Harris gets 20% or more of the White Born Again Evangelical Vote, Trump could very well lose the General Election to Harris.

So, there is a recognition that even though Donald Trump has won a sizable majority of that vote, if a significant percentage can be flipped, then that could be advantageous to Kamala Harris. 

And her campaign is going after that vote.  There is a new group that has been formed called Evangelicals for Harris.  Last Wednesday, WORLD Magazine published a piece by Denny Burk of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, in which he said:

The organization bills the gathering as an opportunity for Christians to participate in the “community service” of getting the Democratic ticket elected, calling it “a Matthew 25 witness of love of neighbor as our response to the unifying vision of the Harris-Walz ticket. That is what we want Evangelicals for Harris to be known for first.” The group has scheduled an online event, “inviting all Christians and people of good will to please join us for a Zoom call to be encouraged and engaged.”

Burk says that "The group’s website features a page devoted to 'Kamala’s Faith Story,' which is, in fact, a story, although not a Christian one. It includes no mention at all of Jesus Christ or of His death and resurrection for sinners."  But, an ad produced by the group features a clip of Donald Trump saying he doesn't remember ever asking God for forgiveness. 

That ad opens with a short clip of the late Billy Graham presenting an invitation.  This has prompted his son, Franklin to respond.  According to CBN.com:

He wrote on Facebook and X, "The liberals are using anything and everything they can to promote candidate Harris. They even developed a political ad trying to use my father Billy Graham's image to help promote her—or rather to try to make Donald J. Trump look bad. They are trying to mislead people. Maybe they don't know that my father was a firm supporter of President Trump in 2016. He appreciated the conservative values and policies of President Trump, and if he were alive today, my father's views and opinions would not have changed. President Trump isn't perfect—none of us are—but I believe he has changed over the years. This recent assassination attempt has had a huge impact on him—and I thank God that his life was spared."

But Franklin's niece, Jerushah Duford, described by Burk as "LGBTQ-friendly," has joined the Harris camp.  The Christian Post reported: "Jerushah Duford, whose mother Virginia 'Gigi' Graham Tchividjian is Graham's oldest daughter, spoke in a recorded video because she was unable to attend the virtual event, which also included speakers such as former Rep. Adam Kinzinger...and 'public theologian' Ekemini Uwan, who has claimed 'whiteness is wicked' and that churches should pay global reparations to 'people of African descent.'"  

The article says that Duford mentioned "that Micah 6:8 was her grandfather's favorite verse, and that while she does not expect her president to be a Christian, she 'will be watching for my faith leaders [to] support actions that reflect mercy, justice and humility, and for my faith leaders to rebuke actions that are the antithesis of that.'" She added, "Voting Kamala, for me, is so much greater than policies. It's a vote against another four years of faith leaders justifying the actions of a man who destroys the message Jesus came to spread, and that is why I get involved in politics..."

Faith Radio does not endorse or oppose candidates, but my intent is to keep focused on policies. No candidate is perfect, but it is important that we select the candidates who best represent our deeply-held Biblical beliefs.  

There is no shortage of information about what candidates on a national level believe on a variety of issues.  So, I encourage you to be prayerful and informed and honor God by casting a ballot in the upcoming election.  

Troy Miller, President and CEO of National Religious Broadcasters, wrote a piece for The Daily Caller recently that really examines what is a stake for evangelical Christian voters.  He noted:

An estimated seven million evangelicals in swing states alone did not participate in the 2020 presidential election, numbers that might have overturned outcomes up and down the ballot. While evangelicals are more likely than their secular counterparts to vote in elections, an estimated one-third sit on the sidelines.

He chided those on the left who have not extended a "hand of friendship to born-again believers," accusing those of that ideology of "elevating unlimited abortion as the nonnegotiable beating heart of their policy agenda." In addition to the sanctity of life, Miller says, "Evangelical Christians must examine candidates’ records on immigration, pro-family policies, religious freedom, national security, federal spending, economic wellbeing, parental rights, conscience protections, America’s support for Israel and the traditional values we cherish as people of faith. Christian voters should further consider that regulatory overreach as well as fiscal policy and its downstream effects have a major impact on the ability of Christian organizations to operate."

In championing the role of Christian broadcasters, such as Faith Radio, Miller relates:

There is simply no excuse in such a rich media environment to neglect the belt of truth and remain uninformed. Amid the cacophony of voices hostile to your most cherished values, there is an oasis of faith and reason in Christian broadcasting.

In the days to come, on The Meeting House, I will be devoted to providing solid information that can be helpful in preparing for the election.  Again, we are non-partisan, but we are pro-Biblical - I do not believe that Christians should stay on the sidelines regarding politics, because decisions made by governmental officials whom we select affect our lives every day.

NRD

There is a passage of Scripture in Psalm 101 that powerful addresses protecting our hearts and our homes from influences that are harmful. Faith Radio, as a Christian media network, is devoted to providing high-quality programming that is consistent with the truths of the Word of God. We can read in Psalm 101:
(1) I will sing of mercy and justice; To You, O Lord, I will sing praises.
2 I will behave wisely in a perfect way. Oh, when will You come to me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
3 I will set nothing wicked before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; It shall not cling to me.
4 A perverse heart shall depart from me; I will not know wickedness.

This is National Radio Day, and Faith Radio is pleased to be joining with other radio broadcasters across our land in order to celebrate the reach and power of radio. For the Christian radio broadcaster, we can give God the glory for how He uses this amazing medium to get His message out, and thank Him for 40 years of ministry here at Faith Radio.

In the April Faith Radio Ministry Magazine a few months ago, I put together what I called the "Faith Radio Top 40," which included some information relative to the meaning of radio. I included the findings of Finney Media, which said that people listen to Christian radio for a variety of reasons…Among the top reasons: 

• It helps you grow spiritually.
• It helps you worship God throughout the day.
• You want to be encouraged.

I also noted that Pew Research reports that (over-the-air) radio listenership has been level in 2022 and 2023, with just over 80% of Americans aged 12+ listening “in a given week.”

Faith Radio has an on-air and online reach that is truly amazing. For instance, In the 4th quarter of 2023, according to Google Analytics, people from 92 countries visited the Faith Radio website. Also, in the 4th quarter of last year - October through December, almost 17,000 people accessed Faith Radio streaming through the website or app, with almost 3,700 going through the app. The app has made over 1 million impressions since it launched in 2017.

The National Religious Broadcasters website shared this information back in April:

On April 2, Inside Radio shared new data reflecting the continued steady growth in the Contemporary Christian radio format. The genre is ranked fourth in total station count and first in year-over-year growth, with the highest lift compared to any other radio format at 1.7%.

In addition, the Religion format, which includes Christian talk and teaching, holds second place (behind Country) for overall number of stations and notched an impressive 1.1% year-over-year gain.

Faith Radio encompasses both of those elements, with a combination of Christian music, with an emphasis on Praise and Worship, as well as strong Bible teaching.  

There is a rich history of Christian broadcasting in America, and NRB has been an incredible support since its inception in 1944. Its website notes that NRB formed as a response to one particular network, the Mutual Broadcasting System, which had cut back on its amount of religious programming. The site states, referring to events at that time, "As the threat to Gospel broadcasting deepens, broadcasters decide they need to organize themselves into an effective pressure group that deals officially with radio issues."

While you may be aware that KDKA in Pittsburgh was the first commercial radio station to broadcast.  That was in 1920.  According to NRB, KDKA was also the outlet where the first religious radio program was aired.   Here's a timeline for the early days of Christian radio:

1921 (January 2): First religious broadcast. KDKA airs the Sunday vespers service of Pittsburgh’s Calvary Episcopal Church, presided over by junior associate Rev. Lewis Whittemore.
1921 (November 27): First continuous religious program. Broadcasts begin in New York by the Radio Church of America.
1921 (December 22): First religious station. Church of the Covenant (now National Presbyterian Church), a congregation in Washington, D.C., receives the first broadcast license issued to a religious organization.
1922: First religious broadcaster. Paul Rader is invited by the mayor of Chicago to give a radio address from City Hall, and when response far surpasses expectations, Rader begins a radio ministry.

Faith Radio stands on the shoulders of these pioneers.  And, in the days to come, we will be introducing you to more voices who are devoted to encouraging people in their walk with Jesus Christ.  So, please stay tuned...

We are thankful for how God uses technology to share His message.  We know that radio has a significant reach.  It is a media source that you can listen to in your home and in your vehicle.  You can listen as you carry out daily routines, as you walk or as you run.  

We also celebrate that Christian radio, and Faith Radio in particular, is a relationship ministry. We desire to help you grow in your Christian life.  And, we are grateful to our listeners who interact with us: who listen, pray for us, and support us financially.  It is very affirming to hear from listeners who have deepened their relationship with the Lord through our media ministry.

And, our desire is to be a ministry of reliability, a source of unchanging truth in changing times. The Word of God brings security and stability to our lives, and it is our desire to exalt our God through broadcasting His Word 24/7, expressed through Bible teaching and music.

Rejecting Selfishness to Serve

In our times of trial, we have to reject the tendency to focus on our own troubles and lose sight of God's purposes and the needs of others. 2 Corinthians 9 teaches us how through service, we can discover Christ's sufficiency:
6 But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
7 So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.
8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.

In parts of South Georgia and the Carolinas, the effects of Tropical Storm Debby are still being felt, with the powerful storm dumping enormous amounts of rain over a relatively short period of time.  As late as last week, there were still areas that were experiencing flooding. 

Even as far inland as Statesboro, GA, home of Georgia Southern University, a city perhaps an hour and a half from the coast, rainfall totals exceeded 12 inches and a local pastor experienced flood damage to his home, according to a Baptist Press article published on The Christian Index website.  It stated:

As rainfall totals passed 12 inches, saturated ground led to fallen trees, dams giving way and more than 100 damaged roads in Bulloch County, Georgia, from Tropical Storm Debby.

Pastor Todd Wiggins of Southbridge Community Church was among those affected, as floodwaters crept into his home. The flooring in the master bedroom and closet will have to be replaced. The roof and exterior walls received damage as well. But he knows it could have been worse.

“We were blessed, because there were people who lost their whole home,” he said. “Others had damage up to 4 feet high, so in the grand scope, it’s not too bad.”

The article notes that, "Wiggins has heard stories from other parts of the county of rainfall as high as 18 inches in 48 hours."

But, Wiggins and his church were mobilized to help the community.  Already, plans were in place to minister to students moving into Georgia Southern, and Southbridge served as the base of operations for the Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief.

The article states:

At least one church member had significant home damage.

“It was right next to Mill Creek and when it overflowed, he said it got maybe four feet high,” said Wiggins. “We had a dump trailer dropped off at his house today and have a team there ripping out today and tomorrow to help him get recovered.”

Southbridge is a church that was planted by First Baptist of Statesboro 12 years ago, according to the article, and was originally pastored by its student minister. Wiggins took the reins around the start of the COVID pandemic.  The article reports:

Just prior to his arrival, the aging congregation of Gracewood Baptist Church had voted to give its facilities to Southbridge.

“They saw the church was reaching the community, the elders were leading and teaching and what God was doing at Southbridge. They were excited our church was reaching college students and the Georgia Southern campus,” said Wiggins. “It was selfless and sacrificial for them to do what they did.”

Selfless is certainly a word to describe the acts of Todd Wiggins in the aftermath of Debby.  And, to those who serve in disaster situations, laying down their lives and livelihoods to go to areas where they are needed.  The pastor's home was damaged, but that did not deter him from helping.  It's a reminder that even though we may experience difficulty in our lives, that should not preclude us from selflessly reaching out to others.  In fact, it's been said that serving others is a great way to get our eyes off ourselves and our own trials.  

We should not allow pity to set in to the extent that we become isolated and self-centered. It's not unnatural to become discouraged in our lives, but we may even experience a lift, a touch of encouragement, by seeing God use us to reach out in difficult situations.  Despair can make us feel like the walls are closing in on us, but we can counter those emotions by looking beyond those walls and seeing where the Lord might be directing us to serve.  

Not Forgotten

Our Savior has purchased our lives by His own blood, and we belong to Him. We can possess a sense of affirmation through our knowledge of Christ's love for us. 1st Corinthians 6 states:
19 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.

Perhaps during your childhood, you had the experience of not being "picked."  Waiting for your name to be called when teams were being selected on the ballfield.  Auditioning for a play and not making the callback. Interviewing for a job and being rejected.

Certainly that is not necessarily everybody's experience, but I do think that we desire to be included, to be part of the team, to succeed, to belong. 

Bridget went to an audition one time - out of the four siblings, she seemed to enjoy performing the most.  She didn't make the cut...but two of her siblings did.  A Movieguide article quotes her:

She said, “I had a lot of work with my braces, and so my mom was a little confused and didn’t understand why I wasn’t chosen that day, and Iris [the talent manager] just said, ‘She’s going to need some work, but bring her back,’ and so for a mom to have to tell one of the kids, the child who really wanted it, ‘It’s just not your time right now, but we’re going to come back’…”

The article quotes from The Washington Stand, which reports that Bridget asked the Lord this question:  “Did you forget about me?” She said that God spoke to her through Jeremiah 29:11 and stated, “God was telling me something,” adding, “I heard Him say: ‘Bridget, all of those years you’ve thought that I’ve forgotten you, you’ve thought that I’ve overlooked you, and I’ve never put you in those opportunities that you wanted. But I have bigger plans for you, and I just saved you and your family from a major, major car accident. I have plans for you, Bridget. But you’ve got to trust me that it’s in my timing that I will show you where I need you and what I want you to be doing.’”

Her brother and sister went on to become successful actors, but God had a plan for Bridget. She related in a video that their parents, who have been married 55 years now, separated: “They talked of divorce, but a lot of people think that...we all grew up in a Christian home and we did not. We did not know the Lord, but God had such a plan and a purpose and His hand over our family that He knew how He was going to be using us, you know in for Him, for His glory down the road, and so He kept our family together.”

Things began to change as Bridget's brother, Kirk, became a Christian and began to share Christ with his family.  You know her brother as Kirk Cameron; the other successful sibling is Candace Cameron Bure.  Bridget Cameron Ridenour is the author of a book called, Overlooked.  The Washington Stand article related:

No matter who you are, or what you go through, “Each one of us has a beautiful, beautiful story that’s so different from anybody else’s. And God writes a better story than any of us ever could. We just need to give Him the pen and let him write.” But as Ridenour emphasized, we easily allow ourselves to think we can write a better story. We often think that God doesn’t care about us when He doesn’t answer us right away. But when we focus on what God doesn’t do, we forget what He does do.

The article added:

Today, Ridenour is traveling and sharing her testimony and the truth of God’s goodness with the world. “God has a plan and a purpose for everybody,” she concluded. “And we just have to trust and have faith that God will show those plans to us if it’s His will.” But His plans are certainly “bigger than we could ever imagine.” As author Vaneetha Rendall Risner once wrote, “This is the most precious answer God can give us: wait. It makes us cling to him rather than to an outcome. God knows what I need; I do not. He sees the future; I cannot. His perspective is eternal; mine is not. He will give me what is best for me when it is best for me.”

The good news for us as believers is that, yes, we have been picked!!  God has chosen each us of to be saved, and Jesus died for your sins and mine.  And, oh, yes, He has plans for us.  The Bible tells us that we belong to Him, we are a child of God, made in the image of God, and that we have been adopted into His family. 

So, when we struggle with self-doubt or rejection, we can turn to the One whose Word tells us that we have been "accepted in the Beloved,"  according to Ephesians 1. We can rely on the strength and direction of the Lord, so that we might fulfill the call He has placed in our lives.  He will complete that good work that He has started. 

We have not been forgotten - even though we may be tempted to forget Him. And, that's the story of God's grace; His Word shows us His great unconditional, unfailing love to a people who rejected Him, who sinned against God.  If we have sinned, we know that He is faithful and just to forgive us - He wants us to run to Him, not away, when we feel forgotten, so that we might be forgiven.

Standing With Israel

There is a spiritual connection that Christians enjoy with the Jewish people - now, all must come to God through Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life, but God's dealing with His chosen people, for whom His love and favor have not ceased, demonstrates to us His faithfulness. Romans 4 states:
16 Therefore it is of faith that it might be according to grace, so that the promise might be sure to all the seed, not only to those who are of the law, but also to those who are of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all
17 (as it is written, "I have made you a father of many nations") in the presence of Him whom he believed--God, who gives life to the dead and calls those things which do not exist as though they did;
18 who, contrary to hope, in hope believed, so that he became the father of many nations, according to what was spoken, "So shall your descendants be."

These are challenging times for the nation of Israel - still fighting in Gaza in response to the brutal October 7 attacks, watching to see what Iran does in possible retaliation for Israel's taking out two terrorist leaders who are proxies for Iran, and the possibility that support for the Jewish state is in decline.  

That would include even among people of faith.  Frank Newport of the Gallup organization wrote recently:

Gallup’s 24-year history of asking each February about Middle East sympathies has consistently shown a much higher level of sympathy for the Israelis than for the Palestinians.

But as my colleague Jeff Jones summarized in his analysis of recent data, “While Americans have always sympathized more with the Israelis, the gap has narrowed in recent years,” reflecting a drop in the percentage of Americans saying they are sympathetic to the Israelis and an increase in sympathy for the Palestinians. Specifically, the attitudinal gap between sympathies for the Israelis and sympathies for the Palestinians has dropped from 42 percentage points in aggregated surveys conducted between 2001-2019 to 30 points over the past five years.

Newport states, "A number of complex factors are behind these changes in sympathies. One of the most interesting relates to shifts in Americans’ religious identities and overall religiosity." He zeroes in on a variety of faith groups, including Protestants, who "are among the most sympathetic to Israel." He notes: "Protestants have generally been a bulwark of support for Israel in the U.S. -- a relationship built on the historical centrality of Israel in the Judeo-Christian religious tradition from which Protestantism derives."

Newport goes on to say: "...although Protestants have retained their high level of sympathy for Israel, the number of Protestants in the U.S. has been shrinking. This trend lessens the impact of one of Israel’s core bases of support in the U.S."  He goes on to say...

...not only has the percentage of the U.S. population with no religious identity been increasing (popularized by some researchers as “the rise of the nones”), but nones have become increasingly likely to say their sympathies lie with the Palestinians rather than with the Israelis. In the past five years, in fact, “nones” have tipped to the point where they evince higher sympathy for the former than the latter -- the only major religious group with plurality sympathy for the Palestinians.

About two-thirds of American Protestants over the past five years indicate they are more sympathetic to Israel over the Palestinians.  That compares to 56% of Americans overall. 

The data shows a correlation between church attendance and support for Israel.  Gallup shows that among those who attend church once a week, 67% are more sympathetic to Israel. 

Christians support Israel for a number of reasons.  The Christian Post reported that just after the Hamas attack on Israel, David Jeremiah, heard on Turning Point weekday mornings at 6:00 on Faith Radio, released a prayer for Israel; the article stated:

“Israel is God's chosen people, and her borders are the boundaries of the Promised Land,” he said. “The loss of life, the bloodshed, and the destruction of property are heartbreaking.”

The pastor and author said that amid the chaos and terrorism, he is reminded of God's words to Abraham when He chose him to be the father of “this great nation”: "I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you," (Genesis 12:3).

“As Christians, we recognize God's purpose for Israel, and we must stand with her,” he wrote, asking Christians to join him in “petitioning the Lord on behalf of our brothers and sisters in Israel.”

“The psalmist tells us to ‘pray for the peace of Jerusalem,’” reads Jeremiah’s prayer. “So I pray for peace for Your chosen people, Israel, and their beloved city today. You have planned for Israel, provided for Israel, and protected Israel for thousands of years.

As Israel braces for the possibility of more conflict, facing threats from Hezbollah to the north, Hamas to the south, and the pervasive shadow of Iran, the nation needs the prayers of the body of Christ.  God's faithfulness to Israel throughout the ages can also demonstrate God's love for us. He has not ceased to love the people He has chosen, and we, because of Jesus, the Messiah, have been given the tremendous gift of salvation. God continues to hold out His hand toward the Jewish people, as we see throughout the Scriptures, and He has extended His salvation to the whole world.

Crackdown

All that we see and hear is not necessarily true, and we have to be discerning about what we take in to our consciousness. Proverbs 4 states:
23 Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.
24 Put away from you a deceitful mouth, And put perverse lips far from you.
25 Let your eyes look straight ahead, And your eyelids look right before you.
26 Ponder the path of your feet, And let all your ways be established.

Right now, the United Kingdom is in a state of upheaval - and authorities are trying to stem the flow of information by threatening not only to arrest its own citizens, but citizens of the U.S., as well.  The New York Post stated:

Riots have broken out across the United Kingdom in recent days over false rumors spread online that an asylum seeker was responsible for a mass stabbing at a Taylor Swift-themed dance event that left three girls dead and others wounded.

The murders, allegedly committed by a now 18-year-old British citizen born to Rwandan parents, sparked a series of violent protests that tapped into broader concerns about the scale of immigration in the U.K.

The London Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley is quoted by Sky News: “We will throw the full force of the law at people. And whether you’re in this country committing crimes on the streets or committing crimes from further afield online, we will come after you..."

The article reports:

Footage of the violent clashes involving anti-immigration protesters and the groups of counter-protesters, some of whom have been seen waving Palestinian flags, has gone viral on social media, and the government is warning that sharing such content may have serious consequences.

One key aspect that makes this apparent crackdown on social media particularly shocking to critics is that the British government is threatening to extradite American citizens from the U.S. to be jailed in the U.K. for violating their rules about political speech online.

A Fox News article stated that Prime Minister Keir Starmer "blamed the violence on misinformation spread on social media."  Gary Bauer, at his American Values website, described Starmer as "a Marxist who is accelerating the crackdown on free speech and arresting people who post online criticism of mass migration. This, from the nation that gave the world the Magna Carta. Police in England are now being called by average citizens, 'Starmer Troopers.'"

A recent National Review piece quoted from The Daily Telegraph, which said:

Tech companies will be forced to ban fake news from their platforms under plans being considered by the Government in the wake of the riots.

Sir Keir Starmer suggested on Friday that the Government would review social media laws as part of efforts to prevent further disorder.

And, as so often the case of laws such as these, a lot would hang on how “fake” is to be defined and determined.

The article goes on to say:

The Daily Telegraph also reported that Starmer might be considering another change to the policing of online content:

The Telegraph understands that ministers are looking at introducing a duty on social media companies to restrict “legal but harmful” content.

Certainly it is troubling that social media is apparently being used to fan the flames of tension between groups in the U.K. or anywhere.  But, in the interest of gaining control, it seems as if officials are attempting to silence information - information that could reflect poorly on certain groups of people. 

It's a reminder that immigration is a hot-button issue, and as David Brody of CBN analyzed in a conversation at this year's National Religious Broadcasters Convention, there is a tension between the rule of law and compassion for people.  

Each of us should regulate our intake and output as far as social media is concerned. We should not be engaged in online behavior that stirs up dissension.  But, when authorities attempt to censor content that is not intended to inflame, but to inform, then you have a sticky issue which could lead to an intrusion upon freedom of speech.  

We have seen excessive social media governance end up silencing Christians, who are falsely accused of spreading what some would consider "misinformation."  As a court case revealed, there was evidence that government actors were collaborating with social media companies to perpetrate certain policitized narratives, but the U.S. Supreme Court did not find that the behavior was unconstitutional. 

Social media, and the Internet in general, has become a potential minefield; and with the spread of artificial intelligence, we are reminded that we can't believe everything we see.  There will be manipulation of images that leads to manipulation of minds, of public opinion.  We have to keep the conclusions we draw evidence-based and not be blown back and forth by the winds of the day.

Cultural Christianity: Form of Godliness

In Mark chapter 7, Jesus took on the religious people of the day, who had various traditions, but did not adhere to the Word of God.  He said:

6 ..."Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written: 'This people honors Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me.
7 And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'

Later in the chapter, we can read this:
8 "For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men--the washing of pitchers and cups, and many other such things you do."
9 He said to them, "All too well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition.

He speaks of...
13 making the word of God of no effect through your tradition which you have handed down. And many such things you do."

We have heard some high-profile people use the phrase, "cultural Christian," to describe themselves as of late.  Even though Christians should be engaged in changing the culture, to use the word, "cultural," as an adjective to define the word, "Christian," is a bit of a stretch. We should not allow the culture to define us, but should always be seeking to impact the culture with the love and presence of Christ. 

Take, for instance, one of the most popular men on the planet these days, Elon Musk, founder of Tesla and SpaceX, and now the owner of what was formerly known as Twitter, now called, X. The Christian Post ran an article on recent statements by the entrepreneur, reporting:

"While I'm not a particularly religious person, I do believe that the teachings of Jesus are good and wise, and that there's tremendous wisdom in turning the other cheek," Musk told Jordan Peterson during an interview for The Daily Wire.

The article goes on to say:

"I'm actually a big believer in the principles of Christianity," Musk went on. "I think they're very good."

After Musk hesitated when Peterson pressed him to explain in what sense he was not religious, Peterson noted how atheist Richard Dawkins recently labeled himself a "cultural Christian" despite not believing in the supernatural tenets of Christianity.

"I would say I'm probably a cultural Christian," said Musk, who noted he has had many conversations with Dawkins. "I was brought up as an Anglican, and I was baptized."

The interview also included Musk's disdain regarding his son's "transition" into becoming a female. The Post article related:

Musk also recounted during the interview with Peterson how his 20-year-old son Xavier, who now identifies as a female named Vivian Jenna Wilson, is effectively "dead" after he was "tricked" into authorizing his chemical transition.

"It happened to one of my older boys, where I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys, Xavier. This is before I had any understanding of what was going on," said Musk, who has 12 children.

Musk added, "I agree with you that people that have been promoting this should go to prison...I was tricked into doing this. It wasn't explained to me that puberty blockers are actually just sterilization drugs." He also said, "And so I lost my son, essentially," adding, "So, you know, they call it 'deadnaming' for a reason, alright? So the reason it's called 'deadnaming' is because your son is dead. So my son, Xavier, is dead, killed by the woke mind virus."  He said that following this series of events, he "vowed to destroy the woke mind virus..."

Richard Dawkins, who is a noted atheist, according to the Washington Examiner...

...admitted he is concerned about the decline of Christianity in the Western world and even described himself as a “cultural Christian.”

“I do think that we are culturally a Christian country,” Dawkins told Leading Britain’s Conversation, a British talk-radio station. “I call myself a cultural Christian. I’m not a believer. … And so you know, I love hymns and Christmas carols, and I sort of feel at home in the Christian ethos. … If we substituted [Christianity] with any alternative religion, that would be truly dreadful.”

The writer, Kaylee McGhee White, states this:

What Dawkins has realized, perhaps too late, is that the “Christian ethos,” as he described it, is the very foundation of the laws and institutions upon which Western society depends. Equal justice under the law, the importance of the family unit, the need for community, and the importance of self-control and personal responsibility in a self-governing society all find their basis in biblical teachings. The very concept of human rights is rooted in the belief that all human beings have divine value that no person can take from them.

Strip society of these values by encouraging people to reject their source, and it turns out that what we’re left with is a soulless, depressed, and increasingly unjust culture. Get rid of God, and everyone starts to think of themselves as their own gods.

Dawkins apparently recognizes the problem with this, which is why he now argues that Christianity in particular is necessary, if only to regulate the public’s behavior — while, of course, continuing to argue that religion itself is bad. One has to wonder whether such an inconsistency requires greater mental gymnastics than simply believing in God.

And, even Jordan Peterson, who conducted the interview with Elon Musk, is unclear about his own Christian faith.  Jeff Gardner, writing for The Stream, says:

Does it matter if Peterson is Christian? To quote Peterson, “Well, that depends” on what direction he ultimately takes his work on Judeo-Christian “stories” and what he says we should draw from them. If, like Joseph Campbell, who built a career on telling us what Christian stories did and did not mean but then quipped that the Judeo-Christian belief in bodily resurrection was “a clown act, really,” Peterson someday asserts that Jesus was nothing more than a historical figure upon whom we collectively placed our need to believe in a hero, then, well, that’s a problem. If, however, Peterson comes to a place where, like C.S. Lewis, he finds that “I have just passed on from believing in God to definitely believing in Christ,” that would signal a very different chapter in Peterson’s public story.

Peterson, in the lecture Gardner attended, referred to "the good," and "the bad." Gardner writes: 

This distinction between how we judge “the good” and “the bad” has its roots in great Christian thinkers like St. Augustine of Hippo and is at the heart of the Christian enjoinment to “hate the sin but love the sinner.” The sinner wants fulfillment of a natural desire, but in his actions, he is in the most literal sense, doing it wrong and disorganizing himself and others in the process. How to organize ourselves and the world towards “the good,” Peterson pointed out, is at the heart of Judeo-Christian values and something that we should all deeply internalize.

The goodness of Christianity vs. the evil of this world. These men seem to be dealing in concepts that they do not possess the Biblical knowledge to really define.  With Elon Musk's and Richard Dawkins' endorsement of a "cultural Christianity" that resembles Biblical truth but doesn't embrace it fully, they are at a place they share with others who profess Christ, who possess, as the Bible calls it in 2nd Timothy 3, a "form of godliness," but without power.  One should not judge a person's salvation, or what is in his or her heart, certainly.  But, one can hear a person's own confession, which can indicate that he or she has been transformed through a relationship with Jesus Christ.  Peterson may have a "Christianity-adjacent" set of beliefs, but one cannot be quite sure if he is one of us, even though he philosophizes about topics that are related to faith. 

A "cultural Christian," I would contend, is not a Christian at all, because that person's allegiance may be to some of the teachings of Jesus that they have hand-picked, but lacks the fruit of turning aside from the things of the world and following Jesus wholeheartedly, accepting Him as their Savior.  Christians have to guard against having the culture dictate or influence their deeply-held beliefs and convictions.  But, conversely, we can make sure that we are having a redemptive impact on the culture, taking every opportunity to show the world who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Strengthening Those Who Serve

In the closing sections of the book of 2nd Timothy chapter 4, Paul shares an admonition with Timothy to be faithful to follow the call of God in his life. We can find these words:
5 But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
6 For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure is at hand.
7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.

Last week, in communities across our land, people participated in the National Night Out, which is described on its website as "an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live."

A recent article at The Baptist Paper highlighted the concept of a ministry to those who serve our communities in law enforcement. It was written by Christi Hall and stated:

In today’s tumultuous times, the divide between law enforcement and the communities they serve seems wider than ever. The role of the church in bridging this gap cannot be overstated. As ministry leaders, it’s essential to recognize that the church holds a unique position to support and uplift those who put their lives on the line for our safety every day.

In the article, originally published by the State Convention of Baptists in Ohio, Hall writes:

Understanding the culture and needs of law enforcement is paramount. Instead of expecting officers to come to us, we must go to them. This involves learning about their unique challenges, developing a plan tailored to their needs, and ultimately establishing a rapport built on trust and respect.

She continues:

The statistics paint a sobering picture of the challenges law enforcement officers face — from cumulative stress to higher rates of PTSD and depression. In addition to providing prayer support, there are countless ways churches can come alongside these brave men and women. Whether it’s through practical support like providing meals to an officer’s family after an illness or death, card-writing programs, or equipping crisis-trained chaplains, the goal remains the same — to offer hope and healing through the power of Jesus Christ.

This is a key avenue that the Church can leverage in order to provide encouragement and a source of strength to those who serve in this unique way. Hall states: "A law enforcement ministry provides an avenue for members of the law enforcement community to access spiritually-minded resources that can help mitigate stress and provide comfort during difficult times. Pastoral counseling, mentorship programs, and prayer ministry all serve to strengthen the spiritual resilience of officers and their families." At the conclusion of the article, she directed readers to the website, ChaplainsandHeroes.com.

John Revell is someone who injects his faith in Jesus Christ into the work he does through a ministry called Life Line Chaplaincy.  And, he has recently come on board as chaplain for the Newtown Police Department in Connecticut, according to a piece on The Newtown Bee website.  He had served in Stamford, but was very involved in Newtown in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook tragedy. The article says:

“Obviously it hit everybody here, locally, but it also hit the surrounding communities hard as well,” he said. “Our guys, the Stamford cops, they were devastated by it.

“I came with them the following week to do escorts for the funerals,” he added. “The motorcycle officers had me come along with them.”

Standing in funeral homes and churches wearing his chaplain badge, Revell found himself being approached by members of the community, first responders, and families, “just pouring their hearts out.”

That, he said, was his first introduction to trauma, “not just for police officers but also for first responders. It opened my eyes to the reality of not just the kind of trauma that can happen to the general public but the kind of trauma our first responders face on an all-too-often basis.”

Revell has continued to help first responders deal with various crises, including mass casualty events, life-threatening job-related injuries, traumatic criminal investigations, and horrific accident scenes. 

According to the article, he launched Life Line Chaplaincy in 2015, described as "a not-for-profit organization devoted to 'pushing back on first responder suicides' which are, he said, 'at a rate most of the general population has no clue about. It’s very high.'”

He said, “I have devoted the rest of my life to do anything and everything I can to keep first responders out of the morgue from self-inflicted wounds..." The article notes:

Life Line Chaplaincy is devoted to providing resources to push back against those suicides. The organization, according to its website, does this through pastoral ministry, chaplaincy, not-for-profit management, financial management, and business.

This information can be relevant to remind us in the Church to continue to build relationships with the public servants around us.  And, that includes those who serve in law enforcement, who are putting their lives on the line in order to keep residents safe.  Crime is a topic that is fresh on our minds these days, and these public servants see the fruit of sin on an up-close basis, regularly.  We can pray for the them - and pray for our communities in general, engaging in spiritual warfare prayers, recognizing the brokenness we see is the product of our spiritual enemy's destructive activity.

Churches, ministries, and even individual Christians can open their eyes with spiritual sensitivity to the ministry needs around them.  Where a ministry does not exist, that may be a sign that God is calling a person or organization to start one.  Our gifting and equipping can be used of the Lord in order to bring His presence into the lives of people who are in need of encouragement.

Open To God

These are certainly anxious times, and there is plenty about which we can be anxious. We are especially vulnerable to worry and fear. But, we can be confident that Jesus offers us His peace - an inner peace that affects our response to troubling circumstances. Philippians 4 states:
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--meditate on these things.

A high-profile music and acting star experienced a dramatic change in his life about a year and a half ago; he talked about it in an interview, saying: “Some people think I lost my mind. Some people think I was brainwashed. People think a lot of different things, and I get that because, you know, when it comes to Jesus, I was so against that, and I thought everyone who followed Him was crazy and wrong,” adding, “And then I had like literal personal encounters with Jesus, like, insane, life-changing stuff.”

That is a quote from an interview with Bru on the Radio, as quoted in a Movieguide article about Joshua Bassett. That article said:

The music star publicly shared his faith in January 2023 after he had two undeniable encounters with Christ in a short period of time. Less than a month later, he committed himself to the Lord and was baptized.

Since then, Bassett has been open about his faith and the radical change in his life he has experienced since becoming a follower of Christ. His commitment to the Lord has been especially impressive, as he has faced intense backlash from his fanbase who have criticized his conversion.

Bassett said in that aforementioned interview: “The peace that I was looking for, I was reading all these books and trying to find, like, that answer to life and why we are we here and looking for that love, and every single time I felt like I was getting progress, but I was actually reaching a dead end. And I was even more and more depressed and more and more addicted, and I fell into these holes, and I wasn’t feeling that peace until I literally had the most insane encounter with Jesus..."  

He added: “And then I finally felt the peace that I was always looking for...And so, it wasn’t like somebody told me, you know, about God and I just fell into the belief because I was convinced. I had to know for myself, and God showed himself to me, and I literally experienced His peace, and so that has just radically changed everything.”

That most recent Movieguide report referenced a previous article, which stated:

Pop icon and Disney Channel star Joshua Bassett recently got baptized, sharing a snippet of his testimony on Instagram.

“No other teacher gave me anywhere near the peace that Jesus Christ did,” Bassett said. “I’m here to publicly declare him as my Lord and Savior.”

“I grew up Christian,” he shared. “And I ran the other way as far as I could go, in pursuit of ‘truth,’ and that only ended in addiction, depression, suicidal ideation, eating disorder, etc.”

“The gospel is GOOD NEWS for all willing to love and obey Him who keeps your heart beating,” he added on Twitter.

Joshua wanted to know the real Jesus, and he has experienced the reality of salvation and the peace that comes from knowing Him.  He was searching, and God met him along that path.  We can consider whether or not we are seeking to know Jesus in all His fulness and experience His abundant love. 

This young singer and actor talks about the peace of God.  Philippians 4 describes it as a peace that "surpasses all understanding."  Jesus offers us that peace, and we can think about the degree to which we have received it.  The enemy will try to steal that peace, and circumstances will weigh heavy against it - our ability to seize and appropriate that peace is dependent on the submission of our hearts and minds to the presence of God.