Biblical Values
A History of Prayer
Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on May 12, 2008 Biblical Values •
I love history. In school, I always aced history and English. It’s no wonder I still love to read stories and articles on historical events—from yesterday, last year, and even 2,000 years ago. Everyone and everything has a story and history to tell.
Just the other day, I read how the National Day of Prayer first began, and how and why the tradition was continued throughout history. Days of prayer were declared by:
• President George Washington after the Whiskey Rebellion. • President John Adams when France threatened to make war with America. • President Madison during the War of 1812. • President Tyler when President Harrison died. • President Taylor during a cholera epidemic. • President Buchanan to avert civil strife. • President Lincoln during the Civil War. • President Andrew Johnson when President Lincoln was shot. • President Wilson during World War I.
Finally, in 1952, President Truman made the National Day of Prayer an annual event, saying: “In times of national crisis when we are striving to strengthen the foundations of peace…we stand in special need of Divine support.”
And President Ronald Reagan declared the National Day of Prayer to take place each year on the first Thursday in May.
Praise God that our country has not thrown this sacred national holiday out of the books like we have so many other holy things. In light of how important this event is, we must also realize the importance of daily prayer for our country, its leaders, our government, schools, media, and other influential figures.
You’ve probably heard this Scripture used over and over again, but it’s good to know that God’s Word is unchanging and His promises are true. The Bible says, “My people who are called by My name humble themselves, pray and seek My face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14, HCSB).
Do you believe God will do what He says if we obey His commands? Do you make time each day to pray for our government, our troops serving overseas, our President, and other political leaders? Are you praying every day for the Presidential candidates campaigning across the U.S.?
As believers and Americans, it is our responsibility to be faithful in praying for our country—not just in times of crisis, but always.
Source of historical facts: American Minute with Bill Federer (www.amerisearch.net)
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Responding to a culture in transition
Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on May 12, 2008 Biblical Values •
Growing up in a small town, I was naive to much of what the world was really about until I moved away from that airtight bubble and into the big city. My eyes were opened to a whole new way of thinking, living, and being.
Where I had once been sheltered in a loving Christian home, I was thrown into the “real” world when I joined the “worldly” masses. My faith didn’t change in a bad way—but it was certainly tested and challenged more than once. My move forced me to own my faith and back up what I believed—on more than one occasion.
That was over five years ago. Since that time, I have had the opportunity to evaluate how my generation of believers—myself included—has responded to the changing culture, and the issues of God, politics, and world events.
For some, life still only revolves around them and their worldview is extremely self-central. But for others, life and faith has become about making change happen and speaking out for what they believe in a materialistic, self-consumed culture. There are certainly other categories of people that have come to my attention, but it seems that these two are the ones I’ve encountered most of the past few years.
I remember MTV making a big push several years ago about getting out and voting. I noticed that a lot of people my age didn’t really care as much then. But it seems something has changed over the past few years. More and more I’m seeing people—especially Christians—involved in causing change in our culture by going out into the world and making sure that it happens.
I’m curious to see how this affects our country in the years to come. The world is coming to us in droves each and every day. And American Christians—especially people my age (20s-30s)—are beginning to realize the impact we could have right here in our own back yards.
How are you responding to this movement? Is there a way you can impact your culture and bring about a revolutionary change that will move people toward salvation in Jesus? What are you doing to change the world? Are you voting in a way that will honor God and set people up to find Truth and freedom in Him?
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How much is too much: Faith and Politics?
Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on May 5, 2008 Biblical Values •
“Evangelicals say faith is now too political.” This is the headline that the Dallas Morning News published in an article just recently. Here is an excerpt from the article:
Conservative Christian leaders who believe the word “evangelical” has lost its religious meaning plan to release a starkly self-critical document saying the movement has become too political and has diminished the Gospel through its approach to the culture wars.
The statement, called “An Evangelical Manifesto,” condemns Christians on the right and left for “using faith” to express political views without regard to the truth of the Bible, according to a draft of the document obtained Friday by The Associated Press.
“That way faith loses its independence, Christians become `useful idiots’ for one political party or another, and the Christian faith becomes an ideology,” according to the draft.
The declaration, scheduled to be released Wednesday in Washington, encourages Christians to be politically engaged and uphold teachings such as traditional marriage. But the drafters say evangelicals have often expressed “truth without love,” helping create a backlash against religion during a “generation of culture warring.”
“All too often we have attacked the evils and injustices of others,” they wrote, “while we have condoned our own sins.” They argue, “we must reform our own behavior.”
The document is the latest chapter in the debate among conservative Christians about their role in public life. Most veteran leaders believe the focus should remain on abortion and marriage, while other evangelicals—especially in the younger generation—are pushing for a broader agenda. The manifesto sides with those seeking a wide-range of concerns beyond “single-issue politics.”
The article states that more than 80 evangelicals including Os Guiness and Richard Mouw are among the supporters. And Phil Burress, an Ohio activist, said that if high-profile Christian leaders such as James Dobson and Richard Land don’t endorse the document, then it would not be successful.
I don’t intend for this blog to have a devotional format—with an overindulgence of wisdom and truth from God’s Word. Instead, I’d like for this blog to be a motivation to readers to think this issue through, do some research, pray about it, and figure out what the Holy Spirit may be telling you.
Your thoughts and feedback are welcome.
Source: © 2008 The Associated Press.
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Celebrity Influence
Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on May 1, 2008 Biblical Values •
Celebrities have a magical power over society that has literally grown out of control of the past hundred years.
I’m not talking about the heroes that have risked their lives for our freedom or the founding fathers of our country. I’m referring to the icons in pop culture—on the radio, the big screen, and in the gossip magazines—that have mesmerized our culture.
Lately, I’ve heard more high profile celebrities offer their thoughts and opinions about certain social and political issues than at any other time in my life. When they issue even one simple statement regarding their thoughts on same-sex “marriage,” the war overseas, taxes, or anything else, they capture the attention and unquestioning approval of thousands.
I can see where their voices would be an incredible influence on America—especially young people who often worship the ground they walk on in an all too ungodly way. Likewise, their endorsements of political candidates are extremely advantageous to the ones running for office.
According to Forbes.com article written by David Andelman: “The six [celebrities] who would have the most positive impact on the image of a candidate with whom they associated were Oprah, on top, followed by Tom Hanks, George Clooney, Jon Stewart of The Daily Show, Angelina Jolie and Tiger Woods.”
In addition, pollsters at E-Poll Market Research showed that “the younger the voter, the more positive the perception of a candidate endorsed by a celebrity they admire.”
If you don’t keep up with what celebrities believe and endorse, you may be surprised to find where some of your favorites place their loyalty. It’s amazing to me how many people, even Christians, place their stock in the lifestyles, actions, and words of celebrities—imperfect people who are oftentimes far from knowing any kind of Truth.
As followers of Jesus, we know One who is more famous than anyone in the entire world. Do you believe what He has spoken? Do you follow Him where He goes? Do you strive to mimic the lifestyle He had?
What values and beliefs would Jesus endorse? Maybe it’s time we shift our attention and decide to follow in the footsteps of Jesus—the most holy Famous One.
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An Assault against Life
Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on April 24, 2008 Biblical Values •
I just recently read an article about a senior art major at Yale, Aliza Shvarts, who reportedly performed the horrific act of abortion on herself in the name of art. The “artist” documented herself on video, through a 9-month period, reportedly artificially inseminating herself and then periodically taking abortifacient drugs in order to induce miscarriages.
According to Shvarts, her goal was to “spark conversation and debate on the relationship between art and the human body.” And she believes “strongly that art should be a medium for politics and ideologies, not just a commodity. I think that I’m creating a project that lives up to the standard of what art is supposed to be.”
Authorities at Yale University are saying the incident is a hoax, but Shvarts has rebutted saying she will prove it isn’t by displaying her documentary in an art show soon.
Rightly so, her display has caused shock and outrage all across the country. National groups on both sides of the abortion debate have condemned the project. And many students on campus expressed their disgust at the “art” project saying “it trivialized abortion and transgressed any reasonable moral boundary.”
I think the first questions we must ask are: Since when did taking unborn lives become art? How could our country allow this to happen? And, how did people become so insensitive to the issue of abortion?
As Christians, we should also be outraged by this horrific act and take a stand against it! It is God who creates human life.
His Word says, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made… When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be” (Psalm 139:13-16, NIV).
Since the legalization of abortion by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1973’s Roe v. Wade, people all over our country have become desensitized to the value of life. Back then, the Court ruled that an unborn child is neither a human nor a person, and therefore is not protected under the Constitution.
Today, our nation is still divided on this issue and it continues to be a hot topic in the debate among this year’s presidential candidates. But, the Word of God stands firm—unchanging—and it specifically speaks out against the massacre of the unborn. Where do you stand? If you’re a believer in Christ, then your decision should be easy. Let your voice be heard.
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McDonalds & Discriminating Taste
Posted by: Brent James on April 23, 2008 Biblical Values •
The word “discrimination” has fallen on hard times. Everyone is afraid of it. I guess it sounds scary. To be caught “discriminating” is a capital offense. But in the real world, it is discrimination that keeps us alive. It is what makes us unique. Say for instance, you walk into a car dealership and see two gentlemen waiting to sell you a car. One appears dishonest to you for whatever reason (perhaps a skinny mustache). The other strikes you as honest. Maybe he has a kind look in his eye. Who do you approach? Congratulations, you’ve just discriminated. Last time I checked, having “discriminating taste” was still a positive attribute. Heck, choosy moms choose Jif.
What does this have to do with voting? Everything. In fact, all of us are going to discriminate this fall in order to select a new president. We’ll be making judgments for goodness sake! It’s okay. Calm down, everyone. God himself expects it.
“My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment, do not let them out of your sight.” Proverbs 3:21
“Open your mouth, judge righteously, and defend the rights of the afflicted and needy.” Proverbs 31:9
Participating in political elections is only part of the equation. Voting is a way of life for those wanting a free and prosperous society, uncluttered by social ills. We cast a ballot every time we make a decision to support or reject cultural offerings. We can vote with our money by choosing where to spend it. If you don’t like the fact that McDonald’s believes it is being socially responsible by promoting the homosexual agenda, you stop eating their food.
Wow! That’s freedom. That’s powerful. What values most to you?
Personally, I think Whataburger has better shakes.
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Nobody at the Helm
Posted by: Brent James on April 22, 2008 Biblical Values •
Three years ago I worked for an advertising agency. One Friday morning, after receiving some particularly disappointing news, several of us officers sat around the conference room table discussing our options. The executive managers had just informed us that we would not be seeing raises of any kind for the third consecutive year. The apology sounded rather hollow, as we had continuously improved our team effort to make the company more profitable. Some talked of looking for more rewarding work elsewhere.
Weeks later, we were called to a special meeting to hear the company’s financial status report. When the CFO had finished his presentation with all its attending graphs and charts, he sat down. It made no sense why our revenues were so flat. “Any questions?”
An officer respectfully offered, “I don’t know about anyone else, but if this continues, I’ll have no choice but to seek other employment. Can someone speak to why we are we performing so poorly?”
I was stunned to hear the answer. There was a long silence. The CEO hung his head, then after a long silence explained that four years earlier an aggressive business plan had been adopted, but since that time, no one had bothered to oversee its implementation! There was no one at the helm!!! Those of us below decks had been rowing furiously, assuming that our responsible leaders were making sure all our hard work was applied toward the correct course. But it had been squandered.
It would appear that our great republic is in a state of rudderless wandering. Those of us with a moral or spiritual inkling know we are off course. In the last three decades, every time this poll question has been posed “Is America headed in the right direction?” Americans have overwhelmingly responded “NO” sometimes by a margin over 80%. How do we know to judge whether or not we are headed in the right direction? The Bible lays plain that we each possess an innate knowledge of God’s law. What will we do with it?
Remember last year before all the presidential politicking commenced, we were talking, in a national sense, about the dearth of leadership. We bemoaned the many choices, but few real options. Where are we today? Listen to what our leaders are saying by not addressing the most pressing issues of our day.
Okay, so what next? It’s not enough to just ask questions.
Two leader’s wisdom comes to mind: Jefferson, with his “The price of freedom is eternal vigilance” and Ronald Reagan’s favorite “Trust, but verify.”
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Knowing the Why Behind the What
Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on April 21, 2008 Biblical Values •
Just last week, I was talking to a friend about some hot topics that plague our society. We talked about these issues in relation to the upcoming presidential election. As we hashed out our opinions on each topic, she stopped and revealed her embarrassment for lacking defenses regarding certain topics.
It reminded me of what Peter wrote in his first letter: “Set apart the Messiah as Lord in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. However, do this with gentleness and respect, keeping your conscience clear” (1 Peter 3:14-16).
Do you know what you believe? You may have developed your own opinions on certain topics, but do you have a biblical defense for them? I told my friend that if she has even the slightest question about her beliefs, then she should go to God’s Word. And even after that, she should make sure all of her opinions are in line with what God says in the Bible.
There is no black and white when it comes to deciding what you believe about some issues. People broadcast so many different opinions, that it seems most choose to ride the fence in the gray area instead, which can cause confusion.
All of the candidates in this year’s election believe different things—and some even ride the fence. You could pick and choose from each one what you agree with and what you don’t, but you’ll never find the perfect candidate who believes exactly as you do.
The most important decision you can make this election year is to vote biblical values. Your first job is to put God first, arm yourself with the Truth, and approach each issue with “gentleness and respect” as Jesus would.
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Voter Generation Gap
Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on April 10, 2008 Biblical Values •
My grandma’s music is not my music today. My granddad’s paycheck didn’t look like the paycheck I get every two weeks. And their political party choice may not match mine. Times sure have changed.
There is definitely a generational gap in how we do things. But one thing we do share and connect on is our values—because we believe in what the timeless truth of God’s Word has to say about our culture’s hot topics.
A Gallup Poll recently stated that approximately 6 in 10 Americans say religion is very important in their lives, while 26% say religion is fairly important and only 16% say it is not very important at all.
Religious times sure have changed since my grandparents were my age. My grandmother used to tell me how good times were when she was growing up. I remember her detailing the time she and her family drove to California.
During their journey, they stopped on the side of the road one night to sleep out in the open air. The next night they randomly knocked on the door of a stranger in a town along the way to rest their heads. And throughout the trip, they picked up several hitchhikers to offer a helping hand because it was the right thing to do.
This would never happen today. Yes, times have changed—especially in our belief system, morals, and religious values in America.
Gallup said: “The percentage of Americans who reported that religion was very important in their lives was slightly lower between 1978 and 1989, but was significantly higher in surveys conducted in 1965 and 1952.”
Statistics aside, with each passing year our country seems to move more toward the idea that religion is less important. No wonder our culture is dying morally.
It is our job as believers to help make the right decisions when choosing which way our country should go. It’s time to stand up and speak out about what is truth according to God’s Word. A great place to do this is at the polls this year.
You don’t have to get out and vote like your grandma did. But you can get out and vote for morals and values according to God’s Word.
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Moral Fabric
Posted by: Kaylan Christopher on April 8, 2008 Biblical Values •
My grandmother was a fantastic quilt-maker. My parents, brother, and I have a collection of at least 8-10 quilts made by her hands that are scattered between us.
I have used one of these quilts over time excessively—dragging it around, washing it, allowing my dog to trample all over it, washing it again, and so on. As a result, after almost 20 years of use, it is extremely worn, thin, and falling apart at the seams.
If I protected it and taken better care of it throughout the years, then it would definitely be in much better shape—maybe even like new.
The same is true of the moral fabric in our country. Over the years, we’ve neglected to protect this area of moral and sexual purity in the lives of our families, schools, and government.
Time and again, we’ve seen leaders in government fall prey to the temptation of sexual immorality. Because our leaders have set this sort of example for the rest of our nation and have in some way influenced others that this issue is not important, we have become weak and torn in this area.
We have become numb to the provocative nature of what is produced on our televisions and movie screens. We have become numb to the explicit lyrics that come through our speakers. We have become numb to the sexual sin that is now widely accepted throughout our country.
Wall Street Journal editor Robert Bartley once said, “If America is to decline, it will not be because of military overstretch nor the trade balance, Japanese management secrets, or even the federal deficit. If a decline is underway, it’s a moral one.”
First Timothy 4:12 tells us that we should be examples in our speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. And 1 Corinthians 6:18 says, “Flee from sexual immorality!”
This election year, let’s remember what God’s Word says about this issue and vote for our biblical values. Remember the sanctity of sexual purity as God intends.
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