From My Perspective - - -
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Copenhagen Contagion
Monday, December 7, 2009
If “I” Were King
From My Perspective - - -
The King and I is a musical by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II based on the book Anna and the King of Siam by Margaret Landon. The plot comes from the memoirs of Anna Leonowens, who became school teacher to the children of King Mongkut of Siam in the early 1860s. Wikipedia contains a good summary of this production: “The King is quite pleased with Anna’s teaching. His eldest son Prince Chulalongkorn has some concerns, however. The young prince asks his father when he will know he knows everything and thus be ready to rule. The King gives him hope, but when he is alone, reveals that he himself is troubled; he does not know how best to rule. In the meantime, Anna tells the children that she has grown to like them. Then she launches into a new lesson - geography - having just received a more accurate map from England. The new map shows Siam in its proper size in relation to other countries. She has to end her lesson prematurely, though, when Prince Chulalongkorn refuses to believe that Siam is so small and that there is such a substance as snow. His father rescues Anna by ordering the children to believe her.”
There is a death-bed scene when all of the King’s children are brought to the King. “Prince Chulalongkorn is a combination of his father’s self-assured leadership and his mother’s careful wisdom. Prince Chulalongkorn brings to Anna’s classroom a healthy skepticism and a junior version of his father’s arrogance. Prince Chulalongkorn bridles at the geography lesson which reveals Siam to be smaller than he’d thought, then rebels and refuses to believe in snow, turning the classroom to pandemonium until his father orders the children to believe the schoolteacher. While the king is dying, the young prince makes his first proclamations, one of which is to abolish the established tradition of bowing low to the ground ‘like a toad’; instead, he wants his people to show their respect with straight backs and a confident look in their eyes. His display of command and concern for his people demonstrate his readiness to rule as well as his successful assimilation of modern Western thought.”
It is always good to remember who and where one is in terms of position and responsibility. In the world of politics, too often one is subjected to the bellicosity so typical of the politician. There can be a fixation on: “If ‘I’ were King…” They become fixated on "I" rather than the people who elected them. Peggy Noonan points out in her column on Friday, December 4th regarding the President's address to the nation from West Point: “…there was too much "I" in the speech. George H.W. Bush famously took the word "I" out of his speeches - we called them "I-ectomies" - because of a horror of appearing to be calling attention to himself. Mr. Obama is plagued with no such fears. When “I” took office…”I” approved a long-standing request…After consultations with our allies “I” then…”I” set a goal. That's all from one paragraph. Further down he used the word "I" in three paragraphs an impressive 15 times. "I” believe “I” know, "I” have signed…"I” have read…"I” have visited. I, I—ay yi yi. This is a man badly in need of an "I"-ectomy. After the President announced his plan he seemed to slip in, After 18 months, our troops will begin to come home…Then came the reference to July 2011 as the date departure begins. It was startling to hear a compelling case for our presence followed so quickly by an abrupt announcement of our leaving. It sounded like a strategy based on the song Groucho Marx used to sing, "Hello, I must be going."
Interestingly, the issue with Lucifer prior to his being cast out of heaven by God, was his need for an “I”-ectomy. In Isaiah 14:12-15 the Prophet states: “How you are fallen from heaven, O Day Star...How you are cut down to the ground...You who said in your heart, “I” will ascend to heaven; above the stars of God “I” will set my throne on high; “I” will sit on the mount of assembly in the far reaches of the north; “I” will ascend above the heights of the clouds; “I” will make myself like the Most High. But you are brought down to Sheol, to the far reaches of the pit.” The self-confident and self-assured should pay attention to the words of I Corinthians 10:12, “…let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.” The Message takes some liberties with its translation but maintains the basic focus: “Don't be so naive and self-confident. You're not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it's useless. Cultivate God-confidence.” Consider these things with me!
The King and I is a musical by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II based on the book Anna and the King of Siam by Margaret Landon. The plot comes from the memoirs of Anna Leonowens, who became school teacher to the children of King Mongkut of Siam in the early 1860s. Wikipedia contains a good summary of this production: “The King is quite pleased with Anna’s teaching. His eldest son Prince Chulalongkorn has some concerns, however. The young prince asks his father when he will know he knows everything and thus be ready to rule. The King gives him hope, but when he is alone, reveals that he himself is troubled; he does not know how best to rule. In the meantime, Anna tells the children that she has grown to like them. Then she launches into a new lesson - geography - having just received a more accurate map from England. The new map shows Siam in its proper size in relation to other countries. She has to end her lesson prematurely, though, when Prince Chulalongkorn refuses to believe that Siam is so small and that there is such a substance as snow. His father rescues Anna by ordering the children to believe her.”
There is a death-bed scene when all of the King’s children are brought to the King. “Prince Chulalongkorn is a combination of his father’s self-assured leadership and his mother’s careful wisdom. Prince Chulalongkorn brings to Anna’s classroom a healthy skepticism and a junior version of his father’s arrogance. Prince Chulalongkorn bridles at the geography lesson which reveals Siam to be smaller than he’d thought, then rebels and refuses to believe in snow, turning the classroom to pandemonium until his father orders the children to believe the schoolteacher. While the king is dying, the young prince makes his first proclamations, one of which is to abolish the established tradition of bowing low to the ground ‘like a toad’; instead, he wants his people to show their respect with straight backs and a confident look in their eyes. His display of command and concern for his people demonstrate his readiness to rule as well as his successful assimilation of modern Western thought.”
It is always good to remember who and where one is in terms of position and responsibility. In the world of politics, too often one is subjected to the bellicosity so typical of the politician. There can be a fixation on: “If ‘I’ were King…” They become fixated on "I" rather than the people who elected them. Peggy Noonan points out in her column on Friday, December 4th regarding the President's address to the nation from West Point: “…there was too much "I" in the speech. George H.W. Bush famously took the word "I" out of his speeches - we called them "I-ectomies" - because of a horror of appearing to be calling attention to himself. Mr. Obama is plagued with no such fears. When “I” took office…”I” approved a long-standing request…After consultations with our allies “I” then…”I” set a goal. That's all from one paragraph. Further down he used the word "I" in three paragraphs an impressive 15 times. "I” believe “I” know, "I” have signed…"I” have read…"I” have visited. I, I—ay yi yi. This is a man badly in need of an "I"-ectomy. After the President announced his plan he seemed to slip in, After 18 months, our troops will begin to come home…Then came the reference to July 2011 as the date departure begins. It was startling to hear a compelling case for our presence followed so quickly by an abrupt announcement of our leaving. It sounded like a strategy based on the song Groucho Marx used to sing, "Hello, I must be going."
Interestingly, the issue with Lucifer prior to his being cast out of heaven by God, was his need for an “I”-ectomy. In Isaiah 14:12-15 the Prophet states: “How you are fallen from heaven, O Day Star...How you are cut down to the ground...You who said in your heart, “I” will ascend to heaven; above the stars of God “I” will set my throne on high; “I” will sit on the mount of assembly in the far reaches of the north; “I” will ascend above the heights of the clouds; “I” will make myself like the Most High. But you are brought down to Sheol, to the far reaches of the pit.” The self-confident and self-assured should pay attention to the words of I Corinthians 10:12, “…let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.” The Message takes some liberties with its translation but maintains the basic focus: “Don't be so naive and self-confident. You're not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it's useless. Cultivate God-confidence.” Consider these things with me!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Fungible Vacillation
From My Perspective - - -
Only one of despotic suasion (namely, one who is autocratic; a ruler with absolute power; a person who wields power oppressively; a tyrant) would have any affinity for war. There are those for whom War is a way of life. The entire fabric of their life is to conquer and control. However, there are those for whom War becomes a task of principle rather than power; right rather than might; removal of tyrants rather than becoming a replacement for them.
During the early days of World War II, Winston Churchill was elected to be the Prime Minister of Great Britain (1940). Germany and Adolph Hitler were in the beginning stages of what would lead into World War II. As he addressed Parliament, Churchill stated his commitment, and that of the nation, in terms of the oppression that would soon engulf Europe: “I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat. We have before us an ordeal of the most grievous kind. We have before us many, many months of struggle and suffering. You ask, what is our policy? I say it is to wage war by land, sea, and air. War with all our might and with all the strength God has given us, and to wage war against a monstrous tyranny never surpassed in the dark and lamentable catalogue of human crime. That is our policy. You ask, what is our aim? I can answer in one word. It is victory. Victory at all costs - Victory in spite of all terrors - Victory, however long and hard the road may be, for without victory there is no survival.”
There was no fungible vacillation in Churchill’s resolve or statement – “without victory there is no survival.” Fungible is: “being of such nature or kind as to be freely exchangeable or replaceable, in whole or in part, for another of like nature or kind…” Vacillation is: “a state of indecision or irresolution; unsteady movement; fluctuation…” When Churchill spoke – he was clear, precise and forceful! Compare that to where we are today and the approach of our nation to the War in Afghanistan. In Der Spiegel Online International for December 03, 2009, a headline report is: Searching in Vain for the Obama Magic by Gabor Steingart. In the body of the article is this assessment: “Never before has a speech by President Barack Obama felt as false as his Tuesday address announcing America's new strategy for Afghanistan. It seemed like a campaign speech combined with Bush rhetoric -- and left both dreamers and realists feeling distraught. One can hardly blame the West Point leadership. The academy commanders did their best to ensure that Commander-in-Chief Barack Obama's speech would be well-received. Just minutes before the president took the stage inside Eisenhower Hall, the gathered cadets were asked to respond ‘enthusiastically’ to the speech. But it didn't help: The soldiers' reception was cool. One didn't have to be a cadet on Tuesday to feel a bit of nausea upon hearing Obama's speech. It was the least truthful address that he has ever held. He spoke of responsibility, but almost every sentence smelled of party tactics. He demanded sacrifice, but he was unable to say what it was for exactly. An additional 30,000 US soldiers are to march into Afghanistan -- and then they will march right back out again. America is going to war -- and from there it will continue ahead to peace. It was the speech of a Nobel War Prize laureate…”
In I Corinthians 14:7-9, the importance of avoiding fungible vacillation is indicated in these words: “…in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the flute or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes? Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle? So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air…” Speeches and Rhetoric have their place! An address can either inspire or discourage; be revelatory or cause bewilderment. One of the dangers of fungible vacillation is – it lacks vision and commitment to the goal of victory. In his speech to the nation at West Point, the President used “I” 43 times – but never once used the word - Victory”! Incredibly, we send troops into battle where some will die – and – they don’t know why they must face death. We no longer call it terror, and we no longer define the mission as achieving Victory. This is fungible vacillation. Consider these things with me!
During the early days of World War II, Winston Churchill was elected to be the Prime Minister of Great Britain (1940). Germany and Adolph Hitler were in the beginning stages of what would lead into World War II. As he addressed Parliament, Churchill stated his commitment, and that of the nation, in terms of the oppression that would soon engulf Europe: “I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat. We have before us an ordeal of the most grievous kind. We have before us many, many months of struggle and suffering. You ask, what is our policy? I say it is to wage war by land, sea, and air. War with all our might and with all the strength God has given us, and to wage war against a monstrous tyranny never surpassed in the dark and lamentable catalogue of human crime. That is our policy. You ask, what is our aim? I can answer in one word. It is victory. Victory at all costs - Victory in spite of all terrors - Victory, however long and hard the road may be, for without victory there is no survival.”
There was no fungible vacillation in Churchill’s resolve or statement – “without victory there is no survival.” Fungible is: “being of such nature or kind as to be freely exchangeable or replaceable, in whole or in part, for another of like nature or kind…” Vacillation is: “a state of indecision or irresolution; unsteady movement; fluctuation…” When Churchill spoke – he was clear, precise and forceful! Compare that to where we are today and the approach of our nation to the War in Afghanistan. In Der Spiegel Online International for December 03, 2009, a headline report is: Searching in Vain for the Obama Magic by Gabor Steingart. In the body of the article is this assessment: “Never before has a speech by President Barack Obama felt as false as his Tuesday address announcing America's new strategy for Afghanistan. It seemed like a campaign speech combined with Bush rhetoric -- and left both dreamers and realists feeling distraught. One can hardly blame the West Point leadership. The academy commanders did their best to ensure that Commander-in-Chief Barack Obama's speech would be well-received. Just minutes before the president took the stage inside Eisenhower Hall, the gathered cadets were asked to respond ‘enthusiastically’ to the speech. But it didn't help: The soldiers' reception was cool. One didn't have to be a cadet on Tuesday to feel a bit of nausea upon hearing Obama's speech. It was the least truthful address that he has ever held. He spoke of responsibility, but almost every sentence smelled of party tactics. He demanded sacrifice, but he was unable to say what it was for exactly. An additional 30,000 US soldiers are to march into Afghanistan -- and then they will march right back out again. America is going to war -- and from there it will continue ahead to peace. It was the speech of a Nobel War Prize laureate…”
In I Corinthians 14:7-9, the importance of avoiding fungible vacillation is indicated in these words: “…in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the flute or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes? Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle? So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air…” Speeches and Rhetoric have their place! An address can either inspire or discourage; be revelatory or cause bewilderment. One of the dangers of fungible vacillation is – it lacks vision and commitment to the goal of victory. In his speech to the nation at West Point, the President used “I” 43 times – but never once used the word - Victory”! Incredibly, we send troops into battle where some will die – and – they don’t know why they must face death. We no longer call it terror, and we no longer define the mission as achieving Victory. This is fungible vacillation. Consider these things with me!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Unprecedented Incredulity
From My Perspective - - -
The English Language is both intriguing and complex. It is difficult to determine how many words are actually in use and available for use. “The Second Edition of the Oxford English Dictionary contains full entries for 171,476 words in current use, and 47,156 obsolete words. To this may be added around 9,500 derivative words included as subentries. Over half of these words are nouns, about a quarter adjectives, and about a seventh verbs; the rest is made up of interjections, conjunctions, prepositions, suffixes, etc. These figures take no account of entries with senses for different parts of speech (such as noun and adjective).”
Many people become comfortable with their list of favorite words and make use of them frequently in their “talking points” and conversations. It is almost robotic. Many who are interviewed become very predictable in their responses and use of language. The President is no exception. Politico and United Press International reported this past week the President will make use of the term “unprecedented” in almost every speech and regarding most of his proposed legislation. Since being sworn into office, he has used “unprecedented” 129 times in an effort to (a) demean the previous administration, and (b) emphasize his keen insight and resolve for the crises facing the nation. The problem with using the word “unprecedented” frequently is in terms of whether or not it is a credible use of the word. “Unprecedented” means: “without previous instance; never before known or experienced; unexampled or unparalleled”! The UPI report includes: “Obama has relied on “unprecedented” in more than 90 instances, using the word at least 129 times in everything from major addresses to small speeches, statements, memorandums and proclamations. (Bush, by contrast, used the word 262 times over eight years.)”
UPI gives a partial list of President Obama’s usage of the word: “Obama has used “unprecedented” to describe his efforts on science research, his plan for the auto industry and his administration’s ethics, transparency and accountability guidelines. He has promised an “unprecedented commitment” to education, to developing clean energy and “to preserving America's treasured landscapes,” which, Obama has noted, have seen “unprecedented droughts” and “unprecedented wildfires” in the face of climate change. There has been “unprecedented consensus” on health care reform under Obama’s watch, as well as “the unprecedented intervention of the federal government to stabilize the financial markets” and an “unprecedented” bank review. His administration has also taken “unprecedented action to stem the spread of foreclosures,” Obama said, including the creation of “an unprecedented fund, in partnership with the Federal Reserve,” to get credit flowing.” This use of “unprecedented” is in fact “incredulous” (not credulous; disinclined or indisposed to believe; skeptical. indicating or showing unbelief).
MSNBC is conducting a Live Poll - http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10103521/ - on whether or not “In God We Trust” should be removed as the motto of this nation. If you participate in the Poll, you will find that 89% of those Polled want to retain the Motto. It would truly be both “unprecedented” and “incredulous” for this nation to jettison itself away from the foundations of the nation. The Biblical record of Israel – the people of God – gives indication of the peril when a nation forgets or removes God from its way of life and consciousness. Some examples: Deuteronomy 10:21, "He is your praise and He is your God, who has done these great and awesome things for you which your eyes have seen.” Psalm 78:11, “They forgot His deeds And His miracles that He had shown them.” Psalm 106:7, “Our fathers in Egypt did not understand Your wonders; They did not remember Your abundant kindnesses, But rebelled by the sea, at the Red Sea.” Psalm 106:13, “They quickly forgot His works; They did not wait for His counsel.” The result was: (a) their loss of significance in the world; (b) their inability to confront and conquer their enemies; (c) a steady decline in their favor before God; (d) their being led off into captivity by pagan nations; (e) their servitude to all of what should have been foreign to them. Why? Because of their departure from Almighty God and His Ways! We should learn from these examples – but – we haven’t and give no indication that we will. This same plight can and will be ours unless and until we change our ways! Consider these things with me!
Many people become comfortable with their list of favorite words and make use of them frequently in their “talking points” and conversations. It is almost robotic. Many who are interviewed become very predictable in their responses and use of language. The President is no exception. Politico and United Press International reported this past week the President will make use of the term “unprecedented” in almost every speech and regarding most of his proposed legislation. Since being sworn into office, he has used “unprecedented” 129 times in an effort to (a) demean the previous administration, and (b) emphasize his keen insight and resolve for the crises facing the nation. The problem with using the word “unprecedented” frequently is in terms of whether or not it is a credible use of the word. “Unprecedented” means: “without previous instance; never before known or experienced; unexampled or unparalleled”! The UPI report includes: “Obama has relied on “unprecedented” in more than 90 instances, using the word at least 129 times in everything from major addresses to small speeches, statements, memorandums and proclamations. (Bush, by contrast, used the word 262 times over eight years.)”
UPI gives a partial list of President Obama’s usage of the word: “Obama has used “unprecedented” to describe his efforts on science research, his plan for the auto industry and his administration’s ethics, transparency and accountability guidelines. He has promised an “unprecedented commitment” to education, to developing clean energy and “to preserving America's treasured landscapes,” which, Obama has noted, have seen “unprecedented droughts” and “unprecedented wildfires” in the face of climate change. There has been “unprecedented consensus” on health care reform under Obama’s watch, as well as “the unprecedented intervention of the federal government to stabilize the financial markets” and an “unprecedented” bank review. His administration has also taken “unprecedented action to stem the spread of foreclosures,” Obama said, including the creation of “an unprecedented fund, in partnership with the Federal Reserve,” to get credit flowing.” This use of “unprecedented” is in fact “incredulous” (not credulous; disinclined or indisposed to believe; skeptical. indicating or showing unbelief).
MSNBC is conducting a Live Poll - http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10103521/ - on whether or not “In God We Trust” should be removed as the motto of this nation. If you participate in the Poll, you will find that 89% of those Polled want to retain the Motto. It would truly be both “unprecedented” and “incredulous” for this nation to jettison itself away from the foundations of the nation. The Biblical record of Israel – the people of God – gives indication of the peril when a nation forgets or removes God from its way of life and consciousness. Some examples: Deuteronomy 10:21, "He is your praise and He is your God, who has done these great and awesome things for you which your eyes have seen.” Psalm 78:11, “They forgot His deeds And His miracles that He had shown them.” Psalm 106:7, “Our fathers in Egypt did not understand Your wonders; They did not remember Your abundant kindnesses, But rebelled by the sea, at the Red Sea.” Psalm 106:13, “They quickly forgot His works; They did not wait for His counsel.” The result was: (a) their loss of significance in the world; (b) their inability to confront and conquer their enemies; (c) a steady decline in their favor before God; (d) their being led off into captivity by pagan nations; (e) their servitude to all of what should have been foreign to them. Why? Because of their departure from Almighty God and His Ways! We should learn from these examples – but – we haven’t and give no indication that we will. This same plight can and will be ours unless and until we change our ways! Consider these things with me!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
To Wheedle Or Not To Wheedle
From My Perspective - - -
Everyone has been exposed to one who wheedles. In the current debates and pending actions of The Congress and President – there is no short supply of wheedling. To Wheedle is: “to endeavor to influence (a person) by smooth, flattering, or beguiling words or acts; to obtain through the use of flattery or guile…” Some of the synonyms for wheedle allow for a broader sense of what the words and acts mean – words such as, “finagle, maneuver, seduce, lure, mislead…” Obviously, wheedling can become a lifestyle for some people.
One of the problems with a person who is characterized as one who wheedles is the entitlement expectation of such a person. He/She claims to have a right to certain privileges and benefits apart from any self-help effort. In the process, one of the things that is sacrificed is a spirit and expression of gratitude and Thanksgiving. An excellent Editorial Comment is made by Bill Shuler, pastor of Capital Life Church in Arlington, VA on FoxNews.Com. He wrote and stated the following - - - Our thanks are best found in our giving.
In 1621 Pilgrims joined together with Native American Indians on New England soil to enjoy a feast celebrating the Pilgrims very first harvest. Plymouth’s Governor, William Bradford, made provisions for a day of prayer and thanksgiving. The following are 10 thoughts on Thanksgiving:
1. Americans will consume over 45 million turkeys on Thanksgiving Day.
2. The average Thanksgiving meal will constitute between 2,400 and 4,500 calories.
3. The U.S. population will gain over 171 tons of weight this year.
4. "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live them.” -- President John F. Kennedy
5. Many psychologists concur that being thankful is the healthiest of all emotions.
6. Being thankful is a key component of healthy relationships.
7. We should be thankful for what we already have before we ask for more.
8. Our thanks are best found in our giving.
9. The Scriptures encourage us to give thanks in all circumstances and not to forget all God’s benefits.
10. Being thankful aligns us for wholeness.
In 1789 General George Washington declared by proclamation: “Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection, aid and favors…Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the Beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be: that we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks for his kind care and protection of the people of this country, and for all the great and various favors which he has been pleased to confer upon us.”
Just A Reminder as Families and Friends gather this Thursday – Be Sure To Thank God for His Provision and Care - - -
Psalm 92:1-2
"It is good to give thanks to the LORD, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your loving-kindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night."
Psalm 100
“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Consider these things with me!
One of the problems with a person who is characterized as one who wheedles is the entitlement expectation of such a person. He/She claims to have a right to certain privileges and benefits apart from any self-help effort. In the process, one of the things that is sacrificed is a spirit and expression of gratitude and Thanksgiving. An excellent Editorial Comment is made by Bill Shuler, pastor of Capital Life Church in Arlington, VA on FoxNews.Com. He wrote and stated the following - - - Our thanks are best found in our giving.
In 1621 Pilgrims joined together with Native American Indians on New England soil to enjoy a feast celebrating the Pilgrims very first harvest. Plymouth’s Governor, William Bradford, made provisions for a day of prayer and thanksgiving. The following are 10 thoughts on Thanksgiving:
1. Americans will consume over 45 million turkeys on Thanksgiving Day.
2. The average Thanksgiving meal will constitute between 2,400 and 4,500 calories.
3. The U.S. population will gain over 171 tons of weight this year.
4. "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live them.” -- President John F. Kennedy
5. Many psychologists concur that being thankful is the healthiest of all emotions.
6. Being thankful is a key component of healthy relationships.
7. We should be thankful for what we already have before we ask for more.
8. Our thanks are best found in our giving.
9. The Scriptures encourage us to give thanks in all circumstances and not to forget all God’s benefits.
10. Being thankful aligns us for wholeness.
In 1789 General George Washington declared by proclamation: “Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection, aid and favors…Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the Beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be: that we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks for his kind care and protection of the people of this country, and for all the great and various favors which he has been pleased to confer upon us.”
Just A Reminder as Families and Friends gather this Thursday – Be Sure To Thank God for His Provision and Care - - -
Psalm 92:1-2
"It is good to give thanks to the LORD, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your loving-kindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night."
Psalm 100
“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Consider these things with me!
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Supercilious Slogan
From My Perspective - - -
If a person is reluctant to use the Holy Bible as “the only infallible rule for faith and practice”, neither should that one use it for any political statement, sentiment or hopeful action. When people use the Bible to espouse a political philosophy or to arouse and inflame public sentiment, it is safe to say these people have gone too far. A valid hermeneutical statement is: “A Text out of its Context is a Pretext.” Also, this Catechetical thought given in response to the Question – What do the Scriptures principally teach? – the Answer is: The Scriptures principally teach what man is to 
believe concerning God and what duty God requires of man.” Well – along comes a current Bumper and T-Shirt Slogan suggesting that one “Pray for Obama” and uses the “text” in Psalm 109:8 to define a Political point of view and Sentiment: “May his days be few; may another take his office!” In the “context” that includes Psalm 109:9-10 the following is expressed: “May his children be fatherless and his wife a widow! May his children wander about and beg, seeking food far from the ruins they inhabit!”
Charles Haddon Spurgeon who wrote and produced the Treasury of David (a detailed commentary on all of the Psalms) more than a century ago offers this overview of Psalm 109: “In the first five verses (Psalms 109:1-5) David humbly pleads with God that he may be delivered from his remorseless and false hearted enemies. From Psalms 109:6-20, filled with a prophetic fervor, which carries him entirely beyond himself, he denounces judgment upon his foes, and then from Psalms 109:21-31 he returns to his communion with God in prayer and praise. The central portion of the Psalm in which the difficulty lies must be regarded not as the personal wish of the Psalmist in cool blood, but as his prophetic denunciation of such persons as he describes, and emphatically of one special ‘son of perdition’…” A safe instructional (hermeneutical) principle is: “Let Scripture interpret Scripture…” To properly understand the prophetic nature of Psalm 109:8-10, one must read Acts 1:15 through 20, “In those days Peter stood up…and said: Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus. For he was numbered among us and was allotted his share in this ministry…For it is written in the Book of Psalms: May his camp become desolate, and let there be no one to dwell in it; and Let another take his office…” Obviously, this became the judgment upon Judas Iscariot for his disloyal and treacherous act of betraying the Lord Jesus Christ.
We know from the life of David that violence of the suggested slogan was not part of his thought-pattern or what was in his heart. A King who had set out to kill David (who had been anointed by the prophet Samuel as God’s choice to rule the nation of Israel) was King Saul. On one occasion, David had the moment and opportunity to kill King Saul. Instead, to let the King know what he could’ve done, he merely cut off a piece (a tassel) from the hem of Saul’s Royal Robe (which Saul was wearing at the time – See: I Samuel 24:4-11). David felt very convicted for his act as he stated to Saul in I Samuel 24:10, “Behold, this day your eyes have seen how the LORD gave you today into my hand in the cave. And some told me to kill you, but I spared you. I said, I will not put out my hand against my lord, for he is the Lord's anointed.” The true sentiment of David’s heart and thoughts is expressed in I Samuel 12:23-24, “As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right. But be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.”
A Supercilious Slogan conveys that the one embracing the slogan views another from a perspective that is “haughtily disdainful or contemptuous…” Perhaps the “failing to Pray For You” is more of the issue that allows for the trends of our time. If one wants to quote from the Holy Bible, such a one should make the Holy Bible the foundation for his/her life. Quite simply – Live It before you Quote From It! Consider these things with me!
believe concerning God and what duty God requires of man.” Well – along comes a current Bumper and T-Shirt Slogan suggesting that one “Pray for Obama” and uses the “text” in Psalm 109:8 to define a Political point of view and Sentiment: “May his days be few; may another take his office!” In the “context” that includes Psalm 109:9-10 the following is expressed: “May his children be fatherless and his wife a widow! May his children wander about and beg, seeking food far from the ruins they inhabit!”Charles Haddon Spurgeon who wrote and produced the Treasury of David (a detailed commentary on all of the Psalms) more than a century ago offers this overview of Psalm 109: “In the first five verses (Psalms 109:1-5) David humbly pleads with God that he may be delivered from his remorseless and false hearted enemies. From Psalms 109:6-20, filled with a prophetic fervor, which carries him entirely beyond himself, he denounces judgment upon his foes, and then from Psalms 109:21-31 he returns to his communion with God in prayer and praise. The central portion of the Psalm in which the difficulty lies must be regarded not as the personal wish of the Psalmist in cool blood, but as his prophetic denunciation of such persons as he describes, and emphatically of one special ‘son of perdition’…” A safe instructional (hermeneutical) principle is: “Let Scripture interpret Scripture…” To properly understand the prophetic nature of Psalm 109:8-10, one must read Acts 1:15 through 20, “In those days Peter stood up…and said: Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus. For he was numbered among us and was allotted his share in this ministry…For it is written in the Book of Psalms: May his camp become desolate, and let there be no one to dwell in it; and Let another take his office…” Obviously, this became the judgment upon Judas Iscariot for his disloyal and treacherous act of betraying the Lord Jesus Christ.
We know from the life of David that violence of the suggested slogan was not part of his thought-pattern or what was in his heart. A King who had set out to kill David (who had been anointed by the prophet Samuel as God’s choice to rule the nation of Israel) was King Saul. On one occasion, David had the moment and opportunity to kill King Saul. Instead, to let the King know what he could’ve done, he merely cut off a piece (a tassel) from the hem of Saul’s Royal Robe (which Saul was wearing at the time – See: I Samuel 24:4-11). David felt very convicted for his act as he stated to Saul in I Samuel 24:10, “Behold, this day your eyes have seen how the LORD gave you today into my hand in the cave. And some told me to kill you, but I spared you. I said, I will not put out my hand against my lord, for he is the Lord's anointed.” The true sentiment of David’s heart and thoughts is expressed in I Samuel 12:23-24, “As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right. But be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.”
A Supercilious Slogan conveys that the one embracing the slogan views another from a perspective that is “haughtily disdainful or contemptuous…” Perhaps the “failing to Pray For You” is more of the issue that allows for the trends of our time. If one wants to quote from the Holy Bible, such a one should make the Holy Bible the foundation for his/her life. Quite simply – Live It before you Quote From It! Consider these things with me!
Friday, November 20, 2009
When Leadership Languishes
From My Perspective - - -
What should one look for in a strong Leader? What Character Traits should be obvious in a bonafide Leader? Should the Core Values of a Leader-type matter? What are the minimal requirements and foundational principles one should expect to find in one desiring to be a Leader? In general affairs, a catch phrase used has been: “Put up or shut up!” In other defined areas, a phrase that is sometimes used (usually in a Church context): “It’s more Caught than Taught!” In other words, The Leader should Lead By Example!
Some of the Generals of World War II serve as an example of Inspiring Leadership. Two of them were General Douglas MacArthur in Asia, and General Dwight Eisenhower in Europe. General Eisenhower stated in terms of Leadership, it is “the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.” In the Manual on Military Leadership, it is recorded: “Good leaders develop through a never-ending process of self-study, education, training, and experience.” It has been said that when General Eisenhower was considering someone for a staff promotion as an officer, that individual was summoned to a private meeting in an office-type setting. General Eisenhower had a piece of string on his desk. He asked the one being considered to use that piece of string to define Leadership. The test was simple and would define the character and potential of the candidate for promotion. If he pushed the string across the desk, it would bunch up – if he pulled the string it would go in the direction in which it was pulled. The point being made was that leaders don’t “drive men” as though they were cattle, but “lead men” as one who knows where he is going and the best way to get there.
In War History legend, Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders gained fame in their charge up San Juan Hill and the ultimate victory in the Spanish-American War. Part of the History and Legend includes: “The most famous of all the units fighting in Cuba, the ‘Rough Riders’ was the name given to the First U.S. Volunteer Cavalry under the leadership of Theodore Roosevelt. Roosevelt resigned his position as Assistant Secretary of the Navy in May 1898 to join the volunteer cavalry…Once Roosevelt joined the group, it quickly became the place for a mix of troops ranging from Ivy League athletes to glee-club singers to Texas Rangers and Indians. Roosevelt and the commander of the unit Colonel Leonard Wood trained and supplied the men so well at their camp in San Antonio, Texas, that the Rough Riders…went to Tampa at the end of May and sailed for Santiago de Cuba on June 13. There they joined the Fifth Corps, another highly trained, well supplied, and enthusiastic group consisting of excellent soldiers from the regular army and volunteers." Troops wanted to be part of an Army with inspired Leadership – men out in front of the troops who not only led the charge but who also knew how to achieve a meaningful victory.
What does it mean When Leadership Languishes? Languish is defined as: “to be or become weak or feeble; lose strength or vigor; to exist or continue in miserable or disheartening conditions; to remain unattended or be neglected; to become downcast or pine away in longing.” In the Bible, The Book of Judges is an example of languishing and failed Leadership. The last words in that Book are: (NKJV) – “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” (NIV) - “In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit.” In The Message “At that time there was no king in Israel. People did whatever they felt like doing.” Rhetoric may be inspiring and gain a following – but – it is not Leadership! Braggadocio (empty boasting) may peak the interest of some who will “believe” – but – it is not Leadership! Jesus Christ made a great demand in terms of His Leadership and for those who would choose to Follow Him. It is stated in Luke 9:23-25, “Then He said to them all: If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?” Jesus is saying – Make A Choice – Follow Me! What may look like Loss is the only path to Gain! What appears to be Defeat is the only way to Victory! Are you following a Languishing Leader, or are you following The Victorious Leader – Jesus Christ? Consider these things with me!
Some of the Generals of World War II serve as an example of Inspiring Leadership. Two of them were General Douglas MacArthur in Asia, and General Dwight Eisenhower in Europe. General Eisenhower stated in terms of Leadership, it is “the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.” In the Manual on Military Leadership, it is recorded: “Good leaders develop through a never-ending process of self-study, education, training, and experience.” It has been said that when General Eisenhower was considering someone for a staff promotion as an officer, that individual was summoned to a private meeting in an office-type setting. General Eisenhower had a piece of string on his desk. He asked the one being considered to use that piece of string to define Leadership. The test was simple and would define the character and potential of the candidate for promotion. If he pushed the string across the desk, it would bunch up – if he pulled the string it would go in the direction in which it was pulled. The point being made was that leaders don’t “drive men” as though they were cattle, but “lead men” as one who knows where he is going and the best way to get there.
In War History legend, Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders gained fame in their charge up San Juan Hill and the ultimate victory in the Spanish-American War. Part of the History and Legend includes: “The most famous of all the units fighting in Cuba, the ‘Rough Riders’ was the name given to the First U.S. Volunteer Cavalry under the leadership of Theodore Roosevelt. Roosevelt resigned his position as Assistant Secretary of the Navy in May 1898 to join the volunteer cavalry…Once Roosevelt joined the group, it quickly became the place for a mix of troops ranging from Ivy League athletes to glee-club singers to Texas Rangers and Indians. Roosevelt and the commander of the unit Colonel Leonard Wood trained and supplied the men so well at their camp in San Antonio, Texas, that the Rough Riders…went to Tampa at the end of May and sailed for Santiago de Cuba on June 13. There they joined the Fifth Corps, another highly trained, well supplied, and enthusiastic group consisting of excellent soldiers from the regular army and volunteers." Troops wanted to be part of an Army with inspired Leadership – men out in front of the troops who not only led the charge but who also knew how to achieve a meaningful victory.
What does it mean When Leadership Languishes? Languish is defined as: “to be or become weak or feeble; lose strength or vigor; to exist or continue in miserable or disheartening conditions; to remain unattended or be neglected; to become downcast or pine away in longing.” In the Bible, The Book of Judges is an example of languishing and failed Leadership. The last words in that Book are: (NKJV) – “In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” (NIV) - “In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit.” In The Message “At that time there was no king in Israel. People did whatever they felt like doing.” Rhetoric may be inspiring and gain a following – but – it is not Leadership! Braggadocio (empty boasting) may peak the interest of some who will “believe” – but – it is not Leadership! Jesus Christ made a great demand in terms of His Leadership and for those who would choose to Follow Him. It is stated in Luke 9:23-25, “Then He said to them all: If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?” Jesus is saying – Make A Choice – Follow Me! What may look like Loss is the only path to Gain! What appears to be Defeat is the only way to Victory! Are you following a Languishing Leader, or are you following The Victorious Leader – Jesus Christ? Consider these things with me!
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