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happy - Music:The Doors
As our nation’s Presidential election looms on the horizon, there is an unmistakable sense of unease everywhere you turn. No one knows for sure what the outcome will be, and both candidates are working hard to convince the American people that electing the other person will spell imminent doom and gloom. The recent financial downturn has not helped anyone’s perspective, so it’s easy to see why many people are discouraged.
Every day, as we are bombarded with election news, we must constantly and intentionally return our focus to the cross. The future of mankind does not rise and fall on this election. The future of mankind rises and falls on the person of Jesus Christ. God is not America-centric, but instead has a truly “global” perspective. The outcome of this election will not surprise Him, nor will it circumvent any of His plans because no plan of God’s can be thwarted (Job 42).
At the same time, this election process is important for a number of reasons. First, we as Americans have the privilege of living in a Republic in which we are able to vote as well as give free expression to our political and religious views. There are millions of people on this Earth who long for such freedom, yet most of us take it for granted. We are truly blessed, having a responsibility to exercise the practical rights and privileges granted to us as citizens.
Second, I believe that we have the responsibility in our political decisions – as with every type of decision – to behave in a way that would glorify God. Our decisions should reflect Biblical truth – not cultural norms, or hoped-for expectations, but solid, Scriptural truth.
Third, we have enormous influence as religious broadcasters, therefore we must use that influence carefully and prayerfully. Our Association is non-partisan, and we have worked diligently to remain politically neutral. I suspect that many of you are seeking the same thing for your ministries. However, we should never even attempt to be Biblically “neutral.” We are to boldly preach Christ crucified, and that means running headlong into the politically correct agendas of today. We see this constantly as we work in Washington, D.C. on your behalf, with everything from hate crimes legislation to the efforts to reinstate the Fairness Doctrine. There will continue to be friction with those who are offended by the Truth of Scripture.
At the same time, I fully believe that those who would silence discussions of sin will grow bolder. We must prepare our hearts and minds for the challenges of the future, many of which will be brought through the political realm regardless of who wins this election.
In that context, the Sovereignty of God brings great comfort and peace. It does not absolve us of our earthy responsibilities (i.e. voting), but it does take the “burden” off of our shoulders. Nations come and go by the very hand of God. Men rise in power, or fall by the wayside, within the purposes of God. Whatever the outcome, and however we perceive it, God will have the very last Word.
Finally, I would encourage you to continue your boldness for Christ. Be encouraged by the hope that you have. As Believers, we know what the world needs and how the story ends. God wins! Regardless of the trials we may face in the process, the end was decided 2,000 years ago on the cross. It’s like watching a thrilling, suspenseful, and hair-raising movie, but knowing that it will end well. Such knowledge should bring an immense measure of joy and peace each and every day.
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly
we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are
being renewed day by day. For our light
and momentary troubles are achieving
for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen,
but on what is unseen. For what is
seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
II Corinthians 4:16-18 (NIV)
The President’s Column was prepared with the valuable research and writing assistance of Laurel A. MacLeod.
Americano top 10 >>> Read more...
Every day, as we are bombarded with election news, we must constantly and intentionally return our focus to the cross. The future of mankind does not rise and fall on this election. The future of mankind rises and falls on the person of Jesus Christ. God is not America-centric, but instead has a truly “global” perspective. The outcome of this election will not surprise Him, nor will it circumvent any of His plans because no plan of God’s can be thwarted (Job 42).
At the same time, this election process is important for a number of reasons. First, we as Americans have the privilege of living in a Republic in which we are able to vote as well as give free expression to our political and religious views. There are millions of people on this Earth who long for such freedom, yet most of us take it for granted. We are truly blessed, having a responsibility to exercise the practical rights and privileges granted to us as citizens.
Second, I believe that we have the responsibility in our political decisions – as with every type of decision – to behave in a way that would glorify God. Our decisions should reflect Biblical truth – not cultural norms, or hoped-for expectations, but solid, Scriptural truth.
Third, we have enormous influence as religious broadcasters, therefore we must use that influence carefully and prayerfully. Our Association is non-partisan, and we have worked diligently to remain politically neutral. I suspect that many of you are seeking the same thing for your ministries. However, we should never even attempt to be Biblically “neutral.” We are to boldly preach Christ crucified, and that means running headlong into the politically correct agendas of today. We see this constantly as we work in Washington, D.C. on your behalf, with everything from hate crimes legislation to the efforts to reinstate the Fairness Doctrine. There will continue to be friction with those who are offended by the Truth of Scripture.
At the same time, I fully believe that those who would silence discussions of sin will grow bolder. We must prepare our hearts and minds for the challenges of the future, many of which will be brought through the political realm regardless of who wins this election.
In that context, the Sovereignty of God brings great comfort and peace. It does not absolve us of our earthy responsibilities (i.e. voting), but it does take the “burden” off of our shoulders. Nations come and go by the very hand of God. Men rise in power, or fall by the wayside, within the purposes of God. Whatever the outcome, and however we perceive it, God will have the very last Word.
Finally, I would encourage you to continue your boldness for Christ. Be encouraged by the hope that you have. As Believers, we know what the world needs and how the story ends. God wins! Regardless of the trials we may face in the process, the end was decided 2,000 years ago on the cross. It’s like watching a thrilling, suspenseful, and hair-raising movie, but knowing that it will end well. Such knowledge should bring an immense measure of joy and peace each and every day.
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly
we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are
being renewed day by day. For our light
and momentary troubles are achieving
for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen,
but on what is unseen. For what is
seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
II Corinthians 4:16-18 (NIV)
The President’s Column was prepared with the valuable research and writing assistance of Laurel A. MacLeod.
Americano top 10 >>> Read more...
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