VOTING
“Quality of Life Series”
10/26/06
LEADER: The Reverend Billy Graham once said, “In a world that might say one vote doesn’t matter…it does matter because each person is of infinite worth and value to God…Your vote is a declaration of importance as a person and a citizen.”
Our 34th President, Dwight D. Eisenhower, said, “The future of this republic is in the hands of the American voter.”
http://www.presidentialprayerteam.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ppt_homepage
HAVE SOMEONE READ: QUOTE #1
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/j/johnquincy122484.html
“The vote is the
most powerful instrument ever devised by man for breaking down injustice and
destroying the terrible walls which imprison men because they are different from
other men.”
Lyndon B.
Johnson 1908-1973, 36th US President
HAVE SOMEONE READ: QUOTE #2
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/j/johnquincy122484.html
“I believe with
all my heart that America remains 'the great idea' that inspires the world. It
is a privilege to be born here. It is an honor to become a citizen here. It is a
gift to raise your family here, to vote here, and to live here.”
Arnold
Schwarzenegger – California Governor
HAVE SOMEONE READ: QUOTE #3
http://www.presidentialprayerteam.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ppt_homepage
“Let us never
forget that government is ourselves and not an alien power over us. The ultimate
rulers of our democracy are not a President and senators and congressmen and
government officials, but the voters of this country.”
Franklin D. Roosevelt 1982-1945, 32nd
President of the United States
HAVE SOMEONE READ: QUOTE #4
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/j/johnquincy122484.html
“A man without a
vote is man without protection.”
Lyndon B.
Johnson 1908-1973, 36th US President
HAVE SOMEONE READ: QUOTE #5
“When you become entitled to exercise the right of voting for public officers
let it be impressed on your mind that God commands you to choose for rulers just
men who will rule in the fear of God. The preservation of a republican
government depends on the faithful discharge of this duty; if the citizens
neglect this duty and place unprincipled men in office, the government will soon
be corrupted.”
Noah Webster, 1758-1843,
Founding Father,
Called the "Father of American Scholarship and Education."
HAVE SOMEONE READ: QUOTE #6
http://www.entwagon.com/cgi-bin/quotes/quotes.pl?cat=Voting
“The ballot is stronger than the bullet.”
Abraham Lincoln, 1809-1865, Sixteenth US President
HAVE SOMEONE READ: QUOTE #7
http://www.cfdevotionals.org/devpg02/de021105.htm
"Bad officials are elected by good citizens who do not vote." George Jean Nathan 1882-1958 Drama Critic; Published 34 books on Theater
HAVE SOMEONE READ: QUOTE #8
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/j/johnquincy122484.html
“A
vote is like a rifle; its usefulness depends upon the character of the user.”
Theodore
Roosevelt 1858-1919 26th US President
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Voting” Our Daily Bread 11/03/92
http://www.higherpraise.org/illustrations/voting.htm
In 1883 in Allentown, New Jersey, a wooden Indian -- the kind that was seen in front of cigar stores -- was placed on the ballot for Justice of the Peace. The candidate was registered under the fictitious name of Abner Robbins. When the ballots were counted, Abner won over incumbent Sam Davis by 7 votes. A similar thing happened in 1938. The name Boston Curtis appeared on the ballot for Republican Committeeman from Wilton, Washington. Actually, Boston Curtis was a mule. The town's mayor sponsored the animal to demonstrate that people know very little about the candidates. He proved his point. The mule won!
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Continental Congress”
From the first prayer offered at the Continental Congress by Jacob Duché to Ben Franklin’s dramatic call for prayer during the Constitutional Convention, America has a rich and continuing history of reliance on prayer. Whenever our nation has called upon God for guidance and wisdom, He has answered graciously.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “The Christian and Government –Voting”
By Brian La Croix EXCERPT
http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=68900&page=1
And as we approach election season, I think it’s important that we discuss the
issue of how to vote in a Biblically responsible manner.
This is kind of hard to do, because frankly, the Bible doesn’t tell us who to
vote for, and it doesn’t pretend to. Democratic republics weren’t in existence
in Bible times like they are now.
But brave men and women throughout our history have laid down their lives, and
are still doing so today because we believe not only in freedom, but also what
that entails in our form of government.
But the fact remains that God has some standards for leaders of people, and we
need to be aware of them. Also, we need to be sure that we vote in ways that
seek to promote Biblical principles.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Our National Foundation” 11/04/96
http://www.cfdevotionals.org/devpages/de961104.htm
On May 19, 1643 the United Colonies of New England was formed. It was a first crack at governing the people that were in the colonies. Here are some of what they said in their founding document.
"the said united colonies, for themselves and their posterity, did, jointly and severally, enter into a firm and perpetual league of friendship and amity, of offence and defense, mutual aid and succour, upon all just occasions, both for preserving and propagation the truth and liberty of the gospel, and for their own mutual safety and welfare."
"Each colony was authorized to send two commissioners annually, always to be church members, to meet on the first Monday in September, first at Boston, then at Hartford, New Haven, and Plymouth."
"The commissioners, when met, were authorized to choose a president from among themselves, for the preservation of order. They were vested with plenary powers for making war and peace, laws and rules of a civil nature and of general concern. Especially, to regulate the conduct of the inhabitants towards the Indians, towards fugitives, for the general defense of the country, and for the encouragement and support of religion."
The common theme here is that government was to support truth and religion. It was not religious liberty that they were to support, but rather truth. That truth would have been the Christian religion, and for that matter the Puritan practice of the Christian faith. The first government was in place to assure that the truth of the Christian faith was not compromised. We have moved far from this and now we maintain a separation of Church and State. Those who came to this land first did so to set up a Christian nation. John Winthrop declared that the colonies would be "a city upon a hill" and would show the truth of the Christian religion by its practice and character. It did not work but that was the original intention. They would be an example for all the other nations and the hope was that the nations would in turn follow their lead.
Well, that is my history lesson for today. However, we must apply this. In a sense we are all cities upon a hill. We are all examples to those we come in contact with of the Christian cause. We either represent our cause well or poorly, and sometimes it depends on the day. Many of you will vote in the next 24-36 hours. In doing this we represent ourselves as Christians. Remember, when you stand in the voting booth, you stand before God.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: Numbers 27:12-23
12 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Go up this mountain in the Abarim range and see the land I have given the Israelites. 13 After you have seen it, you too will be gathered to your people, as your brother Aaron was, 14 for when the community rebelled at the waters in the Desert of Zin, both of you disobeyed my command to honor me as holy before their eyes." (These were the waters of Meribah Kadesh, in the Desert of Zin.)
15 Moses said to the LORD, 16 "May the LORD, the God of the spirits of all mankind, appoint a man over this community 17 to go out and come in before them, one who will lead them out and bring them in, so the LORD's people will not be like sheep without a shepherd."
18 So the LORD said to Moses, "Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit, and lay your hand on him. 19 Have him stand before Eleazar the priest and the entire assembly and commission him in their presence. 20 Give him some of your authority so the whole Israelite community will obey him. 21 He is to stand before Eleazar the priest, who will obtain decisions for him by inquiring of the Urim before the LORD. At his command he and the entire community of the Israelites will go out, and at his command they will come in."
22 Moses did as the LORD commanded him. He took Joshua and had him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole assembly. 23 Then he laid his hands on him and commissioned him, as the LORD instructed through Moses.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Change of Leaders” Our Daily Bread 3/02/02
http://www.rbc.org/odb/odb-03-02-02.shtml
Take Joshua the son of Nun with you, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him. --Numbers 27:18
Presidential election. Inauguration. Royal succession. Assassination. What do these events have in common? They all lead to a transition of leadership. Some are more desired methods than others, for sure, but they all result in a change at the top.
As the United States discovered in late 2000, the transition isn't always as smooth as desired. But after numerous ballot recounts, new leadership was installed and life went on.
For 40 years, the Israelites had looked to Moses for direction. He had led them from Egypt to the edge of the Promised Land, but God told him that he wouldn't be the one taking them into it (Numbers 27:12-14). But who would? How would the transfer work? What kind of person could lead the masses?
Moses was concerned. He prayed, "Let the Lord . . . set a man over the congregation" (v.16). He didn't want the people to be "like sheep which have no shepherd" (v.17), and he wanted his successor to be God's choice.
God answered that prayer by appointing Joshua to succeed Moses (v.18). He knew just what the people needed, so He gave them wise, experienced, and dependable Joshua.
Are you facing a transition of leadership? If so, ask God for direction and then trust Him for His choice. —JDB —Dave Branon
God's choice of a leader is always the best,
For He knows just what people need;
So when a transition is soon to take place,
Trust God and He'll show who should lead. —Fitzhugh
Looking for a leader? Look to the Lord.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Voting Responsibility” by Richard (Dick)
http://www.actsweb.org/daily.php?id=772
"Appoint judges and officials for each of your tribes in every town the Lord
your God is giving you, and they shall judge the people fairly. Do not pervert
justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes
of the wise and twists the words of the righteous. Follow justice and justice
alone, so that you may live and possess the land the Lord your God is giving
you" (Deuteronomy 16:18-20 niv).
Chuck Colson in BreakPoint told how "The Rev. Curt Young in Silver
Spring, Maryland, told his flock just before the last presidential election why
they needed to vote. Young wanted his congregation to know that the Scriptures
have a lot to say about our responsibility to choose leaders.
"Moses told the Israelites: 'You shall appoint judges and officials for each of
your tribes … and they shall judge the people.'
"The term judges and officials covered all government leaders. Besides hearing
cases and rendering decisions, they set public policy and could even call out
the military in a crisis.
"Given these heavy responsibilities, the criteria for selecting judges were
strict. They were to be men who feared God, who were committed to the truth, and
who hated dishonest gain. And they were warned: 'You shall not pervert justice;
you shall not show partiality; and you shall not take a bribe, for a bribe …
subverts the cause of the righteous.'
"When Moses commanded the Israelites to appoint God-fearing leaders, he wasn't
just talking to a handful of citizens who felt like getting involved. Young
noted that the command was directed to all citizens. And modern Christians are
under the same obligation to choose leaders who love justice.
"Ironically, the Scriptures warn that if we value prosperity over justice, we'll
end up losing both. Moses told the Israelites to 'follow justice and justice
alone.' He follows this command with a promise that they will 'live and possess
the land the Lord your God is giving you.' In other words, if you want
prosperity, choose leaders committed to justice.
"In the Old Testament, God often sent people to find particular individuals to
lead. Today, in our modern democracy, free citizens act as God's agents for
choosing leaders, and we do it by voting. So there's no excuse for those [in
free countries] who don't take the trouble to vote."1
Furthermore those of us who live in the free world need to appreciate the fact
that we have the freedom to vote and choose our leaders. Multiplied millions of
people around the world do not have this privilege
HAVE SOMEONE READ: Daniel 6:3–5
Then this Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm. So the governors and satraps sought to find some charge against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find no charge or fault, because he was faithful; nor was there any error or fault found in him. Then these men said, "We shall not find any charge against this Daniel unless we find it against him concerning the law of his God."
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “An Honest Politician” By Woodrow Kroll
http://www.backtothebible.org/devotions/devotion.php/lessons/141
It's been suggested that to put honest and politician together creates an oxymoron (two words that contradict each other), and sometimes it does seem that way. A few years ago a cartoon from The Wall Street Journal showed a young, freshman congressman saying to an older member, "Hi! I'm a freshman—when do I get corrupted?"
But not all politicians live so fast and loose. Daniel held a high political position. He had been personal advisor to at least three kings (Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar and Darius). And certainly he must have had his share of opportunities for financial kickbacks, sexual improprieties and palace intrigues. But even those who hated him confessed that they could "find no charge or fault." He not only professed to walk according to the moral standards of his God, but he practiced them faithfully as well.
Today we stand in great need of men and women who are willing to serve in public office with Christian integrity. Likely someone in politics is subject to greater-than-average temptations. Yet as Daniel demonstrated, God is able to give the moral strength to fulfill such a position honestly and uprightly.
As you exercise your duty in the voting booth, consider the moral character of those you vote for in addition to other qualifications. And search your own heart. Are there skeletons from your past that need to be confessed and removed? Let God make an "honest politician" out of you.
We must never allow honesty and politics to be strange bedfellows.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Moral Compass” 11/01/04 By Dick Innes of ACTS
http://www.actsweb.org/daily.php?id=775&tpl=daily_template.htm
"Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue,
that you may live and possess the land which the Lord your God is giving you."
Deuteronomy 16:20
True leaders are not afraid to swim against the tide. Their goal is not
prestige, power, or popularity ... or to be served tea. They stand for justice
and righteousness. And whether it is in the United States or the United Nations,
in local churches or on school boards, on judiciary benches or in the local
council, what the world desperately needs today are statesmen and women (not
merely politicians); leaders who lead; judges who love justice; and Christian
leaders who love, practice, and make a stand for righteousness.
Sad to say far too many politicians and so-called leaders have no moral compass.
They raise their finger to the wind to see which way it is blowing and follow
the in-crowd in order, not to promote justice or righteousness, but to gain
votes, votes, and more votes. This makes them followers—not leaders. They allow
themselves to be controlled by vocal minorities without regard to moral
guidelines and, in so doing, often disregard the will of the people.
So for all citizens who have the privilege of voting and choosing their leaders
we are to choose men and women who stand for justice and have a strong moral
compass to clearly show the way they are to lead their people.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: QUOTE #9 http://independent.gmnews.com/News/2000/0913/Letters/04.html
It isn’t the right to vote that keeps government responsive to those whom it governs, rather, it’s those who vote who accomplish this miracle of government. Voting is more than just a right of citizenship for American citizens. It’s their duty, their responsibility, and their obligation.
Today, more than ever before, this country needs the political involvement of all its citizens. American voters must make themselves aware of what is happening on all levels of government. Learn the facts, weigh the alternatives, make a decision, then cast a vote for those who represent that decision.
Mary Reed, Legislation Chairwoman, VFW Post # 2179
Port Monmouth section of Middletown
LEADER: Here are some principles we should consider before casting our vote:
HAVE SOMEONE READ: Principle #1
FROM: “Voting For The Lesser of Two Evils” By Kerby Anderson
http://www.navpress.com/EPubs/DisplayArticle/3/3.12.1.html
Be an informed voter.
There simply is no excuse for being uninformed on the candidates and the issues. Numerous groups publish voter guides that provide a comprehensive summary of how the candidates stand on issues and how they have voted in the past. Take the time to look at a number of these guides since they represent various perspectives.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: Principle #2
FROM: “Voting For The Lesser of Two Evils” By Kerby Anderson
http://www.navpress.com/EPubs/DisplayArticle/3/3.12.1.html
Consider a candidate's character.
Issues are important, but so is character. Marvin Olasky in his recent book American Leadership Tradition demonstrates that character does matter. Presidents without a good moral character deceived the American people and put this country in jeopardy. Consider a candidate's character as you cast your vote.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: Principle #3
FROM: “Voting For The Lesser of Two Evils” By Kerby Anderson
http://www.navpress.com/EPubs/DisplayArticle/3/3.12.1.html
Look at a candidate's chances of success.
In any given election there will probably be more than two candidates, but a responsible voter needs to ask if there is a reasonable chance that a third-party candidate will win. While you certainly may decide to vote for a candidate who will not be elected, remember that you will not affect the outcome of the election. The impact will be about the same as if you put your own name on the ballot as a write-in candidate.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: Principle #4
FROM: “Voting For The Lesser of Two Evils” By Kerby Anderson
http://www.navpress.com/EPubs/DisplayArticle/3/3.12.1.html
Consider the arena of a candidate's influence.
What policies will a candidate address if elected? A candidate for school board will not be dealing with foreign policy, so it really doesn't matter what a school board candidate thinks about trade policy with China. In an ideal world the candidates would be right on all the issues, but a wise voter will focus on the issues within a candidate's sphere of influence.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: Principle #5
FROM: “Voting For The Lesser of Two Evils” By Kerby Anderson
http://www.navpress.com/EPubs/DisplayArticle/3/3.12.1.html
Don't let the best get in the way of the good.
In an ideal world we would like to vote for a candidate with great moral
character who agrees with us on all of the issues. Often in political life, as
well as in other areas of life, we must make a choice that does not include the
best. When we go out to buy a car, often we can't find the ideal car, so we
settle on the one that includes as many of the options we desire and can afford.
Likewise, we might not find the best candidate and have to settle for a good
candidate to elect.
We have an awesome responsibility to cast an intelligent vote and make a
difference. Christians should vote intelligently and with discernment.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Political Prayer” 10/14/04 EXCERPT
http://www.cfdevotionals.org/devpg04/de041014.htm
Election day in the United States is a dizzying time of promises, debates and speeches. Many promises are things that are often beyond the single reach of the candidates, requiring the cooperation of the Congress to become reality. Other things are more clearly attainable or not attainable. I have my own political views, but chose not to express them here. I will say, vote with thought applied - but vote. God has granted us this privilege to select leadership we feel is best for this nation. Is the system perfect? Far from it. The world system is corrupt. But that is no excuse to abdicate. We are told to be salt and light to the world. They are both active agents that preserve and illuminate.
I have heard ministers urge their congregations to vote. In different elections I have heard some even specify one candidate or another. I'm not sure how I feel about that kind of pressure being leveled from God's pulpit. But one thing is sure in my mind. Even more important than voting with thought, this should be a time of prayer asking for guiding of our hearts and minds. Ministers should be urging their congregations to pray for the Lord to place the man into office that will lead this nation according to His wishes.
I received an email that reminded me of a story I had forgotten. During World War II, an advisor to Winston Churchill organized a group to pray for the preservation, safety and peace of England for one minute at a particular hour of the day. One minute before the Throne of Grace, petitioning the Lord of Hosts asking for His grace to be extended over the nation and its people likely had more impact that most of us will realize until we stand in the presence of God. That kind of prayer should be practiced now.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: Proverbs 29:2
"When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan."
LEADER: If you don’t think it’s a top priority to exercise our vote;
If you don’t consider it a privilege;
I you don’t vote….consider this:
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Did You Know” #1
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/forsakenroots.html
Did you know that 52 of the 55 signers of The Declaration of Independence were orthodox, deeply committed Christians? The other three all believed in the Bible as the divine truth, the God of scripture, and His personal intervention.
It is the same congress that formed the American Bible Society. Immediately after creating the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Congress voted to purchase and import 20,000 copies of scripture for the people of this nation.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Did You Know” #2
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/forsakenroots.html
Patrick Henry, who is called the firebrand of the American Revolution, is still remembered for his words, "Give me liberty or give me death." But in current textbooks the context of these words is deleted. Here is what he said: "An appeal to arms and the God of hosts is all that is left us. But we shall not fight our battle alone. There is a just God that presides over the destinies of nations. The battle sir, is not of the strong alone. Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it almighty God. I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death."
These sentences have been erased from our textbooks.
Was Patrick Henry a Christian? These are the words he wrote shortly before his death: "I have disposed of all my property to my family. There is one thing more I wish I could give to them, and that is the Christian religion. If they had that and I had not given them one cent, they would be rich. If they have not that, and I had given them the world, they would be poor."
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Did You Know” #3
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/forsakenroots.html
Consider these words that Thomas Jefferson wrote on the front of his well- worn Bible: "I am a Christian, that is to say a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus. I have little doubt that our whole country will soon be rallied to the unity of our Creator and, I hope, to the pure doctrine of Jesus also."
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Did You Know” #4
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/forsakenroots.html
Consider these words from George Washington, the Father of our Nation, in his farewell speech on September 19, 1796:
"It is impossible to govern the world without God and the Bible. Of all the dispositions and habits that lead to political prosperity, our religion and morality are the indispensable supporters. Let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Reason and experience both forbid us to expect that our national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle."
Was George Washington a Christian? Consider these words from his personal prayer book: "Oh, eternal and everlasting God, direct my thoughts, words and work. Wash away my sins in the immaculate blood of the lamb and purge my heart by the Holy Spirit. Daily, frame me more and more in the likeness of thy son, Jesus Christ, that living in thy fear, and dying in thy favor, I may in thy appointed time obtain the resurrection of the justified unto eternal life. Bless, O Lord, the whole race of mankind and let the world be filled with the knowledge of thy son, Jesus Christ."
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Did You Know” #5
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/forsakenroots.html
Consider these words by John Adams, our second president, who also served as chairman of the American Bible Society.
In an address to military leaders he said, "We have no government armed with the power capable of contending with human passions, unbridled by morality and true religion. Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other."
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Did You Know” #6
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/forsakenroots.html
How about our first Court Justice, John Jay?
He stated that when we select our national leaders, if we are to preserve our Nation, we must select Christians. "Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers and it is the duty as well as the privilege and interest of our Christian Nation to select and prefer Christians for their rulers."
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Did You Know” #7
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/forsakenroots.html
John Quincy Adams, son of John Adams, was the sixth U.S. President.
He was also the chairman of the American Bible Society, which he considered his
highest and most important role. On July 4, 1821, President Adams said, "The
highest glory of the American Revolution was this: it connected in one
indissoluble bond the principles of civil government with the principles of
Christianity." He also said, “Always vote for principle, though you may vote
alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never
lost.”
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Did You Know” #8
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/forsakenroots.html
Calvin Coolidge, our 30th President of the United States reaffirmed this truth when he wrote, "The foundations of our society and our government rest so much on the teachings of the Bible that it would be difficult to support them if faith in these teachings would cease to be practically universal in our country."
In 1782, the United States Congress voted this resolution: "The congress of the United States recommends and approves the Holy Bible for use in all schools."
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Did You Know” #9
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/forsakenroots.html
William Holmes McGuffey is the author of the McGuffey Reader, which was used for over 100 years in our public schools with over 125 million copies sold until it was stopped in 1963. President Lincoln called him the "Schoolmaster of the Nation."
Listen to these words of Mr. McGuffey: "The Christian religion is the religion of our country. From it are derived our notions on character of God, on the great moral Governor of the universe. On its doctrines are founded the peculiarities of our free institutions. From no source has the author drawn more conspicuously than from the sacred Scriptures. From all these extracts from the Bible I make no apology."
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Did You Know” #10
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/forsakenroots.html
Of the first 108 universities founded in America, 106 were distinctly Christian, including the first.
Harvard University, chartered in 1636. In the original Harvard Student Handbook rule number 1 was that students seeking entrance must know Latin and Greek so that they could study the scriptures:
"Let every student be plainly instructed and earnestly pressed to consider well, the main end of his life and studies is, to know God and Jesus Christ, which is eternal life, John 17:3; and therefore to lay Jesus Christ as the only foundation of all sound knowledge and learning. And seeing the Lord only giveth wisdom, let everyone seriously set himself by prayer in secret to seek it of him (Proverbs 2:3)."
For over 100 years, more than 50% of all Harvard graduates were pastors!
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Did You Know” #11
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/forsakenroots.html
In 1963, the Supreme Court ruled that Bible reading was outlawed as unconstitutional in the public school system. The court offered this justification: "If portions of the New Testament were read without explanation, they could and have been psychologically harmful to children."
Bible reading was now unconstitutional , though the Bible was quoted 94 percent of the time by those who wrote our constitution and shaped our Nation and its system of education and justice and government.
In 1965, the Courts denied as unconstitutional the rights of a student in the public school cafeteria to bow his head and pray audibly for his food.
In 1980, Stone vs. Graham outlawed the Ten Commandments in our public schools.
The Supreme Court said this: "If the posted copies of the Ten Commandments were to have any effect at all, it would be to induce school children to read them. And if they read them, meditated upon them, and perhaps venerated and observed them, this is not a permissible objective."
Is it not a permissible objective to allow our children to follow the moral principles of the Ten Commandments?
James Madison, the primary author of the Constitution of the United States, said this: "We have staked the whole future of our new nation, not upon the power of government; far from it. We have staked the future of all our political constitutions upon the capacity of each of ourselves to govern ourselves according to the moral principles of the Ten Commandments."
Today we are asking God to bless America. But how can He bless a Nation that has departed so far from Him?
Most of what you read in this article has been erased from our textbooks. Revisionists have rewritten history to remove the truth about our country's Christian roots.
LEADER: “Did You Know” #12
http://www.wtv-zone.com/Mary/forsakenroots.html
It is clear from history that the Bible and the Christian faith, were foundational in our educational and judicial system. However in 1947, there was a radical change of direction in the Supreme Court.
Here is the prayer that was banished:
"Almighty God, we acknowledge our dependence on Thee. We beg Thy blessings upon us and our parents and our teachers and our country.
Amen."
LEADER: Is it important for every Christian to go to the poles & vote?
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “PAYING OUR DUES” by Rev. Greg Asimakoupoulos
http://www.presidentialprayerteam.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ppt_homepage
Election Day gives us a choice
to give our values wings and voice.
It’s spending time to pay respect
to what makes freedom ring.
When we neglect our treasured right,
we fail to leverage godly might.
When we forget or just don’t vote,
we leech off liberty.
Yes, voting is like paying dues.
We mark our ballots and we choose.
And in the process we invest
in funding freedom’s cost.
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Dr. Dobson to Values Voters:
'Make Sure You Vote'”
by Gary Schneeberger, editor 10/19/06
http://www.family.org/cforum/extras/a0042372.cfm
Focus on the Family chairman says liberals are doing their best to keep social conservatives away from the polls — and if we let them dissuade us, the consequences for the country could be grave.
Focus on the Family Chairman James C. Dobson, Ph.D., saying he is "concerned about my country," is devoting the next two days of his nationally syndicated radio show to urge fellow Christians to vote on Election Day.
Dr. Dobson:
"If people of faith — the so-called values voters — don't come out and let their voices be heard, there are going to be some major implications for this country," he says in the two-part broadcast that began today, much of it recorded at a rally earlier this week in Nashville, Tenn. "There are these statements from the media that values voters don't care this year and that they're going to stay home."
One way liberal media outlets are trying to make that happen, Dobson added, is by publishing stories like a recent New York Times piece that suggested Americans don't care about protecting marriage like they did in 2004, when 13 states passed marriage amendments by overwhelming majorities. Eight states have marriage-protection amendments on their ballots Nov. 7.
"Liberals are constantly telling us what they want to happen, and I pray that they aren't right," he said. "If one of those states is lost — or two or three — it has serious implications for the future of the family. It means adoption laws will change. It means textbooks will all have to be rewritten to include man and man and woman and woman marriage."
And marriage isn't the only issue that could be affected if values voters stay home. Dobson also cited the future makeup of the Supreme Court, the status of laws to protect the unborn and the threat of Islamofascism to the U.S.
"I'm concerned about my country. I have been concerned in the past, but I don't know that it's been any greater than it is right now," he said. "I have never, ever seen such hatred in my life. I am being bludgeoned in the media. Why? Why now? Well, it's not really personal to me. But they identify me as one of the people who turned out the values voters last time – and they are determined to never, ever let it happen again.
"For two years they have just been livid over what happened in 2004. I'm getting the brunt of it – but you know what, I don't really care about that. And I'm going to cast my vote anyway. Are you?"
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “It’s Up To You”
One song can spark a moment,
One flower can wake the dream.
One tree can start a forest,
One bird can herald spring.
One smile begins a friendship,
One handclasp lifts a soul.
One star can guide a ship at sea,
One word can frame the goal.
One vote can change a nation,
One sunbeam lights a room.
One candle wipes out darkness,
One laugh will conquer gloom.
One step must start each journey,
One word must start each prayer.
One hope will raise our spirits,
One touch can show you care.
One voice can speak with wisdom,
One heart can know what's true,
One life can make the difference,
You see, it's up to you!
HAVE SOMEONE READ: “Votive Offerings” 11/05/02 EXCERPT
http://www.cfdevotionals.org/devpg02/de021105.htm
When we stand before our voting booth, we also stand before God. We must seek to honor God in all our actions and voting is really no different from any other thing we do. In all our actions we need to seek God's glory. To do anything else than seek God's glory in all our actions is to live below our real position as sons and daughters of the living God.
LEADER: We cannot read the history of our rise
and development as a nation, without reckoning with the place the Bible has
occupied in shaping the advances of the Republic. Where we have been the truest
and most consistent in obeying its precepts, we have attained the greatest
measure of contentment and prosperity.
--Franklin D. Roosevelt, radio
broadcast 1935
In 1892 The Supreme Court declared, "This is a Christian nation."
http://www.presidentialprayerteam.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ppt_homepage
Where will our country be… what will our country be… in the results of these elections?
HAVE SOMEONE READ: QUOTE #10
“The
greatest act of patriotism is prayer.”
Lloyd
Ogilvie, former Senate Chaplain
LEADER: We must pray for an outpouring of God’s Holy Spirit on our nation, that every person will take seriously the blessings and privileges of citizenship by getting informed and voting. Pray for God’s highest will to be done in every race and with every issue.
http://www.presidentialprayerteam.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ppt_homepage
As President Dwight D. Eisenhower said, “The future of this republic is in the hands of the American voter.”
STOP AT 10 TILL FOR
PRAYER REQUESTS AND PRAISES:
CUT AND DISTRIBUTE FOR READING:
QUOTE #1
“The vote is the
most powerful instrument ever devised by man for breaking down injustice and
destroying the terrible walls which imprison men because they are different from
other men.”
Lyndon B.
Johnson 1908-1973, 36th US President
QUOTE #2
“I believe with
all my heart that America remains 'the great idea' that inspires the world. It
is a privilege to be born here. It is an honor to become a citizen here. It is a
gift to raise your family here, to vote here, and to live here.”
Arnold
Schwarzenegger – California Governor
QUOTE #3
“Let us never
forget that government is ourselves and not an alien power over us. The ultimate
rulers of our democracy are not a President and senators and congressmen and
government officials, but the voters of this country.”
Franklin D. Roosevelt 1982-1945, 32nd
President of the United States
QUOTE #4
“A
man without a vote is man without protection.”
Lyndon B.
Johnson 1908-1973, 36th US President
QUOTE #5
“When
you become entitled to exercise the right of voting for public officers let it
be impressed on your mind that God commands you to choose for rulers just men
who will rule in the fear of God. The preservation of a republican government
depends on the faithful discharge of this duty; if the citizens neglect this
duty and place unprincipled men in office, the government will soon be
corrupted.”
Noah Webster, 1758-1843,
Founding Father,
Called the "Father of American Scholarship and Education."
QUOTE #6
“The ballot is stronger than the bullet.”
Abraham Lincoln, 1809-1865, Sixteenth US President
QUOTE #7
"Bad officials are elected by good citizens who do not vote." George Jean Nathan 1882-1958 Drama Critic; Published 34 books on Theater
QUOTE #8
“A
vote is like a rifle; its usefulness depends upon the character of the user.”
Theodore
Roosevelt 1858-1919 26th US President
“Voting”
In 1883 in Allentown, New Jersey, a wooden Indian -- the kind that was seen in front of cigar stores -- was placed on the ballot for Justice of the Peace. The candidate was registered under the fictitious name of Abner Robbins. When the ballots were counted, Abner won over incumbent Sam Davis by 7 votes. A similar thing happened in 1938. The name Boston Curtis appeared on the ballot for Republican Committeeman from Wilton, Washington. Actually, Boston Curtis was a mule. The town's mayor sponsored the animal to demonstrate that people know very little about the candidates. He proved his point. The mule won!
“Continental Congress”
From the first prayer offered at the Continental Congress by Jacob Duché to Ben Franklin’s dramatic call for prayer during the Constitutional Convention, America has a rich and continuing history of reliance on prayer. Whenever our nation has called upon God for guidance and wisdom, He has answered graciously.
“The Christian and Government –Voting”
And as we approach election
season, I think it’s important that we discuss the issue of how to vote in a
Biblically responsible manner.
This is kind of hard to do, because frankly, the Bible doesn’t tell us who to
vote for, and it doesn’t pretend to. Democratic republics weren’t in existence
in Bible times like they are now.
But brave men and women throughout our history have laid down their lives, and
are still doing so today because we believe not only in freedom, but also what
that entails in our form of government.
But the fact remains that God has some standards for leaders of people, and we
need to be aware of them. Also, we need to be sure that we vote in ways that
seek to promote Biblical principles.
QUOTE #9
It isn’t the right to vote that keeps government responsive to those whom it governs, rather, it’s those who vote who accomplish this miracle of government. Voting is more than just a right of citizenship for American citizens. It’s their duty, their responsibility, and their obligation.
Today, more than ever before, this country needs the political involvement of all its citizens. American voters must make themselves aware of what is happening on all levels of government. Learn the facts, weigh the alternatives, make a decision, then cast a vote for those who represent that decision.
Mary Reed, Legislation Chairwoman, VFW Post # 2179
Port Monmouth section of Middletown
“Our National Foundation”
On May 19, 1643 the United Colonies of New England was formed. It was a first crack at governing the people that were in the colonies. Here are some of what they said in their founding document.
"the said united colonies, for themselves and their posterity, did, jointly and severally, enter into a firm and perpetual league of friendship and amity, of offence and defense, mutual aid and succour, upon all just occasions, both for preserving and propagation the truth and liberty of the gospel, and for their own mutual safety and welfare."
"Each colony was authorized to send two commissioners annually, always to be church members, to meet on the first Monday in September, first at Boston, then at Hartford, New Haven, and Plymouth."
"The commissioners, when met, were authorized to choose a president from among themselves, for the preservation of order. They were vested with plenary powers for making war and peace, laws and rules of a civil nature and of general concern. Especially, to regulate the conduct of the inhabitants towards the Indians, towards fugitives, for the general defense of the country, and for the encouragement and support of religion."
The common theme here is that government was to support truth and religion. It was not religious liberty that they were to support, but rather truth. That truth would have been the Christian religion, and for that matter the Puritan practice of the Christian faith. The first government was in place to assure that the truth of the Christian faith was not compromised. We have moved far from this and now we maintain a separation of Church and State. Those who came to this land first did so to set up a Christian nation. John Winthrop declared that the colonies would be "a city upon a hill" and would show the truth of the Christian religion by its practice and character. It did not work but that was the original intention. They would be an example for all the other nations and the hope was that the nations would in turn follow their lead.
Well, that is my history lesson for today. However, we must apply this. In a sense we are all cities upon a hill. We are all examples to those we come in contact with of the Christian cause. We either represent our cause well or poorly, and sometimes it depends on the day. Many of you will vote in the next 24-36 hours. In doing this we represent ourselves as Christians. Remember, when you stand in the voting booth, you stand before God.
“Change of Leaders”
Take Joshua the son of Nun with you, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him. --Numbers 27:18
Presidential election. Inauguration. Royal succession. Assassination. What do these events have in common? They all lead to a transition of leadership. Some are more desired methods than others, for sure, but they all result in a change at the top.
As the United States discovered in late 2000, the transition isn't always as smooth as desired. But after numerous ballot recounts, new leadership was installed and life went on.
For 40 years, the Israelites had looked to Moses for direction. He had led them from Egypt to the edge of the Promised Land, but God told him that he wouldn't be the one taking them into it (Numbers 27:12-14). But who would? How would the transfer work? What kind of person could lead the masses?
Moses was concerned. He prayed, "Let the Lord . . . set a man over the congregation" (v.16). He didn't want the people to be "like sheep which have no shepherd" (v.17), and he wanted his successor to be God's choice.
God answered that prayer by appointing Joshua to succeed Moses (v.18). He knew just what the people needed, so He gave them wise, experienced, and dependable Joshua.
Are you facing a transition of leadership? If so, ask God for direction and then trust Him for His choice.
God's choice of a leader is
always the best,
For He knows just what people need;
So when a transition is soon to take place,
Trust God and He'll show who should lead.
Looking for a leader? Look to the Lord.
“Moral Compass”
"Justice, and only
justice, you shall pursue, that you may live and possess the land which the Lord
your God is giving you."
Deuteronomy 16:20
True leaders are not afraid to swim against the tide. Their goal is not
prestige, power, or popularity ... or to be served tea. They stand for justice
and righteousness. And whether it is in the United States or the United Nations,
in local churches or on school boards, on judiciary benches or in the local
council, what the world desperately needs today are statesmen and women (not
merely politicians); leaders who lead; judges who love justice; and Christian
leaders who love, practice, and make a stand for righteousness.
Sad to say far too many politicians and so-called leaders have no moral compass.
They raise their finger to the wind to see which way it is blowing and follow
the in-crowd in order, not to promote justice or righteousness, but to gain
votes, votes, and more votes. This makes them followers—not leaders. They allow
themselves to be controlled by vocal minorities without regard to moral
guidelines and, in so doing, often disregard the will of the people.
So for all citizens who have the privilege of voting and choosing their leaders
we are to choose men and women who stand for justice and have a strong moral
compass to clearly show the way they are to lead their people.
“Voting Responsibility”
"Appoint judges and
officials for each of your tribes in every town the Lord your God is giving you,
and they shall judge the people fairly. Do not pervert justice or show
partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and
twists the words of the righteous. Follow justice and justice alone, so that you
may live and possess the land the Lord your God is giving you."
Deuteronomy 16:18-20
Chuck Colson in BreakPoint told how "The Rev. Curt Young in Silver
Spring, Maryland, told his flock just before the last presidential election why
they needed to vote. Young wanted his congregation to know that the Scriptures
have a lot to say about our responsibility to choose leaders.
"Moses told the Israelites: 'You shall appoint judges and officials for each of
your tribes … and they shall judge the people.'
"The term judges and officials covered all government leaders. Besides hearing
cases and rendering decisions, they set public policy and could even call out
the military in a crisis.
"Given these heavy responsibilities, the criteria for selecting judges were
strict. They were to be men who feared God, who were committed to the truth, and
who hated dishonest gain. And they were warned: 'You shall not pervert justice;
you shall not show partiality; and you shall not take a bribe, for a bribe …
subverts the cause of the righteous.'
"When Moses commanded the Israelites to appoint God-fearing leaders, he wasn't
just talking to a handful of citizens who felt like getting involved. Young
noted that the command was directed to all citizens. And modern Christians are
under the same obligation to choose leaders who love justice.
"Ironically, the Scriptures warn that if we value prosperity over justice, we'll
end up losing both. Moses told the Israelites to 'follow justice and justice
alone.' He follows this command with a promise that they will 'live and possess
the land the Lord your God is giving you.' In other words, if you want
prosperity, choose leaders committed to justice.
"In the Old Testament, God often sent people to find particular individuals to
lead. Today, in our modern democracy, free citizens act as God's agents for
choosing leaders, and we do it by voting. So there's no excuse for those [in
free countries] who don't take the trouble to vote."1
Furthermore those of us who live in the free world need to appreciate the fact
that we have the freedom to vote and choose our leaders. Multiplied millions of
people around the world do not have this privilege
Daniel 6:3–5
“An Honest Politician”
It's been suggested that to put honest and politician together creates an oxymoron (two words that contradict each other), and sometimes it does seem that way. A few years ago a cartoon from The Wall Street Journal showed a young, freshman congressman saying to an older member, "Hi! I'm a freshman—when do I get corrupted?"
But not all politicians live so fast and loose. Daniel held a high political position. He had been personal advisor to at least three kings (Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar and Darius). And certainly he must have had his share of opportunities for financial kickbacks, sexual improprieties and palace intrigues. But even those who hated him confessed that they could "find no charge or fault." He not only professed to walk according to the moral standards of his God, but he practiced them faithfully as well.
Today we stand in great need of men and women who are willing to serve in public office with Christian integrity. Likely someone in politics is subject to greater-than-average temptations. Yet as Daniel demonstrated, God is able to give the moral strength to fulfill such a position honestly and uprightly.
As you exercise your duty in the voting booth, consider the moral character of those you vote for in addition to other qualifications. And search your own heart. Are there skeletons from your past that need to be confessed and removed? Let God make an "honest politician" out of you.
We must never allow honesty and politics to be strange bedfellows.
Principle #1
Be an informed voter.
There simply is no excuse for being uninformed on the candidates and the issues. Numerous groups publish voter guides that provide a comprehensive summary of how the candidates stand on issues and how they have voted in the past. Take the time to look at a number of these guides since they represent various perspectives.
Principle #2
Consider a candidate's character.
Issues are important, but so is character. Marvin Olasky in his recent book American Leadership Tradition demonstrates that character does matter. Presidents without a good moral character deceived the American people and put this country in jeopardy. Consider a candidate's character as you cast your vote.
Principle #3
Look at a candidate's chances of success.
In any given election there will probably be more than two candidates, but a responsible voter needs to ask if there is a reasonable chance that a third-party candidate will win. While you certainly may decide to vote for a candidate who will not be elected, remember that you will not affect the outcome of the election. The impact will be about the same as if you put your own name on the ballot as a write-in candidate.
Principle #4
Consider the arena of a candidate's influence.
What policies will a candidate address if elected? A candidate for school board will not be dealing with foreign policy, so it really doesn't matter what a school board candidate thinks about trade policy with China. In an ideal world the candidates would be right on all the issues, but a wise voter will focus on the issues within a candidate's sphere of influence.
Principle #5
Don't let the best get in the way of the good.
In an ideal world we would
like to vote for a candidate with great moral character who agrees with us on
all of the issues. Often in political life, as well as in other areas of life,
we must make a choice that does not include the best. When we go out to buy a
car, often we can't find the ideal car, so we settle on the one that includes as
many of the options we desire and can afford. Likewise, we might not find the
best candidate and have to settle for a good candidate to elect.
We have an awesome responsibility to cast an intelligent vote and make a
difference. Christians should vote intelligently and with discernment.
“Political Prayer”
Election day in the United States is a dizzying time of promises, debates and speeches. Many promises are things that are often beyond the single reach of the candidates, requiring the cooperation of the Congress to become reality. Other things are more clearly attainable or not attainable. I have my own political views, but chose not to express them here. I will say, vote with thought applied - but vote. God has granted us this privilege to select leadership we feel is best for this nation. Is the system perfect? Far from it. The world system is corrupt. But that is no excuse to abdicate. We are told to be salt and light to the world. They are both active agents that preserve and illuminate.
I have heard ministers urge their congregations to vote. In different elections I have heard some even specify one candidate or another. I'm not sure how I feel about that kind of pressure being leveled from God's pulpit. But one thing is sure in my mind. Even more important than voting with thought, this should be a time of prayer asking for guiding of our hearts and minds. Ministers should be urging their congregations to pray for the Lord to place the man into office that will lead this nation according to His wishes.
I received an email that reminded me of a story I had forgotten. During World War II, an advisor to Winston Churchill organized a group to pray for the preservation, safety and peace of England for one minute at a particular hour of the day. One minute before the Throne of Grace, petitioning the Lord of Hosts asking for His grace to be extended over the nation and its people likely had more impact that most of us will realize until we stand in the presence of God. That kind of prayer should be practiced now.
Proverbs 29:2
“Did You Know” #1
Did you know that 52 of the 55 signers of The Declaration of Independence were orthodox, deeply committed Christians? The other three all believed in the Bible as the divine truth, the God of scripture, and His personal intervention.
It is the same congress that formed the American Bible Society. Immediately after creating the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Congress voted to purchase and import 20,000 copies of scripture for the people of this nation.
“Did You Know” #2
Patrick Henry, who is called the firebrand of the American Revolution, is still remembered for his words, "Give me liberty or give me death." But in current textbooks the context of these words is deleted. Here is what he said: "An appeal to arms and the God of hosts is all that is left us. But we shall not fight our battle alone. There is a just God that presides over the destinies of nations. The battle sir, is not of the strong alone. Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it almighty God. I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death."
These sentences have been erased from our textbooks.
Was Patrick Henry a Christian? These are the words he wrote shortly before his death: "I have disposed of all my property to my family. There is one thing more I wish I could give to them, and that is the Christian religion. If they had that and I had not given them one cent, they would be rich. If they have not that, and I had given them the world, they would be poor."
“Did You Know” #3
Consider these words that Thomas Jefferson wrote on the front of his well- worn Bible: "I am a Christian, that is to say a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus. I have little doubt that our whole country will soon be rallied to the unity of our Creator and, I hope, to the pure doctrine of Jesus also."
“Did You Know” #4
Consider these words from George Washington, the Father of our Nation, in his farewell speech on September 19, 1796:
"It is impossible to govern the world without God and the Bible. Of all the dispositions and habits that lead to political prosperity, our religion and morality are the indispensable supporters. Let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Reason and experience both forbid us to expect that our national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle."
Was George Washington a Christian? Consider these words from his personal prayer book: "Oh, eternal and everlasting God, direct my thoughts, words and work. Wash away my sins in the immaculate blood of the lamb and purge my heart by the Holy Spirit. Daily, frame me more and more in the likeness of thy son, Jesus Christ, that living in thy fear, and dying in thy favor, I may in thy appointed time obtain the resurrection of the justified unto eternal life. Bless, O Lord, the whole race of mankind and let the world be filled with the knowledge of thy son, Jesus Christ."
“Did You Know” #5
Consider these words by John Adams, our second president, who also served as chairman of the American Bible Society.
In an address to military leaders he said, "We have no government armed with the power capable of contending with human passions, unbridled by morality and true religion. Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other."
“Did You Know” #6
How about our first Court Justice, John Jay?
He stated that when we select our national leaders, if we are to preserve our Nation, we must select Christians. "Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers and it is the duty as well as the privilege and interest of our Christian Nation to select and prefer Christians for their rulers."
“Did You Know” #7
John Quincy Adams, son of John Adams, was the sixth U.S. President.
He was also the chairman of the American Bible Society, which he considered his
highest and most important role. On July 4, 1821, President Adams said, "The
highest glory of the American Revolution was this: it connected in one
indissoluble bond the principles of civil government with the principles of
Christianity." He also said, “Always vote for principle, though you may vote
alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never
lost.”
“Did You Know” #8
Calvin Coolidge, our 30th President of the United States reaffirmed this truth when he wrote, "The foundations of our society and our government rest so much on the teachings of the Bible that it would be difficult to support them if faith in these teachings would cease to be practically universal in our country."
In 1782, the United States Congress voted this resolution: "The congress of the United States recommends and approves the Holy Bible for use in all schools."
“Did You Know” #9
William Holmes McGuffey is the author of the McGuffey Reader, which was used for over 100 years in our public schools with over 125 million copies sold until it was stopped in 1963. President Lincoln called him the "Schoolmaster of the Nation."
Listen to these words of Mr. McGuffey: "The Christian religion is the religion of our country. From it are derived our notions on character of God, on the great moral Governor of the universe. On its doctrines are founded the peculiarities of our free institutions. From no source has the author drawn more conspicuously than from the sacred Scriptures. From all these extracts from the Bible I make no apology."
“Did You Know” #10
Of the first 108 universities founded in America, 106 were distinctly Christian, including the first.
Harvard University, chartered in 1636. In the original Harvard Student Handbook rule number 1 was that students seeking entrance must know Latin and Greek so that they could study the scriptures:
"Let every student be plainly instructed and earnestly pressed to consider well, the main end of his life and studies is, to know God and Jesus Christ, which is eternal life, John 17:3; and therefore to lay Jesus Christ as the only foundation of all sound knowledge and learning. And seeing the Lord only giveth wisdom, let everyone seriously set himself by prayer in secret to seek it of him (Proverbs 2:3)."
For over 100 years, more than 50% of all Harvard graduates were pastors!
“Did You Know” #11
In 1963, the Supreme Court ruled that Bible reading was outlawed as unconstitutional in the public school system. The court offered this justification: "If portions of the New Testament were read without explanation, they could and have been psychologically harmful to children."
Bible reading was now unconstitutional , though the Bible was quoted 94 percent of the time by those who wrote our constitution and shaped our Nation and its system of education and justice and government.
In 1965, the Courts denied as unconstitutional the rights of a student in the public school cafeteria to bow his head and pray audibly for his food.
In 1980, Stone vs. Graham outlawed the Ten Commandments in our public schools.
The Supreme Court said this: "If the posted copies of the Ten Commandments were to have any effect at all, it would be to induce school children to read them. And if they read them, meditated upon them, and perhaps venerated and observed them, this is not a permissible objective."
Is it not a permissible objective to allow our children to follow the moral principles of the Ten Commandments?
James Madison, the primary author of the Constitution of the United States, said this: "We have staked the whole future of our new nation, not upon the power of government; far from it. We have staked the future of all our political constitutions upon the capacity of each of ourselves to govern ourselves according to the moral principles of the Ten Commandments."
Today we are asking God to bless America. But how can He bless a Nation that has departed so far from Him?
Most of what you read in this article has been erased from our textbooks. Revisionists have rewritten history to remove the truth about our country's Christian roots.
“PAYING OUR DUES”
Election Day gives us a choice
to give our values wings and voice.
It’s spending time to pay respect
to what makes freedom ring.
When we neglect our treasured right,
we fail to leverage godly might.
When we forget or just don’t vote,
we leech off liberty.
Yes, voting is like paying dues.
We mark our ballots and we choose.
And in the process we invest
in funding freedom’s cost.