Improving March Madness

by Steve Burchett

Men's college basketball provides one of the most entertaining tournaments of the year. Sixty-four teams (or sixty-five, if you count the "play-in" game) make the "Big Dance," a single-elimination tournament that culminates in a national championship. Sometimes bigger schools are defeated by smaller schools that weren't expected to make it past the first round. One of these lesser, relatively unknown teams might even win a few games, and the media dubs them "Cinderella." Even if the prominent teams dominate, the tournament is still full of drama and enjoyable moments. This time of the year is affectionately referred to as "March Madness."

But it can be improved. I don't mean the actual tournament needs to be changed for the better (though I always question how certain teams were qualified to make the field of sixty-four!), but how you participate might need to be modified. Here are a few ways you can improve March Madness:

Beware of being a "couch potato."
I speak from experience on this one. I could sit on the couch and watch games all day. I like not only close games, but I also enjoy critiquing coaching styles and team strategies. I admit it: I am a recovering couch potato.

Is it wrong to sit and watch games for several hours in a row? Sometimes, but not always. Jesus did attempt to get away from the crowds with His disciples for some rest (Mark 6:31). However, when we decide to relax and watch a ballgame, we should remember that the New Testament is full of teaching about responsibilities like pursuing holiness (Hebrews 12:14) and losing your life for Christ and the gospel (Mark 8:34-38). We rest, take in a ball game, and even sleep, so that we are refreshed and ready to deny ourselves, take up our crosses, and follow Christ with zeal.

Involve your wife by encouraging her to fill out a bracket.
Every year before the tournament begins, a "bracket" appears in newspapers and on certain websites that shows who is playing whom and what the future matchups could be. Before a single game is played, thousands take this bracket and fill in the teams they think will win each contest. Most of our wives don't understand our joy in the competition (just like we don't identify with their love for shopping). However, these tournament brackets might be a way to involve our wives in the "madness."

Here's what you can do: Both you and your wife fill out your own brackets, and see who gets the most games correct. (My wife and I like to make the later games worth more than the first round games.) This may seem like a trivial endeavor, but small things like this, done together, can strengthen a marriage. Involving your wife shows her that you love her and have a disposition of kindness toward her (Colossians 3:19), and it will humble you when she does better than you!

Point out to your children players who exhibit hard work and integrity.
When a child is watching a game with you, highlight a player who may not be the highest scorer, but who plays hard defense and is not afraid to dive on the floor after a loose basketball. Say to your child, "That's the kind of Christian I want to be—hardworking and faithful to do even the painful things."

You might even find out that one of the players is a true believer. Watch how he reacts when a poor call is made against him, and ask your child, "Do you think he responded like a Christian when the referee made that bad call?" Redemptive conversations could become normal throughout the tournament.

Don't be miserable if your favorite team loses.
Perhaps you have heard someone say, "It's just a game." That's an accurate statement, but some individuals, including Christians, are depressed for days after their beloved team is defeated. Is there any good reason for such behavior? No. Paul writes, "Rejoice always . . . In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 5:16, 18). If you have been redeemed by Christ, joy should be constant.

When we mope around after our team loses, we are forgetting about eternal realities. People all around us are sinners who will perish without Christ. Millions of people throughout this world are not thinking about who won the big game; they just want to know where they will get their next meal. Enjoy the tournament, but let's get serious about what really matters in this life and how we should engage people with the hope of the gospel.

"Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."(1 Corinthians 10:31)

Copyright © 2009 Steve Burchett
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Jim Elliff Interviewed About House Churches

Click here for an interview on house churches Todd Friel (of Wretched Radio) did with Jim Elliff.

FYI: Since this interview, Jim has come to see that there were churches in buildings prior to Constantine, at least in the mid 200's.

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What Does Luck Have to Do With It?

by Jim Elliff

Joni Eareckson Tada is one of the most gracious and effective Christians in the world. She has lived with the results of a diving accident that broke her neck during her teen years. In her 50's she continues to radiate Christ to a listening world. Joni is known by thousands of Christians, perhaps millions, through her books, radio program, and conference speaking.

Once my brother asked Joni how she made it through the difficult battle with her paraplegia. I later heard her give the same answer in a large conference in Orlando. Her reply will surprise you. "I suppose what helped me get through this more than any other thing" she said, "was reading Loraine Beottner's Reformed Doctrine of Predestination."

Now that caught you off guard, didn't it?

What she was saying was that she came to understand through this book that God is in control. And if God is in control then her accident wasn't just a fluke, but a purposeful arrangement by a loving God. She could trust a God like that. That accident cost her freedom and brought chronic suffering. But to Joni, that diving accident was a huge gift from God—a platform for speaking to the world about her favorite subject, Christ.

I know that it might seem insensitive to say that God is in control. But this is what the Bible teaches, like it or not. When we analyze national tragedy we sometimes recoil from the notion that God could be in control of His world. We seek to protect God from such an accusation. But the Scriptures don't do this.

The Bible teaches that all good things, as well as all tragic things, come from God. (See Lam. 3: 37-38) They usually come via secondary sources, that is, they are delivered on your doorstep by other people or through the convergence of events and complex connections. Without being a tempter or evil (James 1:13), God determines all things, while still leaving men responsible for their actions.

Complicated? Sure. But true nonetheless.

A clear illustration of this can be seen in the death of Christ. Is the death of Christ a good thing? Of course. Did God just "hope" that everything would work out to accomplish the greatest event of the universe? Did God feel lucky that it all worked out as He projected?

The early Christians did not think it was luck that brought about Jesus' redemptive death. Here's the way they put it in a prayer meeting:

For truly against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose determined before to be done. (Acts 4:27-28)

We can think of all events, tragic or good, under two categories. They are either for the punishment or for the benefit of the person, but they're all in the end for the glory of God.

Now think carefully. First, realize that everything that happens to a non-believer is a tragedy. Even mercies from God, if sinned against, work out for the worse to the non-believer. Every apparently good thing coming to a person who will finally reject God, only serves to make his judgment more severe. (See Rom. 2: 4-6)

But for the child of God, life works out exactly the opposite. The Bible says, "All things work together for the good of those who love God, the called according to His purpose." (Rom. 8:28).

So, when a difficult thing comes into the life of a believer, as in Joni's swimming accident, then the end result is good. It is for a loving purpose. Even discipline from God toward true believers is for the good. And when sinful people are involved, we can say with Joseph, "You meant it for evil; but God meant it for good." (Gen. 50:20)

As one theologian said, "Tragedy is anything that happens to a non-believer." And we can add, "Good is anything that happens to a true Christian."

This can only be said because God is in control. And luck, well, it isn't even there.

Copyright © 2003 Jim Elliff

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Seven Principles of Finance for the Believer

by Jim & Pam Elliff

One of the most recognizable differences in the believer and the world he lives in is his unusual relationship to money and possessions. However, even serious believers sometimes balk at the seeming extremities in the teaching and lifestyle of Christ and the leaders of the New Testament church. Can we duplicate this New Testament lifestyle in our day?

This outline provides the diligent believer with some key principals preparing him/her for radical, other-worldly financial behavior. Alone, or if married, with your spouse, take some time for reading the Scripture texts and thinking through the obedient thing to do in each area. Then write out what you find. There is only one thing for you to do after this meditation … obey!

1. The Principle of Non-Attachment
   I will purchase or receive nothing that I cannot give away.

   And He said to them, "Beware and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions. Luke 12:15

   Luke 12:32-34; 16:13-25; 1 John 2:15-17

   What must be done to obey these verses?

   
   
   
2. The Principle of Liberty
   I will owe no man anything but to love him.

   Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. Rom. 13:8

   Pro. 22:7

   What must be done to obey these verses?

   
   
   
3. The Principle of Liberality
   I will constantly seek to give away possessions for God's glory.

   For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability they gave of their own accord, begging us with much entreaty for the favor of participation in the support of the saints, and this, not as we had expected, but they first gave themselves to the Lord and to us by the will of God. 2 Cor. 8:3-5

   2 Cor. 9:7; Luke 6:38

   What must be done to obey these verses?

   
   
   
4. The Principle of Recall
   I will keep accurate records of God's dealings with me financially in order to show others that God answers prayer and provides for His own.

   Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. Mat. 5:16

   Prov. 27:23-27

   What must be done to obey these verses?

   
   
   
5. The Principle of Security
   I will save and invest only if God is leading, with the understanding that I will give it all away at His slightest instruction.

   Do not lay up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and dust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up your treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in or steal. Mat. 6:19-20

   Prov. 28:8; 1 Tim. 6:9-11

   What must be done to obey these verses?

   
   
   
6. The Principle of Compassion
   I will not pray for someone's needs financially unless I am willing to be the instrument God uses to meet that need if He should desire.

   We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoever has the world's goods, and beholds his brother in need and closes his heart against him how does the love of God abide in him? Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth. 1 John 3:16-18

   James 2:15-17; Luke 6:30, 38; II Cor. 9:6-15; Prov. 28:27

   What must be done to obey these verses?

   
   
   
7. The Principle of Contentment
   I will be content to live on whatever God chooses to provide, whether little or much.

   Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Phil. 4:11-13

   Prov. 30:7-9; Matt. 6:24-34; 1 Tim. 6:8

   What must be done to obey these verses?

   
   
   

Copyright © 1996 Jim and Pam Elliff
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A Cathartic Sickness

by Jim Elliff

NOTE: I wrote this in 2005 when I was going through a series of minor health issues. They were nothing really, but did do some good for me. I did not publish this article at the time, but believe it still has meaning. I hope you can share it with those who might benefit from it. JE

One of my longtime friends died recently, and another is extremely sick. I have also had some uncomfortable physical challenges myself, the latest of which is what appears to be a rather manageable pneumonia in one lung.[1]

As I bathed myself in the sweat of fever, I often regretted my inability to sleep and work. As the Christian radio station or a CD of some preacher droned through the night hours, I thought, “Could I face something much worse?”

I have had nothing to complain about. I don’t deserve better, but far worse. In fact, I’ve tried hard not to have any real complaints. But I have sometimes tired of the battle that for me has not lasted that many weeks! My tiredness under God’s hand of providence has surely come out in my speech and demeanor from time to time. How gracious my church and family have been.

My two friends who are in (or just finished) their most difficult battles seemed more God-centered than I in their talk of God and their walk with God. I know that they sometimes must have moaned privately with their spouses, longing for some relief. I know that they fought the worry of the unknown, the gripping power of vivid imagination in the dead of the night. But to me they have been great models of a Godward life. Their long term and persistent struggles leave mine in the dust. They are my heroes.

That real question that their afflictions and my lesser aggravations have brought forward remains in my mind: “Could I take more? What would I be like in the middle of some life-threatening illness? Would I live out my days in a God-honoring way if I could not do all that I had hoped to do for Christ? What if I were nauseated all the time, unable to think cogently, weak to the point of exhaustion every day for the rest of my life, or in severe pain suffering through surgery after surgery? What if I lost my hearing, my sight, or my ability to form words? What if things were never right again?”

I’ve always assumed that I would live a long life. My great grandfather was 101. My grandfathers were nearly 99 on one side, 93 on the other. Many of my aunts and uncles lived into their 90s. My father is soon going to celebrate his 91^st birthday. But my mother died of Alzheimers at 67, barely ten years older than I am now.

In my case, I do believe that I will come around physically from my minor struggles, but can I guarantee it? I don’t want anyone to worry about me (there is no need), but just to profit from my experiences, though they have been minuscule compared to others. I have known something in these weeks that is most gratifying and comforting. I’ve known firsthand (again) that there is purpose in God weakening us. He has taught me to “number my days that I may give myself to wisdom,” as the psalmist said so beautifully.

Here are the best lessons. I hope I remember them even if I live to 100 and die peacefully in my sleep.

1. Life is short and the best part is yet to come.

2. God is a comforter and a present help.

3. God does so many warm and helpful things through other Christians and family. I feel so grateful for that.

4. I should prepare my mind better for the dark night of the soul if it should come. By this I mean that I should memorize and meditate more on Scripture.

5. Many things are not that important.

6. The more I know about who God is and how He works, the less fear can reach me.

7. When I cannot pray sensibly, I can cry out to God.

8. One day, there is going to be a beautiful resolve to all that worries me physically or in any other sphere.

Not long ago, I preached in a church in one of our southern states on the subject of providence from James 4. There James says, “Instead we ought to say, ‘If God wills we shall live and do this or that.’” The point I made was that all that happens is entirely dependent on God’s will. As I discussed the beauty of this truth, I was feeling it personally—and was genuinely happy about it. My eye caught a man in the audience. He was a bit older and unknown to me. I would never meet him because I had to leave the service immediately afterward to make a flight. His eyes said it all, however. When tears rose up in them, I could relate to a common yearning between us. We all want to be reassured that God has a plan that includes our death and the manner in which we die. If so, we can rest in that plan, for He promises that His plans are always for the good of the believer.

I believe that. And at the end of it all, it is that lesson that will carry me through until that last moment on earth, sooner or later. If it is not so, then I have every reason to be anxious, for this world is full of terrors, lions in the face and dogs on the heel, even for the brave at heart.

---

[1] This was written in 2005 when I had a series of relatively minor, but persistent health issues. I did not publish it. All is well now, but upon reflection I felt this might be a useful meditation for us all.

Copyright © Jim Elliff 2008 Revised. Written in 2005 during a season of illness.
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Thoughts on Improving Baptisms

by Jim Elliff

Since water baptism is so important to the churches, I want to put forward a few ideas that may help churches make more of this important symbolic act. What I'm suggesting is in the way of pastoral advice, not doctrine. You can take or leave these ideas, but in my own experience and through information received from many pastors over the years, these suggestions could make this experience much more memorable and effective. Most of these suggestions will apply to those who meet in typical church buildings, but some will apply, or can be adapted, for churches that meet in homes.

1. Consider bringing the congregation forward and as near as reasonable to the baptistery when you baptize. Having the congregation gathered around the water makes the experience that much warmer and less formal. In this way you are getting as close as possible in a building to the original experience of the early church. By turning the lights down you can focus all the attention on the act taking place. This will not work in every situation, but I have practiced it in one form or another like this for many years, even where several hundred people were involved.

2. Print nice invitations for the baptism with the name of the one to be immersed. This can be done with nice card stock even on your own computer. Give several of these to those being baptized so that they can invite their friends and family to the evening. Include a map to the place of baptism. Invite them also to a reception prior to the service during which the meaning of baptism is explained (another way to preach the gospel). You may wish to give an evangelistic book or CD¹ to each person who is a guest. Then, during the evening meeting, have the one being baptized read his or her testimony. Preach evangelistically before the baptism. Make the baptism itself the final part of the meeting. Relatives and friends are used to the idea of attending baby sprinklings, so will likely find it appropriate to attend such an event. Many invitations should be passed out. Some churches have seen large numbers of unconverted people attend such a meeting. If your people are warmhearted and accepting (prepare them for this), as well as being sincere and involved in the evening, it will make quite an impression on lost friends and family. With a few being baptized on one night, you might have 20-50 new people attending who will get to hear the gospel.

3. Always include the testimony of the one being baptized. We find it actually better if the convert writes out and reads his/her story of coming to Christ. We tell them to do as good a job writing as possible, and we may even help them work on it. Then, following the baptism and after the testimony has been read, everyone should receive a copy of the testimony on their way out of the building. The new convert should freely distribute these written testimonies to relatives who could not attend and use it generally as an evangelistic tool. We find it helpful to include a printed testimony in evangelistic books that are handed out. Many people are inclined to read someone's story of conversion. It should be no more than one sheet, front and back.

4. If a son or daughter of godly parent(s) is being baptized, allow them to speak about their child's conversion also. It is perfectly alright for them to read their comments if necessary. For instance, it would be very instructive for a godly man to explain some of the concerns of a parent in the years of waiting for a teenage daughter's conversion. Other parents will identify and be challenged.

5. If a father wishes to be in the baptismal pool with a son or daughter, this is possible. I do not prefer having fathers baptize their own children, however. It is permissible, of course, if a local church recognizes such a practice, but in my view it is not advisable. It will put a pressure on less godly individuals to do the same, and this could create embarrassment when pastors feel compelled to draw the line somewhere. It is better to have a pastor (meaning any of the elders) do the baptizing. But it could be a loving and supporting thing for a husband or wife, a father or mother, etc., to stand in (or next to) the baptistry and pray for their family member.

6. If your church is smaller (or even larger, if you can work it out), it is certainly possible to baptize in a location other than the church building. Two of my children were baptized in a swimming pool, and one in a hot tub. I have even baptized in a horse trough! There was nothing unholy or profane about such a practice. In our case, we did not have an alternative anyway. In the early church, pools called miqvehs, often found beside Jewish homes, were sometimes used. And don't forget about ponds or rivers.

7. During the baptism, ask for the church's faithful commitment to the new believer. Perhaps you can have several people pray publicly for the new convert, or the church can verbalize their commitment at that time in some other way. This is all done more easily if the people are gathered at the front.

8. Baptize as often as possible. In my experience it is far better and more biblical to baptize as soon as the leaders know they have a valid convert, that is, at the next possible Sunday evening. Or, if not the very next Sunday evening, as soon as is reasonable. The key is to know that you actually have a convert. In some cases time will need to elapse before this can be known with a reasonable degree of certainty. However, the point is, don't wait forever. In some churches I have been privileged to lead, we would baptize almost every Sunday evening. The more often we baptized, the more often others were inclined to repent of their sins and to be baptized also. Remember that baptism preaches a message! With children, be cautious to make sure you have a true convert. Knowing this is difficult, so waiting in order to ascertain the certainty of a child's conversion is not unwise. In most cases this is best known when they are teenagers and are making clear choices between their peers and Christ. But these are matters for another discussion.² But once you know for sure, baptize as soon as possible.

9. Since taking the Lord's Supper should be a weekly event (not by command, but NT precedent), consider having both symbols on Sunday evenings. After the exposition of Scripture, dedicate the last period of your meeting to these important matters. We've never had a time problem in our churches when significant things are being done. For us, we don't pass the elements around for the supper, but ask people to come to the table themselves to pick them up. To make things work easier, you might put the elements on more than one table. There are various ways to take the Lord's supper that will have to be addressed in another article sometime. Baptism can immediately follow this. In this way you are celebrating the death and the life we find in Christ. That, to me, is a powerful way to preach without words. As an alternative, you may wish to have the Lord's supper follow the baptism so that the new convert can take his or her first communion with you. This may prove logistically difficult in some settings, however.

10. Finally, let me add that it is important to teach on baptism. This last piece of advice is not necessarily about the evening of the baptism itself, but perhaps some other time in the life of the church. In any case, it will enhance this experience. I've never preached on baptism without some people expressing their need to be baptized-not once! Many people are confused about baptism, though you might assume they understand everything. I once met a lady who was very intelligent and whose husband was the principal of a college. Yet she had some crazy idea that in churches like ours people were lowered into the water on ropes! Others understand the mode, but have no idea of its meaning. Still others were baptized prior to their conversion, which is really no baptism at all. These people will be challenged to do the right thing. Teach on baptism and help your people and guests understand what this symbol is all about.³

Well, this will have to suffice. The point is, don't let baptisms become routine and lifeless. That is totally unnecessary and deadening to the church. Baptism is an exciting and meaningful event, both for the church and the individual. It should be done thoughtfully, worked on carefully, and prayed for diligently.

___________________

¹ You may find our Pursuing God, A Seeker's Guide a useful choice. This comes in a book or audio book form. To learn more about this book and order, click here (book) or here (audio book).

²You may wish to order to the FamilyLife Today seven part series called "How Children Come to Faith in Christ." This is a series of interviews of me by Dennis Rainey and Bob LePine. In this series I explain some of my rationale for such a statement. Order from us for a discount by clicking here.

³Read my book, Going Under: Discussions on Baptism for more information that may be used for teaching on the subject, or for giving to new converts. Click here to order at our website.

Copyright © Jim Elliff 2007
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When Anger Gets the Best of You

by Jim Elliff

He came close to murder and I saw it myself!

Looking out my window at the commotion, I watched two angry yard workers yelling at each other. One man got into such a rage that he threw his machete directly at his adversary. Thankfully, he missed. Then, just as the assailant jumped in his truck to escape, the second man slammed a baseball bat against his truck window, shattering it to pieces. The driver burned rubber as he took off. That was all I saw, but it was enough.

Cain did more than that.

It was all over the offering to God. His was rejected while his brother Abel's was received. Was he selfish, keeping the best for himself? Was he competitive toward his brother? Was he trying to bribe God? We don't know the answer fully. All we know is that Abel gave his offering in faith, implying that Cain did not (Heb. 11:4).

This rejection didn't sit well with Cain. Rather than humbling himself and coming to God in repentance, he stewed inside and planned out his revenge. You could see it on his face.

So the Lord said to Cain, "Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it." (Gen. 4:6-7)

Rule over it? It seemed impossible to Cain. So, when he and his brother were in the field, "Cain rose up against his brother and killed him." What was in Cain's heart found its perfect, deadly expression.

"Your brother's blood cries out to Me from the ground," God said as He pronounced judgment on him. Cain was banished from God's blessing. He became "a fugitive and a vagabond," wandering in the land of Nod east of Eden. He lived in fear all his days saying, "Anyone who finds me will kill me." Today he wanders still, in hell.

A fable is told about a rival to an ancient Grecian Olympic victor. It was the custom of the city to make a statue of the winner to acknowledge his strength and prowess. This infuriated the rival athlete. Late one night, after all were asleep, the envious man faced the statue as if he were wrestling the person the statue represented. In anger, he shook it loose from its pedestal. Falling backward the statue in his arms toppled down upon him, crushing him to death. In reality, his own anger killed him.

Unrighteous anger is an awful and dangerous emotion. Have you felt its destruction? It will lead you to actions that you will regret all your life. You will say and do murderous things. If you do not kill your opponent physically, which most often does not happen, you will do so verbally. Anger has destroyed families, wilted relationships, torn apart businesses, contaminated churches, divided nations, and shaped destinies.

John saw anger as a bad sign, indicating a lost condition:

He who says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness until now. (1 John 2:9)

He who does not love his brother abides in death. Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. (1 John 3:14-15)

He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. (1 John 4:8)

Jesus taught the same:

You have heard that it was said to those of old, "You shall not murder, and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment." But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. (Matt. 5:21-22)

Paul affirmed it also. See it in various forms in this list:

Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. (Gal. 5:19-21)

I've known young people who have tearfully confessed that bitter anger is the main characteristic of their father or mother. Young people also are not exempt. God says such people are in danger of hell. They may be church attenders, even recognized leaders, but what is inside reveals the real person.

"You also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness," Jesus said to some religious leaders (Matt. 23:28).

Remember Cain: his offering rejected, his anger excited, his countenance fallen, God's restoration refused, God's vengeance released, God's judgment rendered. Remember, and come to Christ for life and forgiveness.

Copyright © 2009 Jim Elliff
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The Sustainer of Presidents

by Susan Verstraete

In 1789, George Washington addressed the legislators and citizens gathered in New York City to celebrate his installation as the first president of the United States. In this first inaugural address, he said this:

. . . it would be peculiarly improper to omit in this first official act my fervent supplications to that Almighty Being who rules over the universe, who presides in the councils of nations, and whose providential aids can supply every human defect, that His benediction may consecrate to the liberties and happiness of the people of the United States. . . . You will join with me, I trust, in thinking that there are none under the influence of which the proceedings of a new and free government can more auspiciously commence.—George Washington, 1789

And apparently, the presidents to follow him would agree. Though we cannot be sure that every president was a true believer (not all of them even claimed to be Christian), nearly all of our presidents have acknowledged the sovereignty of God and asked for His help from the first day of their administrations. Note these excerpts about God from presidential inaugural addresses.

And may that Being who is supreme over all, the Patron of Order, the Fountain of Justice, and the Protector in all ages of the world of virtuous liberty, continue His blessing upon this nation and its Government and give it all possible success and duration consistent with the ends of His providence. —John Adams, 1797

I shall need, too, the favor of that Being in whose hands we are. . . and to whose goodness I ask you to join with me in supplications, that he will so enlighten the minds of your servants, guide their councils, and prosper their measures, that whatsoever they do, shall result in your good, and shall secure to you the peace, friendship, and approbation of all nations. —Thomas Jefferson, 1805

. . . with a firm reliance on the protection of Almighty God, I shall forthwith commence the duties of the high trust to which you have called me. —James Monroe, 1821

. . . and knowing that "except the Lord keep the city the watchman waketh but in vain," with fervent supplications for His favor, to His overruling providence I commit with humble but fearless confidence my own fate and the future destinies of my country.—John Quincy Adams, 1825

Finally, it is my most fervent prayer to that Almighty Being before whom I now stand, and who has kept us in His hands from the infancy of our Republic to the present day, that He will so overrule all my intentions and actions and inspire the hearts of my fellow-citizens that we may be preserved from dangers of all kinds and continue forever a united and happy people. —Andrew Jackson, 1833

So sensibly, fellow-citizens, do these circumstances press themselves upon me that I should not dare to enter upon my path of duty. . . did I not permit myself humbly to hope for the sustaining support of an ever-watchful and beneficent Providence.—Martin Van Buren, 1837

I deem the present occasion sufficiently important and solemn to justify me in expressing to my fellow-citizens a profound reverence . . . to that good Being who has blessed us by the gifts of civil and religious freedom, who watched over and prospered the labors of our fathers and has hitherto preserved to us institutions far exceeding in excellence those of any other people. . . —William Henry Harrison, 1841

In assuming responsibilities so vast I fervently invoke the aid of that Almighty Ruler of the Universe in whose hands are the destinies of nations . . . With a firm reliance upon the wisdom of Omnipotence to sustain and direct me in the path of duty which I am appointed to pursue…—James Knox Polk, 1845

In conclusion I congratulate you, my fellow-citizens, upon the high state of prosperity to which the goodness of Divine Providence has conducted our common country. Let us invoke a continuance of the same protecting care which has led us from small beginnings to the eminence we this day occupy, and let us seek to deserve that continuance. . .—Zachary Taylor, 1849

But let not the foundation of our hope rest upon man's wisdom. . . . It must be felt that there is no national security but in the nation's humble, acknowledged dependence upon God and His overruling providence.—Franklin Pierce, 1853

In entering upon this great office I must humbly invoke the God of our fathers for wisdom and firmness to execute its high and responsible duties in such a manner as to restore harmony and ancient friendship among the people of the several States and to preserve our free institutions throughout many generations. —James Buchanan, 1857

Fondly do we hope — fervently do we pray — that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue. . . as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said, "the judgments of the Lord, are true and righteous altogether."—Abraham Lincoln, 1865

Looking for the guidance of that Divine Hand by which the destinies of nations and individuals are shaped. . . Rutherford B. Hayes, 1877

I reverently invoke the support and blessings of Almighty God. —James A. Garfield, 1881

Above all, I know there is a Supreme Being who rules the affairs of men and whose goodness and mercy have always followed the American people, and I know He will not turn from us now if we humbly and reverently seek His powerful aid. —Grover Cleveland, 1893

. . . we may reverently invoke and confidently expect the favor and help of Almighty God—that He will give to me wisdom, strength, and fidelity, and to our people a spirit of fraternity and a love of righteousness and peace. . . —Benjamin Harrison, 1889

Entrusted by the people for a second time with the office of President, I enter upon its administration . . . reverently invoking for my guidance the direction and favor of Almighty God.—William McKinley, 1901

My fellow-citizens, no people on earth have more cause to be thankful than ours, and this is said reverently . . . with gratitude to the Giver of Good who has blessed us with the conditions, which have enabled us to achieve so large a measure of well-being and of happiness.—Theodore Roosevelt, 1905

I invoke the considerate sympathy and support of my fellow-citizens and the aid of the Almighty God in the discharge of my responsible duties. —William Howard Taft, 1909

I pray God I may be given the wisdom and the prudence to do my duty in the true spirit of this great people.—Woodrow Wilson, 1917

I accept my part with single-mindedness of purpose and humility of spirit, and implore the favor and guidance of God in His Heaven. —Warren G. Harding, 1921

She [America] cherishes no purpose save to merit the favor of Almighty God. —Calvin Coolidge, 1925

I assume this trust in the humility of knowledge that only through the guidance of Almighty Providence can I hope to discharge its ever-increasing burdens. —Herbert Hoover, 1929

In this dedication of a Nation we humbly ask the blessing of God. . . . May He guide me in the days to come.—Franklin D. Roosevelt, 1933

The Almighty God has blessed our land in many ways . . . . So we pray to Him now for the vision to see our way clearly—to see the way that leads to a better life for ourselves and for all our fellow men—to the achievement of His will to peace on earth.—Franklin D. Roosevelt, 1945

Steadfast in our faith in the Almighty, we will advance toward a world where man's freedom is secure. . . . With God's help, the future of mankind will be assured in a world of justice, harmony, and peace. —Harry S. Truman, 1949

Almighty God, as we stand here at this moment my future associates in the executive branch of government join me in beseeching that Thou will make full and complete our dedication to the service of the people in this throng, and their fellow citizens everywhere. Give us, we pray, the power to discern clearly right from wrong, and allow all our words and actions to be governed thereby, and by the laws of this land. Especially we pray that our concern shall be for all the people regardless of station, race, or calling. May cooperation be permitted and be the mutual aim of those who, under the concepts of our Constitution, hold to differing political faiths; so that all may work for the good of our beloved country and Thy glory. Amen. —Dwight D. Eisenhower, 1953

. . . I have sworn before you and Almighty God the same solemn oath our forebears prescribed nearly a century and three quarters ago. The world is very different now. . . . And yet the same revolutionary beliefs for which our forebears fought are still at issue around the globe—the belief that the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state, but from the hand of God. —John F. Kennedy, 1961

For myself, I ask only, in the words of an ancient leader: "Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, that is so great?"—Lyndon Baines Johnson, 1965

Today, I ask your prayers that in the years ahead I may have God's help in making decisions that are right for America, and I pray for your help so that together we may be worthy of our challenge. . . .Let us go forward from here confident in hope, strong in our faith in one another, sustained by our faith in God who created us, and striving always to serve His purpose. —Richard Milhous Nixon, 1973

I am told that tens of thousands of prayer meetings are being held on this day, and for that I am deeply grateful. We are a nation under God, and I believe God intended for us to be free. It would be fitting and good, I think, if on each Inauguration Day in future years it should be declared a day of prayer. —Ronald Reagan, 1981

And my first act as President is a prayer. . . . Heavenly Father, we bow our heads and thank You for Your love. Accept our thanks for the peace that yields this day and the shared faith that makes its continuance likely. Make us strong to do Your work, willing to heed and hear Your will, and write on our hearts these words: "Use power to help people." For we are given power not to advance our own purposes, nor to make a great show in the world, nor a name. There is but one just use of power, and it is to serve people. Help us to remember it, Lord. Amen. —George Bush, 1989

May God strengthen our hands for the good work ahead, and always, always bless our America. —William J. Clinton, 1997

We are not this story's author, who fills time and eternity with His purpose. Yet His purpose is achieved in our duty, and our duty is fulfilled in service to one another. —George W. Bush, 2001

May God bless you, and may He watch over the United States of America. —George W. Bush, 2005

Copyright © 2008 Susan Verstraete. Permission granted for reproduction in exact form. All other uses require written permission.

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Here's the Skinny on FAT TUESDAY

by Daryl Wingerd

Fat Tuesday is another name for Mardis Gras, the raucous annual parade and party held in the streets of New Orleans, Louisiana. The tradition is many centuries old and was originally known as Carnival. It is held in various places around the world under different names. Mardis Gras (or Fat Tuesday) is the American version.

Carnival comes from a combination of Latin words meaning "farewell to the flesh." There is a great deal of irony in that name because Fat Tuesday is by no means a time when the desires of the flesh are denied or bid farewell. Instead they are lavishly indulged. Anything goes—gluttonous eating, massive consumption of alcohol, even public displays of sexual immorality (to say nothing of what goes on behind closed doors). The streets, sidewalks, shops, and hotels on Bourbon Street in New Orleans are indeed X-rated during this festival of debauchery.

So why the name "farewell to the flesh"? Why not name it for what it really is? Fat Tuesday is known as the farewell to the flesh because Fat Tuesday precedes Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. Lent is a 40-day period of self-denial and repentance, instituted by some in the early church as a way of preparing Christians for Easter.

Those who are sinfully self-indulgent during Mardis Gras in preparation for the self-denial during Lent may be likened to a camel preparing to cross a long stretch of waterless desert. The camel drinks deeply of that which will satisfy its thirst, not only for the moment, but also for the next days and weeks. Likewise, Fat Tuesday revelers drink deeply of that for which they truly thirst—the lusts of the flesh—in preparation for lean times when sinful behavior will not be as socially acceptable.

The real tragedy of Fat Tuesday is the way "the church" has historically responded to it. Fat Tuesday has also been called Shrove Tuesday. The word "shrove" is derived from the Latin scribere, meaning, "to prescribe penance." During the middle ages, religious leaders would ensure that "shriveners" (priests) were available to hear the confessions of the multitudes of presumptuous sinners who had committed all types of iniquity during Carnival.

The job of the priest was not to call these people to a deep and true repentance, but rather to prepare them ceremonially for Lent. In other words: Have your fun! Drink as deeply as you need of the lusts of the flesh! Just be sure to confess your sins to the priest before Lent. The priest who hears your confession will prescribe fasting and the right sort of penance (self-inflicted penalty) for you to make amends with God. This was (and still is) the view of many within the Roman Catholic system regarding presumptuous sin, confession, and penance. But what is the true Christian view of a day like Fat Tuesday?

The Apostle Paul tells us as Christians that "we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest of mankind" (Ephesians 2:3). But notice the past tense in Paul's reminder—"we all once lived in the passions of our flesh." In another place, describing the current mindset of a true Christian, Paul asks, "How can we who died to sin still live in it?" (Romans 6:2). To the Corinthians Paul wrote about the way they were before becoming Christians:

Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God" (1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

True Christians are not perfect. They can and do sin. But they no longer thirst after sin. Sin is no longer where they find satisfaction. A true believer would never consider intentionally storing up the pleasures of sinful indulgence on Fat Tuesday in order to prepare for a "drought" of religiously imposed self-righteousness—fasting and penance during Lent. True Christians always "hunger and thirst for righteousness" (Matthew 5:6), "hating even the garment stained by the flesh" (Jude 23).

The one who says he knows Christ yet thirsts after and willfully engages in sin, whether daily in private or annually in the great public orgy known as Fat Tuesday, "is a liar and the truth is not in him" (1 John 2:4). And the priest or religious leader who affirms a person in such behavior by assuring him that external acts of confession and penance will make him right with God, is participating in one of the devil's most clever schemes.

The Christian who really is a Christian prays to God from the heart, "Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them not have dominion over me" (Psalm 19:13).

Copyright © 2006 Daryl Wingerd Christian Communicators Worldwide, Inc. Permission granted for not-for-sale reproduction in unedited formincluding author's name, title, complete content, copyright and weblink. Other uses require written permission.

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Lightning Strike: Better Than You Think

by Bryan Elliff

Several nights ago, I was out alone in a severe thunderstorm. Rain was pouring. Massive flashes of lightning frequently lit up the sky, followed by thunder that made the ground shake. I marveled at the power of God and quaked in my size 11 tennis shoes. To be honest, I was rather frightened.

“Suppose I get struck by lightning?” I thought. “What am I against this?”

But then it occurred to me: Who said I was against anything? Don’t all things work together for the good of God’s people? I was actually only witnessing a demonstration of the same power that recreated me.

God was not only protecting me from the lightning, He was the force behind it. He was on my side, therefore the lightning was on my side. Both it and I were in the same army. Even if God struck me with lightning, it would be far better than the alternative. Why? Because He did it. Since He decided not to, I know that it was better to get safely home. Either way, God is glorified and I am in a better place than before.

I am not taking God’s power lightly —it can be a very frightening thing. But for the believer, though it may hurt you, it will always be for you.

This principle doesn’t just apply to big things like lightning, though. It is the same with everyday problems. A while ago, I stubbed my toe on a twenty-pound weight while walking through my room in the dark. One of the most interesting things about those weights is that they don’t move. My foot, on the other hand, does. I am glad I did it. It was definitely better. I have no idea why, but I know that it was.

For the unbeliever, I have a totally opposite message. You should fear—fear like you have never feared before. While God is on the side of the believer, He opposes the non-believer. The lightning that was my friend, is your enemy. And you may well say, “What am I against this?” Indeed, what is even your father the devil against God?

But I write this mainly for the comfort of Christians. Nothing can ever happen to you that will not be better than any plan you might come up with.

The apostle Paul said rightly: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Rom. 8:31)

Copyright © 2009 Bryan Elliff
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