Dear Mr. President [Biden], I Am Deeply Concerned for You. I Love You and I am Praying for You.

Dear Mr. President,

Yesterday a Washington Post reporter asked me my thoughts on President Trump’s final 24 hours in the White House.  I shared them and prayed that they would reach the President’s eyes or ears.

Today a Washington Post reporter asked me my thoughts on your inauguration.  I shared them and pray that somehow they reach your eyes or ears.  This is long, but I know it is worth every minute of  your time.

I love you.  I care for you. I am thankful for you.  I hope that many wonderful things will be accomplished during your presidency for the good of our nation.  

I don’t know your heart, but what I do know from your policies and politicking deeply concerns me.  I am praying for you.

• Proverbs 21:1–2 “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will. Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the heart.” (ESV)

Today you laid your hand on your family Bible. I pray for it to be your authority and guide.   May you do what God commands and what is right in His eyes.

• 1 Kings 15:5 “because David did what was right in the eyes of the LORD and did not turn aside from anything that he commanded him all the days of his life, except in the matter of Uriah the Hittite.” (ESV)
• Isaiah 65:12 “I will destine you to the sword, and all of you shall bow down to the slaughter, because, when I called, you did not answer; when I spoke, you did not listen, but you did what was evil in my eyes and chose what I did not delight in.” (ESV)

Today, you took a sacred oath before God.  I pray that you walk humbly under the Lord Jesus Christ, personally trusting in His finished work on the cross, not your good works in life.

• Ephesians 2:8–9 “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (ESV)

Today, you beautifully made your first act of office to be prayer.  I pray you speak constantly and dependently to the one true God through the Holy Spirit. 

• Matthew 6:6 "But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”(ESV)

Today you honored the lives lost to COVID.  I pray that you value all human life, from the womb to the tomb. I pray that you value life  by choosing to fight against COVID, abortion, murder, and euthanasia.

• Psalm 139:13–14 “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well." (ESV)

Today you said “so help me God.”  I pray that God to helps you, guides you, corrects you, leads you, strengthens you, and grants you wisdom.

• Daniel 2:21 “He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding” (ESV)

Today you called all Americans a "good people."  I pray that God convicts you personally, so that you can see the depth of our depravity and lead our nation away from evil and wickedness and into righteousness.

• 2 Chronicles 7:14 “if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” (ESV)

Today you quoted President Abraham Lincoln, saying “my whole soul is in it.”  I pray that God speaks eternal life and truth into your soul.

• 1 Timothy 2:1–4 “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (ESV)
• 1 Kings 11:6 “So Solomon did what was evil in the sight of the LORD and did not wholly follow the LORD, as David his father had done.” (ESV)

Today you warned of lies and mentioned our enemies.  I pray that God protects you from the father of lies, Satan.  I pray that you take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.

• 2 Corinthians 10:5 “We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ” (ESV)

Today you referenced Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  I pray that you heed what Dr. King wrote from his jail cell in Birmingham, advocating for and executing just laws that are rooted in God’s moral law.

• “How does one determine whether a law is just or unjust? A just law is a man made code that squares with the moral law or the law of God. An unjust law is a code that is out of harmony with the moral law.” (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “Letter from a Birmingham Jail”, April 16, 1963,  page 7)

Today you repeated “here I stand” and mentioned the pope.  I pray for you to stand firmly, with conviction and courage, like Martin Luther on the Word of God alone.

• “Unless I am convinced by Scripture and plain reason - I do not accept the authority of the popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other - my conscience is captive to the Word of God.” (Martin Luther, Diet of Worms, 1521)

Today you mentioned the “will of the people.”  I pray for you to hear and treasure the “will of God” over and above the polls and politicians.

• Matthew 6:9–10 “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” (ESV)

Today you quoted Saint Augustine about us being defined by the common objects of our love.  I pray that you love and follow the Spirit of truth above all else.

• John 16:13 “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth”

Today you prioritized unity.  I pray for you to truly seek to bring our nation together “under God.”

• James 4:7–8 “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” (ESV)

Today Garth Brooks sang and invited others to sing “Amazing Grace.”  I pray for God’s Amazing Grace and love in and through you, and across our nation.

• Ephesians 1:7 “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace” (ESV)

As today’s events concluded peacefully, I thanked God for the peace of today.  I thanked Him for our wonderful nation.  I asked Him to preserve our nation and to guide our nation back to Him.  I asked God to use you greatly over the next four years.

• Jeremiah 29:7 “But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” (ESV)

Mr. President, today the Lord has allowed you the great privilege of serving as the President of the United States.  One day you will give an account to your Creator for your life and your presidency.  Tonight, and for the duration of your presidency, I am praying for you.

In Christ,

Jonathan Carl

Dear Mr. President [Trump], Your Drive-By Tweeting War is Over. Please apologize.

Dear Mr. President,

Your Drive-By Tweeting War is Over.  Please apologize.

You may not remember me, I was just an accidental civilian casualty who was  momentarily caught in the cross-fire of your twitter war.  Your aim was towards ABC News reporter Jonathan Karl (not Carl), but your vitriol and hatred found its mark in me.  Our nation has become deeply divided and wounded under your leadership and your twitter war.  Please help us heal.

In my first correspondence to you, I sent you the wisdom of President Lincoln.

In my final correspondence to you, I send you the wisdom of God from the Bible.  

Please listen to Him.  Please read this to the end.  It is worth your attention.

I love you.  I care for you.  I am praying for you.  I am thankful for you. 

I am grateful for the many wonderful things you accomplished during your presidency.  However, I am deeply concerned for you.

The Bible is clear that “out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks” and that “on the day of judgment people will give account for  every careless word they speak” (Matthew 12:34–36).  Please honestly assess your words and examine your heart.

Please apologize to God.  God loves you. God cares for you.  God sent His Son Jesus to die for you.  God wrote the Bible for you to hear of His love, but also for you to hear  the warnings of His judgment.

God is being patient with you.  He hasn't given up on you.  No matter your past, He desires your repentant heart now and forever.  The Lord gave you life.  Jesus has allowed you the privilege and responsibility of serving as President of the United States.  Please evaluate your life, your presidency, and where you have sinned against your Creator.

Heed the example of King Nebuchadnezzar from 2,600 years ago in Babylon (Daniel 4).  He boasted.  He bragged. He did not humble himself. God disciplined him. 

But then...King Nebuchadnezzar repented. The king apologized to God for his pride and arrogance. God forgave him.  God healed him.  God restored him.  God used him again.

Daniel 4:27 “Therefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable to you: break off your sins by practicing righteousness, and your iniquities by showing mercy to the oppressed, that there may perhaps be a lengthening of your prosperity.” (ESV)

Mr. President, let my counsel be acceptable to you; humble yourself and confess your sins to the Living God.  True repentance will bring you healing.  Practice “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23, ESV)

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (ESV)

Please apologize to America.  Please apologize to the world. God warns us that our sins harm others.  He cautions us about those who are “lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power” (2 Timothy 3:1–5).  

Consider yourself.  Are any of these characteristics in you? 

If you see them, confess them. To God. To America. To the world.

Who is someone around you who you can tell has the love of God in them?  

Ask them to be honest with you. Listen to their loving wisdom.  Confess your sins to them. Ask for their prayers.

James 5:16 “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.”

Please apologize now. Finish your presidency with a humble apology.  It’s not too late. 

Please apologize specifically. Take ownership of your failures. Don’t be vague. 

Please apologize without justification. Say “I’m  sorry.” Don’t blame shift, name-call, finger-point, or boast. 

Please ask for forgiveness.  True apologies go beyond “I'm sorry” and ask “will you forgive me?”  Ask for the forgiveness of your nation and world, and see the healing that  follows.

Please give forgiveness to others. I see your hurt.  I see your bitterness.  Many have attacked you.  Many will continue to attack and hate you. Forgive them and watch the Lord lift a burden from your soul.

Matthew 6:14–15 “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (ESV)

You will be remembered by how you finish.  It isn’t too late to apologize.  Please apologize.  Please ask for forgiveness.  Jesus will forgive you.  Many across the world will forgive you.  I forgive you.  Humility will carry you further than pride.  Let humility be your legacy.

I love you.  God loves you.

Love God.  Love your nation and world with a heart-felt apology.

In  Christ,

Jonathan Carl (not Karl)

"Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you." James 4:10

Background Posts & Follow-On Updates:

Original open letter to the President here: 

 "Dear Mr. President, I’m a Casualty of Your Drive-By Tweeting War. We All Are."

 "Why Would a Southern Baptist Pastor Write a Controversial Letter to the President?"

"A Trump Twitter-Typo Visits the White House"

"A Prayer for Our Nation"

Tons of truths about Jesus' love, hope, and forever peace @ www.TrustworthyWord.com

How to Get Rich Quick & Stay Rich Forever

If you could…would you…get rich quick?  Whether it be an inheritance, an investment, or an insane winning, wouldn’t it be great?  It would be wonderful to relieve the financial woes and pressures that many of us feel with our currently obligations and debts.  Could you imagine the excitement you would feel if you knew that your riches were guaranteed to continue forever?

Luke 12:15 “And he said to them, ‘Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.’” (ESV)

Unfortunately, human wealth almost never works that way.  Even those who gain a large amount of money overnight often lose much or all of it as time passes.  Jesus warns us through the Bible about the dangers of the love of money being a “a root of all kinds of evils” (1 Timothy 6:10).  Wanting what others have (covetousness) does harm to our soul.  Storing up goods on earth is eternally futile as they ultimately pass on to others at our death.  Jesus also speaks to the opportunity to gain a wealth that you will never lose…

Luke 12:20–21 “But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.’” (ESV)

Being “rich toward God” comes through faith.  When we trust, treasure, and love Jesus more than anything we discover “a living hope” that brings a guaranteed “inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven” for us. (1 Peter 1:3-4)

Focusing on earthly possessions and treasures can cloud our mind and warp our daily priorities.  What should we do when we realize we’ve loved and pursued and trusted money too much?

1) Repent where we have failed.  We’ve all messed up with money.  We’ve overspent, undersaved, and made unwise decisions.  If we are honest we have all loved money more than we care to admit.

“people will be…lovers of self, lovers of money…ungrateful…without self-control…lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (2 Timothy 3:1-4)

2) Avoid bad influences.  God warns us that “bad company ruins good morals.” (1 Corinthians 15:33).  The places and people we associate with affect us.  We need to surround ourselves with godly influences and protect what comes into our mind through our ears and eyes.

“Avoid such people.” (2 Timothy 3:5)

3) Pursue Jesus more than pleasure.  Our time and energy is limited.  Our choices matter.  Let’s work on saying “yes” to things that matter more and saying “no” to free up our time and energy for what is better.  Jesus is more satisfying than any earthly pleasure.

“live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God.” (1 Peter 4:2 ESV)

4) Work hard to invest more in eternity.  God has gifted us with varying skills to do our work with excellence and enjoyment.  Hard work still takes discipline but the money we earn at work can be best used for eternal purposes through our local churches and Christian missions and ministries.

Acts 20:35 “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”

5) Keep this world in perspective.  Life is short.  We can’t take anything here on earth with us.  Our possessions need to be held lightly and in this perspective.

Mark 8:36 “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”

Let’s be content with what we have and rich towards God, enjoying His presence now and for eternity.

Hebrews 13:5 “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’”

"Every time you doubt that you can live on 90% of your income, let the glorious promise of God strengthen your faith: ‘My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 4:19)." John Piper

The Deadly Danger of Staying Away from Church & the Bible

Drinking and driving. Obesity. Illegal drugs. Smoking.  All dangerous for our health. We know it.  We try to avoid them.  We know they lead towards a more limited life and an expedited death.

Know what’s more dangerous to your health?  Missing church. Ignoring the Bible.

One may argue… “I don’t have to go to church or read my Bible to be a Christian!” Yes, you are right if you mean that we aren’t saved by going to church, being baptized, or reading your Bible…but our lack of church attendance and Bible reading can be a symptom of a limited life and eternal death.

Here are four concerns that God has for those whose Bible reading and church attendance is sporadic.

Spiritual Laziness.  Priorities.  Love of the world.  Love of self.  It’s easy to get pulled away from church and the Bible.  We’ve all been there.  It takes dedication and commitment to wake up and roll out to church on a Sunday.  It takes discipline to make time in your daily schedule for Bible reading.  But both are worth it.  Let’s listen to God’s many commands for Bible reading and church commitment.

Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV) “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near”

Spiritual Foolishness. Ignorance is not bliss.  We are wrong and make poor decisions when we stray away from God’s truths and His power.  God lovingly speaks to us in the Bible so that we might know and follow Him instead being deceived by Satan, the world, and our flesh.

Luke 6:46 (ESV) “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?”

Spiritual Cancer.  Disconnectedness from a local church is discouraging and dangerous.  The world is a dark place. The Bible and the church are designed to encourage us as a refuge of hope and light.  Just as cancer slowly invades and does serious damage to our physical health, sinful disregard to God’s commands does harm to our spiritual health.

Matthew 7:21 (ESV) “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven”

Spiritual Death.  Lack of presence with the people of God and lack of communication with God may evidence a lack of love and spiritual deadness.  Jesus summarizes the law of God with the priorities of loving Him and loving others.  Presence and care communicates love.  Absence and apathy communicates hate.  Listening and obeying indicates trust and value.  Ignoring and disregarding indicates contempt.  If we continue to stay disconnected from a local church family and the Bible, we would do well to examine the genuineness of our faith.

2 Corinthians 13:5 (ESV) “Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves.”

Here are four steps to take for our spiritual health in 2020!

1) Commit to a local church.  We are better together.  No church is perfect, but if their focus is biblical truth and love then that’s the main thing.  We are blessed to have so much access to many wonderful, biblical churches!  Don’t have a church home? Try one out this Sunday!  Been a little while since your last visit to your church home?  Jump back in with both feet!

2) Care for others.  Your local church is amazing place to be loved and to love others.  Relationships take time and intentionality but they are worth it!

3) Dive Deep into the Bible.  You won’t regret it.  Studying God’s Word is refreshing and energizing.  If you read one chapter of the New Testament every weekday you’ll finish the NT in 2020!

4) Dare to Share.  The world needs God’s hope and truth so look for opportunities to share Bible truths and God’s love as you go throughout your day!

5 Tips for Christmas!

Merry Christmas!  Christmas Day can be such a joy to care-free children who are anticipating, opening, and enjoying their gifts!  Christmas can easily lose its luster for adults though when loss, fears, hurts, and worries overwhelm us.  No matter your current experience this Christmas, can you imagine what the first Christmas was like?

Jesus Is Here!  Jesus came to us! Think about the joy of Jesus’ mother Mary and adoptive-father Joseph had when the Christ-child arrived; the promises of the prophets and the angels fulfilled!  Imagine the sweetness the Shepherds savored when they saw the Savior of the world (Luke 2). What a wonder for the Wise Men to encounter their Wonderful Counselor (Matthew 2)!  What child-like joy they all must have experienced as they worshipped Jesus with child-like trust, love, comfort, security, delight, joy, and awe at what God was doing!

This Christmas, here are 5 tips for entering into and experiencing the “good news of great joy!” (Luke 2:10)

1. Receive the gift of love.  Gifts aren’t ultimately about the object itself, they are about the love of the giver.  Don’t let your Christmas become a ritual or routine.  Don’t reject a heart-felt relationship with your Creator.  God wants you to experience the relational love He has for you!  You are loved.

2. Trust the rescue.  Have you ever been in a desperate situation where you have no choice but to ask or cry for help?  You and I are in such a situation now, in our sin.  We need a Savior to rescue us.  We can’t work our way out of our sin dilemma. Don’t resist His saving work but instead rejoice in His salvation from sin and death!

3. Listen to the King.  Slow down.  Open and read your Bible.  Make time to play an audio Bible.  Watch the “Visual Bible” on YouTube.  There are lots of ways to experience the truth and love of God’s voice through the Bible.  Be still, open your ears, and engage your mind while you marvel that your King wants to speak personally to you.

4. Enjoy the Relationship. God doesn’t issue rules and commands as a harsh dictator.  He wants us to hear His fatherly protection, warnings, and encouragements toward His children.  Be more child-like this Christmas, submitting your heart to His amazing comfort and care.  Even when others will abandon, burn, and betray you, God is faithful and will never leave you or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5).

5. Spend Time in His Presence. Devotional time matters.  Church matters.  Small group matters.  Godly friendships matter. God has organized His family into opportunities to experience Him directly through His Spirit and together through others.  Prioritize Jesus in your Christmas Day and everyday and you will experience joy.

I hope and pray that you and your family have an amazing Christmas as you delight in God’s amazing love!

A Prayer for Our Nation

So today I am visiting the White House, the United States Capitol, and maybe even the Supreme Court.

Have you ever thought about how you would pray over our nation’s leaders if you had the opportunity?  How you would lead them into the presence of our Creator and pray on their behalf?

Here is an idea of how I might pray in the White House, Capitol, or Supreme Court if I had the chance today:

“As we prepare to converse with our Creator, I invite you, if you are physically able, to join me on our knees in speaking to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Father God, Lord Jesus, Holy Spirit.  You are amazing.  You are wonderful.  You are powerful.  There is no-one like you God.

Thank you for who you are and for the privilege of another day of life.  Thank you for the ability to even have access to you right now through prayer.

You have told us that…

‘if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.’ (2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV)

So here we are now before you.  Humbled in hearts.  On our knees.  

Please forgive us.  So much wickedness has passed through our minds, hearts, lips, and our lives.  We are guilty.  As individuals.  As leaders.  As a nation. Forgive us.

We need you.  We love you.  We want you.  We trust you.  Jesus, lead us into your presence.  Give us your wisdom for the daily decisions that we encounter today and everyday as your servants and representatives.

God, heal us as only You can.  Our nation is hurting.  Our people are divided.  Our world is in chaos.  Thank you for sending your Son to save us from Satan, sin, and Hell. Help us to “be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation.”  Help us to “shine as lights in the world” (Philippians 2:15 ESV).

Jesus, I lift up these leaders to you. Thank you for giving them to our nation.  Protect their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health.  If any have not received and submitted to you as Lord and Savior, I pray for you to save their souls.  Guard their minds from Satanic and worldly deception and focus their minds on your truth.  Keep their hearts from the Evil One and guide their affections to your throne-room.  Encourage and strengthen their marriages and families with the love you have for us.  Use these men and women greatly for the welfare of their hometown communities and states.  Unite them together under your commands for the sake of our nation.

In the name of the Jesus we pray, amen.”

1 Timothy 2:1–5 “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” (ESV) 

A Trump Twitter-Typo Visits the White House!

A few months ago I had a unique situation develop as I was accidentally tweeted at by the President of the United States.  The drive-by tweeting brought me momentarily into the U.S. Twitter war and gave me opportunity to share some reflections via an open letter to the President (http://www.jonathancarl.org/2019/09/TrumpTwitterWar.html).  Over the next week correspondence came my way that was mostly encouraging (with the expected disturbing responses as well).  In the midst of interviews, I lightheartedly remarked on a TV interview that my wife would love to visit the White House at Christmas (https://www.wdrb.com/news/kentucky-pastor-thrust-into-spotlight-by-president-trump-twitter-mistake/article_de807c5e-cf47-11e9-bd6c-9736296eb439.html).

Just a few weeks ago my wife and I received a phone call from the White House with a Christmas invitation to visit!  So tomorrow we visit the White House!

Why accept an invite to the White House?

When a sports team wins a championship, it seems to be a faddish and frequent occurrence for individuals to publicly reject a White House invite as a sign of protest or opposition to the President.  Some might view the visit of a pastor to the White House as a public partisan endorsement but I don’t see it that way.

Consider if you had a neighbor, or even an enemy, invite you into their home, wouldn’t an appropriate response to hospitality be a yes.  Of course there could always be a hidden agenda or motivation, but I think the best intents should be assumed at the outset and the hope should be there for reconciliation and change.

What would you say if you met the President?

If I had the momentary encounter of a handshake and greeting, I think I would say, “Thank you for your service to our country and I am praying to Jesus for you.  Thank you for your invitation to the White House to enjoy these amazing decorations too!”  I think such a gracious greeting would be appropriate for most brief hand shake encounters with our government leaders in their homes.

If I have more than a handshake encounter, I think I might hand President Trump a letter and say:

“I wrote you a letter a few months back, here is a copy, have you gotten to read it yet?  It contains my hope and prayer for you with the wisdom of Abraham Lincoln, the fruits of the Holy Spirit, and the truth of James 1:19-20.  My ultimate hope and prayer for you personally is that you trust and treasure Jesus more than anything, prioritizing His truth in the Bible daily.”

If the conversation continued, I would love to hear more about his faith journey, his personal spiritual beliefs and practices, and to hear more about his family life.

If I had the opportunity to speak a bit more, I think I would aim to say:

“I enjoyed reading your book Crippled America: How to Make America Great Again to get a better insight into who you are and your hope for the United States.   I love that you wrote it out to share more of who you are and for your hope and plan for our nation.  I am so thankful for your care and concern for the welfare of our nation and am praying it goes well for you.  I am sure the political realm is a dark and discouraging place and I hope that Jesus’ love, strength, and truth propels you forward.

As I read your book, I think you are missing out on the main solution to our nation’s woes.  On one randomly selected page of your book (p.12) I noticed you referenced yourself 27 times.  In the entirety of your almost 200 page book, I only noticed three pages (p.130-32) giving reference to God and your Christian faith.  There is a lot of self-talk and little God-talk.  It reminds me of concerning similarities with King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon about 2600 years ago in Daniel 1-4 where he bounces between praising God and taking credit for himself when things went well.  Unfortunately Nebuchadnezzar had to be humbled by God before he got to the point where properly honored God as “the King of heaven,” acknowledging that “all his works are right and his ways are just; and those who walk in pride he is able to humble.” (Daniel 4:37 ESV)

My prayer that you humble yourself and make Jesus a greater priority in your personal life and in leading our nation.  Only Jesus can heal our crippled nation.  I am glad that you said that “the Bible is the most important book ever written” (p.130) and am praying that your life, lips, and leadership are guided by God’s faithful voice increasingly and more consistently.”

“Also,” I’d say, “I have met a lot of people over the years who claim to be a Christian but their lives don’t seem to match up to God’s description of true faith.  I’d encourage you to read 2 Corinthians 13:5 which commands us to test and examine the genuineness of our faith claims.  Inside the envelope I just gave you is a short handout with some of God’s descriptions of what true, saving faith looks like (see here: www.trustworthyword.com/how-can-i-be-sure-im-a-christian) and I hope that they are helpful to you!  If you are concerned that you have not truly trusted in Jesus in a saving way, here are the steps to true faith in God (www.trustworthyword.com/how-can-i-become-a-christian).  Thank you for taking the time to talk with and listen to me and again thank you for the opportunity to enjoy this time in your beautiful home.”

Now would I actually get the time to say all of that?  Would I actually remember to say those sorts of things in the moment?  Maybe, but probably not.  But I am praying that these written words reach his ears or eyes through someone, somehow, soon.

Regardless of how our visit to Washington goes and no matter who we get to meet, I will continue to pray these truths over our nation’s present and future leaders.

“Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?— unless indeed you fail to meet the test!” (2 Corinthians 13:5, ESV)

“if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV)

How Should A Christian Vote for the Governor? President?

Don’t you wish God made it more clear how you should vote?  Here are some biblical principles to consider before, during, and after you cast your ballot for Governor, President, or any politician.

Prayerfully.  Pray more, politick less.  Our nation and state are divided greatly with polarizing views between political parties.  What is a Christian to do?  Pray first.  Pray continually.  Pray consistently.  Pray equally for those leaders you agree with and also for those with whom you disagree.

1 Timothy 2:1–2 "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” (ESV)

Biblically. The Bible has a lot to say about Biblical issues.  God cares about the poor, immigrants, marriage, dignity of life at all stages (including unborn babies, terminally ill, and elderly), racial equity, religious liberty, sexual ethics, war, economics, international relations, women’s rights, children’s rights, education, housing, and criminal justice.

Which politicians, if any, model a genuine trust in Jesus?  Which party’s policies and platforms are most in line with God’s plan for humanity?  These questions are important in clarifying how to vote in complicated and contentious times.  Know what God says before you vote.

1 Samuel 12:14–15 “If you will fear the LORD and serve him and obey his voice and not rebel against the commandment of the LORD, and if both you and the king who reigns over you will follow the LORD your God, it will be well. But if you will not obey the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then the hand of the LORD will be against you and your king.”

Privately.  Why advertise your vote?  Is pride tied to your partisan politics?  Do you honestly think that your social media posts make people change their votes?  Would you change your vote or position because of someone else’s yard sign, t-shirt, bumpersticker, hat, or social media post?

Many Christians have done great damage to their Christian witness through political bias, pride, snarkiness, mockery, and endorsement of ungodly characters.  Go private with your political persuasions during this polarized season.

Proverbs 10:19 “When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.”

Wisely. Are you willing to reconsider your vote?  Would you reevaluate your opinions? Have you listened closely and considered the positions of all sides?  Do you understand the perspectives of those with a different political persuasion?  Do your homework before you cast your ballot and don’t just trust the sound bites and media moments.

Proverbs 11:14 “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”

Selflessly.  Do you vote only for what is in your best interest and agenda?  Or are you voting in the best interest of the common good? Vote in a way that benefits and prioritizes others more than yourself.

Philippians 2:3–4 “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

Humbly & Respectfully. Your vote is important, but what changes a nation ultimately is the Gospel.  Are you more passionate and public about your politics or about your Jesus?  Do you put more hope in the next election cycle than you do in Jesus’ return?

Godly Christians often feel led to vote in different ways.  Some may vote Republican.  Others feel led to vote Democrat.  Still others choose to vote for a third party candidate that might never win.  Others Christians may feel called not to vote at all.  You may be right in the choice you make, but then again, you could be wrong.  Be humble.

People will view issues differently than you.  Be kind.  Friends, family, coworkers and neighbors will vote differently than you.  That’s their prerogative, stay calm. Don’t let discussions devolve into arguments.  Know where you stand but be respectful towards others.

Romans 14:1 “As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions.”

May these truths and principles guide us into, through, and beyond this election season.

More biblical truths here: "What Does the Bible say about Voting & Politics?"

Some helpful videos:

Is it possible for a Christian to lose salvation?

The short answer is “no.”  The deeper answers are found in understanding what God describes (through the Bible) as true salvation, how we can understand if we have been saved, and what biblical assurance and perseverance means.  Unfortunately, many of us have witnessed people who claim to be Christians but their lives and beliefs do not agree with God’s Word or they eventually “fall away” publicly from their previous confession.

“Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?— unless indeed you fail to meet the test!” (2 Corinthians 13:5, ESV)

We are each called to examine the genuineness of our faith.  True believers confess with their mouths publicly that inwardly they love, treasure and trust Jesus as their Lord and Savior, believing that Jesus is the Son of God and died on the cross and was resurrected from the grave (Romans 10:9-10).  When God justifies us by faith in Jesus, He gives us His Holy Spirit within us (Ephesians 1:13-14) that outwardly evidences the inward reality of a new, saved heart through the fruit of His Spirit (Galatians 5:16-24).

More here on how to become a Christian and how to be sure you are a Christian:

• http://www.trustworthyword.com/how-can-i-become-a-christian
• http://www.trustworthyword.com/how-can-i-be-sure-im-a-christian

“Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” 1 Timothy 4:16

God wants us to keep watch on ourselves the teachings we receive and give to ensure a right understanding of who He is and His Gospel plan.  Once we are truly saved (justified), God continues His salvation through a process of change within us (sanctification), that continues until we meet Him in Heaven (glorification).  God promises that His children are no longer under condemnation (Romans 8:1), can never be separated from His love (Romans 8:31-39), and will never be put to shame (Romans 9:33).  God assures true converts that He keeps them in the faith (Jude 1:24-25) , finishes His saving work within us (Philippians 1:6), and promises their future resurrection (Romans 6:5) .

1 John is a great book to read that distinguishes true belief from false belief.  It is written to encourage Christians to know and have confidence in the genuineness of their salvation (1 John 5:13).  1 John also shows in various ways that there are others who have publicly claimed to be Christians, but evidence lostness through their words and actions.  Jesus’ parable of the soils is another place to see where there are some who have initially seemed to respond to the Gospel that eventual wither away or are choked out, evidencing their lostness by their fruitlessness (Luke 8:9-15).

“They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us.” 1 John 2:19

More verses on biblical assurance here: http://www.trustworthyword.com/assurance and perseverance here: http://www.trustworthyword.com/perseverance 

Although true Christians will go through highs and lows, stumbling at various places in life, they will endure in their faith, preserving to the end in an evident way of increasing fruitfulness through God’s Spirit within them.  If you are struggling with your own salvation, I encourage you to study these Scriptures to either confirm your faith or to expose your need to receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior.  If you are asking this question out of concern for a friend or family member I encourage you to pray for God to open their heart to salvation and to use you to share His truth and show His love.

“But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” Matthew 24:13

"This charge I entrust to you, Timothy, my child, in accordance with the prophecies previously made about you, that by them you may wage the good warfare, holding faith and a good conscience. By rejecting this, some have made shipwreck of their faith, among whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme." 1 Timothy 1:18–20 (ESV)