An Open Letter to Joe Biden

Dear Mr. Biden,

I’m a minister who is thankful to be an American. I don’t take for granted the freedom and prosperity our nation has enjoyed for over two centuries. Since becoming an adult in the early 1980s, I’ve always voted Republican. That party’s platform has been more in line with the Judeo-Christian values this nation was founded upon. Therefore, I wasn’t happy when Bill Clinton and Barack Obama won their presidential elections but prayed for them as commanded in 1 Timothy 2:1-2…

“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.”

Now that you occupy the Oval Office, I will pray for you as well. But if allowed to meet with you, I wouldn’t feel comfortable addressing you as “Mr. President.” I’m not convinced that you legitimately won the 2020 presidential election. I knew the increase of mail-in voting would result in more fraudulent ballots. Key swing states temporarily stopped counting their votes while Donald Trump was ahead, and then you took sudden leads. That gave me a sick feeling in my gut.

I would feel the same way if something like this happened with a Republican candidate. President Richard Nixon won reelection in 1972 but then resigned two years later because of the Watergate scandal. Jesus said in Mark 4:22, “For there is nothing hidden which will not be revealed, nor has anything been kept secret but that it should come to light.” I’m still praying for all voter fraud to be exposed and dealt with to prevent this from happening in future elections.

I chose not to watch your inauguration but later read a transcript of your speech. In describing our nation’s history, you mentioned that “…our better angels have always prevailed.” Sadly, many politicians have been listening to fallen angels influencing them to enact policies contrary to the Bible (which you swore an oath on). One of which is endorsing deviant lifestyles. You quoted Psalm 30:5 (KJV), “…weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning.” The reality is multitudes will spend an eternity of weeping and gnashing of teeth without any joy. Romans 1:32 warns of judgment upon those who approve of others engaging in what God calls an abomination.

Since my calling is preaching the gospel to every creature, I want to emphasize the importance of receiving Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. You profess to be Catholic, yet priests have denied serving communion to you because of your pro-abortion stance, which is the murder of innocent human life. Going into a cathedral doesn’t make anyone a Christian like walking into the White House wouldn’t make me President of the United States. Jesus said in John 3:3, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 

If you already know the Lord, then I urge you to study the Scriptures more. Your policies need to be in line with God’s word. I read how you plan to seek a Palestinian state by convincing Israel to give up land. Previous presidents (both Republican and Democrat) who promoted this idea caused the United States to suffer numerous calamities. That has mostly come in the form of storms.

In closing, all earthly authorities who won’t submit themselves to God find themselves in trouble. Pharaoh wouldn’t heed Moses’ command to “let my people go.” That brought devastation upon Egypt, which included the death of Pharaoh’s firstborn son (Exodus 12:29-30). Herod died tragically after receiving praise from his subjects that exalted him as a god (Acts 12:21-22). King Nebuchadnezzar became insane due to pride, but he repented and was restored (Daniel 4:28-37).

Don’t fight against God and His people. He is watching you and this nation.

“And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.” - Daniel 2:21 

It’s Not Over (Reflections on the 2020 Election)

A few weeks ago, my hometown newspaper conducted a poll asking, “Do you think any political ads have swayed your opinion on who to vote for?” 97% of the respondents answered “no.” I think politicians waste a lot of money on ads attacking their opponents. My focus is not on a personality but on the candidate’s party affiliation and that party’s platform.

This year, coronavirus fears prompted states to encourage mail-in voting. That should have been available only to those who requested a ballot. I’m registered to vote in Virginia but spent most of 2020 doing the Lord’s work in the Minneapolis area. Although I put in a request for an absentee ballot the day they became available, a month passed without it showing up in the mail. I called election officials. They instructed me to go online and request another ballot, which arrived two weeks before Election Day. I quickly filled that out and mailed it back to Virginia.

Meanwhile, I minimized my exposure to mainstream media outlets (even Fox News, which used to be in their own words, “fair and balanced”). Most of them reported Joe Biden leading in the polls. I dismissed this as fake news since Donald Trump’s rallies drew much bigger crowds. The Friday before Election Day, the president held one in Rochester, Minnesota. A friend and I planned on going until the governor and attorney general (both Democrats) imposed a limit of 250 people. There were estimates of 25,000 expected to attend the rally. Therefore, my friend and I didn’t make the trip to Rochester.

Wanting a Christian viewpoint of Tuesday night’s election coverage, I mostly watched Jonathan Shuttlesworth and Kenneth Copeland Ministries tracking the results via their respective YouTube channels. We saw some disturbing things. Some states already called Joe Biden the winner before most of their votes were counted. One of them was Virginia, which had Donald Trump leading by over 180,000 votes at one point! When it looked like Trump would still win the election, key swing states temporarily stopped counting their votes.

The next morning, I got a sick feeling in my gut when seeing reports of Joe Biden taking sudden leads in Wisconsin and Michigan. So I encouraged myself by listening to prophets who heard from the Lord regarding the outcome of this election. My friend Charlie Shamp stated back on December 31st, “Trump will triumph in 2020, but we need to pray.” He later declared on September 26th, “The greatest battle for the heart of America will not be fought at the ballot box during the election, but will happen in the Supreme Court.” Sadhu Sundar Selvaraj said last month that Trump is not finished and will have “another four years of grace.” The late Kim Clement prophesied in 2007 that Trump would have two terms as president. So did retired firefighter Mark Taylor in 2011. 

Jeremiah Johnson stated Wednesday that Joe Biden may prematurely announce he is the next president of the United States. He pointed out…

“Either a lying spirit has filled the mouths of numerous trusted prophetic voices in America or Donald J. Trump really has won the Presidency and we are witnessing a diabolical and evil plan unfold to steal the election. I believe with all my heart that the latter is true.” 

That same day, James Goll declared…

“It’s not over. God is not in heaven wringing His hands with sweaty palms. It’s not over till it’s over and it’s not over yet. I keep having the phrase come to me this morning, ‘And on the THIRD DAY.  And watch what happens on the THIRD DAY.’ Keep on ‘watching and praying', remember, the scales are tipping towards MERCY!”

We need to have faith and patience in God having His way. Mario Murillo said in an interview with Sid Roth, “We dodged a bullet…The liberal media planned to uproot the American system and put another system in place. That monster would have still been there if it was kept underground through a Trump victory. This forcing it into the court is causing an investigation to uncover corruption that we never imagined.” 

I’m continuing to pray that all voter fraud will be exposed and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. 

“…the mouth of those who speak lies shall be stopped.” - Psalm 63:11

A Ride on the Trump Train

Recently I got to see the President of the United States in person for the first time. My friend John and I attended the Evangelicals for Trump rally at King Jesus church in Miami, Florida. A few days before I kept perceiving the Lord wanted me to go to Miami but didn’t know why. Then shortly after Christmas, John called me from his home in the Washington, DC area. He asked about staying with me at the missionary house I’ve been living in Tampa. I had goosebumps when John mentioned going to Miami after that. Soon I learned Donald Trump was having a rally there on January 3rd.

Originally I thought of riding with John without going to the rally. I had it on my heart to evangelize on the streets of Miami. John attended previous Trump rallies where people stood in line for hours with no guarantee they would get inside. But on our way through Southern Florida, I felt more of a stirring to be at the rally. During pit stops at McDonald’s I got to lead three people to the Lord (and later had a fourth at 7/11 on the way home).

We arrived at the church around 10:45 a.m. To our surprise, the line wasn’t as long as John and I expected. Worship music playing on an outside sound system helped maintain a godly atmosphere and probably kept extra protesters away. There was one man I encountered holding signs listing the Ten Commandments and his claim that Trump is not a Christian. I felt led to tell him, “He who is without sin cast the first stone.”

John and I fellowshipped with people in line around us. One of them named Jose was a member of the church. He told us they would start letting people in at 2:00 p.m. The line began moving earlier than that. Of course, getting inside took awhile since Secret Service agents had us empty our pockets and walk through metal detectors. John and I eventually got seats in the twelfth row. I thought this was symbolic since the number 12 in Scripture refers to government (like the twelve tribes of Israel).

Around 3:30 a worship band played three songs. The first of which was appropriately titled “Freedom.” Then the same recorded music heard outside played again for several minutes. Meanwhile, many well-known Christian leaders and musicians showed up and took seats in front of us. Among those we recognized were Robert Jeffress, John Hagee, Rod Parsley, Rodney Howard-Browne, Michael Tait, Jonathan Cain and Stephen Strang from Charisma magazine.

Sometime after 4:00, Pastor Guillermo Maldonado opened the ceremony with an anointed prayer. Tony Perkins from the Family Research Council followed with a few remarks. Then Paula White-Cain emerged to introduce the president. The announced start time was 5:00 but Donald Trump appeared 15 minutes early. Paula invited seven other people onstage to join her in surrounding Trump as they prayed for him. Jentezen Franklin led the prayer followed by Maldonado.

During a speech that lasted over an hour, the President addressed various political issues but talked at length about his support for Israel and maintaining religious freedom. Before closing, Trump invited two pairs of women to speak from the podium. The first two were students at Fresno State University where they encountered persecution for promoting pro-life ideas. Among the other two was an African-American woman that nearly stole the show. Angel talked about the president assisting her in helping those devastated by a hurricane that struck the Florida panhandle. This woman also chastised the media’s skewed reporting of the president while they were filming several feet away.

Aside from perhaps Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA” (which has become an anthem for patriotic Americans), the only secular song heard throughout this event was The Rolling Stones’ “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.” This continues to be Trump’s play-out tune. Robert Jeffress ended the rally with a closing prayer.

Despite the recent impeachment by the House of Representatives (which likely won’t get past the Republican-controlled Senate), it was encouraging to see Christians of different races and denominations unified to support a president who cares for the welfare of this country. Critics may think Trump’s supporters have blind allegiance to him. On the contrary. A few people wore T-shirts that simply stated our beliefs as American Christians: “Jesus is my Savior. Trump is my President.”

“Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.” - 1 Peter 2:17

An Open Letter to Julie Brown

Dear Julie,

I happened to log on your Facebook page a few days ago and noticed your post: “Why are Christians condemning Pete Buttegieg [sic] for being gay? Wasn’t Christ loving and kind and accepting of everyone?” I decided to write a response even though it might trigger a flood of negative comments from fans of yours who won’t respect my beliefs. I’m aware you have a significant following from the LGBTQ community. Therefore, I felt the best approach is to post this letter in my blog and then send you a link to that.

First, let me tell you a little bit about myself. I’m an evangelist who previously sought a secular music career. Like yourself, I’ve had songs aired on the Dr. Demento radio show. I enjoyed many of your recordings and saw the movie “Earth Girls Are Easy” based on your song of the same name. I consider you a talented and attractive performer (I’ve always liked redheads). ;)

You asked why Christians are “condemning” Pete Buttigieg for being gay. I don’t condemn Pete as a person. Jesus died for him as well as everyone else. What Bible-believing Christians don’t agree with are alternative lifestyles that go against Scripture. Personally, I know individuals who overcame same-sex attraction and transgenderism with God’s help. Therefore, I cannot accept the idea that homosexuals and transsexuals are born that way.

What I find more troubling is God-fearing business people being threatened with legal action if they won’t participate in events celebrating these lifestyles. One Christian baker who already won a Supreme Court case supporting his decision not to make a same-sex wedding cake was recently sued again for not making a cake acknowledging a gender transition. A homosexual president would likely condone more persecution like this.

You also asked, “Wasn’t Christ loving and kind and accepting of everyone?” The answer to that question is “no.” Jesus said in Matthew 7:21-23, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’” Throughout the gospels, Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for their pride and religious hypocrisy.

Jesus did reach out to prostitutes, tax collectors, and other sinners. It wasn’t for the purpose of affirming their sin but to offer redemption. He told one woman caught in adultery, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.” (John 8:11) The Lord is saying the same thing today to anyone willing to repent of sexual immorality. 

Hopefully, I’m not coming across as self-righteous. None of us are perfect and deserve to go to heaven. Even if you haven’t had a Christian upbringing, perhaps you’re familiar with John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” Everyone has the opportunity to receive the free gift of salvation. My prayer is that you choose to do so. 

Sincerely, 

Todd R. Post

(The artist formerly known as Krypton)

“For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” - John 3:17-18

A Prayer for President Trump

Regardless if you like them or not, Scripture commands us to pray for our political leaders. Fellow evangelist Franklin Graham has requested that today be a special day of prayer for Donald Trump. Here’s a suggested prayer he shared that you can use to stand in the gap for the President of the United States… 

Heavenly Father,

We come today as the body of Christ in this nation, to lift up our President, Donald J. Trump. As many voices rise up against this one You have set into office, we lift up our voices, with one heart and mind, to stand in agreement with heaven’s purposes concerning our nation. (Ps 133) We stand by this President who has declared this nation to be under God’s rule and authority and seeks righteousness and justice for our nation. (Ps 89:14)

We welcome and embrace the fear of the Lord as the standard for all righteous rule and repent for the ways in which we have bowed to the fear of man. Cleanse our hearts and renew our minds that we may walk in the light of Your truth. (Ps 43:3) We ask that President Trump would delight in the fear of the Lord in order to walk in the power of Your might and the wisdom of Your ways. (Mi 3:8) May righteousness and faithfulness be his portion so that he may render righteous judgments according to Your Word. (Is 11:3-5)

We ask that President Trump would show no fear toward the evil that assails him (Is 8:12), but rather overcome it with a zeal and passion for Your laws which bring life and liberty to all. (Pr 10:29-32) May he love Your Word and seek your wisdom diligently (Pr 8:17), remaining open and teachable to godly counsel and heaven’s wisdom. (Pr 1:7) 

We thank You that his heart is in Your hands and that You will direct it according to Your will and purpose. Grant him increased grace and blessing as he heeds your voice and obeys Your word. (Pr 21:1)

We declare over President Trump that he will have true judgments by the Spirit and not according to man. (Is 11:3-4) We declare that he will possess heaven’s knowledge with shrewdness of mind in making right decisions for the good of the people. (Pr 8:12) Fill his mouth with good things (Pr 16:9-13) that he may speak what is true and right. (Pr 8:6) We pray that he will use his God-given authority to execute justice and establish righteousness in this land for the sake of Your glory and Kingdom. (Gen 49:10, Ps 60:7) We declare that he will rule in the midst of his enemies, not backing down or wavering due to threats or intimidation (Ps 110:1-2, Eph 6:13). May his ears become deaf to the assaults from his enemies and may those who seek his life answer to You for their wicked ways. May he know that it is Your hand and Your sovereign purpose that is keeping him and sustaining him in his divine commission. (Ps 38:12-15)

Keep President Trump, and those who serve him, safe from the enemy’s snares and free from the accuser’s traps. (Ps 141:9-10) By Your great hand, Lord, deal with those who oppose righteousness and justice so that all men will know it is You alone who is sovereign and true. (Ps 64:6-9) May the fire of Your presence burn up all Your enemies and consume all those who stand against You concerning our destiny and inheritance as one nation under God. (Ps 97:1-6)

Thank you, Father, for hearing our prayers and empowering us as Kingdom ambassadors on the earth. From the highest office in the land to the least known among men, may we all seek to know You more intimately, serve You more passionately, and praise You more fully so that all men will be saved. Through the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

“Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” - 1 Timothy 2:1-2

Avoid a Political Spirit

During a recent road trip with a fellow missionary, we entertained ourselves by listening to various videos on YouTube through a smartphone (I was playing DJ since my friend was driving most of the time). Many of the ads that interrupted the streaming were about political races going on in the states we drove through. It’s bad enough political ads in America focus on the negatives of a politician’s opponent. But now I’ve noticed many ads only talk about why we shouldn’t vote for a particular candidate. They don’t even mention the candidate they want us voting for!

I’ve also noticed many of my Facebook friends making negative comments about politicians they don’t like. While I occasionally speak out on political topics on my Facebook page and in this blog, I am careful not to make personal attacks on politicians I don’t agree with. Titus 3:1-2 says, “Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.” 

Sadly, some Christians become obsessed with politics to where they will ex-communicate those who disagree with them. Two years ago, I received a Facebook friend request from a revivalist who previously unfriended me because of the differences we had regarding the Second Amendment. She friended me from a second page set up to promote Hillary Clinton for president. I sent a private message explaining I already voted for Donald Trump using an absentee ballot but she was welcome to connect with me after the election. This revivalist responded with a bunch of negative comments about Trump. She also claimed I “lost my heart” for evangelism. A casual glance of my web pages would refute that accusation.

God doesn’t like division within the Body of Christ. Remember Jesus died for Republicans and Democrats alike. We must show the love of God to everyone regardless of their political beliefs.

“By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” - John 13:35

Reflections on the 2016 Election

It’s finally over. After weeks of mudslinging during a very divisive election, Donald Trump will be the 45th U. S. President on January 20th. At 70 years old, Trump is the oldest person ever elected to a first term (surpassing 69-year-old Ronald Reagan in 1980). Many reporters have called Trump’s victory “an upset” despite huge crowds that showed up at his campaign rallies.

On Election Day I went evangelizing at a mall having already voted for Donald Trump using an absentee ballot. Then I watched the election returns on TV. Because the results were a bit close and a few networks stalled in declaring Trump the projected winner of selected states, I stayed up past 2:30 a.m. praying until he made his acceptance speech. It was also gratifying to hear the Republicans still have control of Congress. This will hopefully result in Trump repealing (as he calls it) “the disaster known as Obamacare.”

It’s sad how this election caused some Christians to be ensnared by a political spirit. Last weekend I received a Facebook friend request from a revivalist who previously unfriended me because of differences we had regarding the Second Amendment. She friended me from a second page set up to promote Hillary Clinton for president. This revivalist stated on her wall this page would be taken down in a few days. So I sent a private message explaining I already voted for Trump but she was welcome to add me after the election. My friend responded with a bunch of negative comments about Trump and claimed I “lost my heart” for evangelism. Really? It appears someone else had became more passionate about politics than getting the gospel out.

Donald Trump has set up an evangelical advisory board that includes James Dobson, Jerry Falwell Jr., Ralph Reed, Jentezen Franklin, and Kenneth & Gloria Copeland. Another reason believers should be glad Trump won the election is because of his vice-president. Mike Pence has repeatedly stated, “I’m a Christian, a conservative, and a Republican in that order.” A Trump Administration will protect religious freedoms that some liberal leaders have attempted to suppress. Hillary Clinton’s running mate Tim Kaine was the Virginia governor who supported a superintendent’s order to stop police chaplains from praying in Jesus’ name.

A question many are now asking is “What will happen to Hillary?” Trump had talked of prosecuting and imprisoning his Democratic rival for mishandling classified information while she was Secretary of State. I’d rather see Hillary repent and fess up to all wrong doing that would be considered treasonous if done by anyone else.

Hillary Clinton actually has a slight lead in the popular vote like what happened in the 2000 election between George W. Bush and Al Gore. I’m thankful the electoral college is still in place. Our founding fathers devised it to prevent voter fraud. There have been reports of voting machines automatically changing Trump votes to Clinton votes, dead people registered to vote, and walk-ins without IDs. Current Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe (a long-time friend of Hillary) allowed as many as 60,000 felons to vote by an executive order.

It’s unfortunate many Americans who put their hope in Hillary are acting like a bunch of whiny babies. Colleges offered therapy to students “traumatized” over the election outcome. One held a “Cry In” with tissues handed out by school staff. Teachers cancelled classes so students could “recover.” Some disgruntled voters are rioting and blocking highways. A few Hollywood celebrities threatened to leave the country if Trump got elected (I’m curious how many of them will follow through on that). It’s time for these sore losers to grow up so the United States can be united again.

Regardless of who’s president, God is on the throne and will heal our land if we seek Him first and continue praying for our political leaders. Only then will America become great again.

“It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” - Psalm 118:8

Does God Pick Politicians?

Five years ago during a prayer meeting at a church in West Fargo, North Dakota, I was praying for the 2012 presidential election and specifically asked for God’s choice to be elected. Michele Bachmann’s name came up in my mind but I didn’t immediately speak that out. Seconds later, the prayer group leader started praying for the congresswoman from Minnesota.

A few days after that I posted a comment about this on Michele Bachmann’s Facebook page. Unfortunately, that triggered mostly negative responses. One person argued that God doesn’t choose politicians…people do. It’s true in a democracy, the candidate with the most votes gets elected. Nevertheless, God does anoint selected individuals for positions of authority such as King David in 1 Samuel 16:12.  

One might question if I really heard from God regarding Michele Bachmann becoming president since she dropped out of the race months later. Regardless, if more God-fearing people sought the Lord before going to the polls, we would see more politicians with integrity in office. One friend of mine told me she voted for Barack Obama in the 2008 election unaware of his policies contrary to Scripture. She later regretted voting for him. 

People’s prayers can also have an impact on incumbent government leaders. In his book “Shaping History Through Prayer and Fasting”, the late Derek Prince wrote how he heard that Joseph Stalin was planning to purge all the Jews in the former Soviet Union. Derek fasted and prayed for the Russian Jews. Two weeks later Stalin died from a cerebral hemorrhage and the plan was called off. Prayer and fasting saved the lives of numerous Jews who had been marked for death by a dictator already responsible for millions of deaths. Daniel 2:21 says, “And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings.”

Many Gallup polls show a majority of Americans still consider themselves Christian. Yet in recent years, just over half of eligible voters show up to cast their ballots. As historian David Barton points out, “Godly candidates are most often defeated not by activists and radicals, but by inactive Christians!” Believers must do their part by going out to vote and selecting the right candidates if the United States is to fulfill her divine destiny. I pray that happens this Tuesday.

“You shall surely set a king over you whom the LORD your God chooses; one from among your brethren you shall set as king over you; you may not set a foreigner over you, who is not your brother.” - Deuteronomy 17:15

Why I'm Republican and Voting for Trump

As a kid, I didn’t follow politics too closely but for some reason identified with the Republican Party. In 1972 I saw a TV ad about that year’s election between Richard Nixon and George McGovern. When the announcer said the word “Democrat”, I had a negative impression even though I was too young to understand what each political party represented.

The 1984 presidential election was the first I was old enough to participate in. Originally I planned to vote for Walter Mondale simply because he was from my home state of Minnesota. That changed after I heard on the news Mondale supported gay rights. At that time I became increasingly aware (and troubled) about homosexuality gaining acceptance in society. So on Election Day, I voted for Ronald Reagan. Back then I wasn’t totally fond of The Gipper but now appreciate how his presidency helped end the Cold War.

Since committing my life to Jesus in 1991, I’ve always voted Republican. That party’s candidates usually have policies closer to the Judeo-Christian ethic. Still, I look at voter guides to make sure I’m not voting for a RINO (Republican In Name Only). On the other hand, practically all Democrats nowadays support abortion and other liberal causes contrary to the word of God.

This past week the Republican National Convention took place in Cleveland, Ohio. My Facebook newsfeed has been flooded with comments regarding that. A few of my friends declared they will not vote for Donald Trump and instead cast their ballot for a third-party candidate. I won’t belittle their convictions but question how that will make a difference. 

The last third party candidate who made a noticeable dent in a presidential election was Ross Perot. In 1992 he participated in debates and received 19% of the popular vote but no electoral votes (which determines the outcome of an election). Although I agreed with Perot’s concerns over government spending and the national debt, I would not vote for him because he supported abortion and gay rights.

Shortly after the 1992 election, I heard Billye Brim talk about how when she was on her way to vote, “Bill Clinton” came up in her spirit. Billye stopped dead in her tracks and said, “Lord, I cannot vote for killing babies.” The Lord told her, “You vote your conscience but Clinton is going to win.”

A year ago I expressed misgivings about Donald Trump’s character and his standing with the Lord. Since then many Christian leaders have endorsed him. Focus on the Family’s James Dobson is part of a group serving on a faith advisory committee for Trump. Dobson posted the following comments in his blog…

“If anything, this man [Trump] is a baby Christian who doesn’t have a clue about how believers think, talk, and act. All I can tell you is that we have only two choices, Hillary or Donald. Hillary scares me to death. And, if Christians stay home because he isn’t a better candidate, Hillary will run the world for perhaps eight years. The very thought of that haunts my nights and days. One thing is sure: we need to be in prayer for our nation at this time of crisis.”

I’ve read and heard many prophecies about Donald Trump being used as God’s “trumpet” in this day and hour. A couple of friends even suggested his selecting Mike Pence as his running mate is prophetic (“TrumPence”). Regardless, keep in mind we are voting for a president…not a pastor. One major reason I’m voting for Trump is that I don’t want the Clintons back in the White House.

So if you’re a fellow American who isn’t fond of the choices available for this upcoming election, don’t let that stop you from going to the polls in November. Pray and ask God to guide you in who to vote for. That would include congressmen and other officials who have the guts to keep a bad president in check. Every election is determined by the people who show up. If you stay home and the wrong people are elected, then you have no right to complain.

”When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan.” - Proverbs 29:2

The Cocksure Candidate

Next year in November, the United States will elect a new president. One candidate pursuing the Republican nomination is real estate mogul Donald Trump. It’s bad enough political ads just before an election emphasizes the negatives of a candidate’s opponent. Trump is already making brash remarks against those who disagree with him. 

During a July 11 rally at the Phoenix Convention Center, Donald Trump’s comments about illegal immigration drew criticism from Arizona senator John McCain. Trump then insulted McCain by saying the former POW wasn’t a war hero but then said, "He's a war hero because he was captured." Later during a speech in South Carolina, Trump publicly gave out Senator Lindsey Graham's phone number as retaliation for Graham calling him a “jackass.”

Romans 12:14 says, “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.” A professing Christian must follow Jesus’ example. He told us in Matthew 5:44, “But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” The only people Jesus regularly criticized were the Pharisees, the religious leaders of His day. 

There is one incident in Luke 13:32 when Jesus called Herod a “fox” after being told the King wanted to kill Him. Otherwise, Jesus went out of His way to honor authority figures. A recent revelation I received was how Jesus didn’t resist Pilate’s order to have Him crucified. It was part of the plan of redemption.

One thing I do appreciate about Donald Trump is his speaking out against the persecution of Christians. In a recent speech in Las Vegas, Trump pointed out how the Obama administration has deliberately blocked Syrian Christians from coming into America while allowing Muslims to do so. Previously he told CBN News, “Believe me, if I run and I win, I will be the greatest representative of the Christians they’ve had in a long time.”

Donald Trump identifies himself as Presbyterian. When asked several times by an interviewer if he’s ever asked God for forgiveness, Trump avoided giving a direct answer. That made me think of what Jesus said in Matthew 10:32-33, “Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.”

Nevertheless, I will likely vote for Donald Trump if he wins the Republican nomination. Certainly, I won’t vote for a Democrat who endorses abortion and homosexuality. Still, I prefer a president who has a genuine relationship with the Lord and will conduct himself in a Christlike manner when representing our nation.

“A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted.” - Proverbs 12:16 (NLT)

Reviling Rulers

I have a missionary friend who closely follows the American political scene. Back in 2010, he sent me an article he wrote in response to that year’s midterm elections. For the most part I thought his commentary was well written. My friend even admitted he used to be a “bleeding heart liberal” that disliked Ronald Reagan. Three years after the 1980 election, he suddenly became a big Reagan supporter. What made the difference? My friend got born again and in his own words, “...my new Kingdom affiliation had brought about a new worldview!”

However, there was one part of his article that bothered me. My friend labeled Barack Obama a “liar and impostor.” I don't agree with the decisions Obama has continued making since becoming President. I would be happy if he was removed from office before his current term runs out. Then again, I read how the late Ruth Heflin (who hosted a couple of inaugural prayer breakfasts) lifted up President Bill Clinton in prayer while he faced impeachment hearings following the Monica Lewinsky affair. Sister Ruth believed an impeachment would have done more harm to our nation.

While the First Amendment gives Americans freedom to criticize government officials, God holds His people to a higher standard. Titus 3:1-2 says, “Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.” The Apostle Paul wrote other Scriptures about submitting to authority at a time when Roman emperors severely persecuted Christians. They were more wicked than most of our American politicians.  

Look in Acts 23 how Paul responded to one authority figure who gave a commandment that violated the law… 

1 Then Paul, looking earnestly at the council, said, “Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.” 

2 And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth. 

3 Then Paul said to him, “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! For you sit to judge me according to the law, and do you command me to be struck contrary to the law?”

4 And those who stood by said, “Do you revile God’s high priest?” 

5 Then Paul said, “I did not know, brethren, that he was the high priest; for it is written, ‘You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.’”

Paul was referring to Exodus 22:28,”You shall not revile God, nor curse a ruler of your people.” One dictionary defines revile as “to make a fierce or abusive verbal attack on somebody or something.” 

This is not to say we should passively let our leaders make bad decisions. God’s people should take a stand against ungodly legislation in a reputable but firm manner. Moses repeatedly confronted Pharaoh to “let my people go.” John the Baptist was bold enough to tell King Herod he was in an unlawful marriage (Matthew 14:4).

Certainly, I don’t like how the United States has drifted away from the godly values it was founded upon. Uttering harsh remarks about our politicians is not the solution. As Christians we are commanded to pray for our leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2) even if we didn’t vote for them. The prayers of the prophet Daniel resulted in King Nebuchadnezzar repenting before the Lord. The same thing can happen to the President, congressmen, judges, and other authority figures if we pray instead of complaining.

“If My people who are called by My name will 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

Reflecting on the 2012 Election

Last weekend at a prayer meeting in Massachusetts, I was waiting on the Lord when I had a disturbing vision of Barack Obama’s face. I noticed the president had evil-looking eyes and then the vision zoomed in on his forehead. Minutes later I exhorted the congregation to pray daily for our government leaders to have the mind of Christ, so they make godly decisions (1 Timothy 2:1-4). Those who continue to enact policies contrary to Scripture need to be voted out!

The morning after Election Day, a Facebook friend shared with me a Bob Jones prophecy from earlier this year declaring Mitt Romney would become the next U. S. president. Although I was disturbed that it appears Bob’s prophecy won’t be coming to pass, one thought went through my mind. Romney may have been the candidate God wanted to win this election but all His people didn’t do their part in voting. According to the latest statistics I’ve seen, fewer people voted in the 2012 election than they did in 2008. Faith and Freedom Coalition founder Ralph Reed estimated 17 million Evangelical Christians didn't vote in the 2008 election. (Barack Obama defeated John McCain by about half that amount of votes.)

I’ve had other Facebook friends proudly announce they didn’t vote this year. One of them even suggested if we had voted either for Mitt Romney or Barack Obama, we needed to repent. Shortly after I posted a response pointing out how voter apathy is one reason bad politicians win elections, my friend removed my comment from his wall. I have no regrets that I voted for Mitt Romney. Granted I wasn’t totally fond of the possibility of a Mormon president. But for this year's election, I felt he was a better choice to lead this nation. 

Before some of you pick up stones and accuse Bob Jones of being a false prophet, there is one part of his prophecy that deserves special attention: “These next eight years will be full of joy if the Church steps into authority and God's righteous people are elected.” Notice the word “if” was inserted. Many prophetic words are conditional. We need to do our part (in this case by praying and voting) to see them come to pass.

While I will continue praying for Barack Obama, I still don’t like the thought of four more years of a Commander-in-Chief who is forcing a national health care plan down our throats plus endorses perverted lifestyles, killing unborn babies, and dividing up Israel’s land. But despite the consequences of bad decisions made by our political leaders, God will continue providing for those who put their trust in Him. Even when the ten plagues were brought upon Egypt as the result of Pharaoh’s stubbornness, the Israelites were supernaturally protected.

May God continue to have mercy upon the United States of America.

“Godliness makes a nation great, but sin is a disgrace to any people.” - Proverbs 14:34 (NLT)