Moments of Silence

Yesterday was the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Many Americans recalled what they were doing when four hijacked planes caused the deaths of nearly 3,000 people. Some commemorate that and other events with moments of silence. Is this beneficial?

There’s an old saying, “Silence is golden.” Some people talk too much and would be better off practicing moments of silence. One should be cautious of opening their mouths, especially when they are angry. That way, they won’t utter anything hastily. Ecclesiastes 3:7 says there is ”a time to keep silence, and a time to speak.”

Usually, I spend a few minutes per day “soaking” while soft music is playing in the background. At the very least, it quiets my mind. Often God speaks to me through a vision. However, moments of silence (just like thoughts) don’t take the place of spoken prayers. James 4:2 (KJV) says, “…ye have not, because ye ask not.”

After John Lennon died in 1980, his widow Yoko Ono requested ten minutes of silence on his behalf. That didn’t change John’s eternal destiny. Honoring the dead will not cause them to go from hell to heaven. Their fate has been determined. Psalm 115:17 says, “The dead do not praise the LORD, nor any who go down into silence.”

Religious folk will tell you to be quiet in their institutions and in public like what happened with the two blind men who called out to Jesus for healing (Matthew 20:29-34). People won’t get saved and delivered unless they hear the truth. God gave us mouths to speak. Let’s use them to share the Good News, edify the brethren, and cry out against tyranny and deception.

“Behold, it is written before Me: I will not keep silence…” - Isaiah 65:6

Foundations of a Nation

July 4th is a memorable day for me not only because I’m an American. It was also my grandmother’s birthday. Leah Post was born on this day in 1908 (she passed away 92 years later). My family often got together with her on Independence Day before seeing fireworks that evening.

My grandparents were devoted members of a Methodist church (though Grandpa Post wasn’t sure of going to heaven until I prayed with him in 1996). One gift they gave me as a boy was a storybook based on these words by Jesus in Matthew 7…

24 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 

25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.

26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 

27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.”

These verses can apply to individuals, families, and nations. Since 1776, the United States of America was founded upon Judeo-Christian values framed in the Declaration of Independence and reaffirmed eleven years later with the Constitution. 34% of the ideas in the latter document originated from the Bible. While other countries have changed governments numerous times, the U. S. has remained constant despite challenges such as the Civil War, the bombing of Pearl Harbor, and 9/11.

Psalm 11:3 says, “If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” Godless politicians are attempting to infringe upon our Constitutional rights to freedom of speech and to bear arms. If those two amendments are ever removed, the United States as we know it will no longer exist. Just as a building can collapse if the foundation is compromised, so will this country. Fortunately, that won’t happen as long as American Christians continue doing their part by praying and voting for God-fearing leaders.

“For the nation and kingdom which will not serve you shall perish, and those nations shall be utterly ruined.” - Isaiah 60:12

Saved by Tongues?

Today is Pentecost Sunday, which is acknowledged by many churches and is even a holiday in Germany. Pentecost literally means “50.” Fifty days passed from the Resurrection to when early believers received an impartation of power as described in Acts 2…

1 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 

2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 

3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. 

4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

The manifestation of speaking of tongues continues to be a controversial topic amongst the Body of Christ. Many believers don’t believe it exists today. Some claim it’s of the devil. Yet tongues can a powerful weapon against demonic forces. I heard John Bevere share a story about a mother and her daughter whose home was broken into by a burglar. This burglar threatened to kill them until the mother started praying in tongues loudly. The burglar got scared and ran away.

A few Christians think speaking in tongues is necessary for salvation. I remember an incident when witnessing to three people smoking outside a McDonald’s in Pennsylvania. One of them named Chelsea wasn’t sure of her eternal destiny. I later learned she was backslidden and went to a church that taught one must be baptized and speak in tongues to be saved. Strangely enough, Chelsea defended that doctrine after praying along with her two friends to get born again.

The Baptism of the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in other tongues is a gift God wants every believer to have. However, salvation is solely based on our faith in the risen Savior. (Acts 16:31, Romans 10:9-10, Ephesians 2:8-9). My sister and her husband weren't Spirit-filled but constantly prayed that I would recognize my need for Jesus. In March 1991, they led me to the Lord. Two months later, I received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit at the Full Gospel church I attended. It took a while before speaking in tongues became natural for me.

When evangelizing, I rarely discuss speaking in tongues with new converts unless they appear to have a hunger for the deeper things of God. My focus is on getting people saved. As J. Lee Grady stated in his latest column: “You may speak in tongues, but if you don't use the Spirit's power to reach lost souls, you have cheapened the definition of a Pentecostal. We often say that tongues is the initial evidence of the infilling of the Spirit. But if someone isn't bold to witness, they can't be full of the Spirit. Lord, give us souls again!”

“And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” - Mark 16:17-18

A Peculiar Way

Sometimes when God leads us to do something, the outcome doesn’t go as planned. This weekend, my friend Gretchen and I attempted a road trip from Minnesota to Texas. We both prayed before leaving and perceived this was God’s will. The original plan was for us to stay a few days with an intercessor who lives outside Dallas. While checking my text messages in Missouri, I found out the intercessor doesn’t allow dogs in her home. Gretchen had brought along her chihuahua. Nevertheless, we continued our trip since Gretchen has a daughter in Austin she could stay with. Hours later, Gretchen received an emergency phone call from her parents. It became necessary for us to turn around and return to Minnesota. 

This wasn’t a wasted trip from an eternal perspective. Gospel tracts were handed out along the way. One recipient was a McDonald’s employee in Kansas City who had to bring our order out in the rain. She still prayed with me to receive salvation. Jesus said in Luke 15:10, “…there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Gretchen and I also stopped at the International House of Prayer of Kansas City. She received a prophetic word that ministered to her.

I recall a story told by Kenneth Copeland. One time the Lord instructed him to fly to Israel to minister to one woman. At first, Kenneth questioned this mission as being a bit extravagant. The Lord told him, “I am extravagant...I am never wasteful.” He then asked Kenneth if one of his daughters was on the other side of the world and would only listen to one person, wouldn’t he send that person to get her out of trouble. 

Kenneth replied, “When do I leave?”

One of the cities Gretchen and I drove through was Peculiar, Missouri. One of the two exits from Interstate 49 was “Peculiar Way.” That had me thinking about how God’s ways are often peculiar. We may not fully understand why He leads us to do things that in the natural seem to be poor handling of our resources. However, everything works out for good if we continue trusting in Him.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” - Proverbs 3:5-6

Believe and Receive

Let’s suppose you were a parent with five children. One of your sons came up and asked if you would take the family to the mall. You reply, “Sure. We’ll go there this afternoon.”

A minute later, your other son who overheard his brother asks if you would take the family to the mall. You reply, “I already told your brother I’d do that.”

Seconds later, one of your daughters who was within earshot of her brothers approached you and asked about going to the mall. What would your answer be? By this time you might be a little annoyed but if you were a good parent, you would still say “yes.”

Within the next couple of minutes, your two other daughters ask the very same thing. You reply in frustration, “Didn’t you kids believe me when I said ‘yes’ the first time?”

This scenario sounds ridiculous, but this is how many people approach God in prayer. There was one prayer group I briefly attended where this sort of thing happened all the time. After discussing our prayer requests, we each took turns uttering petitions before the Lord. The first person prayed for several of the requests. Then the next person did the same thing, repeating many of the requests the first person already prayed. Then the third person did likewise and then the fourth and so on. 

Many people seem unconvinced God heard their prayers the first time. Some Christians cite the persistent widow in Luke 18 to justify their pestering God with the same need. Keep in mind the widow was dealing with an unjust judge.

On the other hand, the Lord wants to give us the desires of our heart (Psalm 37:4). Whenever we need something from God, the best thing to do is pray and then keep thanking Him until the answer manifests. Jesus said in Mark 11:24, “Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.”

Delays in answered prayer are not because God wasn’t listening. Sometimes they are due to demonic opposition. In Daniel chapter 10, the prophet had been fasting and praying for three weeks. Notice what the angel told Daniel beginning with verse 12… 

12 “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words. 

13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left alone there with the kings of Persia.”

There are situations we must be persistent in intercession when it involves other people’s wills. Examples would include the government and a loved one’s salvation. For the latter, it’s better to pray for laborers to cross that family member’s path (Matthew 9:38) instead of habitually praying, “Lord, save So-and-So.” God wants your family members in the kingdom more than you do but needs His people to get the gospel to them.

In some prayer meetings I’ve been to, one person would verbally pray for all our needs. The rest of us would be in agreement. In other groups, each person would pray for another person’s request. That way, everybody took part in praying. All petitions got covered without being mentioned over and over.

Jesus warned us in Matthew 6:7-8 against making “vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. Therefore do not be like them.” So the next time you need something from God, avoid the temptation to keep asking for it again and again. Believe and then receive!

“But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.” - James 1:6

Amen

Last Sunday, a Methodist pastor turned politician said he was “honored” to deliver the opening prayer for the 117th Congress. Sadly, Emanuel Cleaver dishonored the true living God. While he did recite the Priestly Blessing in Numbers 6:24-26, Cleaver closed his prayer “…in the name of the monotheistic God, Brahma, and the god of many other faiths. Amen and A-woman.” Didn’t he learn in seminary “amen” has nothing to do with gender?

Amen is a word of Hebrew origin that means, “so be it” or “let it be.” It’s something many Christians say when they agree with what a preacher says. “Amen” is sung at the end of some traditional hymns. It’s also a word found at the end of every book in the New Testament except for Acts, James, and 3 John. Some ministers preach that “amen” is not the closing word in the Book of Acts because God wants His people to continue ministering like the early apostles.

I learned from a Christian software program of other significant uses of “amen.” In Deuteronomy 27:15-26, “amen” appears twelve times after each statement of a curse directed toward those who disobey God. Similarly, “amen” is used as a response after statements of promise (Jeremiah 11:5) or praise and thanksgiving (1 Chronicles 16:36), and as a conclusion to the first four of the five “books” of Psalms (Psalms 41:13; 72:19; 89:52; 106:48). The only exceptions in the Old Testament are two occurrences in Isaiah 65:16. The phrase “the God of amen” (or “the God of truth”) stresses that God is the one who is “firm”; that is, He is trustworthy and faithfully fulfills his promises.

The use of “amen” as a response to a preceding statement continues in the New Testament. It appears after doxologies (Ephesians 3:21), benedictions (Galatians 6:18), the giving of thanks (1 Corinthians 14:16), prophecy (Revelation 1:7), and statements of praise (Revelation 7:12).

One time I ministered to three boys playing near a school. After I led them all to the Lord, one of the boys asked if it was necessary to say “amen” at the end of every prayer. I told him I didn’t think so but advised him to always pray to the Father in Jesus’ name. I hope Emanuel Cleaver remembers that if he’s called to lead another congressional prayer. Praying to false gods violates the First Commandment: “Thou shalt have no other gods before Me.”

So be it.

“Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.” - 1 John 5:21

Make a Move

As a young Christian, I read many books by Kenneth E. Hagin and his son Kenneth Hagin, Jr. One of the latter was titled “It’s Your Move”, which compares our walk with the Lord to a chess game. When we make a move, then He makes a move. Dad Hagin often said, “It is easier to steer a car when it is moving than when it is parked.” I’ve seen this truth manifest many times during my missionary travels.

Back in 2003, I flew to Berlin, Germany. After staying in a prayer house for nearly three weeks, two women invited the caretaker and me to go on a road trip with them to Nuremberg. I was reluctant to step out until one of the women said she knew a hotel owner that would provide a room for two nights. Upon our arrival in Nuremberg, we attended a church service. The first worship song I heard was based on Romans 8:1-2. I had read those same verses out loud in the car moments before. I also heard a minister say, “God moves with those who move.” That assured me I did the right thing. The next night, I taught on evangelism at this church. God later opened doors for me to minister in other German cities.

Last month, I moved to San Antonio, Texas. A couple that had been missionaries themselves hosted me the first few nights. However, they questioned the way God was leading me. Without having other lodging possibilities, I rented a motel room to fast and pray. A breakthrough developed after I took a bus downtown one day to go for a prayer walk and evangelize. Across the street from The Alamo, I met a woman playing guitar and singing worship songs. While we fellowshipped, this woman told me about the church she attends. I felt led to go there the following Sunday. The pastor asked me to speak for a few minutes. After the service, his assistant offered me a place to stay.

Are you seeking divine direction? Abraham had a promised land set aside for him but didn’t find it until he left his home country. Unless He specifically tells you to wait on Him, the Lord is likely waiting for you to do something. Jesus is the “great Shepherd of the sheep” (Hebrews 13:21) and will let you know if you’re going the right way or need to adjust your steps, but not until you start moving.

“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” 

- James 2:17 (NIV)

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

Is America Doomed?

Just over a month ago, a friend forwarded to me a sixteen-minute video that went viral. Dana Coverstone is the pastor of an Assembly of God church in Kentucky. In his video, Dana testified of God giving him dreams about America’s future. He warned of foreign soldiers on the ground, hyperinflation, and cities burning during September, October, and November of this year.

At first, I seriously considered what Dana shared. The previous week, a prophet I know saw a war coming to the United States. Dana doesn’t claim to be a prophet but talked of having previous dreams of disease and protests that came to pass. He advised, “Let's see what happens through November and see if I’m right about this.” So I shared Dana’s video on my Facebook page (later removing it) and added the comment: “Perhaps this can be averted through prayer and fasting.” Jonah prophesied the downfall of Nineveh but that was delayed because of its inhabitants repenting.

Many pundits have predicted the demise of America. The wife of a state senator I know recently wrote on her Facebook page: “We are not a free country right now.” Certainly, we’ve seen troubling things over the past few weeks: looting, buildings on fire, reports of coin shortages, and politicians imposing lockdowns. However, I’ve read other prophecies proclaiming hope for America and the church. Last Sunday during a service, handouts were given about Bob Jones’ “100-year prophecy.” The Lord had shown this late prophet awesome things manifesting per decade: “I saw up to the 2060s and the church here was not beat down.” This suggests the Second Coming may not happen for another 40 years.

Two days later while watching an online prayer meeting, a 1974 prophecy from Kenneth E. Hagin was read. The opening lines were: “'No, the time of the end is not yet. No, America is not doomed', I heard Him say, 'No, judgment will not fall as yet. Some have seen some things in the spirit and didn’t know how to interpret it. They interpreted it as happening now. I didn’t say it was going to happen now. In the spirit you see things in the distance — and even in another age. When the Church age is over, judgment will fall. But judgment will not fall upon the Church. For the only judgment that the church will face is the judgment seat of Christ.'”

1 Corinthians 13:9 says, “For we know in part and we prophesy in part.” One prophet may see something in the future that appears to contradict what another prophet is seeing. Sometimes these prophecies make more sense when they are put together like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. The events they are seeing could happen years apart. Even if a war occurs upon American soil later this year, that doesn’t mean it’s all over for this country. We survived other challenges like the Civil War, the bombing of Pearl Harbor, and 9/11.

The United States has a history of sending soldiers and missionaries to other countries to help promote freedom both naturally and spiritually plus providing aid in response to natural disasters. I don’t see God allowing that to stop. Sodom and Gomorrah would have been spared if He had found at least ten righteous men there. I am one of the millions of professing believers here. I will continue praying for this land while preaching the gospel in various American cities. Many other ministers are believing for a Third Great Awakening that will reap a great harvest of souls in this country and others.

I choose to believe the best about America.

“Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You?” - Psalm 85:6

Check Your Heart

When someone has a physical checkup, the doctor will use a stethoscope to examine their heart. It’s also important for people to know the status of their spiritual hearts. Sometimes when I’m evangelizing, sinners try justifying themselves by saying, “God knows my heart.” Yet Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it?” 

Fortunately, one who becomes born again has a supernatural heart transplant. Ezekiel 36:26-27 promises, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments and do them.”

Believers should still occasionally examine themselves to maintain a clean heart. An excellent time to do that is when taking communion. 1 Corinthians 11:28-29 commands, “But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body.”

Other verses that talk about examining our hearts include…

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting..” - Psalm 139:23-24

“Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are disqualified.” 

- 2 Corinthians 13:5

“Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else.” - Galatians 6:4 (NIV)

The late John Paul Jackson stated, “We are life long students of the ways of God...trouble starts when we think we have graduated.” If the Lord reveals you’ve been doing things for the wrong motive, there’s no reason to feel condemned. Just repent and move on.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right, persevering, and steadfast spirit within me.” - Psalm 51:10 (Amplified Bible, Classic Edition) 

Pray For Your Nation

Christians in the United States are becoming increasingly discouraged from sharing the gospel in public places. Because of fears over the coronavirus, politicians have also placed limitations upon church meetings. California Governor Gavin Newsom recently issued a ridiculous ban from singing and chanting in places of worship. Yet Ronald Reagan (who was also a California governor) stated, “Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged. When our Founding Fathers passed the First Amendment, they sought to protect churches from government interference.”

This country was founded mostly by Bible-believing men who intended to keep the government out of the church, not God out of the government, In a statement made to the General Assembly of the State of Virginia in 1778, James Madison (the chief architect of the Constitution) said, “We’ve staked the whole future of American civilization not upon the power of government, far from it. We have staked the future of all of our political institutions upon the capacity of each and all of us to govern ourselves according to the Ten Commandments of God.”

It’s also worth noting that in 1812, President Madison signed a federal bill that economically aided the Bible Society of Philadelphia in its goal of the mass distribution of the Bible. If the American Civil Liberties Union had existed back then, they likely would have complained about “separation of church and state.”

Proverbs 29:2 says, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked man rules, the people groan.” What if German Christians in the 1920s and 1930s had fasted and interceded for their country more? That might have prevented Adolf Hitler from coming into power.

Regardless of where you live, I encourage you to keep praying for your nation. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 says, “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.” The prophet Daniel brought change to Babylon through his prayers. God can do the same through you!

“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

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

God With Us

One of the alternative names for the Son of God is Immanuel (also spelled Emmanuel), which literally means “God With Us.” That name is mentioned three times in the Bible: twice in Isaiah and once in Matthew. Occasionally while street evangelizing, I have ministered salvation to men named Emmanuel. Most of them already knew what their name meant.

Many times I hear Christians pray for God to “be with us.” While this may sound holy and religious, it is unscriptural especially in a church service or prayer meeting. Jesus said in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” Certainly we should ask God for guidance and to order our steps. But the Lord Himself will never depart from our lives unless we renounce our faith in Him.

There are numerous verses stating God will always be with us and never leave us...

“Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” 

- Deuteronomy 31:6

“And the LORD, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.” - Deuteronomy 31:8

“No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you.” - Joshua 1:5

“And David said to his son Solomon, ‘Be strong and of good courage, and do it; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD God—my God—will be with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you, until you have finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD.’” -1 Chronicles 28:20

“Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” - Hebrews 13:5

There is one example in Scripture when King Solomon prayed for God to “be with him” (1 Kings 8:57). But keep in mind that was under the Old Covenant. 2 Corinthians 6:16 says, “I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” So if you’re a born-again Christian, there’s no need to pray for God to “be with you.” His Spirit already resides on the inside of you!

“Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” - 1 Corinthians 3:16

Does God Hear Sinners?

A few days ago I walked by a woman who said “hello” to me. I greeted her in return and then gave her a gospel tract seeing this as an evangelism opportunity. She wasn’t certain of going to heaven but believed the gospel. After offering to pray with her, this woman claimed God heard her prayers every night. She got defensive after I told her one must know Jesus to get into heaven. During our conversation, I kept thinking of what John 9:31 says, “Now we know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does His will, He hears him.”  

The Amplified Bible clarifies the meaning of this better…

“We know that God does not listen to sinners; but if anyone is God-fearing and a worshiper of Him and does His will, He listens to him.”

There is a difference between hearing and listening. The New Oxford American Dictionary defines hearing as “the faculty of perceiving sounds.” That same dictionary defines listen as “give one’s attention to a sound.” A person can hear somebody but not listen to what he is saying. As a child, you might have heard your mother calling you to come inside the house but didn’t listen to her because you wanted to stay outside longer.

This reminds me of a humorous story told by Jesse Duplantis. The Louisiana-based evangelist was talking with a pastor who didn’t think God was hearing his prayers. So Jesse encouraged this pastor to cuss. The pastor refused to consider doing such a thing. Jesse then asked, “What’s the matter? You think God will hear you?”

While God may hear all our prayers, He will not listen and respond to some of them for various reasons. James 4:3 mentions people asking for things with the wrong motives. The following parable in Luke 18 illustrates the importance of having the right attitude when praying…

10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 

11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. 

12 I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ 

13 And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ 

14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Once while I lived in Pensacola, Florida, my roommate told me our next-door neighbor was a Muslim. One afternoon I saw this man sitting on his front steps and perceived this was the right time to approach him with the gospel. Although this man was reluctant to let go of some of his Islamic beliefs, he did pray to receive Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. When he showed me his copy of the Koran, I noticed it was written in both Arabic and Old English. That prompted me to give him a King James Bible to read (usually I give away newer translations because it’s easier reading for young believers). This man then told me he had asked God to give him a Bible and wanted it to be a King James Version. God definitely answered his prayers.

There is one type of prayer from sinners that God will always answer...the call for eternal life. One of the thieves on the cross was promised to be with Jesus in paradise (Luke 23:43). In Acts chapter 10, Cornelius’ prayers ultimately resulted in him receiving salvation when he got together with Peter. So if you are not yet born again, your prayers can be heard if you repent of your sins and make Jesus Christ your Lord and Savior. He will listen to you!

“For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” - Romans 10:13