The Potagee Philosopher

The Recent Japan Tsunami and the Sovereignty of God

2011-03-12T14:23:00.000-08:00

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What has happened in Japan is simply catastrophic. My heart goes out to the Japanese citizens, especially those who dwell in the NE, the Sendai Area, Date Masamune country (I had to throw some samurai history into this article). Watching the wall of water devour huge chunks of land, tossing people, cars, buses, homes, and even moving containers like driftwood can have a humbling effect on our psyche. We realize our utter powerlessness when it comes to things like earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, tornadoes, and even cooling the core of a nuclear reactor. Uranium has a life of its own. The man-made reactor and nuclear specialists ultimately cannot tame this fissionable material. We are limited.

As Christians, however, don't we possess tremendous authority (Matt 21:21)? Don't we have authority over nature (Mark 4:39)? Are we just mere cogs in the fatalistic machinery of life? Don't we have a say about things? Or should we look at it this way? Was the recent tsunami an opportunity for people to turn to God? You know the pat answers, "God will cause all things to work together for good (Romans 8:28). He is in control (Col 1: 17). What was meant for evil, God has turned around for good (Genesis 50:20)."

After wrestling with God and other crazy people who think about these things, I have come to this conclusion: we swing from one extreme to the other. Human beings like extremes because it gives us a sense of stability, a sense of comfort, a sense that we are God. We want the final blueprint for everything. We want to nail down the mysteries of life, even though the term mystery means 'the unknown'. Knowledge brings power (Proverbs 24:5). Some are either extreme dominion theologians, rebuking everything from hurricanes to mosquitos biting them at a barbecue; or, they are Hyper-Calvinists who bow to every evil thing as coming from the hand of God. "We need to accept this cancer because through it God will grow us in character." Maybe some fall in between the two, but in the end, we still place our trust in some quasi-theology to make sense of our world and God's ways.

Who's right? Maybe we need to pray for strength to ride out a hurricane. Maybe we need to rebuke it in Jesus' name. Maybe we need to believe God for a complete healing for someone suffering with stage four lymphoma cancer. I think all speak truth to our spirit, but could this be the answer? Instead of placing our trust in a theology (study of God), why not place our trust in God? What do I mean by this? Why not have such a close relationship with the Living God, that we know what to do and think in every situation? Why not be like David when he asked God, "Should we fight or not fight the Philistines?" He was a man after God's own heart. He was a man after God's ways. He sought God first for the answer, not some theological work.

Please understand, I am not against good theology and Bible study. I am a proponent of these things. I am against, however, an unbalanced trust in study apart from a real relationship with God. This could even pertain to relying on Sunday sermons or conference messages instead of intimacy with God. Many have and are continuing to go down this path. It leads to spiritual dryness and death.

Even Balaam, the rebellious prophet, said, “Did I not tell you, ‘Whatever the Lord speaks, that I must do’ (Numbers 23:26)?” He only did what Yahweh asked him to do. Jesus said and did the same thing (John 8:28). Every man and woman of God trusted the Living God, not some theology.

Man's propensity is to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, rather than from the tree of life (God). Face it, many want to be God. It's easier and more expedient to be God. Many want it fast but the way of God is for the patient of heart. John 14:6 states, "I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one comes to the father except through me." Many are called to life (God) and not death. Theology brought death to the Pharisees, but God, through Jesus, brought life to those who sought Him.

Pursuing relationship with God while studying the Scriptures produces humility and true wisdom. Studying the Scriptures alone cements God into a box and blinds us to the real truth. The Pharisees did this and paid a tremendous price. They missed their day of visitation. Many are paying the same price today. When learning how to fix a car, you just don't look at a mechanics guide to grow in mechanical proficiency. One needs to poke their head into an engine and get greasy. There is nothing like the real thing. It's the same with our pursuit of God. Many stay satisfied with just sticking their faces into a Bible, but fail to relate with God. They know about God rather than know God. It takes faith to go beyond knowledge and into relationship. That's the clarion call for all Christians today. It's the great divide. It's a choice between realness or hypocrisy.

So what should we make of the recent tragedy in Japan? I honestly don't know the full answer. I will continue to pray for these precious people. I will continue to spend time with our Father to find out the answer. He may answer me now or he may answer me later. He may not answer me at all, but I will grow in my relationship with God through the experience of just relating. He will do the same for you. Nothing is wasted with God. Brothers and sisters, approach the throne of grace and talk to Him face to face (Hebrews 4:16). You will be blessed (Jeremiah 33:3).

It's time to draw near to God. Pray for Japan. Pray that God would stop any nuclear melt downs. One doesn't need inordinate time with God to find his will on this one.

What's Going on with Kathy Griffin?

2011-03-08T09:13:00.000-08:00

"I've already gone for Sarah, Todd and Bristol obviously," Griffin told The Hollywood Reporter. "But I think it's Willow's year to go down. In 2011, I want to offend a new Palin.” (Kathy Griffin)

What's going on with Kathy Griffin? Did reaching fifty snap something in her brain or in her sense of decency? I believe she was decent at one time. Comedy is comedy, but this is just evil, mean-spirited, sick, degenerate. What does she gain from attacking a sixteen year old, especially after all the negative fallout surrounding recent cyber-bullying and teen suicides? This is not going to help her career.

Not that I hope she prospers as a comedienne. I think her humor is gross and beyond sick. I listened to her for a few minutes and felt nauseated at the filth coming out of her mouth. She is one angry lady. I forever tuned her out.

The hatred coming against the Palin family by the far left media and entertainment industry, which Kathy Griffin is a part of, boggles the mind. Is it because she is a Republican? No. Is it because they are jealous of her beauty? No. Is it because she is conservative ? Maybe. Is it because she and her family are Christian? Absolutely yes!

I can understand if someone doesn't like a certain politician's personality or political views. This is normal and par for the course if you jump into the political fray. You just have to take your punches and go with the flow. However, to attack someone's child is over the top. It just doesn't make sense unless you look at Scripture and things then become clear.

Jesus stated in John 21:17, "and you will be hated by all because of My name." It was a senseless kind of hatred that placed Jesus on the cross. This same type of hatred is operating here. The spirit operating in Kathy Griffin hates Christians. It hates decency. It hates purity. It goes after the weak and defenseless.

2 Timothy 3:1-4 states, "But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, ireconciliable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God."

What we see in this comedienne's antics mirrors our culture and society. She is just one of the many who have chosen to speak and live a life of utter disrespect for anything and everything holy. Just a mere mention of the word holy brings a sneer to these kinds of people. Are we living in the days of Noah? I think so.

How do we live then? How does someone like Sarah Palin, or any other Christian, navigate the treacherous waters of this world and still make a difference? The world's love is growing cold, so God's love must become super-sized in our lives. It doesn't mean we put up with the 'crapola' spewing forth from Kathy's garbage bin mouth, but it does mean that we allow God to keep us soft towards those who are seeking. Maybe she is seeking God. The Holy Spirit will reveal the mysteries going on in people's hearts. That's why we need to stay soft and sensitive. We need to stay close to Jesus.

Jesus said, "Upon this rock (the Gospel) I will build my church and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it." It's interesting that the imagery is one of the church taking the offense against the gates of the Devil. It doesn't look like it when we read the newspapers or watch the news on TV. But think about this: would the media report on some recent advancement of Christianity or on something decent and good? I don't think so. Sex, violence, crude humor, and all the other conscience desensitizing news makes more money. It makes more of a splash. So they cannot frame the total picture of reality for us. The truth is this: despite what's happening in the West, Christianity is making major advancements throughout the world. South America, Africa, Asia, especially China, are experiencing full blown revivals. Islam doesn't even come close to matching the conversion rates of people turning to the true light of the Gospel.

If I may use this analogy. It's like the windward side of Oahu could be experiencing torrential flooding and rain, while the rest of the island could be sunny and bright. The USA and Europe could be under the deluge or delusion of darkness, but the rest of the developing world is turning to the shining face of Jesus. The news will not report this. Are we surprised? Read Dinesh D'Souza's book What's So Great About Christianity to get a more optimistic view of what's happening with the church and this world.

Just over the mountain the Son is breaking and surging over the land. We need to pray that the 'Sonshine' does the same in our own backyard.

Do I think Kathy Griffin is a sick person? Yes. Is she beyond salvation? No. With men it is impossible, but with God all things are possible. I will end this article focused on the God of possibilities. Pray and reach out to the most impossible people in your life. Don't give up. God hasn't.

The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2011/01/04/kathy-griffin-going-far-targeting-year-old-willow-palin/#ixzz1FzNQxmKS

My Critique of Atheism

2011-01-08T20:27:00.000-08:00

http://www.reoiv.com/images/random/atheism.jpg

I do not know about you, but whenever I read an article promoting atheism, I just see a lot of anger and bitterness. Yes, anger can be found everywhere, but especially in their writings. Their goal is to cut down and disparage Christians and other religions. Please understand, I am all for freedom of speech. That’s why I am writing what I am writing. An atheist, along with Muslims, Buddhists, Hare Krishnas, witches, warlocks, secular humanists, tree huggers, whale lovers, fence sitters, Christians, and every other belief system out there in the peanut gallery have a right to share or rant about things they believe in.

I’m just making an observation about Atheistic articles. They don’t seem very happy and buoyant. I don't come away saying, "Boy oh boy, I really want to become an atheist". They actually get a rise out of desecrating people’s cherished religious beliefs. They get a rise out of desecration period. They consider nothing sacred except their own opinions.

I hear the same old blah, blah, blah, about Christians starting wars and committing unimaginable atrocities. Could it just be that maybe, just maybe, these so called Christians are not Christian? That they have used the name of Christ to bring legitimacy to their own pet perversions? I cannot see Jesus condoning the crusaders massacring of Jews and Muslims in his name. I cannot see him applauding Hitler, or his other deranged, goose-stepping sycophants, for the holocaust. I cannot see Jesus smiling down on the Serbians for killing whole Muslim villages. I cannot see Jesus condoning the burning alive of Protestants during the inquisition. I see no resemblance with the Jesus of the Bible. Do you?

Could it just be that their brand of Christianity is more political and self-promoting than the belief system expounded by a man butchered on a cross, who cried out, “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing”. I see no resemblance. I think they will have a rude awakening when they see the real Jesus face to face. He will say, “I never knew you. Depart from me.”

On the other side of the coin, I have seen atheistic belief systems like Communism kill millions in the name of some social utopia. I think of Lenin, Stalin, Mao, Pol Pot, and others who transformed their philosophical cafe discussions into their bloodthirsty realities. I have read about more people being killed in the name of real atheism than in the name of the real Jesus.

What about all the financial scandals, molestation of children, divorce rates of Christians and other evils within the church? Let me ask this question: are we surprised? Could it just be that human beings, including so-called Christians, atheists, agnostics, and Muslims, have the potential to commit good or evil? Do they have freedom of choice? Do they take part in lunacy? Do they commit evil? Do institutions other than the church have people who could potentially commit crimes? I say yes. The Bible is true when it says, "There is not a righteous person on the face of this earth who is good all the time." All have sinned (Roman 3:23).

However, I have also seen or read about Christians, Atheists, Muslims, and other human beings doing wonderful things for their fellow man. Humans have great potential for doing good. They have great potential for doing evil? They can cut both ways.

I have also read about Christians starting many, if not most, of the hospitals in the United States and abroad. I have read about Christians, like Mother Theresa, forsaking worldly comfort in order to minister to the untouchables of the world. I have read and seen real Christians in action; the kind that follow the Jesus of the Bible; the kind that make a positive difference in the world. They exist. They exist in greater abundance than the world thinks; than even the Atheists think.

In my search for a belief system, I found Atheism, Islam, Buddhism, the New Age Movement, and other philosophies wanting when compared to following the carpenter from Nazareth. Honestly, I do not have enough faith to be an Atheist or to follow the other belief systems. When it comes down to it, all belief systems are a step of faith (I know this is redundant), especially Atheism. I just think Christianity gives me the firmest cliff of information to jump off from. This is my opinion after studying many belief systems.

In the end, I am not some random conglomeration of collectivized dust particles that just so happened to appear on a fine tuned piece of machinery called earth. That’s too much of a lunatic stretch. I’ll stick with God. The Atheists can continue to spout their crazy theories and hateful diatribes, but honestly, I do not want to follow them or their rantings. I may read their writings at times to challenge my thinking, but I will never adopt their world view. It's too depressing!

God's Mysterious and Purposeful Ways

2010-11-03T13:24:00.000-07:00

When I saw the second printout from last night's Hawaii Gubernatorial election, my heart sank at the numbers: Abercrombie's 58% to Aiona's 41%. What went wrong? Didn't we pray, worship, canvas, phone people, raise money, run adds, sign wave, and other things? People may point fingers and Wednesday-morning-quarterback this thing to death, but I don't think anyone will have the definitive answer. People can try. I don't blame them.

When the rest of the country went red, the state of Hawaii remained true blue. Yes, Hawaii is a Democratic bastion, but it voted in a Republican governor twice during the two last elections. Yes, Hawaii is influenced a lot by the unions, but they ultimately do not control this state. Negative campaigning, controversial letters, outside interest groups, low voter turnout, Christian apathy toward politics, too much Christian involvement, and everything will be dissected and placed on the examining table. But I have a question that needs answering: How do you examine the providence or sovereignty of God?

Yes, we need to study and learn from our past mistakes. We need to still partner with God to expand the Kingdom of God on earth. We have a part. But when do we say, "I've done my best and I give it into God's hands?" Or how about this statement, "We didn't do our best, but God is still in control." The line between our works and God's sovereignty is a mystery. That's why I refrain from pointing fingers. That's why we should refrain from pointing fingers. It doesn't help to accuse because we further compound the injury; we play right into the enemy's hands. Unity is needed at this time, not stinging accusations.

1 Corinthians 3:6 states, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth." From this verse, God is ultimately in control of the results. Could this verse apply to any initiative by Christians? Could it apply to a political campaign? I think so. All work is a witness to the glory of God (Col 3:23-24, Matthew 5:16). God is still in control of the overall direction of this state. It may take some weird detours, but it will all flow into God's timetable.

God lifts up and brings down (Psalm 75:6-7). He places or allows kings, governors, mayors, and other leaders into positions of influence (Romans 13:1). Sometimes he allows people to place tyrants (Hitler) into seats of authority because of the idolatrous nature of the culture (Romans 1:18-32). Germany was a debauched nation before World War II. The people wanted Hitler and they got him. It was their choice, not God's. In the end, however, God will cause all things to work together for good (Romans 8:28). All history will flow into Christ (Ephesians 1:10). Every tear wiped; every sorrow forgotten.

Will the Kingdom of God continue to expand under the present governorship? This is a no-brainer. Of course it will. Kings and Queens will come and go, but the True King of the universe reigns forever. God expanded his kingdom under Nero, Mao's China, and other oppressive regimes. This newly elected governor is nowhere near the brutality of these rulerships. Yes, the political landscape of this state is awash in Democratic blue, but it is ultimately covered by the purple kingship of Jesus. The standards of our True King flutter in the winds of time, waiting to advance on the enemy strongholds of this world. The angelic forces swirl around the citadel of this earth, ready to bring this circus to an end. They can't wait. We feel heaven's intent!

All creation groans for the appearing of the true sons and daughters of the King (Romans 8). A new heaven and earth will replace this old, worn out, sin filled domain we abide in now. Until then, we must war in our respective positions on the battlefield and do our best. That's all we can do. That's all we must do. Thank you bride of Christ for running for office, for sign waving, for voting, for praying, for canvasing, for worshipping, for donating money, for preaching, and for believing. The kingdoms of this world will become the Kingdoms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Your work was unto that end. Be encouraged. It was not in vain. Your efforts fill a reservoir of blessing in heaven that will spill out on earth one day! You sow into God's bright future!

One Thankful Potagee
Johnny V

Intolerant Tolerance

2010-10-21T10:56:00.000-07:00

The View ruckus from last week resulted in another blow out with the liberal media establishment just yesterday. What's with these people? Juan Williams of NPR news made a guest appearance on the Bill O' Reilly show and basically said what all Americans feel: he gets concerned and worried when he sees Muslim garbed people on airplanes. He went on to say that America is at war with Islam and it will get more bloody. He was telling the truth. He also sided with the women on The View about Bill O' Reilly's use of the word Muslim. He gave a fair and balanced opinion. He showed true liberalism.

NPR, the liberal news bastions of all liberal news bastions, fired the man because he did not uphold their kind of journalistic professionalism while taking part in this interview. What standard? Telling the truth? Being liberal? This political correctness thing is turning into a circus.

Don't we all feel the same way? When a man or woman boards a plane dressed like a Muslim, what goes through your mind? You may not articulate it verbally, but unconsciously you ascertain this person allies themselves with the Islamic faith -first and foremost - over any national allegiance. You then think about 9/11. It goes through every person's mind, even other NPR correspondents, even other people who saw two planes smash into the twin towers . Let's be honest with ourselves. This Islamo-sensitivity thing is getting out of hand.

The firing of Juan Williams is liberal bullying at its worst or cowardice to the Islamic organizations at its best. They received a complaint and immediately fired one of their most seasoned correspondents without giving him any recourse. That's the power of the number one value they inculcate: selective tolerance.

Why do I say selective tolerance? First, lets define the word liberalism. Webster's Dictionary defines it this way: a political philosophy based on belief in progress, the essential goodness of the human race, and the autonomy of the individual and standing for the protection of political and civil liberties. It all sounds fine and dandy. However, there is one-big-elephant-in-the-living-room problem here: what about Juan Williams and other so-called people who don't agree with NPR's form of liberalism? What about their rights? Don't they have autonomy and civil liberties too? The answer is a big fat no! They are practicing selective tolerance; which tells me that many of the liberals are not that liberal, or open minded, with the philosophical flag they wave so freely. This also makes them stunted morally as defined by their own definition. They have regressed in other words. I see no progress toward a humanistic utopia here. I only see selective tolerance or intolerance!

They violate what they supposedly cherish the most. Actually, we could give them another label and call them fascist liberals. Fascism is defined this way: a tendency toward or actual exercise of strong autocratic and dictatorial control. Fascists will shove their views down your throat even if you don't agree with them. Sadly, this is what happened to Juan Williams by a philosophical establishment that should have welcomed his views. Liberalism has deteriorated into a Godless, intolerant, morally confused, walk-off-the-stage inanity, typified by Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar. The liberal higher ups have chosen to follow a form of philosophical fascism that is shackling common sense and true liberal thinking.

The sad thing is that Islam could care less about NPR's quasi liberalism. They are using their confused philosophical state to promote their radical agenda. Islam has a strong world evangelization focus. They believe in theocracy and not in separation of church and state. They don't believe in our constitution or freedom of speech. Whoopi, Joy, Barbara, and others would not be able to share their view on The View in a culture locked up by Sharia Law. NPR would be shut down in such a system. It's time America woke up from their slumber before its too late.

Check out the interview for yourself and make your own judgment:

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2010/10/21/npr-fires-juan-williams-oreilly-appearance/

Bill O' Reilly, The View Women, The Mosque at Ground Zero

2010-10-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

How many of you watched The View yesterday with Bill O' Reilly as guest? What did you think when they got into that big argument about the term Muslim? I must agree, the news commentator (O' Reilly) really stoked the flames of debate red hot, when he said Muslims killed those who died on 9/11. Was he wrong to say that? I wrestled with this statement because I took a course on the history of Islam from a Muslim practitioner, and what I saw on that horrific day back in 9/11 was not so different from the Islam that conquered the Arab peninsula, the Middle East, and parts of Asia Minor. Yes, the founder was extending Islam and abolishing idolatry, but he did it through violent and religious means. They were combined. I wrestled because I knew the volatility of this issue. However, the truth is the truth no matter how you cut it. True Muslims killed the 9/11 victims.

Muhammad and his future generals conquered territory and subjugated people through a military, political and religious three pronged strategy. The Koran promotes the extension of Islam through the sword. I know what I am saying is not politically correct, but, again, it is the truth. Islam, at its core, is not a peaceful religion. It's absolutely not.

When I look at any religion, I look at its tap root to find the true spirit of its doctrines and creeds; the real core of who they are. What I found out is the radical extremists that flew their hijacked planes into the World Trade Center were true followers of Islam and jihad. The moderate Muslims, if I may call them that, are not following the Koran to the tee. Yes, they are following many aspects of it, but not the Islam preached by Muhammad. Osama Bin Laden, and all of radical Islam, walk in the same spirit as the founder of Islam.

Look at it this way, who is a true Christian? A true Christian is a follower of Christ and all his teachings found in the Bible, not a follower of the church. Who is a Buddhist? A true Buddhist is someone who follows Buddha and all his teachings, not a Buddha wannabe. Who is a true Muslim? A true Muslim is someone who follows Muhammad and all his teachings found in the Koran, not imam Ali Baba or whoever. It's that simple. If someone is not following Jesus and his teachings completely, are they truly Christian? I think not. The same litmus test goes for Muslims, Buddhist, and other religious practitioners too. Following something only part ways makes someone a semi-follower, which equates to not being a follower at all.

Osama Bin Laden mocks the liberal branch of Islam and doesn't consider them brothers in the faith. I do not condone what he preaches or the evil he perpetrated on 9/11, but you have to admire his commitment, though misguided, to the cause he believes in. The man gave up a life of ease to follow Islam wholeheartedly. He lives in some cave now in the Hindu Kush mountains, hiding out from U.S. drone missiles and US Special forces. From my studies of the founder of Islam, and based on his teachings from the Koran, I have to admit that Islam and its followers, in the truest sense of their faith, killed those innocent people on 9/11. Bill O' Reilly was right.

Yes, there are good people in Islam who would never follow in the footsteps of Osama Bin Laden. I'm not talking about that. I'm talking about Islam in the truest sense of the word. I'm talking about following the Koran and all of its teachings, including jihad, fully. True Muslims follow the example of their founder, Muhammad. He believed in extending the sway of Islam by the sword. The 9/11 perpetrators believed in and did the same with their version of the sword, an airplane.

Did I think Bill O' Reilly acted civil and promoted free discussion? Yes, if you spoke louder than him. Yes, he was very opinionated, but they asked him to give his opinion. They invited him to give his view on things. They knew what they were getting themselves into. The show is called The View, right?

I thought it quite unprofessional for Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar to walk off the stage because they didn't agree. Isn't there a professional code of conduct in journalism that states that if you don't agree you disagree in a civil and respectful manner? Whoopi getting bleeped out was not that respectful if you ask me. Yes, Bill O' Reilly was loud, but he didn't walk and bleep them off. If they can't handle the environment, then they should find another view. "Oh yeah, Bill, you're not a pin head."

Well, I will end by saying that the building of a mosque next to ground zero is absolutely wrong. It's not healing, but incendiary. If they really want to promote healing, which was one of their reasons for building the mosque in that location, then they should donate some of their Arab oil money to the 9/11 memorial and build their mosque miles away. The mosque is a political and religious statement to the American people that Islam will conquer our land. It's an exclamation point to the Muslim martyrs that died on 9/11. We are blind to think otherwise. Our politics of correctness and appeasement will come back to haunt us one day.

You watch the video and come to your own judgment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGRppcXqyOQ&feature=rec-LGOUT-
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Totalitarianism: It May Be Coming to Your Neighborhood Soon

2010-08-27T10:25:00.000-07:00

I am not one to delve into conspiracy theories. I actually chuckle at the few that come my way, but I am seeing trends in society that are not good.

America and the rest of the Western world are setting themselves up to be taken over by totalitarian regimes. The left has already taken over most of our medical industry, banking industry, media, bar association, judicial system, and government. It's kind of scary to see how fast things have changed in the last two years. It's actually phenomenal.

Let me first say that it doesn't matter if it's Socialism, Communism, Fascism, Progressivism, Conservatism, or any of the many 'isms' in this world. If a group of people, who believe in a certain ideology, make it a point to shove their ideology down your throat and control you without your consent, then that's called Totalitarianism.

In America, we have a group of people called Progressives, who believe it's their duty to tell us that the state or government is better at managing our banks, medical industry, schools, children, media, and eventually everything that defines our existence. They call themselves Progressives? More like regressives if you ask me. It's another way of saying they want a Totalitarian government.

What is the definition of Totalitarianism? It's a form of government, fueled by an ideology, that controls every aspect of one's life. It controls the media, religion, government, banking, medical industry, business, judicial system, and what you can buy at the neighborhood Walgreens. It's that pervasive. It is also backed up by the might of the military. Authoritarianism is basically the same thing, but with one exception: the source of authority is vested in one individual rather than in an ideology. Mussolini's Italy was a form of authoritarianism. Stalinist Russia, Hitler's Germany, and Maoist China were other forms. Yes, they kind of overlap, totalitarianism and authoritarianism. You could say they are two peas in a putrid pod. Sadly, all democracies eventually slide toward a form of totalitarianism or authoritarianism.

Why? First, people gravitate toward sinful behavior because they are sinful (Romans 3:23). "Wow, that's news to me!" When people stop living morally, you need to police it. For a true democracy or republic (thank you Tracy) to work, motivation to do good must come from above and not from the point of an AK47. It's either the mandate of heaven (China) or the mandate of a Howitzer. John Adams even stated, "We will either be led by the Bible or the bayonet." Sadly, people have no fear of God anymore so an alternative form of fear needs to be implemented. It's that simple.

Crime, immorality, and corruption, if left unattended, will destroy any civilization. That's what is happening to America. As we have departed from our Judeo-Christian moorings, chaos and evil have proliferated. A form of control needs to be implemented in order to simply function. That's why all the stricter controls by government. Evil is trying to be curbed by more state control. It's the leftist solution, or if I may say, the Godless solution. It's happening before our eyes.

On the other side of the spectrum we have Islam. They are also a form of totalitarianism. Their religion seeks to control all aspects of society to achieve their one goal: world domination. It's happening in Europe at this time. Why do they want to build a mosque near the 9/11 site? It's what they always do. They did it in Spain, Constantinople (Istanbul), and Jerusalem. They mark their conquests by building a huge mosque on important pieces of land. From there they expand their control.

Our leftist ideologues are buying into the whole freedom of religion thing (Like they really believe in freedom of religion) at the expense of losing their own freedom some day. Why cater to totalitarianism? They will exploit our democracy to fulfill their diabolical schemes. I personally think many pockets are being lined with money. "Oh yeah, that's the other big motivator." The left is so short sighted. The right is no better too. They will cater to oil rich Islamic nations, along with the left, to fuel their cravings for money and power.

Christianity can also deteriorate into a form of totalitarianism. Just look at Puritan England and Puritan America or Calvin's Geneva? All of them failed miserably. You cannot legislate morality. Jesus shunned the political route to promote the Kingdom of God. He always gave people a choice between following Him or hell. It's the way of God. Am I Arminian? No. I just believe Christianity is predicated on relationship. If there is no choice, how could God honor and reward puppets? Think about it. That's another article.

Sadly, we want to become God and bring about our own heaven on earth through our own deficient philosophies and corrupt versions of Christianity. Truly, God has made foolish the wisdom of this world (1 Cor 1).

Lastly, totalitarianism and authoritarianism are fueled not by a desire to enhance life, but to control life. It feeds man's desire for power. Order and stability will be trumpeted as the reason for more state control, but the real reason will be our corrupt tendency to play God in the lives of other people. It's evil at its core.

I take comfort in God's power to destroy our Tower of Babels. The ultimate Tower of Babel is yet to come (By the way, He will utterly destroy this one too). The Anti-Christ, empowered by the Devil, will sweep into power and bring peace and stability to a fearful world wracked by violence, economic upheaval, and political ineptitude. They will accept anything and anyone that will bring them immediate relief. Shades of Pre-WW II Germany and Italy come to mind. Hitler and Mussolini swept into power during a time of chaos. The people cried for relief. They got temporary relief at the expense of their freedoms. The present day world is being set up for this.

The circus of world history will end some day. I'm tired of all the clown acts and menageries. The Kingdom of God will put an end to all of our idiotic attempts to bring about justice, freedom, and happiness. Until then we must be vigilant.

Should true Christians or morally upright people not run for office and make a difference? Of course not. We need good people in this very important gate of influence. We have been asleep for too long in this area. God bless all of you who are called to sacrifice your time and energy to swim the shark infested waters of this profession. It is a high calling. I repeat. It is a high calling!

Forgive me, however, for being cynical and condescending toward our ill-fated attempts to govern our society, but how can you not be? Yet, I remain hopeful. I see good people running for office and I hear the distant roar of Aslan. He is coming soon. Stay tuned, stay sober, stay prayerful, and stay involved in our communities for the sake of our King and Lord. Carpe Diem!

Horrible Entertainment

2010-05-24T02:36:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I'm finding less and less quality shows on TV these days. Take for instance this Sunday evening. I scanned the prime time hour and found a ghost hunting show, a guy jumping into the Amazon river infested with piranhas, a movie about coeds seducing professors as an initiation rite into their witch coven (yes, on regular TV. I quickly changed the channel), reality cop shows, a show about messed up models trying to make it into their highly competitive field, and other shallow, shocking, or sickening forms of entertainment.

I eventually picked up a book and read because the tube had nothing deep and meaningful to watch. I usually read and write, but this evening I wanted to kick back and take in a good movie. Sadly, there was nothing on tonight and come to think of it, the other nights too.

Just to give you an example of the idiocy out there, let me talk about this ghost hunting show-it's the only one I camped out on. These three guys go to the most haunted places in America and around the world to film, record, and talk with malevolent spirits. They get locked into these places overnight and hang out with whatever is in the house or building.

They start off by saying, "If you are here, please bang on the wall or make your presence known." They then hear a knock, a voice, or some feint steps in a hallway. They even taunt these things and receive scratches, punches, possessions, and other weird paranormal occurrences. I believe the majority of spirits they try to communicate with are demons, who could care less about being civil with them. These ghost hunters encourage the spirits to stop harassing or spooking visitors--like this is going to persuade a demon not to act like a demon. I find the whole show sophomoric and just plain stupid.

They have no idea who or what they are dealing with. Curses, demonization, and even death await them if they continue to make entertainment out of the spirit world. You cannot play with fire and not get burned. I give this show one to two more years before they burn out, get thrown into a mental asylum, or die. I'm serious. These guys are just plain foolish. After ten minutes, I couldn't take it anymore and instead grabbed a book.

On this night, I clicked through violence, drugs, sex, voodoo, stupidity, immature youth posing as stars, other reality garbage, bad preaching, brides throwing tantrums, people losing weight, chefs cooking cauliflower, and other inane and uninteresting TV programs. It was bad. I clicked. I briefly saw. I closed down the TV for the night, maybe forever.

Why did I even try? Maybe I wanted to find something of value. Alas, less and less is to be had. I will stick to a good book and a hot cup of coffee from now on. At least Tolstoy or Dickens will not let me down. I may not get the instant scintillating rush from a fast paced novel or movie, but a good book will change your life for the better, not a bad investment if you ask me.

Why Nudity?

2010-05-06T13:00:00.000-07:00

The latest Reebok add has a a totally nude model advertising jogging shoes. Did you ever run in the nude or watch a beautiful model run in the nude? What does this have to do with jogging? Movies also resort to gratuitous sex or strong sexual innuendo to draw movie goers. The whole PG-13 thing was R-rated a few years ago and is just another ploy to draw a segment of the population who regularly shunned R rated movies. I personally think it's manipulative and not creative. It's the marketing department or scene department (even screenplay) going on auto-pilot. In other words, "Let's throw a couple of sex or violent scenes in the movie because I am tired of thinking of other creative ways to enhance it."

I have this question: Does sex really sell or does it actually desensitize? The American public is inundated with sexual images. It's destroying us. Movies and advertisements are getting cruder and cruder to keep ahead of the desensitization factor. It's down right gross if you ask me. I do not go to movies with sexually explicit scenes or nudity; the advertisements around me are already bad enough. I feel nauseated by all the imagery. It troubles my spirit to no end.

The good thing that is happening, however, is this: Parents and society are mounting a growing campaign against all the smut. Non-Christian and Christian alike are looking for more wholesome things for their children and family. What made money before is slowly losing out to more wholesome entertainment. It's hitting them in the pocket book. Money, or the lack of it, speaks loudly to these greedy Hollywood producers and immoral marketing departments. Yes, you have the incredibly sick horror flicks and twisted comedy shows still being pumped out, but they, in the end, are working against themselves. People will eventually say enough! It's like eating cotton candy at a carnival--- it gets sickeningly sweet after awhile. The evil in advertisement and movies are slowly sickening people like non-nutritious cotton candy. It's time to spit it all out!!!

So whenever you see a big busted women selling termite treatment, or a voluptuous model promoting jogging shoes in the nude, just remember their days of manipulative advertising are numbered. That's my prayer and hope. "Lord, clean out our land for the sake of our keiki (children).

Hope Springs Eternal

2010-04-09T23:11:00.000-07:00

So what is the solution to yesterday's depressingly true article? Hope. Yes, hope is the answer. I would like to explain the topic of hope from two different perspectives. One is temporal and the other is eternal. Let's talk about the temporal first.

Temporal hope finds expression in this life. What does it look like? How would you describe it? Temporal hope is waking up in the morning and saying, "It's a new day and I can start afresh." Temporal hope is knowing the sun will come out tomorrow with the birds singing and flitting about as usual. Temporal hope is hitting rock bottom and knowing you can only go up from there. Temporal hope is the realization that you are still alive and can still smell the Kona coffee brewing on a beautiful sunny morning. Temporal hope is very basic and still powerful in its ability to change our attitude for the better.

Temporal hope has great legitimacy. It brings us back to simple truths. Buddhism's focus on finding joy in the sound of rustling leaves or chirping crickets is right on. I'd rather listen to a joyful Buddhist talk about nature than a stressed out, super charged Christian minister talk about the joy of knowing Jesus. Don't get me wrong. I love the Christian faith, but this slick commercialism we see masquerading as the religion of a simple carpenter from Nazareth is nauseating and pure torture to watch and listen to. Do you understand what I am saying?

True Christianity is simple at its core. Read out loud and listen to the raw beauty of this song written by Francis of Assisi:

All creatures of our God and King
Lift up your voice and with us sing
Alleluia! Alleluia! Thou burning sun with golden beam
Thou silver moon with softer gleam
O praise Him O praise Him
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

This preacher of the Gospel found joy and hope in the simple temporal things of this life, but then he connected it to the eternal. He connected it to someone transcendent; someone beyond this world. He connected it to God. It was the only way he could make hope last beyond his present euphoria. He knew his present life would end, but life with God would be forever. The sun and the moon became a gift to be cherished, to be valued, to be grateful for, to be savored only as an appetizer before the main dish of heaven. Understanding God as the giver of good gifts--especially his life--naturally produced hope and thankfulness; hence, this hymn of praise to God.

Temporal hope is just that, temporal. It's temporary. It can be taken way. Hope founded on God, however, cannot be taken away.

At the core level of any Christian believer's heart is the assurance of eternal life. If you knew you would live on forever in a heavenly paradise after you physically die, what would be your overall attitude? It would be hopeful. It would be based in eternity. It would be based on an eternal hope no one could take away. Eternal means time not bound by limitations. Discouragement, hopelessness, despair, and depression come when limitations stop you from experiencing happiness, peace, love, and joy. Physical death is that limitation. Be honest with yourself. Death does scare you. It depresses you. It depresses those teenagers that smashed the I-Pad.

Jesus said this in John chapter five verse twenty four, "I tell you the truth. Whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life. He will not be condemned. He has crossed over from death to life." So what is the answer to the violent mediocrity and hopelessness found in modern society: Thankfulness for all things (especially the simple) and belief in an eternal, transcendent God not bound by our limitations, but who promises eternal life to all who believe in Him.

A Culture of Violent Mediocrity

2010-04-05T11:41:00.000-07:00

"It was just something to do", said one of the teenagers outside a Best Buy in Pittsburgh, PA. They just bought the new I-Pad and immediately posted a video of themselves smashing their purchase on U-Tube. It was not a protest against Apple--actually, they love Apple computers. Why did they do it? They wanted to be first. They wanted to be the first to chart the wide open frontier of smashing the first I-Pad on U-Tube.

Who are they? They are a group of directionless youth trying to get famous for doing nothing. Who knows what could come of this? They may get a chance to go on some talk show and share about their 'nothing' act. Actually, a lot of people who go on these shows really talk about 'nothing'.

In the past, academic achievement, sporting prowess, generous giving, kind service, and other forms of commendable conduct found place in the halls of honor. Our youth pursued these things. They worked hard and made worthwhile contributions to our society. Today, they smash I-Pads. In a way, I cannot completely fault the 'I-Pad Pounders' for their conduct because they have an audience that desires to view these things. This audience craves sensationalism. They crave entertainment of the worst kind. I wasn't surprised that they received close to 200,000 hits on their U-Tube site. Sadly, as long as they have viewers, they will continually give expression to their vicious visuals.

With the onset of the internet and companies like U-Tube, anyone can express themselves. Some of it is good, but a lot is just trash.

This culture of violent mediocrity, how did it come about? We see everything from smashing I-pads, defacing public property, school fights, sexual acts, and other shocking, perverse video streaming into our homes via the internet. It's epidemic; people trying to gain notoriety through violent, senseless acts.

Why is this happening? I have three reasons: no hope, no discipline, and no morality.

When you turn on the news you hear about global warming, terrorist attacks, unemployment, the federal deficit, dwindling natural resources, and sport/political icons cheating on their spouses. The culture paints a picture of hopelessness (the 'ratings hungry' networks don't help either with their focus on shock value news). It can create an attitude of "Why even try?" Cynicism abounds. Hopelessness reigns.

Work is also a foreign word. A culture of affluence breeds laziness. It weakens and destroys discipline. In the waning days of the Roman empire, no one wanted to farm. Everyone moved to the city and expected the slaves to do everything. They spent their time watching gladiator and circus spectacles, drinking wine, and eating olives. History repeats itself today. America's predicament strikes a haunting resemblance to Ancient Rome. We have farmed off our industrial might to China, India, Southeast Asia, and South America. We no longer make the bulk of our own tools, clothes, toys, chemicals, building materials, computers, and other manufactured goods. We now spend our time watching football, baseball, reality TV, and other entertaining distractions. We live for pleasure. Hedonism reigns. The youth have followed our lead. They now spend hard earned money on I-Pads, only to smash them on U-Tube. Could this be a protest against modernism and technology? I don't think so. They just did it for the shock value.

Please understand, I grew up in the super hedonistic eighties. I did my own share of stupid, 'nothing' acts. My father's generation, however, worked their tail off for everything they got. They wouldn't even think of destroying anything of value just for the fun of it. The 1929 Depression shaped their world view and work ethic. They were happy to find scarce jobs and toil for their pay. Today, most of our service positions are done by immigrants, thankful for the opportunity to work. Maybe these new, first generation peoples will cause a resurgence of the old-time American work ethic. I pray they do. I pray we wake up.

A society built on relativism will eventually collapse. A unified understanding of right and wrong must galvanize the core of any civilization in order for it to last. If not, chaos will eventually reign. Peace always fosters the ability to live and thrive. Good morals produces peace. It's a fact. Recently, there has been story after sordid story of people stealing money from the elderly. They gained their trust and then rip off their whole life savings. I'm also alarmed with all the recent abductions, rapes, and killings of innocent children and teenagers. Tell me if the lucrative sex industry doesn't have an influence on these pedophiles. Pax Americana has been replaced by Violenta Americana.

Morality is not based on concrete laws anymore, but situational ethics. "I determine what's wrong and right. I am the law and the judge." We've all become little gods scurrying around, conflicting with each other's moral systems. Why are we now surprised when we hear of Enron scandals, financial scams with the elderly, gruesome murders, the molestation of children, and all the other amoral sewage strewn on the glittering pavements of our modern cities and lives? We ultimately made the societal bed we sleep in every night. We created the chaos.

Our youth are being swept into this river of immorality and fouling the waters with their own refuse. Smashing an I-Pad is tame in comparison to the other sordid things being done in the name of entertainment. However, it is troubling to see our young men smashing a piece of amazing technology when they could be designing the same; when they could be designing something even better. What is the solution? In my next article I will talk about this. Let's continue to pray for our nation and youth.

Why is Jesus Unique?

2010-04-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

Alexander the Great, Martin Luther King, John F. Kennedy, Gautama Buddha, Napoleon, and Mahatma Ghandi all died fairly young compared to today's life expectancies. All impacted their generation and beyond within their short life span. They were world changers for better or for worse. However, none of them can touch Jesus when it comes to the breadth and depth of his impact on history and civilization. How could three years of work (the time Jesus ministered) have such a profound effect on art, literature, politics, nations, empires, and billions of peoples lives throughout two thousand years of tumultuous history? How could a former carpenter, without priestly education, political connections, and money, accomplish so much in such a short span of time?

It's simply staggering to comprehend the sheer magnitude of influence this lone man had on the world. Take for instance his influence here in Hawaii. Israel lies half way around the world from us, yet his religion impacted our shores almost one hundred ninety years ago and is still spreading its fragrance. Christianity truly went global after his death and surpasses all the major religions in its ability to cross cultural boundaries. Most other religions are still ethnocentric, with a few converts from other nationalities, the majority being birth converts within their own families (Islam). The same cannot be said about Christianity.

His influence on society alone cannot prove his deity, but it does make him unique and worth studying. Ernest Renan stated, "Jesus was the greatest religious genius that ever lived. His beauty is eternal, and his reign shall never end. Jesus is in every respect unique, and nothing can be compared."

Jesus proclaimed, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." He can make this bold and unique statement about his deity and power because he backed it up with his life. People ignore this man at their own expense, but I know you won't make this mistake.

We All Practice Faith.

2009-09-09T11:12:00.000-07:00

"Does God exist?" The question puts us in a very difficult situation because the concept or person of God naturally points to an omniscient, omnipotent, and omnipresent being. To say he doesn't exist makes us out to be God. How does it do that? Are we omniscient, omnipotent, and omnipresent enough to pass such a definitive judgment on a being like God? The answer is a resounding no. We could give a 'maybe' type of answer, but to give a slam shut, "God does not exist", would be irrational and irresponsible. It's like saying, "There are no black striped rocks with white spots in the whole world." We need to possess all-knowledge to make this statement. We don't have it. We are not God.

The same could be true for the existence of God. Yes, we have many ample proofs, but a definitive 'air tight' series of proofs does not exist. The inconclusive ravines for a theist and an Athiest must be crossed by faith. Yes, crossed by faith. Whether you're Agnostic, Atheist, Hindu, Muslim, Christian, or any other follower of a religion or philosophy, you're a faith practitioner.

Let's get off our high horses and agree on this one point: it takes faith to believe in what we believe in. I know I made the mistake of redundancy, but I made it for a purpose. It takes faith to believe the world was created by a big bang. It takes faith to believe life randomly happened through the combination of non-living material. It takes faith to believe God created the world and all living material out of nothing. It takes faith to believe all the constants in the universe came about through chance. It takes faith to believe all religions lead to God. It takes faith to believe we evolved from apes. It takes faith to sit on the fence and not take a position. It takes faith to believe in Francis Crick's theory (noble prize winner) that life on earth began through aliens. He actually reminds me of an alien when I think about it. Ha!

Why does it take faith? We didn't see it happen. All of it is theory or theology. We can make our best assumptions and decisions from the evidence available, but that's all. The rest is by faith.

The arrogant person proclaims, "I have undeniable proof for my religious or philosophical views that precludes any steps of faith". This person can be described in one word: delusional. As I stated earlier, everyone practices faith.

Please understand that real faith requires knowledge and evidence. Real faith is not blind. Atheists base their life on evidences and experiences that prove the non-existence of God, gods, or anything supernatural. Hindus, Christians, and Muslims use their evidence to substantiate the reality of a metaphysical world. Agnostics take a fence sitting position with their information or lack thereof. The New Ager believes their experiences point to many roads. Who is correct?

The law of non-contradiction compels us to believe that all cannot be correct, all cannot be true. A and non-A cannot be the same thing at the same time. Allah and the Christian God are very different. Krishna and Jesus are poles apart. Eternal life means very different things to a Buddhist and a Christian. Oil and water characterize the relationship between theists and atheists. Differences abound.

Which then leads us to the last question: which is the best step of faith? In the up and coming articles, I will try to prove the theist position, but more specifically, the Christian path, as the choicest platform to leap from. You may agree with me or you may not. I welcome all comments.