Political Thoughts.

Below is part of an email I sent to a friend regarding politics. I wrote it all out and once I reread it thought I may as well repost it here.

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As far as third party stuff goes - I think that, if God is merciful to our country and it continues to be a blessed, capitalistic republic (not a given with this upcoming election) that we will see the rise of a third party. Especially as our generation matures to the political age of 35. Neither party is representing a majority of Americans. Eventually, I pray, that people will open their eyes and take a stand. As the dear old saint in wal-mart told me yesterday, "people just have to get off their ass and get going." (I love her!!)

I am voting for McCain. I'll admit that, along with a large number of Americans, I was distraught with the choice until Palin's nomination. I don't think she is the be all and end all - but it does give me hope.

The American church needs to wake up. The acute stupor brought on by drinking the enemy's poison has silenced us. I try not to give in to fear, but as I wonder what it will take to wake this comatose giant, I look at what could possibly be on the horizon (and I shudder!) and wonder if that's not what it will take.

Oh God, have mercy on our Country.

My firm belief is in smaller government as well. Understanding that has actually helped in talking to people about politics. I don't necessarily know the details of every political position or issue but it can usually be boiled down to "does this limit or increase government?" If it increases it, I'm opposed to it. If it limits it, I'm all for it. Seems that I need to research the libertarian views more. As I said earlier, I believe that a third party is coming. What I'm not sure of is whether the change will come up within the currently defined parties (and change has taken place numerous times over the decades) or whether, like the Whiggs party, one or both will be voted out and a new party will come forward.

We are not to walk in fear. The early church was facing times of turmoil even greater than this. And those days are possibly ahead of us again. (Oh God, mercy we pray!) But no matter what happens, we have a secure fortress, a very present Help in times of trouble.

As Benjamin Franklin once said :
All of us who were engaged in the struggle must have observed frequent instances of superintending providence in our favor. To that kind providence we owe this happy opportunity of consulting in peace on the means of establishing our future national felicity. And have we now forgotten that powerful friend? Or do we imagine that we no longer need his assistance? I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth-that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the Ground without his Notice, is it probable that an Empire can rise without his Aid?" -Benjamin Franklin, To Colleagues at the Constitutional Convention

Speak and stand boldly where He has you. Mayn't it be for "such a time as this?"