All posts by Kameel Majdali

Evangelical Christians & Donald Trump: Part 4

This is the fourth part of a series regarding American evangelicals and Donald Trump. This is the voting bloc that made possible his unlikely 2016 election win for the American presidency. While most evangelicals support him, there is a vocal minority who do not – the magazine Christianity Today is one of them.
 Are they being principled and Biblical? Or are they judgemental and drifting to the left?
 In addition, it is important to understand the bigger picture, which transcends Donald Trump. 
The Culture War
 Removing prayer from school. Abortion on demand. Redefining marriage and gender. Legalising cannabis. A ‘make-it-up-as-you-go’ morality. Enlarging the size of government and watching the deficit grow as a result. All this, and more, is part of the great cultural civil war of the western world that has been waged since the 1960s. In short, this war is where the left-leaning secular progressives-cultural marxists invaded the power bases of traditional values, Judea-Christian heritage in order to install their leftist utopia. What is at stake is the survival of western civilisation as we know it, with its freedoms, human rights, technological achievements, democracy, rule-of-law, and the rest.
The left, thanks in part to their incursion into the public school systems since the 1930s, has dominated academia, the media, key political parties, judiciary, and other organs of culture. They have successfully resisted the conservative counterattack — until now.
Donald Trump is now launching a potent assault on progressivism, political correctness, identity politics, open borders, unfair trade practices, and more. Amazingly, like Samson of old (flawed but strong), he is fighting this battle on all his own. Victor Davis Hanson, in his article Trump wages war on progressive culture – Dems respond with Trump Derangement Syndrome Hanson, says:
President Trump is waging a nonstop, all-encompassing war against progressive culture, in magnitude analogous to what 19th-century Germans once called a “Kulturkampf.
In short, Donald Trump has become American’s first war-time President in the culture war. His weapons? A microphone and twitter feed. He has taken on the elite postmodern progressive culture by attacking Planned Parenthood, NATO, radical greenies, Antifa, US universities, Democratic and Republican opponents, Silicon Valley monopolies, World Health Organisation, radical Democrats & their ‘Green New Deal,’ Hollywood, and his favourite target: The media, especially CNN, the Washington Post, and The New York Times.
If we lived in normal times, or civilisation was not at stake, Trump would probably not have run for President. But these are not normal times and when you’re in the midst of a serious civilisational conflict, you need a leader who is a strong fighter. In this light, his temperament can be an asset. This New York business man confronted corrupt politicians, mafia, and ruthless competitors; thus he can take this fight to the next level.
History’s great warriors may not have been saintly, savoury, refined, or ‘nice,’ and they often had outsized flaws (examples: Ulysses S. Grant and General George Patten), but the one thing they all have in common: they fought a good fight and won their wars. Failure to do so would have destroyed civilisation. This is something serious and sincere ‘Never-Trumpers’ need to budget into the equation.
In the end, whether you are a never-Trumper, ever-Trumper, or somewhere in-between, remember to honour the Creator by obeying His word in I Timothy 2:1-2: I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
When you obey God’s Word, you can’t go wrong.
https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/victor-davis-hanson-trumps-culture-war.print

No Other Name: The Third Commandment Part 03

How to Invoke God’s Name
Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain Exodus 20:7
Since penalties are severe for using God’s Name in vain, how are you to respond? As mentioned above, some might avoid using God’s Name at all, just incase they accidentally misuse it. There are Jewish people who write, ‘G-d,’ which is unpronounceable, just to make sure His name is not use in vain.
But is that the correct stance? No. You are encouraged to use God’s Name in a righteous manner. How can you call on the name of the Lord for salvation if your cannot say His name at all?
After the birth of Seth’s son Enos, then began me to call upon the name of the LORD Genesis 4:26
Repeatedly Abraham, the friend of God, called on the name of the LORD – Genesis 12:8; 13:4; 21:33. Isaac did the same (26:25).
Solomon built a house for the Name of the LORD God of Israel – I Kings8:20.
When the Lord pours out mercy and favour on Zion, then the heathen (nations/Gentiles) will fear the name of the LORD and all the kings of the earth His glory – Psalm 102:13-15
We are commanded to praise the Name of the LORD — Psalm 135:1
A favoured passage is Proverbs 18:10 – The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.
Here could be one of the most important verses of all: And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved Acts 2:21; Romans 10:13
In addition to salvation, there is also healing in the Name of the Lord. Of course, Christ’s ministry was replete with healings but He is the Son of God. How about mere believers? Do they have access to healing power? Yes … in the Name of the Lord. Peter made this point forcefully after the lame man was healed in the Lord’s Name at the Gate Beautiful. He says in Acts 3:16: And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all (emphasis mine).
In summary, for some well-meaning people, the non-use of God’s Name is the only way to prevent the misuse. As you can see, the best remedy is not the non-use, but right use, of God’s Name. It is the key to His manifold blessings.
Everything you do should be in the Name and for the glory of Jesus. Your prayers should be done ‘in His Name.’ And when it comes to praise and worship, the right use of God’s Name will quickly usher you into the throne of grace, where you may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need (Hebrews 4:16).
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him – Colossians 3:17

The ‘Country Prophet:’ Why Study the Book of Micah PART 02

Summary of Micah
This Book of Micah is divided into three parts:
Part 01 – Chapters 1-3: This section is about the indictment and punishment of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah for idolatry, injustice, immorality, which brought corruption, oppression, bribery, and putrid pride. Both kingdoms would be judged for their sins. Kings, priests, and false prophets were especially culpable for this rampage of sin.
Part 02 – Chapters 4-5: From crime and punishment, Hosea speaks about the glories of the coming Messianic kingdom. His words in 4:1-5 mirror Isaiah 2:2-4. In the latter days people worldwide will come to the mountain of the House of the Lord, where God personally will teach people of His ways and they will walk in His paths. This is referring to the Kingdom of Christ and the Lord Himself will do the teaching. Peace and prosperity will be the hallmarks of His reign.
Part 03 – Chapter 6-7: This final part is about justice and mercy. It comes across as a courtroom trial, where God the plaintiff builds the case against the sins of His people. Israel confesses its sin and God promises to abundantly pardon.
Distinct Features of Micah
Micah’s prophecy a century before Jeremiah helped deliver the latter from certain execution, when prophesying the conquest of Jerusalem under the Babylonians. Jeremiah 26:18: Micah the Morasthite prophesied in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah, and spake to all the people of Judah, saying, Thus saith the Lord of hosts; Zion shall be plowed like a field, and Jerusalem shall become heaps, and the mountain of the house as the high places of a forest (quoting Micah 3:12). This prophecy got the besieged Jeremiah off the hook.
Other quotes from Micah include:
    The wise men who visited Herod en route to meeting the Christ child (Matthew 2:5-6, cf Micah 5:2).
    Jesus when He sent out the 12 (Matthew 10:35-36; cf Micah 7:6);
    Isaiah 2:2-4; 41:15; Ezekiel 22:27; and Zephaniah 3:19 are other quotes.
Fulfilled Prophecies of Micah include:
    1:6-7: Fall of Samaria and the Northern Kingdom (722 BC);
    1:9-16: Invasion of Judah by Sennarcherib in the days of Hezekiah (701 BC);
    3:12; 7:13: Fall of Jerusalem (586 BC);
    4:10: Judah’s exile to Babylon (586 BC);
    4:1-8, 13; 7:11, 14-17: Return from Babylonian captivity;
    5:2: Birth of Jesus from Bethlehem
Outline of Micah
Part One: God’s Judgement Against Israel & Judah(1:1-3:12)
1:1                   Introduction
1:2-7                Downfall of the Northern Kingdom Predicted
1:8-16              Downfall of the Southern Kingdom of Judah Predicted
2:1-11              Judgement for Sin like pride & greed (2:1-5) and false prophets (2:6-11)
2:12-13            Deliverance hinted
3:1-12              Sins named: Injustice & oppression (3:1-4); False prophets (3:5-7); Micah                                         empower prophet (3:8); leadership’s sins (3:9-12);
Part Two: The Hope of the Coming Kingdom (4:1-5:15)
4:1-8:               Description of the coming global righteous Messianic kingdom;
4:9-13              Israel’s Enemies Defeated;
5:1-5                The Coming King is Coming from Bethlehem;  
5:6-15              What the Coming Kingdom Will Be Like;
Part Three: God’s Justice and Mercy (6:1-7:20)
6:1-8                God’s Indicts His People;
6:9-16              Israel declared guilty and sentenced;
7:1-6                Cry of the prophet;
7:7                   Hope among the tears;
7:8-13              Israel’s Comeback;
7:14-20            God’s Grand Benediction on Israel.
           

Abortion Part 04: What Would You Tell Your Niece?

The Bible and the Foetus 

In the series about Issues Facing the Church, I have elaborated a blog sent to my progressivist American niece, who asked for my position on abortion. For a Christian the Bible should be the first place to look for answers to life’s questions. If the Bible is the Word of God – and it is – and if we will be held accountable for what it says – and we will – then these passages regarding life need to be taken at face value
Is the Bible really silent on the personhood of the foetus or on when the spirit enters the unborn, as one famous politician claimed?
My position: as a born-again Christian and ordained minister, I take an predictably pro-life position. I have no other choice: my understanding of Scripture compels me.
  Jeremiah 1:5 – God spoke to the prophet Jeremiah: Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you.’
  Psalm 139:13-16: There are some incredible statements in this passage. Apparently, the detailed mapping of our very being (perhaps right down to the molecular level) was written in God’s book, even before we were conceived. 
  Ephesians 2:10: God knew us from before the foundation of the world (eternity past) and ordained us for good works.
  Matthew 10:30: The hairs of our head are numbered.
  Matthew 19:14: Jesus commanded that the little children be brought to Him and no one was to forbid them. They are what constitute the kingdom of heaven.
  Genesis 1:27: This affirms that humankind is made in the image of God.
  Genesis 9:6 says simply: Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man his blood shall be shed; for in the image of God He made man. Ponder that verse.
   
  Luke 17:2: It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. If you ever saw a millstone, you’ll find that it is exceedingly heavy. Tied around your neck means you would hit the sea bottom in record time. Jesus says the millstone in the sea is a better outcome than offending the ‘little ones.’ What could be more offensive than denying them the right to life?
Could it be any clearer?
With such meticulous care, there is no question that in God’s mind the foetus is a person, even before they are in the womb. Therefore, deliberately terminating that pregnancy is destroying a life.
Don Feder says abortion is part of a larger culture of death. When it was legalised in 1973, prophetic voices warned that euthanasia would be next. People scoffed at them and said it would never happen – yet, it is happening before our eyes. The most vulnerable people – the very young and very old – are being targeted for destruction, often for economic or expedient reasons.
Simple, true justice means we should do our best to defend those who cannot defend themselves.
Is the United States a better country because of Roe versus Wade? Are the Australian states that legalised abortion better places to live in?
Does 50 million plus abortions in the United States since 1973 improve our quality of life, instil compassion for the needy, or improve our ability to care?
What does it say about our humanity and our future? After all, children are the future.
Does it help strengthen the family?
If a child cannot be safe in its mother’s womb, is there any safe place on this planet for any of us?
United
There are people who were pro-abortion, were directly involved in the industry, then had a change of heart and repented. They have become passionate defenders of the unborn.
Dear niece, thank you for allowing me to answer your question on abortion.
I conclude with a simple challenge given by God to all of us. It is found in Deuteronomy 30:19:
I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live;

Beyond Covid-19: Is There A Word from the Lord?

It has become the most dramatic and defining situation in our lifetime. More radical, even, than a war or the Global Financial Crisis (GFC). That event is the Covid-19 Coronavirus Pandemic of 2020. While we can and should expect some return to normalcy, there is also the strong possibility that in some aspects the world that we once knew, even as late as December 2019, is gone for good.
If one is a world-watcher, the fact that we have international crisis and change should not be surprising. It is a predictable part of the landscape. Yet, how do we navigate through these change-filled, crisis-riddled, and sometimes chaotic times? Especially when the experts, like the rest of us, have never been in this situation before?
The answer, which is a question, is disarmingly simple: Is there a word from the Lord?
The second question: What is that Word?
First, let us examine God’s attitude of communicating with people on earth, which, says Genesis 1:27, are made in His image.
God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds  Hebrews 1:1-2
What do these two verses tell us?
1.        God regularly spoke, at various times and different manners, in the past to the ancients via the prophets.
2.        Now, in these last days, He speaks through His Son – Jesus Christ. Please note that Hebrews teaches that these days, the church age, are part of the last days.
3.        The Son is heir of all things;
4.        The Son, along with the Father and Spirit, made the worlds (Hebrews 11:3).
God continues to speak and He does so via the Son. The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy (Revelation 19:10). There is no lack of a ‘word from God’ – just as the airwaves are full of music and voices – but the question is: Are we listening? Have we extended our spiritual antennas to receive the divine message? Do we obey that which we have heard?
That’s why 7 times to 7 churches in Asia, the command is given: He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches (Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22).
Since God the Father is willing (Hebrews 6:17); the Son is willing (Matthew 8:3); and God the Spirit is willing (Matthew 26:41), the onus is on us to open our ears, extend our antennas, pick up the divine signals, and begin to hear what the Spirit is saying.
Is there a Word from the LORD? Short answer: Yes.
First Word from the LORD: Prophetic Times
And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. 5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. 8 All these are the beginning of sorrows Matthew 24:6-8
All of what we are seeing today is part of prophetic fulfilment. Biblical prophecy is a wonderful subject, that pays rich dividends to those who learn and apply its precepts. It is a light shining in a dark place, a ‘heads up’ to the future, provides insight of how to live, grants incentive for evangelism and holy living, brings establishment, prosperity, comfort, and encouragement. Prophecy bestows holistic blessing to those who read and heed its timeless counsel (Revelation 1:3).
Deception: When asked the question about what would be the sign of His coming and the end of the age, Jesus Christ first of all gave a practical command: Take heed that no one deceives you. We live in an age of increasing deception, where people are becoming more adept at sounding so convincing while lying through their teeth. Deception is as old as the Garden of Eden, but what make the last days distinct, is that it will be more prevalent, more persuasive, and undergirded by a spirit of strong delusion. The righteous will need to proactively immunise themselves in God’s truth, so that they will have the immunity to resist the spiritual of deception.
Sources of truth: Truth, namely God’s universal, unchanging, life-giving, life-liberating, devil-defeating truth, has three key sources. 1) Jesus Christ is the truth personified (John 14:6f). 2) The Holy Spirit is truth empowered (John 16:13). 3) The Scriptures are truth illuminated (John 17:17). When all three sources are operative in your life, then you are safely on truth’s territory and you will have the gift of discernment to sort out truth claims from the false.
In our next article, we will look more carefully at this theme and key word of ‘prophetic times.’

No Other Name: The Third Commandment Part 02

What Does It Mean to Use God’s Name in Vain?
Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain Exodus 20:7
 It is a most precious sound and defiling it brings great punishment. We are talking about God’s Name – YHWH / יְהֹוָה – Yeshua / ישׁוּעַ. This wonderful name is the key to life, salvation, and eternity itself. Yet to misuse and abuse it will, in time, bring great punishment.
In light of all this, we can now focus on the third commandment and how to avoid sinning against the most important Name in the universe. When it says ‘do not take the Name of the Lord your God in vain,’ the word ‘vain’ comes from the Hebrew word shav’ שָׁוְא, meaning: vain, false, empty, lying, worthless, useless (in conduct).[1]
Let’s look at three ways a person can be guilty in using God’s Name in vain.
Frivolity: This means to carelessly and superficially use God’s Name. One person described it as using God’s Name without thinking about, focusing, or worshipping Him. Perhaps, when people say, ‘O God’ while focusing on people, not the Almighty, that could also apply to this principle. However, it is God who ultimately judges by the heart and not necessarily from the outward actions.
Hypocrisy: To be a hypocrite is to put on an appearance on the outside that has no connection with the heart condition on the inside. It implies deception and pretence in trying to impress people or, as the Bible puts it, ‘to be seen of men.’ The hypocrites’ vain use of God’s Name stems from invoking Him, as if to impress, but living a life that contradicts such profession. For example, trying to convey a pious, ‘holier than thou’ appearance while lacking integrity or being riddled with worldly vices. Or, as Isaiah prophesied to a people whose lip-service and heart-attitude were at two different ends of the earth. Isaiah 29:13: Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:
Blasphemy: This means to grievously insult the Almighty. Yes, God can more than handle the insults but the impenitent blasphemer will not be able to handle the punishment that is coming in return.
Psalm 74:10: O God, how long shall the adversary reproach? shall the enemy blaspheme thy name for ever? (Answer: No!).
James 2:7: Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?
Revelation 13:6:And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.
Of course, the abuse and misuse of ‘Jesus’ Name,’ as if it were a swear-word, would fall into this category; even though, as often the case, the person does this in ignorance. By the way, be willing to confront someone on their profane talk – if you are in a position to do so.
Next time, we will seek how to rightly use God’s Name, for the benefit of all.
TO BE CONTINUED


[1] “H7723 – shav’ – Strong’s Hebrew Lexicon (KJV).” Blue Letter Bible. Accessed 2 Feb, 2020. https://www.blueletterbible.org//lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H7723&t=KJV

CORONAVIRUS: Should We Worry? What Can We Do?

It is a familiar and eerie sight. People walking around in public with white gas masks, like they did during the Spanish flu pandemic in 1919 or the SARS outbreak in 2003. Traffic jams are non-existent because the streets are deserted. Many places of business are closed. The scene looks apocalyptic!
Why the altered behaviour? Because out of Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, perhaps from a poultry or livestock vendor ‘wet market,’ came a fast-spreading virus called Coronavirus, officially known as Covid-19.
Several cities in China went into ‘lock-down’ to prevent spreading. Unfortunately, for various reasons, the virus in China spread rapidly around the world. Travel restrictions were slapped on stricken nations, ‘stay-at-home’ orders and ‘lock-downs’ have been placed around the world. The pandemic epicentre moved from China to Europe with Italy and Spain most affected. New York (city and state) has the most cases of any country – as of this writing, 188,694, with 9,385 deaths (5%). Indeed, 41% of all US fatalities come from the empire state at this time.
For perspective, here is a comparison with other pandemics:
NAME
DATE
GLOBAL CASES
GLOBAL DEATHS
Spanish Flu Pandemic
03/1918 to 08/1919
500 million
50 million (incl. 675,000 Americans)
SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome)
11/2002 to 07/2003
8,098
774
H1N1
01/2009 to 08/2020
24% of world population (60 million Americans)
284,000 globally; 12,469 Americans
Ebola
03/2014 to 03/2016
28,652
11,325
Covid-19
12/2019 to Easter 2020
1,897,373 (568,176 in USA)
118,304 (22,935 Americans)
Covid-19 in New York
Easter 2020
New York 188,694
9,385
Seasonal flu
Annual
9% of global population up to 1 billion
Annually between 300,000-650,000
Should We Worry?
… and there shall be famines, and pestilences,
and earthquakes, in divers places — Matthew 24:7
Yes, Jesus Christ predicted last days pestilences before His return to this planet. Yet, in the previous verse, He strongly adds ‘See that you are not troubled.’ While we should be aware, we should not be alarmed. Under no circumstances, are people of faith to be troubled or afraid or worried (John 14:27; Philippians 4:6-9). God really does take care of those who trust in Him.
It is of the utmost importance that people are not provoked into panic. Such a reaction is worse than the health threat itself. Faith-people should remain calm and encourage others to do likewise. The opposite emotion can be dangerous and destructive. Fear can be conquered by faith and the perfect love of God (I John 4:18).
So what should we do? Relax, calm down, and be level-headed.
Practical Steps to Prevention
For those who would like to take some practical steps from being afflicted by any virus, not just coronavirus, here are a few tips on sanitation and supplementation:
1.        Wipe everything down: This includes computer keyboards, phones, things that might be on the floor like purses, briefcases, other bags, door knobs, and even the table/tray used to eat meals on the airplane (when flights resume again). Wet wipes, hand-sanitisers, and disinfectants are your tools. Items brought into the house from outside like grocery bags or cardboard boxes need a wipe. The virus can live on surfaces for awhile.
2.        Wash hands regularly: Good trusty normal soap and warm-water is actually the best. Hands should be washed thoroughly, 20-30 seconds – not just a quick run of the tap. Wash after being outside, in public, before meals, and, of course, after visiting the washroom; remember to avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
3.        Social distancing: Stay 2 metres away from others who live outside your own home. This is crucial.
4.        Stay-at-Home: There is a distinction between stay-at-home and lock-downs; the former allows for limited journeys outside the home for exercise, doctor visits, grocery stores and essential services. The latter does not allow for anyone to leave their homes. In any case, cooperation with the authorities is essential.
5.        Supplementation: At the first sign of colds or flu, reach for echinacea. One medical doctor and health specialist said it could actually be the ‘cure for the common cold.’ Australian supplement company Cenovis has a great product called ‘Echinacea, Garlic, Zinc & C.’ Our family has used it for years with remarkable results. Remember, only take echinacea if you are coming down with the flu, not as a daily supplement. Don’t forget B-Vitamins, Vitamin C and D; higher doses can be very helpful at the outset of a cold or flu but should be taken regularly to build up one’s immunity.
6.        Food: When you are battling cold or flu, nothing seems to work like chicken soup, preferably home made. For more power, add some lemon juice (a Mediterranean version) and/or garlic. Of course, rice and/or noodles in the soup are always a treat.
7.        Get good sleep: That goes without saying; you can’t beat illness if your system is run down due to lack of sleep.
8.        Public coughing: Hold your breath or turn away if someone is coughing and sneezing your way. If you are the cougher, try to cough into a tissue (quickly disposed) or into your elbow; never cough without covering your mouth in some way. Face masks apparently are not that effective, unless it is to keep your germs from going to others;
9.        Hand sanitiser: Keep them handy on your person, your car, and/or your desk;
10.   Toilets (public and private): Remember that public toilets, door handles, taps (faucets), soap dispenser and, yes, even the hand dryers, are a breeding ground for bacteria, including viruses. Hand dryers can spread the germs around and, if possible, use paper towels instead, for drying your hand and to use on the door handle. What about at home (or someone else’s home)? Be sure to put down the toilet lid before flushing to keep germs from becoming airborne;
Spiritual Remedies
While the practical side is good to observe, the spiritual side is much more important. Faith can do what natural resources and human effort cannot. And faith comes by hearing and hearing comes from God’s Word (Romans 10:17). If you build up your ‘spiritual immune system,’ it will positively affect all aspects of your being, including
Here are some Scripture promises to meditate on and confess aloud.
Psalm 91:3, 6, 7:Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence. 6 Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday. 7 A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it shall not come near you.
Exodus 15:26ff: … I will put none of the diseases on you which I have brought on the Egyptians. For I am the LORD who heals you.”
Proverbs 18:10: The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
Mark 5:34: And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.
Out of conviction and experience, this author is convinced that putting the spiritual side first reaps benefits spiritually, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Put these principles into practice and watch the blessings flow.

The ‘Country Prophet:’ Why Study the Book of Micah

But thou, Beth-lehem Ephrathah, which art little to be among the thousands of Judah, out of thee shall one come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting. Micah 5:2
Introduction
Isaiah from Jerusalem was a ‘city and court prophet’ and had access to kings and authority. Forty kilometres to the west in Moresheth Gath, part of the Shephelah or lowlands (Samson’s territory), came his contemporary, Micah, the ‘country prophet.’ He understood the needs of the peasant and rural people. The prophet courageously decried immorality, injustice, and idolatry. He foretold the defeat of both the Northern Kingdom and Judah. His prophetic book gives us some powerful points about the coming King Messiah and the kingdom He will inherit.
Hebrew Name of Micah
The prophet’s name comes from Michayahu, meaning ‘Who is like God?Short answer: No one! The LORD God is the One and Only God; no one even comes close.
Author of Micah
Micah from rural Judah in the Shephelah, did not have the connections or graces of the Jerusalem prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah. Yet, he received a burden from the Lord against oppression, injustice, and tyranny and it catapulted him out of obscurity into the divine spotlight. Micah understood that what we lack in the natural, God can more than compensate in the spirit. It was he who said, ‘But truly I am full of power by the spirit of the Lord’ (Micah 3:8). When you have the Holy Spirit in control, He will give you the right words, authority, and the power to deliver them. Micah prophesied during the reigns of Judean kings Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. Micah’s prophecy helped influence Hezekiah’s religious reforms.
Portrait of Christ in Micah
Christ is the Ruler and Judge of Israel who comes from Bethlehem-Ephratah (5:2). Since Bethlehem is David’s city, and Messiah is the ‘Son of David,’ it is no mystery why the Almighty ordained that David’s Son would be born in David’s city. It took the census of a heathen Roman emperor to bring the holy couple from their normal residence in Nazareth, Galilee, to Bethlehem, Judea, in order for Christ’s birth to fulfil prophecy.
Theme of Micah
As a country prophet, Micah was uniquely placed to spotlight the oppression of the peasants, the poor, the widows, the fatherless, the hidden people and other vulnerable categories. He was a true and noble ‘social justice warrior.’ He exposed the sins of both kingdoms of Israel and Judah, predicting their demise (Chapter 01), denouncing corruption, covetousness, oppression, pride and evil. Balancing this emphasis on judgement comes his message of mercy, righteousness, and humility. The same Judah which is punished for sin will experience God’s restoration power
Key Verses of Micah
Micah 6:8: He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
Micah 7:7: Therefore I will look unto the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me.
Micah 7:18: Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy.
TO BE CONTINUED

Abortion: How Would You Answer Your Niece? Part 03

We are speaking about issues that people are talking about and need to be addressed by the Church. Here we continue our comments on abortion, a blog written in response to a question asked by this author’s millennial niece: What do you think about abortion, and you can say whatever you want?!
Today’s Scene: Apparently, many millennials are more pro-life than their baby-boomer parents. The annual rate of abortion in the United States has been declining in recent years (see table below). Why are abortions declining? The theories include increased availability of the morning-after pill, better education and understanding of contraceptives, and a declining birth rate. It can also be because of the pro-life movement, who provide education and support of expectant mothers.
An interesting fact is that abortion clinics are closing across the United States. In 2017, there were 780 abortion clinics nationally. As of 2019, that number reduced to 755. Why the reduction? Finances is important factor, since many seeking abortions can be lower income mothers. There are less pregnancies and people are choosing to terminate at home (again, the morning after pill). State regulations may inhibit some clinics and anti-abortion protestors outside the clinic may be another factor.
Being an abortion doctor can be hazardous to your health: a string of high-profile assassinations of abortionists have clearly encouraged some to close their doors. Of course, most pro-lifers condemn these assassinations; since the ‘right to life’ extends to abortion doctors, too.
Public opinion is slowly shifting toward the pro-life stance. Even Norma McCorvey, the ‘Jane Roe’ in Roe vs. Wade, apparently defected from the ‘pro-choice’ to ‘pro-life’ camp. The 2015 revelation from surreptitious videos that Planned Parenthood medical staff were selling aborted baby body parts (clearly an illegal act) keeps this divisive issue on the front page.
Year
Number of reported abortions to CDC
Abortions compared to 1000 live births
1970
193,491
52
1971
485,816
137
1972
586,760
180
1973
(Roe v. Wade 22 January)                    615,831
196
1978
1,157,776
347
1979
1,251,921
358
1980
1,297,606
359
1981
1,300,760
358
1990
1,429,247
345
1991
1,388,937
339
1997
1,186,039
274
1998
884,273
264
1999
861,789
256
2013
664,435
200
2014
652,639
193
2015
638,169
188
2016
623,471
186
Abortion Statistics in the United States of America (Select Years)Statistics courtesy of Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abortion_statistics_in_the_United_States
Abortion Rates in Australia
Year
Estimated number of abortions
1985
46,500
1990
80,113
1995
90,182
2000
74,888
2005
70,153
2010
66,200
2015
54,700
http://www.johnstonsarchive.net/policy/abortion/ab-australia.html
The United Kingdom has had legal abortions since 1969. Since then the rates of abortion have increased 275%. The highest rate for one year was 205,598 in 2007 (England & Wales; Scotland’s highest was 13,908 in 2008). Until recently abortion was illegal in Northern Ireland. Altogether, there have been 9,120,000 abortions in the UK during the 50 years period from 1968-2018.
YEAR
ESTIMATED NUMBER OF ABORTIONS IN THE UK
1970
91,819
1975
147,029
1980
168,808
1985
181,062
1990
197,131
1995
174,781
2000
197,372
2005
207,018
2010
209,057
2015
203,148


Statistics courtesy of:
https://www.abort73.com/abortion_facts/uk_abortion_statistics/

To be continued

PART 03: Evangelical Christians and Donald Trump

This is the third part of a series regarding American Evangelicals and Donald Trump. This is the voting bloc that made possible his unlikely 2016 election win for the American presidency. While most evangelicals support him, there is a vocal minority who do not – the magazine Christianity Today is one of them.
Are they being principled and Biblical or are they judgemental and drifting to the left?
In addition, it is important to understand the bigger picture, which transcends Donald Trump.
Trump’s Spiritual Journey
Donald Trump has been on a fascinating journey: from billionaire businessman, to reality TV show host, to President of the United States. Yes, there has been personal scandal in his previous life like adultery, but that is not the entire story. After all, Jesus forgave the woman caught in adultery (John 8) and the woman at the well with 5 husbands and living in a de facto relationship (John 4).
At some point in his life, he reached out to evangelical Christians. As a life-long New Yorker, where leftism and progressivism is part of one’s ‘mother’s milk,’ Trump turned unambiguous to the right. During the 2016 presidential campaign, he made significant promises to the evangelical community and by all accounts, he is keeping them. He has surrounded himself with born-again believers, including the Vice-President, cabinet, personal pastors and advisors. The White House is full of prayer meetings and Bible studies. Mr. Trump in less than 3 years has appointed nearly 25% of all federal judges, and two Supreme Court justices, and they are all conservative. The economy has boomed under his watch – coronavirus not withstanding – and he advocates for the persecuted church at home and abroad, defends the unborn and has been very supportive of Israel. This is only a partial list.
American voters, Christian and non-Christian knew about Trump’s past life but appreciated his policies and promises. They noted that his 5 children, though from broken homes, are very devoted to him. He is on a personal spiritual journey. Whether he is yet ‘born again’ or not, or sought forgiveness or not, only God knows, but it appears that his moral failure was in the past; unlike some Presidents in the last 80 years who committed adultery in the White House. To dredge up Trump’s past now, and make it a reason and excuse for his removal from office is most inappropriate. Such evangelical opposition is puzzling when you see the report card: Mr. Trump is arguably the most pro-faith, pro-family, pro-life, and pro-Israel President America’s seen in a long-time.
The Pew Forum did a survey a thorough survey of Trump’s relationship with Christians, including evangelicals. You can click on the link below for the entire report. However, in summary, they said this:
It finds that white evangelicals largely see Trump as fighting for their beliefs and advancing their interests, and they feel their side generally has been winning recently on political matters important to them. But when it comes to Trumps personal qualities and conduct, many express mixed feelings. Even among this strongly supportive constituency, most do not view Trump as a veryreligious, honest or morally upstanding person (though many white evangelicals say he is somewhat religious, fairly honest or fairly morally upstanding).