Real Hope in a Decaying Nation

As I write this, Congress has elevated the debt ceiling to over 16 Trillion dollars. That`s "T" for Trillion. I cannot even imagine that number let alone explain it to my children.

Article Six in our Nation`s Education System allows foreigners to give money to colleges and school districts to propogate their doctrines (and yes, I mean that in the religious sense) to unsuspecting children and their parents.

In a recent days, politicians are more inclined to discuss tax increases or tax cuts rather than dealing with the real issue: spending and the astronomical amount of money the government`s entitlement programs are costing this great nation. Nowhere in the Constitution does it give government authority to provide said entitlements and where the Constitution is silent, the power belongs to the states or people.

Finally, but the list could go on, Iran is ready to have a nuclear arsenol. This is a country that has verbally expressed its hatred and desire to destroy Israel as well as The United States of America.

So, with all this said, how does one have hope? Does hope come from within or from without? Is it temporary or can it be a permanent value? From what source does hope come?

While the world would tell us hope is not a virtue or value, but rather an emotion, i.e., "I hope it doesn`t rain tomorrow" or "We`re hoping to arrive by tomorrow." These are all wishes or hunches based upon emotion.

The Bible does not base hope on emotion. However, when applied, it can affect our emotional state. The Bible demonstrates that hope is based upon truths. In First Peter 1:1-12, there are 3.5 reasons why we can have a real, genuine hope.

1. God gives a new perspective. In verses 1 and 2, God helps us with a new view of us and others. Peter often stuck his foot in his mouth and made many errors, yet God appoints him to be a leader of the church - He is called an apostle. God also gives us new view on ourselves, telling us we are His elect children. This doesn`t make Christians better than others; but it does place us in a better position. We are in God`s family.

2. God gives us a secure future. When we look at the news, the culture, and our 401, the future does not look bright. But when you look at the future from God`s perspective, it is hopeful (see verses 3-5). Peter tells us our future is "kept" or protected - a picture of a town which has a military based in it and the soldiers are guarding it.

3. God is our present help. Throughout the Bible, He either illustrates or tells us He is our present helper in time of need (See Psalm 46). Peter tells us, although we may face conflicts, trials, and even persecutions, he will protect us all the way to His home (see verses 6-9). You can bank on it; God will protect you and even if you have to endure trials (and who doesn`t), He will be there with you.

3.5 God keeps His word. In verses 10-12, Peter tells us how the Spirit of Christ and the Holy Spirit were the source of God`s message of hope (salvation) from the Prophet to the Apostles, to the early church, to you and me today. God always keeps His word.

Friend, we have hope, because of these reasons. They are not based on emotion, but upon God, His character and His word. You can believe in the Hope God gives through Jesus Christ, when you believe God always keeps His promises. And you can trust Him, because He stakes His Name on it!

Here`s a final thought for us: In Christ we:

H - Have

O - (the) Omininpotent`s

P - Provisions

E - Everday...Everytime

Christians have a genuine hope! Do you?

Why Tim Tebow Matters (WTTM)

I enjoy underdogs.  I'm a fan of movies like Facing the Giants, U571, and even Disney's Aladdin.  When underdogs are told they can't, it is inspiring to watch them achieve.  Take for example, Tim Tebow.  In the last year, he has been the epitome of underdog.  While many have dismissed him - guys like Charles Barkley call him a "Nightmare"- let me explain why I believe Tim Tebow matters, both for the NFL and for those of us who enjoy underdogs!

He brings a renewed synergism to nfl.  Some said he wouldn't be drafted and he was; many said he wouldn't make it in the NFL and he is; then the talking heads said he wouldn't win a playoff game and he has.  His presence has ignited Denver and fans across the country.  He would never take credit for this and he would give all the honor to his God.  Perseverance

He breaks the mold, modeling to all you don't have to fit in to succeed.  Ambition/ pioneering Spirit

He  enjoys football and life. When we enjoy what w do, success follows.  

He has a vision bigger than life. They say you cannot live more than 14 days c out food; 7 days c out water, but only moments without hope hope. Hope comes from knowing your future is secure. Tebow has a personal faith in Jesus Christ who said, "I am the resurrection and life...". His future has been secured by his Victor, Jesus Christ. 

He is unafraid & uncompromising with his faith, demonstrating moral strength!

He is a role model which parents can point to for their children.  Whether you're a follower of Christ or not, Tim Tebow matters because he represents what is good about life and professional sports.  In contrast, Charles Barkley was correct when he said, "I am not a role model."  

He demonstrates proper sportsmanship, even after an embarrassing defeat!  Obviously, I'm writing his after the game against New England.  Tebow did not demonstrate what is often seen during games of such high emotion. Yes, he showed frustration, but that frustration was not turned outward towards another. 

He seeks out the forgotten of our culture. While many NFL players serve in their communities, Tebow invests time before eachh game signing autographs for children with severe and debilitating illnesses. 

While some will continue to hurl criticisms and disbelief toward #15, I for one will continue to say WTTM!