Outcomes Matter, But Not Intentions–Throw It Out There Thursday 5 March 2020

(This is NOT a political post, though it addresses politics and other matters. I remind you that if you cannot think for yourself, or respect a person who has different views than you, then Reader Discretion is advised. Any resemblance to any political party or theological view past or present, is strictly coincidental. After all, it’s not my “intention” to offend you.)

Ever since the final results of the 2016 election were announced, there has been a movement by a group that shall remain nameless, to undo the results, and are even attempting to change our current form of government that they consider unfair because their candidate didn’t win. By the way, it’s a process that has served this nation well since 1804. Then this unnamed political movement attempted to unseat the winner of the 2016 election with an impeachment movement. Since November 2016, this unnamed political party has espoused nothing but disdain and hatred for the POTUS. All this hate against one person has created a culture of hated and disrespect. Here’s a couple of examples.

February 10, 2020 Gregory Timm drove his van into a voters registration tent in Jacksonville, Florida because of hate. Mr. Timm had no regard for the safety or life of these volunteers who were simply exercising their constitutionally guaranteed right. His hatred for the POTUS turned toward people engaging in our Democratic Republic. Hate consumed Mr. Timm.

Then on February 28, 2020 Denver, Colorado Councilwoman Candi CdeBaca declared that if she ever contracted the Coronavirus she would attend every Trump Rally. Deep is the hate that would cause Councilwoman CdeBaca to want to infect people–mothers, fathers, children–with the Coronavirus because they have a different political view. Really Councilwoman CdeBaca? You want the Coronavirus to spread even further?

The outcome of “not my president” and “impeach Trump” is that people desire to harm, even kill anyone who doesn’t agree with them. At one time this unnamed political party cared about all people. Now this unnamed political party only cares about those who agree with them. This unnamed political party has created an outcome with the environment of hate.

Now, those of you who support that unnamed political party will vehemently disagree with me. You will tell me, “We didn’t produce this outcome of hate and disregard of human life because that wasn’t our intention. Our intention was to make our nation stronger and better.” Well, guess what Snowflake–Intentions are NOT the same as outcomes. If I offended anyone by calling you a Snowflake, that wasn’t my INTENTION. Don’t blame me or say I’m being divisive or ugly. Remember, that’s not my INTENTION.

You see, your beliefs and your attitudes about your beliefs regardless of your intentions produces OUTCOMES. Those Outcomes then take on a life of their own. Think of those Outcomes as making a snowball at the top of a peak overlooking a town. You wonder how big that snowball would get if you rolled it down that slope. Then you roll that snowball and it begins moving down the slope. It gets bigger and bigger and obliterates the town below. Don’t act surprised that your little snowball destroyed that town. You didn’t INTEND to destroy that town. But the Outcome remains–you were responsible.

Intentions will hide the truth; but Outcomes will always reveal the truth.

So, in the future, don’t think about your intentions, because the road to hell is well paved with intentions. Think about OUTCOMES. Outcomes requires that you look beyond the immediate–beyond what you want–beyond what others tell you what you want. Intentions won’t change the direction of our great, but sinking nation. By working together on a set of Outcomes that shows respect and dignity for everyone we can see real culture change. Outcomes that will build people up–not run over them with a van or wish they had the Coronavirus are what we need.

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Critical Hostage Situation Growing–Throw It Out There Thursday 20 February 2020

(WARNING: Throw It Out There Thursday posts examines social, cultural, political and religious issues without consideration of political correctness nor prevailing theories. Reader discretion is therefore advised.)

This edition of Throw It Out There Thursday is a little later than the others because I’ve been busy doing research and homework; something that many social, cultural, political and religious theorists have a difficult time doing. I’ve looked at this from many angles and perspectives; and my conclusion is that that are millions of hostages out there. Most don’t even realize they are a hostage–but their captors know they are. What’s a hostage?

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Now that you know the definition of “hostage” and now that you have been made aware that there is a current hostage situation, you may be wondering, “Who are the hostages?” The hostages are those are identified within the LBGTQ+ Community. Look again at those definitions of the word hostage. How can you NOT say that the LBGTQ+ Community is not being held hostage? Think about it.

It is a scientific and biological fact that there are only 3 genders. Male, female, and a rare anomaly affecting approximately 1.7 percent of people born with genitalia of both male and female. Social scientists, cultural hacks, and half-wit theologians have decided that an unproven truth is a fact without consistently reproducible results. They have declared that “gender” is a spectrum where people can choose where they land based on a feeling or desire. Biological science has been abandoned and the result is that there are millions of people held bondage to the Dr. Feel-Good plan of life.

Ben Shapiro took on this lie on 17 February 2017 in a question and answer session after a speech he gave at Ferris State University. When dealing with the transgender issue here is some of what Ben had to say:

The idea that sex or gender is malleable is not true. I’m not denying your humanity if you are a transgender person; I am saying that you are not the sex which you claim to be. You’re still a human being, and you’re a human being with an issue then I wish you Godspeed in dealing with it in any whatever way you see fit, but if you’re going to dictate to me that I’m supposed to pretend, I’m supposed to pretend that men are women and women are men, no. My answer is no. I’m not going to- I’m not going to modify basic biology because it threatens your subjective sense of what you are.

Ben Shapiro

Gender Dysphoria, Sexual ethics–based on a theological, psychological and sociological unproven theory. This has fed a lie to those who are most vulnerable–and have created a bondage of sexual dysfunction and dysphoria. Yet, fundamentalists and some conservatives have villainized them. Would we villainize a group of people held captive by terrorists? Would we speak evil of them, blame them for their situation?

They are held as hostages by charlatans who feed them a steady diet of what these scam-artists consider to be liberating truth. They aren’t interesting in liberating, but creating a culture that justifies their own over-inflated sense of self-importance in an ostentatious attempt to exert their mental supremacy. So they capture and hold hostage those who are most vulnerable to their nonsensical drivel. These impotent thinkers want to create socially constructed genders rather than accept biologically provided genders.

I do not see the LBGTQI+ Community with disdain or hated. I see them for who they are, hostages to the inane and sophomoric views of those who see themselves as the intellectually and spiritually elite. They are discouraged from thinking any other way about themselves than the way they tell them to think about themselves. Remember that one of the definitions of hostage is someone who is made a prisoner in order to force other people to do something. These pseudo-quasi-thinkers wants everyone to agree with them, so they hold the LBGTQI+ Community hostage. Do the science. Do the math. And please, please, please, don’t be mad the LBGTQI+ Community, they are hostages that need to be set free. Jesus declared that one of the reasons He came was to deliver the captives. I am praying and seeking for ways for God to use me in this Kingdom Task.

Now Tell Me Again How That Works–Throw It Out There Thursday 13 February 2020

(Throw It Out There Thursday is a careful analysis of current situations and may be offensive to those who cannot think for themselves and cause them to curl up in the fetal position. Reader discretion is advised.)

Progressive is the Thursday word of the day. “Liberal” is no longer an acceptable word to describe an agenda on ideologies, political views and theology. Progressive is the new group-chosen word to describe an agenda of certain groups; please note I used the plural–meaning that the word progressive covers a myriad of societal arenas. Progressive comes from the word progress which means “forward or onward movement toward a destination.” Forward movement–that’s their battle cry. But can someone from the progressive side explain to me how what we see is forward movement?

Just a few days ago a man in Jacksonville Florida drives his van into a political party’s Voter Registration Tent. In this own words, he did it because he did not like President Trump and “someone had to take a stand”. To take a stand, he took a lethal weapon and aimed it at 6 people exercising the Constitutionally guaranteed, all because someone had to take a stand. Two of those in the crosshairs of his lethal weapon were over 65 years old. I know for a fact that, as I am less than 14 months from reaching that age, you don’t move as fast at 65 as you did at 25. Mr. Timm surely knows that, too. But it didn’t seem to bother him. After his someone had to take a stand moment he exited his van, flipped them off and drove away.

An unnamed (by me) Speaker of the House of Representatives rips a legal document on national television. People flood the streets with violence when something doesn’t go their way. Anger is ruling the day because progressive political ideology promotes it. Hate is the order of the day. A man in San Francisco gathers volunteers to pick up trash and is verbally attacked and physically threatened because the progressive wuss assumed they were dismantling a homeless camp.

Even in the arena of theology, progressives call anyone who does not agree with them misogynists, racists, homophobes, mean-spirited, hateful, ignorant and tell us we just need to either agree with them or leave the church. All the while, these progressive thinking people claim to promote love and grace. Well…they do unless you don’t agree with them.

Here’s my point: Progressive Thinking Is Leading Us Into Regressive Living. The fear, self righteousness and anger is fueling the chaos that is moving us backwards, not forwards as a society and a people. Progressive Thinking, as it is currently being defined by the left, is creating a toxic environment that is threatening to take us back to the Stone Age. And that, my friends, is the truth and the truth will stand when the world’s on fire.

When Hate Is Allowed And Acceptable–Throw It Out There Thursday 6 February 2020

After watching the evening news yesterday, there was no doubt about today’s Throw It Out There Thursday! There were 2 events that prompts more than just “Throw It Out There”–but this definitely qualifies as a rant. So please put your trays in their up position, have your seat in the upright position and buckle your seat belts. It’s going to be a bumpy ride.

Tuesday evening Kimberly Police Officer Nick O’Rear was shot and murdered while on duty. I once served the Kimberly Community and my heart breaks for them. You can read about it HERE. Officer O’Rear had a family, 2 children and one on the way.

And on Wednesday, Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Joseph Bullock was gunned down when he stopped to assist a disabled motorist on Interstate 95 at a rest stop in Martin County on Wednesday. He was shot and killed by a person who was with that vehicle.

In 2019, 48 law enforcement officers were feloniously killed in the line of duty. This number does not include those morons who weren’t paying attention while driving and “accidentally” hit an officer with their auto. So far in 2020 there have been 12 deaths. I have many friends in law enforcement. And I have a son who is law enforcement. And it seems that a certain segment of society has put a target on anyone and everyone who carries a badge. And now, I have placed the Throw It Out There Target on that certain segment of society.

I’m not going to call out by name a certain political party, so I’m only going to refer to them as the FAH Party. FAH is the acronym for Fear, Anger and Hate Party. They are influencers of our culture creating, you guessed it, FEAR, ANGER AND HATE! Their recent debacle in Washington D.C. is not even the tip of the iceberg of chaos they are promoting. This has been going on for some time.

I never joined the AARP because of their use of FAH. Years ago I let my NRA membership lapse because of their use of FAH. The FAH influencers have turned this nation into a culture where the value of human life means nothing, especially towards those in law enforcement. The FAH Party has nurtured and promoted the value of distrust of authority beyond the level of the 1960’s.

Everyday that Deputy Matthew Burbank and those who wear the badge with pride and dignity goes out to Serve and Protect, there’s someone with a smartphone who wants to take out of context what he HAS to do in order to Serve and Protect. Everyday someone who distrusts authority is out there who would like nothing more than to end his and his brothers and sisters existence.

And the FAH Party followers even target innocent people simply trying to live their lives. FAH Party stirs up jealousy against those who work hard. Heck, we can’t even worship in peace. I am doing something I never thought I would have to do. Each and every Sunday I carry a concealed weapon just in case a FAH follower decides they don’t like what we say or do.

FAH blinds people to the consequences of their actions. It causes them to whine and throw temper tantrums when they don’t get their way. Those operating under the influence of FAH believe they are right and the rest of us are not just wrong–we are mean racists, sexists, bigoted, misogynists, and are the problem. If we would just become FAH Believers then everything would be hunky-dory!

Not to minimize the tragedy from the Coronavirus, but FAH is doing far more damage to the fabric of human civilization than any disease or virus. So to the FAH Party Members I say:

• Thanks for putting my son in more danger than he was in the hell holes he went to as a committed member of the U.S. Army.
• Thanks for creating the fog of chaos that is blinding people.
• Thanks for pointing out imaginary problems.
• Thanks for always pointing out what’s wrong but never offering solutions.
• Thanks for nothing!

But what can be done to end this vile, lecherous, odoriferous plague set loose upon civilization by the FAH Party? We can refuse to Fear, be Angry, and we can certainly stop Hating. We can be examples of courtesy and respect, especially with those with disagree. We can pray for ourselves to become the best examples for the human race. We can not give money to any organization that promotes Fear, Anger or Hate. And in the good, ol’ U.S. of A., we can vote!

And it’s on this last point, voting that I encourage you to PTP—Pray, Think and Participate by going to the polls to vote. Don’t let polls and the FAH news outlets determine who to vote for. Speaking from experience, sometimes the septic tank needs to be pumped out and cleaned.

The New Form Of Child Abuse That’s Become Acceptable–Throw It Out There Thursday 30 January 2020

(DISCLAIMER: Remember that Throw-It-Out-There Thursday may be considered offensive to some. This week’s post may be offensive to many. Reader caution is advised.)

Last week I said one day I might deal with this subject. Well that day has come. Today’s subject is about what has become to many an acceptable form of child abuse. I am NOT making light of child abuse that happens every day. I’m with Jesus on abusing and misusing children. He said in Matthew 18:6–“But if you give them a hard time, bullying or taking advantage of their simple trust, you’ll soon wish you hadn’t. You’d be better off dropped in the middle of the lake with a millstone around your neck.“

But there’s a new form of child abuse that has become acceptable, even considered politically correct. No one is going to jail for it. There is little or no outcry against this misuse and abuse of children. And the greatest tragedy is that there are adults who will say I’m wrong and accuse me of ignoring real child abuse. This issue IS real abuse of children. So consider this the voice of a prophet who feels like he’s crying out in a wilderness.

Here is the New Acceptable Form of child abuse: People are treating children as if they are adults. The other day I was getting my daily dose of Andy Andrews In The Loop podcasts and he was addressing this very issue. Many have lost the reality–and I don’t mean the “reality TV” kind of reality, but real, as it actually happens reality—that children are NOT fully equipped adults capable of making the best decisions about their life. Heck (pardon my French), I know a lot of “adults” who are NOT fully capable of making the best decisions about their life. And it seems to me, in my humble opinion, that adults who are NOT fully capable of making the best decisions about their life are encouraging their children and parents of children to allow children to make adult-level decisions.

But a 3 year old, 6 year old, 8 year old, 12 year old, 17 year old–they are not fully capable of making decisions for and about themselves. Yes, as they get older and IF they are given the proper wisdom, they can begin to make some decisions–but still they are NOT fully capable of making the best decisions about their life. How they “feel”, what they want–this is why discipline is so essential and important.

By discipline I don’t mean punishment–I’m talking about teaching children to give up one thing in order to obtain something much better. Discipline equals training. Would you want an untrained military protecting your nation? Would you want untrained doctors operating on you? Would you want an untrained plumber working on your home? Then why in blue blazes are so many refusing or afraid to discipline their children? It’s like saying those children are NOT really important. And that, my friends, is CHILD ABUSE!

Children need to understand that they are not the Final Authority. They do not have the wherewithal to make adult level decisions. Yet this is what’s happening. A few years ago a friend of mine was telling me about something that happened to his daughter, a Kindergarten teacher. One year a “mother”, and I use this term very loosely; maybe I should say “the person who gave birth to this child”–came in and told her that her child was exploring to find themselves. One day her son may come to school as a girl, and the next come as a boy. And this alleged Mom wanted the teacher to treat and call that child according to the way they were dressed on that particular day. Child abuse, I say, Child Abuse!

They are allowing and even encouraging them to live by their “feelings”. I now refer you to a previous post, Is It Safe To Live According To Our Feelings? It is never safe to live solely by our feelings. And you can’t just do that. You could say, “But their heart’s in the right place.” NO IT’S NOT! NO! NO! NO! And yes, I hit the cap lock and bold on purpose! Stop the abuse of NOT ‘training’ / ‘disciplining’ children by treating them as fully functional adults capable of making wise decisions. The truth is, they are not capable. But they can be capable with discipline and giving them wisdom.

Not Appropriate Conversations With Kids–Throw It Out There Thursday 23 January 2020

(If this is your first visit to my blog, or just in case you have been here before and forgotten, Throw It Out There Thursday is a look at cultural and social issues and thoughts. Nothing is sacrosanct and it may be offensive to some. And today is no exception)

Once I saw a picture that said: “One day Twitter, Facebook and YouTube will merge into one and it will be called YOU TWIT FACE!” And a recent post on Twitter made me wonder it that isn’t about to happen. Here, let me show you the screenshot (the name has been redacted to protect the guilty party:

This is wrong on so many levels; where do I begin? Let’s start with what’s missing. Do the parents of this 5 year old know what Auntie is teaching their child? Worse yet, are they OK with it? Now let’s look at the obvious. Who appointed Auntie to instill and ingrain values into this 5 year old? What’s the “age-appropriate way” to talk with a 5 year old about abortion? And look at this line again:

Excuse me, that sounds like a threat to me. “You better behave yourself or Auntie, Mommy and Daddy will abort you.” It also sounds like Auntie is teaching this 5 year old that this life is all about what you want, or in the case of an abortion, what you don’t want. OK, one more screenshot:

OK Auntie Snowflake, that’s it! Enough is enough. Let me set the record straight for you Auntie Snowflake. She doesn’t get it! For heaven’s sake, she’s 5 years old and lacks the cognizant abilities required to process anything in a mature and adult-like manner. (Maybe next week I’ll have something to say about how treating young children as if they are adults is a form of child abuse).

And Auntie Snowflake, It’s NOT quite simple! In cases of rape, incest or when the mother’s life is in danger–an abortion may be the appropriate action. Yet even in these cases, it’s not simple. It’s complicated to reach the decision to end another human life. Auntie Snowflake, it IS a human life and your conclusion that it isn’t or that it has the potential to be quite a handful or that someone doesn’t want to be a parent is…well since you like simple, I’ll put it in simple terms: WRONG! You do not have the “right” to make a complicated decision a simple decision.

At the risk of sounding like a late-night Infomercial Star–But wait! There’s more! I followed the link Auntie Snowflake shared, and here is just a portion of that link: (click here for the entire story)

Really? It’s easier than you think? Wow! Snowflakes everywhere! I’m not saying there should be NO conversations about abortion with our kids; but those conversations need to be open and honest–not just one view. And we don’t need to treat kids as adults–sometimes less is more when it comes to kids. You can tell them that it’s a complicated issue that is hard for them to understand at this time in their life, but when they get a little older, you can talk more. Or, you can wait until they ask the question. Even better, pray for wisdom on WHEN the moment is appropriate. But I question if the conversation below was really beneficial and productive:

OK, Amiya, 2 questions for you to answer. First, why did you immediately know abortion was what you needed to do? Second, why were you so emotional in the days leading up to your abortion if abortion was what you needed to do? Obviously you aren’t related to Auntie Snowflake who says it’s quite simple. Amiya, my concern is the value system you are teaching your 12 year old daughter to embrace. If it’s inconvenient or doesn’t fit your Life Plan, then end another human life. Just remember, Amiya, that one day you will be old and will be a handful yourself and an inconvenience to your daughter. What have you taught her about what to do? Well, post-partum abortion is the solution. Let’s just end your life. And according to Auntie Snowflake, It’s just that simple!

Damn The Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead–Throw It Out There Thursday, 16 January 2020

Welcome to another edition of Throw It Out There Thursday! The target today is something is filling the headlines today. No, not the impeachment. No, not the impending death of the United Methodist Chaos, excuse me, “Church” (if you can actually call it that with a straight face or without regurgitating). But it is behind these and all other expressions of hate and confusion that invades and pervades our culture.

It’s Admiral Farragut’s famous expression: Damn The Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead. And what once was the motto for courage and determination in the face of danger has become the Mantra for a subculture of folks from all walks and stations in life. It’s the subculture of I WANT WHAT I WANT BECAUSE I KNOW WHAT’S BEST AND I’M THE ULTIMATE AUTHORITY!

It’s the subculture of people thinking AND acting without considering the consequences that is corroding the very fabric of civilized society. In the 60’s the mantra was “If it feels good, do it!” Again, never thinking about the consequences. Ask some of the rockers from that era who indulged in drugs how that worked out for them. But now? The attitude of Damn The Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead is exponentially growing like Kudzu.

Kudzu is defined as an Invasive Species (click here if you don’t know kudzu). According to scientists, an invasive species is an organism that causes ecological or economic harm in a new environment where it is not native. … Invasive species are capable of causing extinctions of native plants and animals, reducing biodiversity, competing with native organisms for limited resources, and altering habitats. Did you notice the scientific word ORGANISM? This means it has a life all it’s own, independent of anything else.

And like Kudzu, Damn The Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead Mentality is taking over and killing everything around it. Like Kudzu, Damn The Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead Mentality isn’t native to civilization. Damn The Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead Mentality is causing the extinction of what really makes us Humans created in the image of God.

Damn The Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead Mentality robs people of their civility and capacity to care about something bigger than themselves. And this is sad, tragic, appalling, calamitous, deplorable, dreadful, fatal, cataclysmic, gruesome, woeful and your own synonym here. Just as Kudzu is fatal for the native vegetation, Damn The Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead Mentality is fatal for civilized society. And it is IRRESPONSIBLE by those who lead others to join in their mental and emotional Kudzu.

Throw It Out There Thursday: SAYS WHO?

Boys and girls it’s that time again: THROW IT OUT THERE THURSDAY where nothing is sacrosanct and any idea, belief or opinion is subject to sarcasm, cynicism or evisceration. So, if you are the type that is easily offended or refuses to hear a view other than your own, you are about to the thrown into chaos; just a warning. This week I’m looking at a Common Duo, RIGHT AND FAIR!

Today I am eviscerating this idea that somehow life is supposed to be RIGHT AND FAIR. I may be called mean, calloused and uncaring for what I am about to say. To which I reply

If you have or have raised kids, especially teenagers, you’ve heard this, at least half of it: THAT’S NOT FAIR! Even then, the other half is clearly implied. We are in a culture obsessed with RIGHT AND FAIR! Oh, someone was just thinking, “What’s wrong with you? What’s wrong with RIGHT AND FAIR?” Guess what? Life isn’t RIGHT AND FAIR! It hasn’t been RIGHT AND FAIR since Eve took that bite and Adam colluded with her by his silence.

I could be the Energizer Bunny and go on and on, but I will get to the point and make this short and sweet. RIGHT AND FAIR, as it is viewed in this fallen world, is based on our highly regarded and valued opinions and perspective. RIGHT AND FAIR is determined by what we think and feel; especially what we feel. Like it or not; disagree and deny–truth is our feelings and perspectives are tainted by selfishness.

Sure, there are some things that are clearly RIGHT and some things are clearly FAIR! But life on this warped planet? That’s where we get into a lot of problems. Case in point: the bitter battle in my Tribe, the United Methodist Church. A group is now proposing that we Orthodox/Traditional folks should be able to leave the United Methodist Church with all assets, along with a cool $25 million, and pursue their own future by creating a new Tribe. Bear in mind, in case you haven’t followed this circus, that the Orthodox and Traditional views of the Bible and in particular, sexual ethics, is the view of the majority. It has been since 1972. But there are some, especially in the U.S. and Europe, who feel more enlightened and wiser; so they want to change it so that it reflects our enlightened understanding. Who said the Age of Enlightenment ended around 1818? It’s being revived.

And many of my acquaintances and friends have been ask me, “If we are the majority, why should we have to leave? If they don’t agree with us, THEY should leave! (you know what’s next!) IT’S NOT RIGHT OR FAIR THAT THE MAJORITY BE FORCED TO LEAVE!” I confess I felt that way AT FIRST. Well, I tried to teach my kids that for the most part, life is neither RIGHT NOR FAIR and we shouldn’t expect it to be that way.

The RIGHT AND FAIR card is being played when a group of people don’t get their way. And here is the crux of the matter. We assume the role of God when we think we should be able to determine what is RIGHT and what is FAIR. And when life is not RIGHT AND FAIR, we can choose to be bitter; which is what it seems like the majority is doing. OR, we can choose to move forward without bitterness or resentment.

Right now I’m thinking about the story of Joseph, the one found in Genesis. His brothers sold him into slavery (well, that snot-nosed kid probably deserved it) and once in slavery, he ended up in jail for a crime he didn’t commit. That’s certainly not RIGHT OR FAIR! But circumstances changed and he finds himself as second in command of a nation. One day his brothers (you know, the ones who sold him into slavery) come begging for food, only they don’t recognize that it’s their brother they are begging to for help. Joseph has the perfect moment now to set the record straight for them not being RIGHT AND FAIR to him. Revenge has set the table for Joseph.

Instead, Joseph does something different; and what he did I’ve had to repeat to myself on many occasions when life wasn’t RIGHT AND FAIR. “Brothers, what you did was wrong and evil (meaning: NOT RIGHT AND FAIR). But God used it for good!”

So, when life is neither RIGHT NOR FAIR, get over it. God can and will make it into something good. But you have to relinquish your desires to define what is RIGHT AND FAIR!

THROW IT OUT THERE THURSDAY–FIND OUT WHO YOU ARE FOR $99

I’m a little late with my Throw It Out There Thursday. Remember that Thursday is the day when anything, any idea, any belief is open for debate, satire or criticism (or all 3). Better late than never; unless it’s your week to lead the small group or open the store. And this Thursday it’s about finding out and knowing who you are. I see these ads on socially irrelevant media sights like Facebook and Twitter. And I saw them first on the Brainless Screen (a.k.a. T.V.).

Right now I’m thinking about all those TV ads of people who are basing their identity as a person based on their DNA results. One person said she once identified herself as Hispanic, but now marks “Other”; all because of what that company told her about herself. Another person said she found out she was part Native American (no, it wasn’t that presidential candidate who shall remain nameless, but you know which one). Now she’s all excited about exploring and learning more now that she is Native American.

It appears that so many who were either confused, or felt like they had no identity, or didn’t like their identity are turning to this magical DNA to define who they are. A few are turning to their DNA to find out why they are the way they are. And suddenly, an unknown heritage becomes THEIR heritage–and their identity. Sounds innocuous and unobjectionable enough, doesn’t it? So why does it appear this morning in my crosshairs?

Well, it’s because people are looking for their true identity in the wrong places. Yes, genealogy is both interesting and important, It’s also fun–especially when you find an ancient family member that is famous. Not so much fun when that relative is infamous. I must confess to you that there are some people I see and hear and I think to myself, “You need to refresh and upgrade your DNA pool.”

But a person’s Identity, their True Self is never fully revealed in chromosomes or an ancestry tree. We are living in a culture where people are longing for their True Identity because they somehow know there is more to life than what they experience day in and day out. Know what? They’re right! There is more to life–but you have to know where to look; and HOW to look. The information you are looking for won’t be found in your DNA, and it won’t be found in the archives of some Temple in Salt Lake City. 23 and Me haven’t figured it out yet and the Latter-Day Saints records don’t go back that far.

I’ll give you a Hint and a Clue where to look for your True Identity.  The Hint comes from a book filled with a variety of heresy and truth.  Listen to Ecclesiastes 3:11—“He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.”  There is in every human heart that seed that cries out to grow.  It realizes there is more to life than what we see–even more than what we want.  Nothing in this realm will ever give us our True Identity.  And by the confession of Solomon’s wisdom, as human beings tainted and impacted by The Fall, we just can see it–without the right perspective.

The Clue is revealed by someone who has been characterized through the ages as one being reluctant.  Read carefully what this very reluctant person revealed in Jeremiah 1:5—“I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb.  Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.” The Clue is this:  We are created by God for purposes bigger than this world—purposes that carry eternal significance.  You may not be called to be a prophet like Jeremiah—but you ARE called to a task that HE has called you to—and equipped you to do with your life.

Relatives and  deoxyribonucleic acid can never tell the whole story.  They tell us about history, but not the future.  And remember what Solomon said about the future—“He has planted eternity in the human heart.”  When God formed us in the Garden of Eden, He made us in His Image.  Adam came from the dirt and Eve from his rib—but God’s Image was in both.

And why?  Not because God has an ego problem; but because God knew what would happen with Adam and Eve. He knew they would believe the lie and want to become their own god.  And God was determined to reclaim and take back what Satan stole away.  And He chose His Warriors to reclaim His Kingdom.  First, it was His Son, Jesus.  Second, it was the Hosts of Heaven’s Armies.  Third, He would reclaim His rightful Kingdom through His Image Bearers.

God wants to restore you to the life HE created for you, before the Fall.  A life that is pure, holy and filled with His Purposes.  But you will never find this from you family genealogy and humanity doesn’t and will never have the technology to discover this higher purpose.  Remember what Solomon said:   “He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.”

The only way we can find our True Identity is to surrender everything to Jesus.  All our wants and wishes.  All of our desires and feelings.  And most of all, surrender all sense that our life has purpose outside of being unconditionally committed to what God has designed our life to become, and to be absolutely involved with what God has been involved in—the redemption and restoration of HIS Kingdom.

THROW IT OUT THERE THURSDAY-IS IT THE RESULT OF DNA OR ‘OTHER’ SPIRITS?

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Well, it’s time for another “Throw It Out There Thursday”. Remember that no idea, thing or person is exempt from Throw It Out There Thursday. I do not expect everyone to agree with any conclusions I may reach. Enough disclaimer crap. On to the the subject at hand: “Is It DNA, Or The Result Of ‘Other’ Spirits?

This week I came across a “blow-your-mind-can’t-be-true” post on the infamous Facebook. I had to research it and follow the links to see if it was true. Sorry, Virginia, not everything on Facebook is true. If I burst your bubble. . . oh, well. . .toughen up buttercup! The story involves…read it for yourself:

Here is the synopsis:

• Jamie Bruesehoff gave birth to a son
• At some point he decided he was transgendered
• Jamie Bruesehoff supported his decision
• Who is now “Rebekah” has had a hormone blocking implant, twice, to prevent “her” biological gender from developing
• Jamie is a Lutheran’s pastor’s wife and their group insurance plan payed for it.

So, at some point this “child” decided that God really wanted him to live out his life not as a biological “he”, but as a transgendered “she”. Now comes the fodder that will probably bring me a lot of “negative” feedback. Oh, well. Since when does an adolescent have the intellectual, emotional and mental wherewithal to reach such a decision? “Rebekah” Bruesehoff has none of the prerequisites for such a decision, neither does a teenager. I know this is not an isolated case. It is a scene that happens often in today’s culture; too often.

To empower a child the right to pursue such an idea is an act of, for lack of a civil word, an act of sheer incompetence by adults, especially parents. So, I have to wonder and ask out loud, how does an adolescent form such a thought? It had to come from somewhere. Including the unproven DNA hypothesis, how would a child frame such a thought?

Oh, and here’s some more on Jamie Bruesehoff, right from her website:

Yep, you read her bio correctly: “a openly queer woman married to a Lutheran pastor”; whatever “openly” means. She has also put her “daughter” in front of audiences, including youth audiences, promoting this “happiness” that God told “her” to have in life. It’s as plain as the sun shining in the daytime, that even in a fish market, this smells “fishy”. This Mother is more than an underlining influence; she is an overwhelming influence.

And this leads me to what I am going to “Throw Out There”. It isn’t a “feeling” nor is it God wanting this child to be what he “feels” like he is. No, this child is being influenced by ‘other spirits’. Now wait a minute. I didn’t say that transgendered people are victims of demonic possession. What I am throwing out there is that there are other spirits contrary to the Spirit of God influencing many, even children. These other spirits are from the realm of Satan, himself.

In my humble opinion, those other spirits are influencing the mother of this child. I happen to believe that these other spirits out there while not “possessing” people, certainly influence how people think and see life. Furthermore, I believe that adults who allow those other spirits to influence their thinking opens the way for those unequipped and unprepared to handle the thought influences of these other spirits; and children are the most vulnerable to their influences.

I would challenge you to do 2 things. First and foremost, show the kindness and gentleness of Jesus to ALL people. ALL means ALL. You will never influence others in a positive way by spewing verbal acid at them. Second, and just as important–engage in spiritual warfare against Satan and his minions. Become aware of their influences in your own thinking. Pray, study God’s word, and seek the Presence and Power of the Holy Spirit.

Our culture is being attacked from all sides by the other spirits by influencing the thoughts and perspectives of people. And when those people who succumb to their influences are adults, and those adults have influence over children, they are putting those most vulnerable at the highest risk of grave danger. That’s how I see it….

Throw It Out There Thursday News Flash

(Writer’s Note: This is NOT an endorsement of any elected official, nor is it denouncing any political party. Any resemblance to this is strictly satirical)

On December 18, at approximately 8:23 pm E.T., Wisdom was viciously attacked in Washington D.C. by a mob of 230 men and women leaving Wisdom with life-threatening injuries.  Wisdom was quickly taken to Walter Reed Medical Center and is reportedly on life-support.  A team of doctors there, along with a team from Johns Hopkins and the Mayo Clinic have joined their efforts to bring Wisdom back from what seems to be the brink of death.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, an aide of one of the attackers told this reporter, and I quote, “It’s about time!  Wisdom is an aged fool that keeps getting in the way of our plans and agenda.  Wisdom needed to go into retirement on a deserted island.”  I managed to locate Wisdom’s twin, Common Sense.  Common Sense has been in a weakened state for years due to not being used.  Common Sense told this reporter, again I quote, “I have long dreaded this day.  I now fear my own death is more imminent now that ever.  If my twin, Wisdom dies, then I shall also die.”

Lady Liberty arrived as soon as she heard about Wisdom’s condition.  In a prepared statement she said, “I am gravely concerned about the future of Wisdom.  Your founding fathers relied heavily upon Wisdom to form this republic.  Even those founders who did not believe in the God of the Judaeo-Christian heritage, recognized both the importance and need for Wisdom.  They knew this Republic would never last without Wisdom.  And myself?  If Wisdom dies, I know that they will successfully kill me.”

It is my personal observation that throughout the history of this famed republic that Wisdom has been attacked many times.  Each time Wisdom prevailed.  But this time?  I am left unsure.  All we can do is watch and wait.  We will stay on top of this developing story until Wisdom dies; or Wisdom prevails.

Throw It Out There Thursday December 19

The above quote of George Orwell is certainly apapoe in today culture. I’m not certain when he wrote this, but it is prophetic, nonetheless. Though he was a staunch democratic socialist, decades later his perspectives are ringing true. I remember reading 1984 back in high school. In 1973 I remember thinking, “This could never happen here in the U.S.” It didn’t in 1984, but if he had entitled that book 2020, I wouldn’t be so naive.

It’s happening now. Truth is being redefined by cultural experiences and the views of a few who become vocal. Case in point: Hallmark. Hallmark dropped ads on their channels because of same gender people were getting married and kissing. Now Hallmark Spineless Board of Directors have changed their minds due to the threats of 3.5% of the people. This statistic comes from The Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law.

It is not just the sexual identity, or lack thereof, that is at the core of this sickly and unsound illness that is imbuing our current culture with it’s foul regurgitation that traces its roots to the Garden of Eden. Truth is no longer a measuring stick–but an ethos that is concerned with those concepts that make people feel comfortable, at ease and justified. It is a commodious truth that people have gone after. Maybe I should have said “commode”.

Society today certainly hates Truth tellers because “truth” no longer means TRUTH! Truth means feelings, unsubstantiated hypotheses, and whatever a small group feels is truth. Those who embrace time tested and proven TRUTH are hated and berated because they do not follow a commodious truth. A small percentage of the population wants to dictate to the rest of us how we should feel, what we should think, what we should say, how we should act, and most importantly–surrender Truth to them to define.

I am not a conspiracy wacko, though someone had to be on the grassy knoll, but friends and readers, 1984 is quickly coming upon us. . .UNLESS we choose to be undeterred with the real meaning of TRUTH and to speak it. . .speak it with love. . .speak it with resolve. . .speak it regardless if anyone agrees with it. . .and not compromise the TRUTH for a commodious lie.

Throw It Out There Thursday–Emotional Slothfulness

Remember that this is Thursday–when I just throw stuff out there to see what sticks and what doesn’t stick. As I sit here in central Florida, far from the freezing temperatures of West Central Alabama, I admit it’s hard to focus on writing. But it has freed me up to do some “off-the-wall” thinking. I wonder if that is another one of my “spiritual” gifts, like snarkiness and sarcasm?

Somehow, this thought invaded me: Emotional Slothfulness. I looked up that word slothfulness and here is what I found:

sluggardly; indolent; lazy.

http://www.dictionary.com

Indolent? What does this word mean? Well, here is what I discovered:

having or showing a disposition to avoid exertion;

http://www.dictionary.com

Now you have a context for this week’s “Throw-It-Out-There-Thursday” words. Typically when thinking of being slothful, it seems to be limited to physical activity. I propose to you today, 12 December 2019, that people today are not only physically slothful, but they are also emotionally slothful. By this I do not mean that there is an absence of emotions today. Dear Lord, in heaven! That’s so not true!

By the term “Emotional Slothfulness” I refer to the fact that there is so much uncontrolled emotional reactions to what is happening in our culture. Instead of thinking and evaluating for themselves, they get caught up in the emotions of others. Just the other day some TwitFace, excuse me, that should have been “Twitter” was blasting away at the unfairness that every state gets 2 senators. They said it shows the Constitution is “just stupid”.

I look at our culture and I am reminded of a bird’s nest with newly hatched babies. Their mouths are wipe open waiting for Mother or Daddy to regurgitate something to put inside them. Then they are happy, until they need some more regurgitation. So many. . .TOO MANY today are too slothful to analyze situations and circumstances and thus rely on what someone, who someone else told them was the person to listen to, tells them to feel about…WHATEVER.

The result is wild and unrestrained emotions. And in that process, there are many casualties of emotional slothfulness, such as

• Common sense
• Compassion
• Kindness
• Maturity
• Creativity
• Dignity
• Respectfulness
• Humility

If you can think of other casualties resulting from this emotional slothfulness, please add them in the Comments Section. Emotional Slothfulness isn’t the absence of emotions–that is known as Stoicism. Emotional Slothfulness is too much and unrestrained emotions. Emotions then become elevated to the status of Deity, and quite frankly, emotions are a poor deity to follow.

In short, they are too darn lazy to form their own emotions (from a well thought out conclusion), so they allow others to tell them how they should feel!

When Did Being Spineless Become Acceptable?

I’m calling this my “Throw It Out There” Thursday post. I am going to hit upon different subjects and just throw some words out there and see what sticks and what doesn’t. No subject, view, thought or opinion will be protected–all are fair game. Let’s get the first one out of the way:

From the picture above, you may think this is just another rant against Chick-Fil-A. I assure you it’s not. I’m not announcing that I will quit going to Chick-Fil-A. I can’t quit going to a place that I can’t honestly remember my last visit there. There’s a lot better chicken out there. I know a lot of Baptists are ill at me right now. Oh well. And I’m not calling for an all out boycott.

I am just asking a question: When Did Becoming Spineless Become Acceptable? Recently, at the behest of groups that insist everyone must agree with them and renounce their own ethos to embrace their ethos or else admit they are hate-filled homophobes, Chick-Fil-A joined a growing list of companies, corporations and organizations who have lost their spine. (Read about it here)

It’s not just a chicken place; even my Tribe has lost its spine. People are caving in to every whim and whine from a select few who are more concerned with their feelings than truth. More than cave in, those who disagree with them MUST abandon their own ethos in order to be truly a kind human being. If they don’t cave in, then they are insensitive and mean and uncaring. So, not to appear as insensitive, mean and uncaring–they relinquish the most vital parts of integrity and character–that is the willingness to take a stand for Truth.

The push for political correctness has kicked common sense to the curb like yesterday’s trash. Don’t think for a moment I’m advocating brutish words and behavior in response to those who don’t like something a company or a church does. That kind of talk and attitude has contributed to the epidemic of chaotic hate. There is a way to have a kind and civil dialogue. There is a way to be respectful to those with differing views–however this culture has closed the door to civil dialogue. It has become about wanting one’s way–regardless of how it affects others.

And so, to appease narrow-minded and hate-filled groups, organizations and corporations surrender their ethics simply to make a small group feel happy and empowered. Well, guess what, buttercup! Just because you believe something, it doesn’t mean you are automatically right. And it doesn’t mean the rest of us have to go along with you. We can be courteous and kind, yet disagree. Disagreeing with a view or an opinion is NOT an act of hate. You call it hate, but it’s not.

I hope and pray that somewhere there is a corporation or organization that will have the spine to say, “Enough is enough. We respect your views, but we are not going to cave in to your demands.” Integrity isn’t easy, and can have some short-term costs–but the long range effect of maintaining your integrity pays far bigger dividends.

Spinelessness has been elevated to a virtue to be desired. Really? Right now, as I am thinking about all those spineless individuals, corporations and organizations–I’m thinking of Jellyfish. Jellyfish don’t have a brain. Jellyfish don’t have a spine. Get too close to a Jellyfish and they will sting you and leave you in misery. Jellyfish get washed up on the beach and die. Don’t be a jellyfish.