A Prayer for Wisdom, Mercy, and Compassion in Leadership!

            Thank You for Your divine intervention, Lord. You have heard the cries, concerns, frustrations, and prayers of Your people, and You have seen their struggles, disappointments, and heartfelt longing for change. As the political landscape shifts and the Blue Wave signals a rejection of President Trump’s leadership by taking control of both houses, let us remember that political victories are not only moments to celebrate but also opportunities to embrace the tremendous responsibility they bring. 

 

Now comes an important question: What will those entrusted with this new responsibility do when they take office? What plans do they have for the American people? Will they lead with humility, compassion, and a sincere commitment to serving all citizens, rather than pursuing the interests of a select few? 

 

Let us pray that they seek Your guidance before making decisions that shape the lives, livelihoods, and futures of millions of Americans. May You bless them with the wisdom to recognize what is right, the discernment to know when to speak and when to listen, the clarity to distinguish truth from deception, and the courage to pursue justice—even when it may be politically inconvenient. May their decisions reflect fairness, mercy, integrity, and compassion. 

 

Lord, remind those entrusted with political power that leadership is an opportunity to serve everyone—not a license to punish those who disagree, retaliate against opponents, or dismiss the concerns of voters who chose differently. May elections never become an excuse for revenge. Instead, let them open the door to reconciliation, accountability, healing, and a renewed commitment to the principles that help a nation grow stronger. 

 

May they keep those often forgotten in mind, protect the vulnerable, listen with respect to underserved voices, and thoughtfully consider the needs of working families, seniors, young people, and everyone striving to make ends meet. May they recognize that America belongs to all its citizens—regardless of political affiliation, race, economic standing, or personal beliefs. 

 

And Lord, help us celebrate this political victory with gratitude while staying mindful of the responsibilities that come with it. Let us continue to expect the same honesty, accountability, and integrity from tomorrow’s leaders that we rightly demanded of yesterday’s leaders. 

 

Above all, Lord, may mercy rise above resentment, compassion soften contempt, and wisdom guide us beyond political ambition. We don’t need another chapter of division, hostility, or retaliation. We need leaders who recognize that their positions are temporary, their responsibilities are great, and their accountability reaches far beyond the voting booth.

 

May this change in leadership become more than a political victory. May it also offer America a chance to rediscover its conscience, strengthen its sense of unity, and renew its commitment to justice for all. 

 

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

 

Batten Down the Hatches! Vote November 3, 2026!!

            “Batten down the hatches” is a nautical term that dates back to the early 19th century. When a ship was preparing to sail into rough seas, the captain would ask the crew to batten down the hatches. They would close all the hatches (doors) on the ship's decks and secure them in place with lengths of batten (rods). 

 

If you’re not familiar with this phrase, get ready for some turbulent weather. For those who are—or who have served in the Navy— “General Quarters” may bring to mind impending trouble and the call to man your battle stations. November 3, 2026, is Election Day, and the current administration's craziness has already begun. Be prepared for anything; make sure you vote. 

 

I’m surprised that many MAGA supporters continue to stand by a man accused of concealing evidence related to pedophilia and of supporting corruption and bigotry. It’s also striking that Evangelical Christians make up such a large share of his supporters. This can feel especially surprising given the Christian teaching, “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.” Love is lacking within families, communities, and churches. They are also educators, politicians, city and county members, medical practitioners, clergy, babysitters, and productive citizens. We can measure the high loss of love by what we see from this corrupt government. Look at how immigrants are treated. They aren’t neighbors because they may look different; some say they should return to where they came from or worry that they might take jobs. Yet many people say they love the Lord. On the contrary, some people still believe that there are two heavens—one for minorities and one for the majority. 

 

Even in these troubled times, God is still with us and remains in control. He has always been present. I’m reminded of the kings of Israel and Judah—David (2 Samuel 5), Hezekiah (2 Kings 19; Isaiah 37), Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20), and Jehoram (2 Kings 6)—who survived and overcame their enemies. In the name of Jesus Christ, we, the remnants, will overcome our enemies in this toxic political environment, too. “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalms 133:1).

Why Does Barack Obama Remain So Active in Politics After the Presidency?

            I think former President Barack Obama remains so visible in American politics because he combines political influence, widespread name recognition, a loyal following, and an ongoing connection to the Democratic Party—qualities few former presidents have maintained to the same degree. He’s one of the most visible former presidents still active in partisan politics. Former presidents Bill Clinton, Joe Biden, and Donald Trump have also remained politically involved in different ways. By contrast, George W. Bush has generally kept a lower profile in partisan political disputes. 

As of October 2026, Obama's involvement is particularly noticeable because he is campaigning for Democratic candidates in the midterm elections, appearing in endorsement videos, and helping raise money for congressional Democrats. His influence within the Democratic Party remains substantial. Obama remains a recognizable national figure who can draw attention, raise money, and encourage people to participate in elections. Democratic candidates can use his endorsement to introduce themselves to voters and connect their campaigns to his presidency. His 2026 fundraising appearances and campaign endorsements show that party leaders still see value in his participation.

President Obama’s political influence extends beyond his time in office. His public identity is closely tied to his historic election as the first Black president of the United States, his message of hope and change, and his ability to connect with large audiences. For many supporters, he represents an important chapter in American political history and aspirations they hope to preserve. For critics, his continued involvement may highlight the partisan divisions that persisted during his presidency. Either way, his public statements often draw attention that a less prominent former president might not receive.

Some ultra-conservative critics may feel that staying silent means giving up influence. I’d suggest that speaking out could draw attention to a corrupt government. Another possibility is that when a former president sees major disagreements over the country's direction, he can choose to stay largely outside partisan politics or use his reputation to support the candidates and principles he favors. Obama has chosen to engage at significant political moments, including by speaking publicly about democracy and supporting Democratic candidates. Some see this as responsible civic engagement, while others believe former presidents should give their successors more room to govern without a predecessor continuing to comment from the sidelines. Perspectives raise valid questions about a former president’s role in a divided democracy. Few politicians, former or current, seem to speak out against the blatant use of authority in governing this nation. 

Other former presidents have chosen different paths. Bill Clinton has remained involved through Democratic campaigning, public speaking, and the Clinton Foundation. His post-presidential career shows that Obama is not unique in maintaining political connections. George W. Bush has generally avoided partisan campaigning and focused more on veterans, his institute, painting, and other projects. His approach illustrates that a former president can remain publicly engaged without regularly campaigning for candidates. Joe Biden has made some appearances at Democratic events, but his post-presidential public schedule has been limited. Reporting in July 2026 described his cancer treatment as a significant constraint on his activities. 

President Obama remains visible in public life thanks to his enduring political following, his support for Democratic candidates, and his willingness to take part in major political debates. Meanwhile, other former presidents have found different ways to serve the public, and some have chosen to keep a lower profile in partisan disputes. A former president's influence isn’t necessarily a problem. What matters more is whether it encourages informed public debate, respects democratic institutions, and leaves voters willing to judge political leaders by their actions—not just their personalities or party affiliations.

Is the Battle Against the Church or Against Our Fellow Man?

The greatest battles we face in life aren’t always fought with swords, guns, or physical strength. Some of the hardest struggles happen in our hearts and minds, and in the relationships we share with one another. When we see division, conflict, judgment, and bitterness in our communities and even within the church, it’s worth pausing to ask ourselves: Is the battle against the church, or are we turning against one another? Our real enemy, the devil, would have many believe that there is a war against the church. We are blinded by this deception because we can’t see that Satan’s followers are using the church as a cover to sow discord and hate. 

The church was established as a place of worship, fellowship, healing, and spiritual growth—where the broken can find restoration, the weary can find rest, and the lost can discover hope. Yet at times, the very place meant to bring people together can become a place of division. We may find ourselves arguing over positions, titles, traditions, leadership, or personal opinions. When disagreements grow into divisions, our differences become reasons to turn against one another. But could we have misunderstood the real battle?

Perhaps the challenge isn’t the church itself, but what happens when human pride, jealousy, envy, unforgiveness, and selfish ambition enter the house of God. The building may be holy, the songs beautiful, and the sermons powerful, but when love is missing from our hearts, we risk losing sight of the very message we believe. Jesus said in John 13:34, “Love one another; as I have loved you.” This command reminds us that Christianity is about more than attending church, knowing Scripture, or holding a leadership position. It’s also about how we treat those sitting beside us, those who disagree with us, and even those who have hurt us. The real test of our faith is not only how we worship God in public, but how we treat His people when the service is over. 

Consider how often we oppose one another while striving to do what is right. We can choose to correct with compassion rather than criticize, seek understanding rather than condemn, and speak honestly with one another rather than spread rumors. It’s easy to focus on others’ mistakes and forget that we, too, need mercy. When we become more focused on proving someone wrong than showing them the love of Christ, we risk making one another the target and allowing personal conflict to overshadow the church’s mission. 

Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but also against spiritual forces of evil. This Scripture encourages us to look beyond the person before us and consider the deeper influences that can lead to hatred, division, deception, and bitterness. It doesn’t mean people aren’t responsible for their actions. Rather, it reminds us not to automatically treat another person as our enemy just because we disagree, have been hurt, or need to hold them accountable. 

There’s a meaningful difference between confronting wrongdoing and tearing down the person who made a mistake. It’s also important to distinguish protecting the church from using it as a weapon against people we disagree with. While standing up for truth matters, we must also ensure our desire to be right doesn’t overshadow our responsibility to show love and understanding. 

The church should be ready to address what is wrong, bring harmful behavior to light, and hold its leaders and members accountable. Love doesn’t ask us to stay silent in the face of injustice, abuse, or hypocrisy. Forgiveness doesn’t mean acting as though harm never happened, and unity doesn’t mean accepting wrongdoing. Lasting unity grows from truth, humility, repentance, and justice. This should be a shared commitment to pursue peace without compromising what is right. 

So, when conflict arises in the church, we must ask ourselves: Are we defending the truth, or are we protecting our pride? Are we trying to restore a brother or sister, a community or culture, or ruin reputations? Are we seeking unity, or are we simply looking for an opportunity to retaliate? These are difficult questions because sometimes the greatest battle is not happening around us; it is happening within us.

We can also remember that the church is made up of people who are still growing. No congregation is made up of perfect individuals. Each member carries a story, a struggle, a weakness, and a need for grace. Pastors, ushers, choir members, and those sitting quietly in the rows are all human. Each of us needs correction, encouragement, and compassion along the way. When we forget others' humanity, we may start seeing people as obstacles rather than souls. We may stop seeing a brother or sister who needs restoration and start seeing an opponent to defeat. 

But the church’s purpose isn’t to create winners and losers in personal conflicts. It’s to point people toward God, share the truth, serve others, and show the life-changing power of faith. Imagine what we could accomplish if we spent less time fighting one another and more time addressing the things that harm us: hatred, poverty, dishonesty, prejudice, violence, spiritual deception, and indifference to others’ suffering. Imagine if we turned the energy we spend tearing one another down toward lifting up those who have fallen, feeding the hungry, comforting those who are grieving, and reaching out to people who have lost hope. And imagine if we remembered that the person we disagree with is still a human being deserving of dignity—even when their actions need to be challenged. 

The question, then, is not whether the battle is against the church or our fellow man. It’s also worth asking whether our own attitudes and actions have become part of the problem. At times, we may blame the church when the deeper issue is our struggle to forgive. We may blame our fellow man when what we really need is a willingness to listen. Sometimes, we use the language of spiritual warfare to avoid responsibility for the wounds we’ve caused. 

Before we point fingers at the church, let’s take a moment to examine its people—and before we condemn one another, let’s look honestly at our own hearts. And before we say we’re fighting for God, let’s make sure we do so in a spirit that reflects Christ’s character. The church isn’t meant to be a battlefield where brothers and sisters tear one another down. It’s meant to be a place where we learn to stand together in truth, grow together in faith, and serve one another in love.

Ultimately, we’re all facing anything that tries to separate us from God and from one another. That includes pride that makes it hard to apologize, bitterness that makes it hard to forgive, hatred that keeps us from understanding each other, and hypocrisy that expects perfection from others while giving itself a pass. Someone may sometimes take the opposite side of an argument, but that doesn’t mean we have to make them our enemy. We can disagree while still treating one another with dignity, offer correction without humiliation, set boundaries without hostility, and stand up for the truth without letting go of compassion.

So, the next time we find ourselves in conflict within the church, let us pause before we speak, reflect before we accuse, and pray before we retaliate. Let us ask God for the wisdom to recognize wrongdoing, the courage to confront it, the humility to acknowledge our own faults, and the love to remember the humanity of those with whom we disagree. Because, in the end, the greatest tragedy is not that we have battles to fight, but that we sometimes turn our weapons against the very people we were called to love. 

The question remains: Is the battle against the church, or is it against our fellow man? Perhaps the answer begins when we stop asking whom we must defeat and start asking what we can overcome within ourselves. To fulfill its purpose, we must remember that truth without love can wound, correction without compassion can harm, and religion without humility can divide. But when truth is joined with love, accountability with mercy, and faith with action, the church can become what it was always called to be: a light in a dark world, a refuge for the broken, and a living testimony of God's grace.

Let’s not get so caught up in fighting one another that we lose sight of whom we’re called to serve. We don’t win the battle by tearing each other down; we win by overcoming what can diminish God’s love within us. Don’t allow race, cultures, religions, or creeds to block our blessings and eternal life with God because our prejudices stand in the way. Seek divine counsel, guidance, and wisdom, and let Jesus show us the way. He did it before and will do it again. He is the way, the light, and the truth.

Journeys Through the Wilderness!

When Comfort Becomes an Obstacle to Progress!

    In the Bible, Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, as told in the Book of Exodus. He guided them toward the Promised Land, a prosperous land God promised to give their ancestor Abraham. Although the land was abundant, reaching it came with many challenges. The Israelites faced obstacles, confronted fears, and relied on God during their wilderness journey—an era of testing, uncertainty, and unfamiliarity. Instead of moving toward new beginnings, their journey became a lengthy wandering. They spent forty years in the wilderness, and their lack of faith, disobedience, doubt, and reluctance to trust God's guidance delayed their arrival in the land God had pledged to give them. 

    Their story resonates with my own experiences of staying too long in comfortable situations where I knew, deep down, I should have moved on. Whether at work, in my living arrangements, relationships, or familiar surroundings, I've had moments when I sensed my season was over, yet I stayed. Perhaps fear of the unknown, concern about financial stability, attachment to what I built, or reluctance to start anew held me back. Through these reflections, I realize that comfort can sometimes hinder growth when it convinces us to stay where we no longer belong. 

    While I was in the wilderness, I believed I was being punished because things weren't going my way. Ironically, that wasn't what God wanted. I was being disobedient. I was foolish to think that. God was redirecting me where He intended. Something deep inside me knew I was wrong, but I had to stay in control—a foolish thought. God saw me at my worst and still forgave me, even when my pride kept me from kneeling, humbling myself, and praying for help. I was too comfortable in my ways to see that God was molding me for what He had for me. Where I was, I wasn't prepared for change. My stay in the wilderness was prolonged because of my disobedience, lack of faith, and obstinacy. 

    Familiarity provides comfort because we know the routines, expectations, and people around us. Even if these circumstances no longer help, we might convince ourselves that staying is safer than leaving. We anticipate disappointment, frustration, or unhappiness, but the unfamiliar calls for courage. It pushes us to leave what we know behind, trusting that something better might be achievable beyond our current situation. 

    Here's a reflection on the Israelites that feels warmer and more personal. They had seen God's incredible power firsthand — from the plagues that humbled Egypt to their miraculous escape through the Red Sea. Despite these amazing signs, when they faced difficulties in the wilderness, doubts began to creep in about the very God who had saved them. They started to remember Egypt not just as a place of slavery, but as a place where they had food and a sense of familiarity. Their suffering had become so routine that the thought of stepping into the unknown of freedom sometimes seemed more intimidating than staying in the bonds they once knew. 

    Have you ever noticed how often we fall into this pattern? We pray to God to help us out of tough times, and when He opens a door, sometimes we hold back, unsure or hesitant. We ask for change but then resist the adjustments it brings. We seek guidance, yet when the answer makes us uncomfortable, we wonder if we truly heard from God. Sometimes we even ask Him to bless a situation He might be calling us to let go of. Remember, His plans are always for our good, even when they challenge us. 

    I've realized that recognizing when change is needed and having the courage to take that step are two different things. It's understandable to know a workplace no longer feels right, a living situation has outlived its usefulness, or a season of life has naturally come to an end, yet still stay put. Many of us are waiting for the perfect moment, the right opportunity, or a clearer sign. Waiting can sometimes be wise and necessary, but other times, it’s simply an easy excuse to avoid the tough but important decision we need to make. 

    The question I need to consider is: Am I truly waiting on God, or am I expecting Him to decide when I've already been given the wisdom and courage to decide for myself? 

    Faith isn’t about acting recklessly or neglecting our responsibilities. Instead, it’s about seeking God's wisdom, honestly assessing our circumstances, preparing for what change may bring, and trusting Him, especially when we need the courage to take the next step. As Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us, we should trust in the Lord with all our hearts and acknowledge Him in everything we do, trusting Him to guide our way. Sometimes, that guidance doesn’t show us the whole journey—God often gives us just enough light to see the next step, even if we can’t see what’s ahead. 

    The wilderness in the Israelites' story reminds me that not every difficult season means I've chosen the wrong path. Some wilderness periods are essential for growth, teaching patience, discipline, humility, perseverance, and reliance on God. The challenge comes when I let fear, disobedience, or resistance extend a season longer than it should. I need to discern between a wilderness where God is shaping me and a situation I stay in because I am hesitant to move on. 

    There is a distinction between feeling comfortable and being at peace. Comfort often arises from routine, convenience, and predictability, while peace can be present even amid uncertain circumstances. I might feel uneasy about choosing a new path but still believe it is the right decision. Conversely, feeling comfortable in a familiar setting doesn’t mean I’m not neglecting something vital inside. It’s important to recognize that the lack of immediate difficulty doesn’t necessarily mean God's approval of staying where I am. 

    Reflecting on my past, I realize that fear of losing what I value sometimes blinded me to the chance of gaining what I truly needed. I might have stayed too long in comfort, prioritizing security over opportunity, familiarity over progress, or others' approval over my own convictions. Every day I avoid a necessary change is a lost opportunity, potentially delaying my growth and keeping experiences that could strengthen my faith out of reach. 

    I want to break free from the cycle of fear that keeps me going in circles and find the courage to take the next step. I aim to avoid later regret over years spent asking God for change while being hesitant to alter my own circumstances. My focus is on learning from each season, honestly assessing the conditions I accept, and being prepared to act when prayer, wisdom, and reflection indicate it's time to move. Remember, growth often begins just beyond our comfort zone, and each step forward brings us closer to a brighter future. 

    The Israelites' journey highlights that deliverance isn't always the conclusion of the struggle. Often, escaping Egypt is just the starting point. True freedom calls for faith, which must be paired with obedience. While the Promised Land promises abundance, reaching it demands leaving comfort behind, enduring hardship, and trusting God throughout the journey. 

    Today, I reflect on whether I am following God's guidance or just sticking to a familiar routine. Am I staying because I feel truly called, or out of fear of the unknown? Are my past experiences preparing me for the future, or keeping me stuck in the past? 

     I may not always know what lies ahead beyond the next door, but I can choose to let go of fear and not let it guide my decisions. I can pray for discernment, seek wise counsel, prepare responsibly, and trust God enough to step forward when the time feels right.

    My main concern shouldn't be the discomfort change can bring, but what I might miss by avoiding it. Staying in a familiar place isn't always where I'm meant to stay, and a challenging transition doesn't automatically mean I'm headed the wrong way. 

    God led the Israelites out of Egypt, but they still needed to learn to trust and rely on Him on their journey to the Promised Land. Similarly, I must realize that achieving the life I desire might require letting go of the familiar life I've become used to. I can't anticipate a new beginning if I cling to everything that prevents me from starting over. 

    My prayer is that God grants me wisdom to recognize when a season ends, patience to learn what He teaches, and courage to move on when necessary. I pray I never become complacent in temporary circumstances and lose sight of God's greater purpose for my life. When I stand at the crossroads between comfort and potential, I hope to remember that faith isn't just believing God can guide me to something new; it's also trusting enough to follow Him when He calls me forward. 

Anniversaries of Sorts!

We celebrated our 14-year anniversary last night with a couple of glasses of champagne. We popped the cork on the 2024 bottle we got for her birthday from Montage Point in Beaufort. My wife doesn’t drink, and I haven’t had anything strong for several months. In other words, I went to bed early. There was a time when I could finish an opened bottle of champagne. I feel much better mentally and physically by staying away from that old habit. 

 

I didn't sleep well either. It felt like I was waking up every two hours to use the bathroom, and I had the strangest dreams. They weren't violent or frightening, just odd. Even in my dream state, I wondered what I ate that might be causing such restless sleep. I got up around 5:30 to use the bathroom, then stayed up to read. I felt miserable and only had an apple and a few grapes for breakfast. I kept asking myself why I felt so off, and I had a strange sense of dread I couldn’t quite explain. 

 

Later today, after a quick fifteen-minute nap, I felt much better and more refreshed. Unfortunately, when I checked my emails on my iPhone, I saw a few texts, including the sad news that my former boss in the appliance business had passed away early this morning. I liked him, even though some of my colleagues at the time didn’t share the same feeling. He was firm yet fair, and I appreciated his approach to business. 

 

        He lived a long life, and while I can't say for sure it was perfect, he certainly seemed to have achieved a lot. His high-end appliance business grew to include several stores; he owned a beautiful home by the lake and drove luxury cars—things that generally require a good deal of capital. He shared lavish Christmas parties with his employees. His life is his story, just as each of us has our own past. Many of us look back and regret certain choices, but thankfully, many of us have also found ways to grow and become better. 

 

The family is looking forward to celebrating his life soon, while also holding space for the sadness of his passing. Even though many of us have faced the difficult experience of loved ones’ impending passing, we often find ourselves unprepared when it happens, feeling that it’s still so sudden. We tend to overlook the long suffering they endured, but we’re thankful they no longer must suffer and have found peace. While it’s a physical loss for us, spiritually they have gained eternity, offering a different kind of hope and comfort. 

 

It's truly heartfelt to see that, once all condolences are given and life begins to return to normal, family and friends still here might face renewed sadness and longing for their loved ones who have passed. That’s why I choose not to attend funeral services. I prefer my last memory of people I care about to be a happy one. He celebrated his 90th birthday with his former staff, and I enjoyed seeing staff and family members while they were alive, not as a reminder of someone who has passed away. 

 

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 says it best. “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens. A time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.” 

God Did This! Thank you, Lord!

This is my testimony, not a short story or an opinion. I wanted to share this experience.

 

On the morning of September 17, 2026, a wanderer approached me in KJ's parking lot after I put my groceries in. I waved him off before he could finish saying, "Excuse me." 

 

As I got into my vehicle, I looked down and picked up a crinkled $5 bill. It was there when I first got out, but I didn't look down until now. I would have spent it if I had found it initially.

 

He was turning away when I picked it up and told him that the Lord had blessed him with what I had found. If I had spotted that money before I went in, I would have spent it. Instead, I found a fish with a coin in the mouth. 

 

After I left, I realized that I wasn't really meant to see the money in the first place. It was part of God's plan to give it to someone who truly needed it. I was so excited that I forgot to ask the man for his name. The least I can do is keep him in my prayers. 

 

Everything happens for a reason. I wonder if I may have even witnessed an angel. It feels like there were special spiritual experiences unfolding, and I believe God was guiding them. Thank you, Lord. 

 

My entire day, starting early this morning, was guided by Him. From being first in line at the PO drop-off to finding what I needed at the grocery store, receiving my vaccines from the gentle-touch pharmacist, and preparing a delicious lunch for April, everything unfolded in perfect order. I feel so grateful and blessed. I must praise and thank God; He deserves it!