Dear President Obama,
Last Sunday, I woke up to the 9/11 Memorial Ceremony at Ground Zero. I was able to hear you speak to the attendees, who were sitting in the shadow of the ongoing construction on One World Trade Center. I have to admit I was surprised to hear you reciting the words of Psalm 46, which are below.
1God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
2Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
3though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling.
Selah
4There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.
6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;
he utters his voice, the earth melts.
7 The LORD of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah
8 Come, behold the works of the LORD,
how he has brought desolations on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the chariots with fire.
10 "Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!"
11 The LORD of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah
I don’t know if you or someone on your staff decided to read these verses, and I believe I can discern why these verses were a part of your comments the morning of the 10th anniversary of 9/11. However, I have a question to ask concerning these verses.
In verse 10, it states that “I [God] will be exalted among the nations.” President Obama, do you believe that God is really exalted in our nation, the United States of America? Do you believe your leadership and your policies “exalt” God in the country you govern?
Mr. President, I have to be honest. I don’t believe your policies exalt the God I serve.
I will be honest again and say that when I first sat down to write this letter to you, I wanted to immediately blast you for all your policies, which, in my “unbiased” point of view, are totally opposed to Christian theology. However, when I reflected on God’s words in the Bible, which I should always do, but most of the time don’t, I didn’t, as quickly, reach the same adamant conclusion that your policies are extremely false. I truly asked myself, “What would Jesus do if He were President of the USA?” Answering this question required a little more thinking.
I would like to discuss many of your principles that I believe you could “work on,” but I will highlight two in this letter. Another letter may be forthcoming, though!
First, I believe that your decisions concerning homosexual policy adamantly opposes God’s clear direction in His Word. In 1 Timothy 1:8-11, the scripture states that homosexuality is “contrary to sound doctrine.” Also, in 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, homosexuality is labeled “unrighteous.” Your opposition to California’s Proposition 8 and your call for the repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) certainly make it easier to be involved in a homosexual relationship, and God’s word strongly states that homosexuality is sin. However, all of these verses also state that God’s saving grace through His son, Jesus, can “wash us clean” of the sin of homosexuality. President Obama, I must confess that I, too often, criticize the homosexual community and do not love them as God has commanded us. Can I ask that you and I both agree that legislation simplifying homosexual relationships should be discouraged? However, I would also ask that we, as Americans, comfort our brothers and sisters who are struggling with the sin of homosexuality and help them overcome these temptations, an objective, I doubt, that can be accomplished through a law.
Secondly, I don’t believe your leadership style exudes the humility God would desire. It is hard to fully comprehend the intentions behind all of your decisions because I am a long way away from Washington, DC, but from Alabama, it appears that you like to hear yourself talk. You have laughed at a former decorated war veteran and Presidential nominee, you have demanded that Congressmen and Congresswomen approve your legislation, “no questions asked,” and you have given more speeches than many past Presidents have given in their whole life. As I said earlier, I do not and probably will never understand your reasoning, but I would ask that you heed the words of 2 Chronicles 7:14, and “humble yourself and pray.” Mr. President, I struggle with being humble, also, but I believe God can do so much more with our humble attempts.
Mr. President, please understand that I firmly believe in the words given in Romans 13:1, and God has appointed you as leader of this great nation. However, I humbly ask that you consider the words you recited from Psalm 46:10. Can you help this nation exalt God and can you encourage the citizens you govern to lift up the Most High?
Sincerely,
Stuart Saulters
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Dear Governor Rick Perry,
Dear Governor Rick Perry,
First, let me congratulate you on your bid to be the Republican Presidential nominee. You have done some incredible things in Texas during your governorship, and I believe your conservative policies would greatly progress our country if you are selected to be the next president. I love politics, and I am excited to watch the upcoming campaign season.
I have been meaning to write this letter to you since “The Response” that was held at Reliant Stadium a few weekends ago. I was very impressed by your desire and drive to host such an event. I can only imagine, and I have seen some of the negative attacks toward you and your reputation because you put so much into this event. However, as an evangelical Christian, it is encouraging to watch leaders humbly admit that they are not solely responsible for governing the people in their cities, counties, states, or nations, but it is only by the wisdom and power given to them by God Almighty that leaders can rule responsibly. Not too many leaders will acknowledge the verses in Romans 13, which state all authority is instituted by God. I believe your efforts to coordinate “The Response” show that you do truly acknowledge God’s sovereignty.
Governor Perry, I would like to warn you. Please do not “play games” with Christian evangelicals. I understand that planning for “The Response” started back in December of 2010, but you have to admit that the timing of this event was rather coincidental, considering your announcement to run for president came just a week after “The Response.” I hope that your motivation to work hard and coordinate this successful event was pure. You truly wanted Americans to exercise God’s Old Testament challenge given in 2 Chronicles 7:14.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
Governor Perry, I am going to give you the benefit of a doubt and believe that you truly do have a desire to serve God Almighty as a political leader, but please do not use God to achieve your political desires. He deserves more respect than to be used for political gain.
Respectfully,
Stuart Saulters
First, let me congratulate you on your bid to be the Republican Presidential nominee. You have done some incredible things in Texas during your governorship, and I believe your conservative policies would greatly progress our country if you are selected to be the next president. I love politics, and I am excited to watch the upcoming campaign season.
I have been meaning to write this letter to you since “The Response” that was held at Reliant Stadium a few weekends ago. I was very impressed by your desire and drive to host such an event. I can only imagine, and I have seen some of the negative attacks toward you and your reputation because you put so much into this event. However, as an evangelical Christian, it is encouraging to watch leaders humbly admit that they are not solely responsible for governing the people in their cities, counties, states, or nations, but it is only by the wisdom and power given to them by God Almighty that leaders can rule responsibly. Not too many leaders will acknowledge the verses in Romans 13, which state all authority is instituted by God. I believe your efforts to coordinate “The Response” show that you do truly acknowledge God’s sovereignty.
Governor Perry, I would like to warn you. Please do not “play games” with Christian evangelicals. I understand that planning for “The Response” started back in December of 2010, but you have to admit that the timing of this event was rather coincidental, considering your announcement to run for president came just a week after “The Response.” I hope that your motivation to work hard and coordinate this successful event was pure. You truly wanted Americans to exercise God’s Old Testament challenge given in 2 Chronicles 7:14.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
Governor Perry, I am going to give you the benefit of a doubt and believe that you truly do have a desire to serve God Almighty as a political leader, but please do not use God to achieve your political desires. He deserves more respect than to be used for political gain.
Respectfully,
Stuart Saulters
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Dear Andy Stanley...
Dear Andy Stanley,
I want to thank you for writing such a great book that details a simple principle that I have always known but have never fully grasped. Your book, The Principle of the Path, was a Christmas present from my in-laws, and I finally got the chance to read it during a vacation to Puerto Rico. Andy, this book is great, and I am going to do my best to hold on to the following scripturally-based points of your book as I progress through this life journey God has granted me.
Andy, your prayer based on Proverbs 27:12, which states, "Lord, help us to see trouble coming long before it gets here. And give us the wisdom to know what to do and the courage to do it," is going to be a part of mine and my wife's daily prayers. God has given us a brain to detect danger, but too often, I like to "flirt" with that danger. I struggle with taking "refuge." Instead, I plow forward and "suffer." Now, I have this prayer in my "tool box," and I know God will grant both my wife and I wisdom if we simply ask.
Secondly, the questions you provided for decision making are very helpful. These questions, listed below, cause me to truly reflect on the decisions I am making.
1. Why am I doing this, really?
2. If someone in my circumstances came to me for advice, what course of action would I recommend?
3. In light of my past experience, future hopes, and my dreams, what is the wise thing to do?
You are correct that truthfully answering these questions will force me not to allow my heart, which the Bible states is deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9), to factor into my decision. My answers to these questions will allow me to make a decision which will result in circumstances that are best for me.
Finally, Andy, I thank you for detailing an Old Testament story that I was not too familiar with. Your account of David as he left Jerusalem after Absalom's reign began was insightful and a reminder to me that God cannot be manipulated, and I must submit to whatever future God holds for me. Thank you for pointing me to the verses in 2 Samuel which say, "Then the king (David) said to Zadok, 'Take the ark of God back into the city. If I find favor in the Lord's eyes, he will bring me back and let me see it and his dwelling place again. But if he says, "I am not pleased with you," then I am ready; let him do to me whatever seems good to him'" (v. 15:25-26). David's humble submission to God's sovereign plan was inspiring, and a great pre-cursor to the ultimate example of submission exemplified by Jesus Christ, when he states, "Yet not my will, but yours be done" (Luke 22:42).
Andy, thanks again for offering this great principle. I hope others will adhere to these practical thoughts as they pursue a God-honoring walk in this world.
Stuart Saulters
I want to thank you for writing such a great book that details a simple principle that I have always known but have never fully grasped. Your book, The Principle of the Path, was a Christmas present from my in-laws, and I finally got the chance to read it during a vacation to Puerto Rico. Andy, this book is great, and I am going to do my best to hold on to the following scripturally-based points of your book as I progress through this life journey God has granted me.
Andy, your prayer based on Proverbs 27:12, which states, "Lord, help us to see trouble coming long before it gets here. And give us the wisdom to know what to do and the courage to do it," is going to be a part of mine and my wife's daily prayers. God has given us a brain to detect danger, but too often, I like to "flirt" with that danger. I struggle with taking "refuge." Instead, I plow forward and "suffer." Now, I have this prayer in my "tool box," and I know God will grant both my wife and I wisdom if we simply ask.
Secondly, the questions you provided for decision making are very helpful. These questions, listed below, cause me to truly reflect on the decisions I am making.
1. Why am I doing this, really?
2. If someone in my circumstances came to me for advice, what course of action would I recommend?
3. In light of my past experience, future hopes, and my dreams, what is the wise thing to do?
You are correct that truthfully answering these questions will force me not to allow my heart, which the Bible states is deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9), to factor into my decision. My answers to these questions will allow me to make a decision which will result in circumstances that are best for me.
Finally, Andy, I thank you for detailing an Old Testament story that I was not too familiar with. Your account of David as he left Jerusalem after Absalom's reign began was insightful and a reminder to me that God cannot be manipulated, and I must submit to whatever future God holds for me. Thank you for pointing me to the verses in 2 Samuel which say, "Then the king (David) said to Zadok, 'Take the ark of God back into the city. If I find favor in the Lord's eyes, he will bring me back and let me see it and his dwelling place again. But if he says, "I am not pleased with you," then I am ready; let him do to me whatever seems good to him'" (v. 15:25-26). David's humble submission to God's sovereign plan was inspiring, and a great pre-cursor to the ultimate example of submission exemplified by Jesus Christ, when he states, "Yet not my will, but yours be done" (Luke 22:42).
Andy, thanks again for offering this great principle. I hope others will adhere to these practical thoughts as they pursue a God-honoring walk in this world.
Stuart Saulters
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Dear Rush...
Dear Rush,
I enjoy your radio show, and I believe you are quite the entertainer, despite what my wife may call you. On Friday, June 17th, I was off from work, and I decided to go for a run while your daily radio show was being broadcasted. I tuned into the local radio station on “I Heart Radio” and listened to your commentary.
During your show, you discussed Sarah Palin, and you noted that most people assume Sarah Palin cannot be President. However, these people also reason that the eventual Republican Presidential nominee must have Ms. Palin’s endorsement. You made the comment that this discrepancy was incredibly confusing and just didn’t make sense to you. Rush, I have to agree that Sarah Palin will never be President, but I strongly believe that whoever walks on the stage in Tampa, Florida in 2012 as the Republican contender will have a supporter that used to be the Governor of Alaska. To explain my thinking, I want to re-introduce a term, which I know you are familiar with, but seem to have forgotten. The term is “kingmaker.”
Over the past years, America has seen several kingmakers, and I want to talk about one in particular, James Dobson.
Dr. James Dobson is the founder of Focus on the Family, and now, hosts a radio show with his son, Ryan Dobson. Dr. Dobson was the leader of Focus on the Family for several years, and through this organization touched many people’s lives by encouraging them and teaching them incredible moral lessons. He also had an outreach to hundreds of people, and honestly, these people would do whatever he said. His opinion on past Presidential nominees determined the vote of numerous social conservatives who tuned into the daily Focus on the Family radio broadcast, which, to me, made Dr. Dobson a kingmaker.
Dr. Dobson would never have been and will never be elected as the President of this great land. His socially conservative opinions are considered “too extreme” by many, but he has probably endorsed more eventual Presidents than not. And, as the 2012 election approaches, Dr. Dobson may be a little closer to backing away from the microphone, but I guarantee there are several individuals who are going to seek his wisdom and insight to determine who will gain their vote. Would you agree?
Karl Rove and James Carville would also be “kingmakers,” and if you would like to discuss my thoughts about these individuals, just let me know!
Have a great day!
Stuart Saulters
I enjoy your radio show, and I believe you are quite the entertainer, despite what my wife may call you. On Friday, June 17th, I was off from work, and I decided to go for a run while your daily radio show was being broadcasted. I tuned into the local radio station on “I Heart Radio” and listened to your commentary.
During your show, you discussed Sarah Palin, and you noted that most people assume Sarah Palin cannot be President. However, these people also reason that the eventual Republican Presidential nominee must have Ms. Palin’s endorsement. You made the comment that this discrepancy was incredibly confusing and just didn’t make sense to you. Rush, I have to agree that Sarah Palin will never be President, but I strongly believe that whoever walks on the stage in Tampa, Florida in 2012 as the Republican contender will have a supporter that used to be the Governor of Alaska. To explain my thinking, I want to re-introduce a term, which I know you are familiar with, but seem to have forgotten. The term is “kingmaker.”
Over the past years, America has seen several kingmakers, and I want to talk about one in particular, James Dobson.
Dr. James Dobson is the founder of Focus on the Family, and now, hosts a radio show with his son, Ryan Dobson. Dr. Dobson was the leader of Focus on the Family for several years, and through this organization touched many people’s lives by encouraging them and teaching them incredible moral lessons. He also had an outreach to hundreds of people, and honestly, these people would do whatever he said. His opinion on past Presidential nominees determined the vote of numerous social conservatives who tuned into the daily Focus on the Family radio broadcast, which, to me, made Dr. Dobson a kingmaker.
Dr. Dobson would never have been and will never be elected as the President of this great land. His socially conservative opinions are considered “too extreme” by many, but he has probably endorsed more eventual Presidents than not. And, as the 2012 election approaches, Dr. Dobson may be a little closer to backing away from the microphone, but I guarantee there are several individuals who are going to seek his wisdom and insight to determine who will gain their vote. Would you agree?
Karl Rove and James Carville would also be “kingmakers,” and if you would like to discuss my thoughts about these individuals, just let me know!
Have a great day!
Stuart Saulters
Friday, June 17, 2011
The Beginning
Hello y'all!
First, I want to explain that I am new to this whole "blogging" thing, and I have to admit that I was a little skeptical to blogs in the beginning. My wife is an avid blogger, and she is always frustrated with me that random people in Timbuktu read her blog more than me. I simply say that I live the writings, so why do I have to read it? And, gentlemen, let me tell you that you should probably stray away from comments similar to that one!
Since I see my wife's enjoyment with blogging and I also hear several friends and acquaintances embellish their blogs, I thought I should give it a try, so...
To begin, a little about me. I am a 20-something engineer who works in Mississippi but lives in Alabama on the shores of the Mobile Bay. From the title of this blog, hopefully you can discern that initially, I am a Christian, who believes that Jesus Christ is God's son, and His death on the cross allowed anyone that believes in salvation through Jesus Christ to have a relationship with God and live eternally. Secondly, bowties symbolizes "all things Stuart," which encompasses a various assortment of "my favorties" including golf, cigars, seersucker, and a delectable dinner. Lastly, the title includes elephants, not to say that I have a deep love for the mammoth beasts, but to show that I thoroughly enjoy politics, and with this delight comes my belief that the Republican Party is, no doubt, the party with the ideals that will allow the USA to be a properous nation.
Now, the thoughts behind my blog, which is going to be a little different...
Have you ever wanted to write a letter and share your opinion with someone who you would have no chance at ever talking to, such as Jesus, Abraham Lincoln, or Ke$ha?
Probably not, but I have, and because of this thinking, I have created this blog as my attempt to share my thoughts with a person in the form of a written letter. I hope you enjoy reading my letters, and please feel free to share your thoughts and comments.
Happy reading!!
First, I want to explain that I am new to this whole "blogging" thing, and I have to admit that I was a little skeptical to blogs in the beginning. My wife is an avid blogger, and she is always frustrated with me that random people in Timbuktu read her blog more than me. I simply say that I live the writings, so why do I have to read it? And, gentlemen, let me tell you that you should probably stray away from comments similar to that one!
Since I see my wife's enjoyment with blogging and I also hear several friends and acquaintances embellish their blogs, I thought I should give it a try, so...
To begin, a little about me. I am a 20-something engineer who works in Mississippi but lives in Alabama on the shores of the Mobile Bay. From the title of this blog, hopefully you can discern that initially, I am a Christian, who believes that Jesus Christ is God's son, and His death on the cross allowed anyone that believes in salvation through Jesus Christ to have a relationship with God and live eternally. Secondly, bowties symbolizes "all things Stuart," which encompasses a various assortment of "my favorties" including golf, cigars, seersucker, and a delectable dinner. Lastly, the title includes elephants, not to say that I have a deep love for the mammoth beasts, but to show that I thoroughly enjoy politics, and with this delight comes my belief that the Republican Party is, no doubt, the party with the ideals that will allow the USA to be a properous nation.
Now, the thoughts behind my blog, which is going to be a little different...
Have you ever wanted to write a letter and share your opinion with someone who you would have no chance at ever talking to, such as Jesus, Abraham Lincoln, or Ke$ha?
Probably not, but I have, and because of this thinking, I have created this blog as my attempt to share my thoughts with a person in the form of a written letter. I hope you enjoy reading my letters, and please feel free to share your thoughts and comments.
Happy reading!!
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