When faced with uncertain times, we have no choice but to place our trust in something greater than ourselves. This is because in these times we do not have the answers and must seek them from someone or something greater than us. Some of us turn to God in these times, but who do people choosing not to believe in God turn to? In this posting, we will contrast trusting on God during these times against trusting in government programs and officials to help us.
Philippians 4:19 says “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” (NLT). Those choosing to place their trust in God are depending on God to supply their needs out of his resources. The question we must ask is if God is willing to meet our needs. In addition, does God have the resources to meet our needs?
During a great famine in Israel, a poor widow was preparing to cook the last meal for her son and herself when she encountered Elijah. This is the Biblical account of the story.
1 Kings 17:10-16
"Would you please bring me a cup of water?" 11 As she was going to get it, he called to her, "Bring me a bite of bread, too."
12 But she said, "I swear by the LORD your God that I don't have a single piece of bread in the house. And I have only a handful of flour left in the jar and a little cooking oil in the bottom of the jug. I was just gathering a few sticks to cook this last meal, and then my son and I will die."
13 But Elijah said to her, "Don't be afraid! Go ahead and cook that 'last meal,' but bake me a little loaf of bread first. Afterward there will still be enough food for you and your son. 14 For this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: There will always be plenty of flour and oil left in your containers until the time when the LORD sends rain and the crops grow again!"
15 So she did as Elijah said, and she and Elijah and her son continued to eat from her supply of flour and oil for many days. 16 For no matter how much they used, there was always enough left in the containers, just as the LORD had promised through Elijah.
NLT
However, how do we know this is not just some mythological story that cannot be verified? Since there no witnesses living to verify the story, we can only look at the facts surrounding the story. First, there was a drought in the land at this time. Second, Elijah, a Jewish prophet was traveling to a Gentile city, hardly a place where he would be welcomed. If a Jewish prophet had entered a Gentile city and demanded a poor starving widow’s last meal, there is not doubt the other inhabitants of the city would have turned him over to the King from whom Elijah was running. The only reason the inhabitants would not have turned Elijah in is if they believed the widow’s needs were being taken care of, which they were in a supernatural fashion by God.
In another case, Peter and Jesus owed their taxes but lacked the resources to pay them. This is the biblical account of the story.
Matt 17:24-27
24 On their arrival in Capernaum, the tax collectors for the Temple tax came to Peter and asked him, "Doesn't your teacher pay the Temple tax?"
25 "Of course he does," Peter replied. Then he went into the house to talk to Jesus about it.
But before he had a chance to speak, Jesus asked him, "What do you think, Peter? Do kings tax their own people or the foreigners they have conquered?"
26 "They tax the foreigners," Peter replied.
"Well, then," Jesus said, "the citizens are free! 27 However, we don't want to offend them, so go down to the lake and throw in a line. Open the mouth of the first fish you catch, and you will find a coin. Take the coin and pay the tax for both of us."
NLT
Once again, the Bible presents a story for which we have no direct verification. However, since the Roman government and Jewish high priests at the time viewed Jesus as a threat, they would have taken any opportunity to arrest him. The fact that we have no record of an arrest of Jesus, other than the account in the Garden of Gethsemane, forces us to believe that Jesus and Peter were able to pay their tax. Otherwise, the Roman's would have arrested them for non-payment of their taxes.
As far as having the resources to meet our needs we have to look at Genesis 1. If we are going to choose to trust God to meet our needs, we must also believe that He created everything around us. If God created everything around us, it is not difficult to believe that he can meet our needs. This is a biblical account of some of the resources God possesses.
Ps 50:10-12
10 For all the animals of the forest are mine,
and I own the cattle on a thousand hills.
11 Every bird of the mountains
and all the animals of the field belong to me.
12 If I were hungry, I would not mention it to you,
for all the world is mine and everything in it.
NLT
The story of the widow and Elijah along with the story of Peter and Jesus paying their taxes show us that God is willing to meet our needs. The account in Psalms 50:10-12 and Genesis 1 show us he has the resources to meet our needs and if for some reason he does not have the resources, he can create them. However, if we choose not to believe in God to meet our needs, we can always trust in the Government.
The Government is willing to meet our needs. At least that is what politicians say during political campaigns. However, the continual war on poverty and failure of government programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid say differently. During political campaigns, politicians will say anything to get votes. However, once they get into office and discover that they lack the resources to make good on their promises, the needs of the voters who placed them in office, often are forgotten.
However, politicians can pass legislation to meet the voter’s needs by taking it from others through taxation, printing or creating more money, or borrowing it from some foreign government. So, let us take a moment to look at the effects of these policies.
Taxing others to meet the needs of voters may meet the voter’s needs that the politician promised to meet in the election, but it creates needs in other areas. For example, taxing the wealthy to provide healthcare or additional entitlement programs means that wealthy employers have less capital to build their businesses. In fact, they may have to downsize their businesses to pay the additional taxes. This means fewer new jobs and lay-offs due to downsizing. Therefore, voters receive the promised healthcare plan and other entitlement programs at the expense of jobs.
Printing or creating more money to meet these needs increases the money supply in the economy. This leads to inflation through devaluation of the dollar because it takes more dollars to pay for what we want to buy. In other words, the voter’s needs are met at the expense of paying more for other things they need
Borrowing money from foreign countries places us at their mercy. What if the foreign country demands immediate payment of the debt? What if our country lacks the resources to pay the debt? This situation could compromise our national security and place the population at risk. In other words, the voter’s needs are met at the expense of national security.
The problem with dependence on Government to meet our needs is that even if the Government has the desire to meet the voter’s needs, they lack the resources to do so and must take resources away from someone else, cause inflation, or risk national security to make good on their promises.
This is why I believe that the best place to put our trust during uncertain times is in God. Even though both God and Government may have the desire to meet our needs, their motives for having this desire are different. God loves us and does not want to see us perish.
Ps 37:25
25 Once I was young, and now I am old.
Yet I have never seen the godly forsaken,
nor seen their children begging for bread.
NLT
John 3:16
16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
NLT
God’s motives are to care for our physical needs out of his rich resources and meet our spiritual needs though the sacrifice of his only Son, Jesus. Politicians running for office are only interested in one thing, our vote. After receiving our vote, they have little incentive to work on meeting our needs, at least until the next election.
However, the biggest reason for my belief in placing our trust in God is that he has infinite resources available for meeting our needs. This does not mean we will all have a mansion or luxury car if we place our trust in God, but that our physical needs (Philippians 4:19, Psalm 37:25, Matthew 6:33) and spiritual needs (John 3:16) will be met.
Take a moment today and place your trust in God. If you have not placed your trust in God for meeting your spiritual need for salvation, I encourage you to do it know. The Bible tells us in Romans 10:9-10
9 For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved.
NLT
Now with the same trust you placed in God to save you, trust him to meet your physical needs as well and watch what happens.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Lessons From the Primaries of 08/24/2010
The primary elections this week are over. Now it is time for the Monday morning quarterbacks to begin analyzing what happened. The election in Alaska proves that the polls are not always right and that even after voters cast their vote, we must be diligent to insure no vote tampering occurs. The gubernatorial primary in Florida provides a roadmap for conservative victory in the general election.
The Alaskan Republican Senatorial Primary
Less than a month before Tuesday’s Republican Senatorial Primary, Joe Miller trailed Incumbent Sen. Lisa Murkowski 61.8% to 29.6%. However, after Tuesdays election, Joe Miller holds a 2300 vote lead with 13000 absentee ballots left to count leading to the question of how the pollsters could be so wrong (Gizzi, 2010).
.
Pollsters have observed that when a conservative challenger goes up against a moderate Republican candidate there is usually a late surge as occurred in this election. There is also the demographics of Alaska, which is a large state with a small population that spreads out over a large area making it difficult for pollsters to generate a representative sampling for their polls (Gizzi, 2010).
.
However, I believe the main reason for the disparity in the polls is the underestimation by pollsters of the role conservatives play in Republican primaries. Liberals usually underestimate the large turnout of conservatives when a truly conservative candidate energizes them. It also helps when well-known conservatives like Sarah Palin and Mike Huckabee endorse the candidate. In this election, the effect of the Tea Party Movement, driven by the failures of the current Congress and Administration, is causing many independents to favor conservatives.
However, the election in Alaska also reminds us that it is not over until the election is officially certified. With over 13000 absentee ballots left to count, the election is too close to call at this point. Experts believe that Joe Miller will win based upon where the absentee ballots are coming from but there are rumors of “found” ballots ala Al Franken (Erickson, 2010a). The Miller campaign must remain diligent and investigate any allegations of found ballots to insure no vote tampering is occurring between now and when the election is officially certified.
Lessons from the Florida Republican Gubernatorial Primary
Some pundits believe Rick Scott bought the Florida GOP gubernatorial primary (Erickson, 2010b), but that is shallow thinking and fails to look at the bigger picture. Although spending a lot of money allows a candidate to purchase advertising and gain name recognition, voters also consider a candidates stand on the issues when voting. Looking at the campaign of Rick Scott provides valuable lessons for candidates in the general election.
Rick Scott ran on a conservative agenda. He ran as a common sense businessman, a pro-lifer, and as someone who could create jobs (Erickson, 2010b). With the economy in a recession and out of control government spending, the voters were attracted to Rick Scott, believing his business savvy would bring fiscal responsibility to the state budget and create an atmosphere of job creation for the state.
His opponent ran a smear campaign but Rick Scott stuck to the issues and his conservative values (Erickson, 2010b). The lesson his campaign teaches is that conservatives can win in November by sticking to the issues and their conservative values and not resorting to a smear campaign. The voters this year are well informed and seek leaders who will lead them out of the current economic malaise.
Conclusion:
Conservative victory is possible by candidates sticking to their conservative values and the important issues (i.e. the economy and jobs), and not resorting to a smear campaign as most likely will be done by their opponents. However, the candidates must be on guard against any vote tampering before, during, and after the votes are cast. The important thing for all conservatives is to go out, vote in November, and take as many fellow conservatives to the polls with them as they can.
References:
Erickson, E. (2010a, August). Red alert: Emergency in Alaska. Retrieved from http://www.redstate.com/erick/2010/08/26/red-alert-emergency-in-alaska/
Erickson, E. (2010b, August). Lessons for conservatives from the Rick Scott campaign. Retrieved from http://www.redstate.com/erick/2010/08/25/lessons-for-conservatives-from-the-rick-scott-campaign
Gizzi, J. (2010, August). Why pollsters were wrong on Alaska. Retrieved from http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=38712
The Alaskan Republican Senatorial Primary
Less than a month before Tuesday’s Republican Senatorial Primary, Joe Miller trailed Incumbent Sen. Lisa Murkowski 61.8% to 29.6%. However, after Tuesdays election, Joe Miller holds a 2300 vote lead with 13000 absentee ballots left to count leading to the question of how the pollsters could be so wrong (Gizzi, 2010).
.
Pollsters have observed that when a conservative challenger goes up against a moderate Republican candidate there is usually a late surge as occurred in this election. There is also the demographics of Alaska, which is a large state with a small population that spreads out over a large area making it difficult for pollsters to generate a representative sampling for their polls (Gizzi, 2010).
.
However, I believe the main reason for the disparity in the polls is the underestimation by pollsters of the role conservatives play in Republican primaries. Liberals usually underestimate the large turnout of conservatives when a truly conservative candidate energizes them. It also helps when well-known conservatives like Sarah Palin and Mike Huckabee endorse the candidate. In this election, the effect of the Tea Party Movement, driven by the failures of the current Congress and Administration, is causing many independents to favor conservatives.
However, the election in Alaska also reminds us that it is not over until the election is officially certified. With over 13000 absentee ballots left to count, the election is too close to call at this point. Experts believe that Joe Miller will win based upon where the absentee ballots are coming from but there are rumors of “found” ballots ala Al Franken (Erickson, 2010a). The Miller campaign must remain diligent and investigate any allegations of found ballots to insure no vote tampering is occurring between now and when the election is officially certified.
Lessons from the Florida Republican Gubernatorial Primary
Some pundits believe Rick Scott bought the Florida GOP gubernatorial primary (Erickson, 2010b), but that is shallow thinking and fails to look at the bigger picture. Although spending a lot of money allows a candidate to purchase advertising and gain name recognition, voters also consider a candidates stand on the issues when voting. Looking at the campaign of Rick Scott provides valuable lessons for candidates in the general election.
Rick Scott ran on a conservative agenda. He ran as a common sense businessman, a pro-lifer, and as someone who could create jobs (Erickson, 2010b). With the economy in a recession and out of control government spending, the voters were attracted to Rick Scott, believing his business savvy would bring fiscal responsibility to the state budget and create an atmosphere of job creation for the state.
His opponent ran a smear campaign but Rick Scott stuck to the issues and his conservative values (Erickson, 2010b). The lesson his campaign teaches is that conservatives can win in November by sticking to the issues and their conservative values and not resorting to a smear campaign. The voters this year are well informed and seek leaders who will lead them out of the current economic malaise.
Conclusion:
Conservative victory is possible by candidates sticking to their conservative values and the important issues (i.e. the economy and jobs), and not resorting to a smear campaign as most likely will be done by their opponents. However, the candidates must be on guard against any vote tampering before, during, and after the votes are cast. The important thing for all conservatives is to go out, vote in November, and take as many fellow conservatives to the polls with them as they can.
References:
Erickson, E. (2010a, August). Red alert: Emergency in Alaska. Retrieved from http://www.redstate.com/erick/2010/08/26/red-alert-emergency-in-alaska/
Erickson, E. (2010b, August). Lessons for conservatives from the Rick Scott campaign. Retrieved from http://www.redstate.com/erick/2010/08/25/lessons-for-conservatives-from-the-rick-scott-campaign
Gizzi, J. (2010, August). Why pollsters were wrong on Alaska. Retrieved from http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=38712
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
The Power of Innovation
Innovation is the driving force of economic growth. The innovation of manned space flight drove the economic boom of the 1960’s. The innovation of computer technology drove the boom of the 1980’s. The innovation of the Internet drove the boom of the 1990’s. However, we must ask the question, where is the innovation of the 2000’s? Is this lack of innovation a reason for the economic recession we are currently experiencing? What is the cause of this lack of innovation?
Adam Bernhard has discovered success in retailing in the middle of the worst recession since the Great Depression. In a recent interview for Entrepreneur Magazine, the interviewer asked for his advice about going into the retail business. His response was surprising. He said not to do it. His reason is that he credits his success with innovation and not a booming retail market (Moore, 2010). The success experienced by Mr. Bernhard demonstrates the power of innovation even in tough economic times.
One potential reason for a lack of innovation is failure of leaders of organizations to foster an organizational atmospheres that encourages innovative thinking ("Innovation and leadership," 2008). One way to begin fostering this atmosphere is for leaders of organizations to hire entrepreneurial-type employees. They should seek out employees who have been entrepreneurial in the past (Peters, 1991). In the fast changing world of the twenty-first century, leaders of organizations must tap into and use the entrepreneurial skills of their employees to develop innovative ideas. It is out of this think tank of knowledge that the next great innovation driving economic growth will come from.
However, there are also external threats to innovation. In our current recession, the main source of these threats is uncertainty caused by the rapidly changing economic policies of the current administration. The potential tax increases that will result from the grandfathering of the tax cuts of 2003 threaten the profitability of organizations that are already struggling to remain profitable. Intel CEO Otellini stated, “Unless government policies are altered …, the next big thing will not be invented here. Jobs will not be created here” (Faughnan, 2010, para 2).
To grow, organizations like Intel must plan but planning is difficult when there is uncertainty about economic policies (i.e. taxation, healthcare, energy costs) coming out of Washington D.C. If our current leaders are unable, or unwilling, to provide pro-innovation policies, they need to be replaced by leaders that will. The first decade of the twenty-first century is almost over without any significant innovation. We cannot afford to go much longer without some innovation to fuel economic growth. When voting in the November 2010 and November 2012 elections, we must elect leaders who will enact policies favoring innovation. Then it is up to the owners of organizations to hire employees and CEO’s that will foster an organizational atmosphere of innovation.
References:
Faughnan, B. (August 24, 2010). Intel CEO Otellini: The democrats are destroying our economy. Retrieved from http://www.redstate.com/brianfaughnan/2010/08/24/intel-ceo-otellini-the-democrats-are-destroying-our-economy/
Innovation and leadership. (2008). Strategic Direction, 24(5), 36. doi:1464052911 ProQuest Database
Moore, B. (2010, September). Who says no one is shopping. Entrepreneur, 38(9), 26-30.
Peters, T. (1991). Part two: Get innovative or get dead. California Management Review, 33(2), 9. Retrieved from http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=288717&Fmt=7&clientld=13118&RQT=309&VName=PQD
Adam Bernhard has discovered success in retailing in the middle of the worst recession since the Great Depression. In a recent interview for Entrepreneur Magazine, the interviewer asked for his advice about going into the retail business. His response was surprising. He said not to do it. His reason is that he credits his success with innovation and not a booming retail market (Moore, 2010). The success experienced by Mr. Bernhard demonstrates the power of innovation even in tough economic times.
One potential reason for a lack of innovation is failure of leaders of organizations to foster an organizational atmospheres that encourages innovative thinking ("Innovation and leadership," 2008). One way to begin fostering this atmosphere is for leaders of organizations to hire entrepreneurial-type employees. They should seek out employees who have been entrepreneurial in the past (Peters, 1991). In the fast changing world of the twenty-first century, leaders of organizations must tap into and use the entrepreneurial skills of their employees to develop innovative ideas. It is out of this think tank of knowledge that the next great innovation driving economic growth will come from.
However, there are also external threats to innovation. In our current recession, the main source of these threats is uncertainty caused by the rapidly changing economic policies of the current administration. The potential tax increases that will result from the grandfathering of the tax cuts of 2003 threaten the profitability of organizations that are already struggling to remain profitable. Intel CEO Otellini stated, “Unless government policies are altered …, the next big thing will not be invented here. Jobs will not be created here” (Faughnan, 2010, para 2).
To grow, organizations like Intel must plan but planning is difficult when there is uncertainty about economic policies (i.e. taxation, healthcare, energy costs) coming out of Washington D.C. If our current leaders are unable, or unwilling, to provide pro-innovation policies, they need to be replaced by leaders that will. The first decade of the twenty-first century is almost over without any significant innovation. We cannot afford to go much longer without some innovation to fuel economic growth. When voting in the November 2010 and November 2012 elections, we must elect leaders who will enact policies favoring innovation. Then it is up to the owners of organizations to hire employees and CEO’s that will foster an organizational atmosphere of innovation.
References:
Faughnan, B. (August 24, 2010). Intel CEO Otellini: The democrats are destroying our economy. Retrieved from http://www.redstate.com/brianfaughnan/2010/08/24/intel-ceo-otellini-the-democrats-are-destroying-our-economy/
Innovation and leadership. (2008). Strategic Direction, 24(5), 36. doi:1464052911 ProQuest Database
Moore, B. (2010, September). Who says no one is shopping. Entrepreneur, 38(9), 26-30.
Peters, T. (1991). Part two: Get innovative or get dead. California Management Review, 33(2), 9. Retrieved from http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=288717&Fmt=7&clientld=13118&RQT=309&VName=PQD
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Hope in Times of Struggle
We do not need to look hard today to find individuals struggling financially. Most of us either are struggling ourselves or know someone who is. In these tough economic times, many hard working intelligent individuals find themselves on the verge of financial collapse. During these times it is disheartening to see our leaders enjoying lavish vacations, date nights, and concerts at the White House while we continue to struggle for survival. David, the second King of Israel knew what struggling was all about and what he did in his times of struggle can teach us what to do in our struggles.
Forced to leave everything he owned because of King Saul’s threats of death, David found himself hiding in caves with a rag tag army to protect him. His situation appeared hopeless and it must have seemed to him and his family that there was nowhere to turn. However, David found his hope in the Lord and wrote many Psalms declaring his hope. Psalm 25 is one of these Psalms and I wanted to share it with you in the hope that it will give you something to hold on to in your time of struggle.
Ps 25
25:1 A psalm of David.
To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul. 2 I trust in you, my God! Do not let me be disgraced, or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat. 3 No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced, but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others.
4 Show me the path where I should walk, O LORD;point out the right road for me to follow. 5 Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me.All day long I put my hope in you.
6 Remember, O LORD, your unfailing love and compassion, which you have shown from long ages past. 7 Forgive the rebellious sins of my youth; look instead through the eyes of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O LORD.
8 The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray. 9 He leads the humble in what is right, teaching them his way. 10 The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all those who keep his covenant and obey his decrees.
11 For the honor of your name, O LORD, forgive my many, many sins. 12 Who are those who fear the LORD? He will show them the path they should choose. 13 They will live in prosperity, and their children will inherit the Promised Land. 14 Friendship with the LORD is reserved for those who fear him. With them he shares the secrets of his covenant. 15 My eyes are always looking to the LORD for help, for he alone can rescue me from the traps of my enemies.
16 Turn to me and have mercy on me, for I am alone and in deep distress. 17 My problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all! 18 Feel my pain and see my trouble. Forgive all my sins. 19 See how many enemies I have,and how viciously they hate me! 20 Protect me! Rescue my life from them! Do not let me be disgraced, for I trust in you. 21 May integrity and honesty protect me, for I put my hope in you.
22 O God, ransom Israel from all its troubles.
NLT
The Lord heard David’s many prayers and delivered him from all of his troubles. David did ascend to the throne and one of his descendents, Jesus Christ, The Son of God came and provided salvation for our sins just as God promised in his Word.
I encourage you to never stop praying to the Lord. Never stop worshiping Him or offering up praise for what he has already done and is going to do in your life. God has a plan for you and is now leading you in the direction he wants you to go but you must stick with him and not wander off.
I am praying for you and know God has great things planned for your life.
Forced to leave everything he owned because of King Saul’s threats of death, David found himself hiding in caves with a rag tag army to protect him. His situation appeared hopeless and it must have seemed to him and his family that there was nowhere to turn. However, David found his hope in the Lord and wrote many Psalms declaring his hope. Psalm 25 is one of these Psalms and I wanted to share it with you in the hope that it will give you something to hold on to in your time of struggle.
Ps 25
25:1 A psalm of David.
To you, O LORD, I lift up my soul. 2 I trust in you, my God! Do not let me be disgraced, or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat. 3 No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced, but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others.
4 Show me the path where I should walk, O LORD;point out the right road for me to follow. 5 Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me.All day long I put my hope in you.
6 Remember, O LORD, your unfailing love and compassion, which you have shown from long ages past. 7 Forgive the rebellious sins of my youth; look instead through the eyes of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O LORD.
8 The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray. 9 He leads the humble in what is right, teaching them his way. 10 The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all those who keep his covenant and obey his decrees.
11 For the honor of your name, O LORD, forgive my many, many sins. 12 Who are those who fear the LORD? He will show them the path they should choose. 13 They will live in prosperity, and their children will inherit the Promised Land. 14 Friendship with the LORD is reserved for those who fear him. With them he shares the secrets of his covenant. 15 My eyes are always looking to the LORD for help, for he alone can rescue me from the traps of my enemies.
16 Turn to me and have mercy on me, for I am alone and in deep distress. 17 My problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all! 18 Feel my pain and see my trouble. Forgive all my sins. 19 See how many enemies I have,and how viciously they hate me! 20 Protect me! Rescue my life from them! Do not let me be disgraced, for I trust in you. 21 May integrity and honesty protect me, for I put my hope in you.
22 O God, ransom Israel from all its troubles.
NLT
The Lord heard David’s many prayers and delivered him from all of his troubles. David did ascend to the throne and one of his descendents, Jesus Christ, The Son of God came and provided salvation for our sins just as God promised in his Word.
I encourage you to never stop praying to the Lord. Never stop worshiping Him or offering up praise for what he has already done and is going to do in your life. God has a plan for you and is now leading you in the direction he wants you to go but you must stick with him and not wander off.
I am praying for you and know God has great things planned for your life.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Look for Hidden Agendas
By: Dale Weckbacher
In a class on leadership I recently attended, the instructor posed a question on whether leaders like Hitler or Stalin could be considered great leaders. When asked to write a response to the question, I came up with the following response. I believe it is a good lesson for us to learn today.
The idea of greatness in a leader is in the eyes of those who follow them. Some researchers divide charismatic leadership into two theories. The leader-centered theory that believes the source of charisma in a leader is due to the follower’s response to some exceptional/exemplary characteristics of behavior exhibited by the leader. In the follower-centered theory, the followers project exceptional/exemplary characteristics on the leader (Avolio & Yammarino, 2002).
Perhaps the followers of leaders like Hitler or Stalin initially projected exceptional/exemplary characteristics on these men and saw them as great leaders. After the followers placed them in their position of leadership, they began to develop a personal charismatic relationship with their followers (Humphreys, Zhao, Ingram, Gladstone, & Basham, 2010). The leader focusing on how the followers perceive them characterizes this type of leader follower relationship. The leader becomes obsessed with his or her image and can even begin to exhibit narcissistic behavior (Avolio & Yammarino, 2002).
Leaders like Hitler and Stalin can be considered great due to their ability to rise to power. The events that occurred after their rise to power are what history records and why many today do not see these leaders as great. However, for the purposes of the study of leadership theory we cannot ignore what these men did because there is much to learn from what they did right to rise to power, and how they fell after assuming power.
The Bible tells us in Proverbs 16:18 that pride precedes a fall. When a leaders becomes caught up in themselves, their pride will lead to their downfall. Both Hitler and Stalin were victims of their pride.
A classmate of mine then responded by asking how a group of people could just stand by and watch their leader do such horrid crimes. After much thought I responded with the following.
We can also look at this from the viewpoint of the follower. In post World War I Germany, the people were experiencing hyperinflation (Burdelin & Burkett, 1992). The people of the nation were struggling to survive and have their basic needs met. When people find themselves in this condition, a leader who seems to have all the answers to their pressing needs can easily sway them.
Unfortunately, this leader-centered leader may have a hidden agenda ignored by people primarily focused on survival. Hitler alluded to his hidden agenda of building a master race and elimination of any inferior race (i.e. the Jews) in Mein Kampf but the people were so focused on having their needs met that they appointed Hitler leader without looking for any hidden agendas (Carr, 2007).
The lesson to learn from this is that when appointing a leader, whether a political leader or someone to lead an organization, conduct sufficient research to insure the leader has no hidden agendas that could damage the nations or organization’s mission.
Prior to the November 2008 election, our nation found itself in an economic emergency. The focus on the nation was on how to recover from this emergency. Common sense was thrown out the window and the nation fell for the words of someone they believed had all the answers. Individuals (e.g. Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, and Mark Levin) were sounding the alarm regarding Obama’s radical tendencies but few listened and we find ourselves today being led by a narcissistic leader who would rather play golf and vacation then address the needs of the people who elected him.
This November, we must send a clear message to Obama. We now know about your hidden radical agenda. We have had enough and are going to take control of the Congress and Senate away from you in the November 2010 elections. We will then begin the process of electing a new President in November 2012. One who’s agenda is restoring the greatness of this country and restoring economic opportunities for the people instead of regulating and legislating these opportunities out of existence.
We now know your hidden agenda Mr. Obama and we soundly reject it and will vote for change that works in this next election.
References:
Avolio, B. J., & Yammarino, F. J. (2002). Transformational and Charismatic Leadership: The Road Ahead. Bingley , UK: Emerald Group Publishing Limited.
Burdelin, R. C.K., & Burkett, P. (1992). Money, credit, and wages in hyperinflation:
Post-World War I Germany. Economic Inquiry, 30(3), 479-495. doi:8590893 ProQuest Database
Carr, R. (2007). Mein Kampf - The text, its themes and Hitler's vision. History Review, 57(), 30-35. doi:1289953491 Research Library
Drath, W.H. (2008, November/December). Leadership Beyond Leaders and Followers. Issues & Observations, 28(5), 20-22.
In a class on leadership I recently attended, the instructor posed a question on whether leaders like Hitler or Stalin could be considered great leaders. When asked to write a response to the question, I came up with the following response. I believe it is a good lesson for us to learn today.
The idea of greatness in a leader is in the eyes of those who follow them. Some researchers divide charismatic leadership into two theories. The leader-centered theory that believes the source of charisma in a leader is due to the follower’s response to some exceptional/exemplary characteristics of behavior exhibited by the leader. In the follower-centered theory, the followers project exceptional/exemplary characteristics on the leader (Avolio & Yammarino, 2002).
Perhaps the followers of leaders like Hitler or Stalin initially projected exceptional/exemplary characteristics on these men and saw them as great leaders. After the followers placed them in their position of leadership, they began to develop a personal charismatic relationship with their followers (Humphreys, Zhao, Ingram, Gladstone, & Basham, 2010). The leader focusing on how the followers perceive them characterizes this type of leader follower relationship. The leader becomes obsessed with his or her image and can even begin to exhibit narcissistic behavior (Avolio & Yammarino, 2002).
Leaders like Hitler and Stalin can be considered great due to their ability to rise to power. The events that occurred after their rise to power are what history records and why many today do not see these leaders as great. However, for the purposes of the study of leadership theory we cannot ignore what these men did because there is much to learn from what they did right to rise to power, and how they fell after assuming power.
The Bible tells us in Proverbs 16:18 that pride precedes a fall. When a leaders becomes caught up in themselves, their pride will lead to their downfall. Both Hitler and Stalin were victims of their pride.
A classmate of mine then responded by asking how a group of people could just stand by and watch their leader do such horrid crimes. After much thought I responded with the following.
We can also look at this from the viewpoint of the follower. In post World War I Germany, the people were experiencing hyperinflation (Burdelin & Burkett, 1992). The people of the nation were struggling to survive and have their basic needs met. When people find themselves in this condition, a leader who seems to have all the answers to their pressing needs can easily sway them.
Unfortunately, this leader-centered leader may have a hidden agenda ignored by people primarily focused on survival. Hitler alluded to his hidden agenda of building a master race and elimination of any inferior race (i.e. the Jews) in Mein Kampf but the people were so focused on having their needs met that they appointed Hitler leader without looking for any hidden agendas (Carr, 2007).
The lesson to learn from this is that when appointing a leader, whether a political leader or someone to lead an organization, conduct sufficient research to insure the leader has no hidden agendas that could damage the nations or organization’s mission.
Prior to the November 2008 election, our nation found itself in an economic emergency. The focus on the nation was on how to recover from this emergency. Common sense was thrown out the window and the nation fell for the words of someone they believed had all the answers. Individuals (e.g. Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, and Mark Levin) were sounding the alarm regarding Obama’s radical tendencies but few listened and we find ourselves today being led by a narcissistic leader who would rather play golf and vacation then address the needs of the people who elected him.
This November, we must send a clear message to Obama. We now know about your hidden radical agenda. We have had enough and are going to take control of the Congress and Senate away from you in the November 2010 elections. We will then begin the process of electing a new President in November 2012. One who’s agenda is restoring the greatness of this country and restoring economic opportunities for the people instead of regulating and legislating these opportunities out of existence.
We now know your hidden agenda Mr. Obama and we soundly reject it and will vote for change that works in this next election.
References:
Avolio, B. J., & Yammarino, F. J. (2002). Transformational and Charismatic Leadership: The Road Ahead. Bingley , UK: Emerald Group Publishing Limited.
Burdelin, R. C.K., & Burkett, P. (1992). Money, credit, and wages in hyperinflation:
Post-World War I Germany. Economic Inquiry, 30(3), 479-495. doi:8590893 ProQuest Database
Carr, R. (2007). Mein Kampf - The text, its themes and Hitler's vision. History Review, 57(), 30-35. doi:1289953491 Research Library
Drath, W.H. (2008, November/December). Leadership Beyond Leaders and Followers. Issues & Observations, 28(5), 20-22.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
It’s Good to be Back
It has been awhile since I have posted to this blog but it sure is good to be back. After pursuing other endeavors, which I believed would be profitable, I have decided to return to what works, commonsensenomics. In this first posting, I want to share some lessons I learned.
I made the decision about a year ago to pursue a Doctorate Degree in Organizational Leadership. You most likely noticed numerous postings on the subject, which were a result of studies I was conducting on the topic. The topic of leadership is a fascinating topic and it is my desire to continue writing about the topic. However, my experience as a student in academia revealed some of the problems with our current education system and how it is failing students, which is why I decided to exit the program much like the flight attendant for JetBlue.
Let us begin by discussing what is involved in a doctorate program. Earning a doctorate or PhD degree involves the writing of a dissertation on a study related topic, defense of the dissertation, and publication of the approved dissertation. The approval of the dissertation is from the committee at the university. This committee dissects the dissertation for its content and adherence to rules for grammar and citation. The finished dissertation is considered accurate and useful by others for additional research.
However, as I got into the program, I realized that this process turns out researchers who are proficient at reviewing the literature of others, but does little to spur independent creative thought. As an independent thinker, this process soon became frustrating and something I saw as unproductive. After much thought and prayer, I discovered that there were other directions in which I needed to go that would allow me to use my creative thinking in a productive manner.
I set up Grace Accounting Service LLC a year ago and have decided to use it as a vehicle to use my creative thinking. We will prepare taxes for individuals and businesses as well as helping them develop tax strategies. We will also help businesses hurt by the current recession develop strategies for recovery.
In addition to this, I will also begin teaching as an adjunct professor as a means of helping develop future creative business leaders. Leaders who will possess the critical thinking skills to confront challenges and successfully lead their organizations through them. As we continue to struggle through the recession and the challenges it brings, learning to think critically has never been more important.
I plan to use this blog to comment on current events, share insights on leadership in the twenty-first century, common sense economic principles, and encouragement and inspiration from God’s Word. My desire is for these discussions to spur your creative thinking process so you will be equipped to overcome challenges and excel in your lives and careers. I also welcome your comments, as they will help add to the discussion.
I made the decision about a year ago to pursue a Doctorate Degree in Organizational Leadership. You most likely noticed numerous postings on the subject, which were a result of studies I was conducting on the topic. The topic of leadership is a fascinating topic and it is my desire to continue writing about the topic. However, my experience as a student in academia revealed some of the problems with our current education system and how it is failing students, which is why I decided to exit the program much like the flight attendant for JetBlue.
Let us begin by discussing what is involved in a doctorate program. Earning a doctorate or PhD degree involves the writing of a dissertation on a study related topic, defense of the dissertation, and publication of the approved dissertation. The approval of the dissertation is from the committee at the university. This committee dissects the dissertation for its content and adherence to rules for grammar and citation. The finished dissertation is considered accurate and useful by others for additional research.
However, as I got into the program, I realized that this process turns out researchers who are proficient at reviewing the literature of others, but does little to spur independent creative thought. As an independent thinker, this process soon became frustrating and something I saw as unproductive. After much thought and prayer, I discovered that there were other directions in which I needed to go that would allow me to use my creative thinking in a productive manner.
I set up Grace Accounting Service LLC a year ago and have decided to use it as a vehicle to use my creative thinking. We will prepare taxes for individuals and businesses as well as helping them develop tax strategies. We will also help businesses hurt by the current recession develop strategies for recovery.
In addition to this, I will also begin teaching as an adjunct professor as a means of helping develop future creative business leaders. Leaders who will possess the critical thinking skills to confront challenges and successfully lead their organizations through them. As we continue to struggle through the recession and the challenges it brings, learning to think critically has never been more important.
I plan to use this blog to comment on current events, share insights on leadership in the twenty-first century, common sense economic principles, and encouragement and inspiration from God’s Word. My desire is for these discussions to spur your creative thinking process so you will be equipped to overcome challenges and excel in your lives and careers. I also welcome your comments, as they will help add to the discussion.
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