I do believe that the hardest word in the English language to say is, “No.” I am not speaking of correctly pronouncing the word. It’s very simple to pronounce. Just place your tongue at the roof of your mouth, grab an “N” and come down with an “O.” When you’re finished, you lips will have formed the word “No.”

My reference to the usage of the word “No” is the inability of many to use this word as a response to others or even self.

Are you one of those who have little time for yourself because you’re running everyone else’s errands? If you’re helping those who cannot help themselves, then you are to be commended, but what about those who choose to sit on their ever widening posterior and use you to do what they could do for themselves? I know some who allow family members, for example, to simply use them, because they just can’t say the word “No.”

I have even seen church members who are worked to death, because they just can’t say “No.”

Elaine works long hours every day at a grinding job. Yet when she comes home it doesn’t stop there. There is a house to clean, dinner to prepare, and a sack of potatoes snoring in the recliner commonly called a “husband.” In addition, there are three little rug rats who demand constant attention.

Joe also works long hours every day for a boss that is a jerk. When he arrives home at his castle, there are outside chores that must be done, and a soap opera buff lying on the couch among potato chips and cookies and no dinner prepared. His offspring are each clamoring for a ride to soccer and cheerleading practice.

Pastor Bob and his lovely wife Beth spend many hours taking care of menial church chores at the little church out in the country. While he works on the roof, Beth is cleaning inside. In addition to their secular jobs, they teach Sunday School, visit the sick and just do whatever is needed. Their congregation wonders why they seem so tired on Sunday mornings.

Lazy people often sit on their gluteus maximus and have others, whether it be family members or friends, run their errands and wait on them hand and foot. Again, I’m not referring to those who cannot help themselves, perhaps for health reasons for example. I am referring to those folk who are healthy and have the means to take care of their own responsibilities, but are just too cotton-pickin’ lazy to do so.

If you are one of the suckers who just can’t say “No,” then who is to blame for your quandary? You are.

I realize that the Lord expects us to put others first, but does He expect us to be doormats for lazy people? I don’t think so. The following verses come to mind:

“10Even while we were with you, we gave you this command: “Those unwilling to work will not get to eat.”11Yet we hear that some of you are living idle lives, refusing to work and meddling in other people’s business.12We command such people and urge them in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and work to earn their own living.13As for the rest of you, dear brothers and sisters, never get tired of doing good.14Take note of those who refuse to obey what we say in this letter. Stay away from them so they will be ashamed.15Don’t think of them as enemies, but warn them as you would a brother or sister.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10-15 NLT)

I have listened to many people complain about how busy they are and how little time they have for themselves. More often than not, the reason lies in that person allowing others to dictate their time.

School sports activities are one of the worst culprits I am aware of in our day. I know many parents who are constantly on the run because the school and/or coaches dictate how their lives are to be spent. Many parents today don’t have a week-end to themselves because of sports activities. Even Sundays are now being taken up with outside activities dictated by others. Vacations are set aside because of practice or games. When will parents wake up and simply say “No?”

Everyone needs time for themselves and time to be with their family in a family atmosphere. It’s no wonder many families live in the same house but don’t really know each other. Christians need time to spend with God, just the two of them, but this time is being taken up by others.

If you are one of those people who know you need to say “No” at times, why don’t you? Is it because you think you might offend someone? Think about this. They don’t mind offending you by hogging all your time. Maybe they don’t realize they are consuming your time. Is it possible to say “No” and not be offensive? Well, of course it is. We don’t have to be offensive to simply decline, when our time could be better spent with the Lord, our family, or other needs that are more important. One need that comes to mind is “rest.” God expects us to rest, but if we can’t say “No” how are we going to get any rest? Our bodies need rest, and so do our minds. Our spirits need to rest in the Lord. Are they resting?

If you are helping the helpless, God will provide you rest within your spirit, but if you are allowing lazy people to consume your time needlessly, just say “No.”

Perhaps the hardest person to say “No” to would be the one we see in the mirror every morning. Wow, could we ever go the gamut with this? How many times have we metaphorically kicked ourselves for not saying “No” to the one standing in our shoes?

I am reminded of all those New Year’s resolutions that seem to quickly fall apart after January 1st.

What about all those sins we commit? All we have to do is say “No,” but alas, there we go again.

Could it be that we are more prone to say “Yes” because when we do so our face smiles, and if we say “No” we have a frown? A smile lifts our spirits as opposed to that ole frown. However, a “Yes” at the wrong time will produce a frown later on, because we knew we should have just said “No” in the first place.

Grant Phillips

(This article is a follow-up to my previous article, “For Whom Shall I Vote.”)

If the Republicans regain power in the White House this November will they save us from the dismantling of America that has already begun? No. It “might” be slowed down, somewhat, but it will continue.

This November 6th many will cast their vote for the candidate of their choice, and many others will stay home and not vote at all.

I personally do not think it is a good idea to stay home and not vote. Why? That is exactly how Madeline Murray O’Hare got her way. The American people sat back and allowed her voice to be heard, while saying nothing in return. There is another reason. I feel that Jesus expects Christians to be active in their governmental affairs, as long as it doesn’t conflict with “things that are God’s.” It is very clear that God expects us to pay our taxes, and I believe He expects us to vote, especially in this country which was founded upon Biblical principles.

“And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s. And they marvelled at him.” (Mark 12:17)

Just as Christians are to render “to God the things that are God’s,” we are to do likewise for the government that rules us. For Christians to sit home and not vote is in direct violation of a command from Jesus Himself. If we sit home, who is left to vote? Exactly.

Some have made an issue about the candidates’ religion. Does it really matter? No, unless the candidate identifies himself or herself with a group who would cause me harm and/or take my life if I don’t become one of them. The Christian is not out to kill me, and neither will the Mormon. However, the goal of a Muslim could not be more clear; conquest and submission, or death. It is no secret that part of the Islamic agenda is to get people on as many ballots as possible in every country they can. If you don’t think Sharia law could possibly take hold here in the United States, perhaps you should talk to someone from France, Germany, Spain or England first. You may also want to consider how Hitler came to power.

I am repulsed at both sides of the aisle among our so called leadership, Democrats and Republicans. Nearly all of them have sold out to the greed that consumes them. Their morals have long since vaporized into thin air, and they don’t give a flicker about the people they are supposed to serve.

I realize, and have said before; I know the “powers that be” maneuver their front man into the oval office. I know that team Obama is prepping thousands of lawyers for November 6th. I realize the corruption that is in place, and know that America is on a downhill slide that “may” be slowed down, but not stopped.

My only hope is maybe the takeover of America might slow down just long enough to provide some additional time for those who just might wake up before all of our freedoms are completely abolished.

Our children and grandchildren no longer have a future in this country, but they can have an eternal future with Jesus Christ. I would just like to see a little more time for all of us to tell them about Jesus. So far, we still have the liberty to witness to others about Jesus Christ, but those days are quickly dwindling. America is already in the first stages of judgment, and most don’t even realize it.

My last comment on the election provoked a response from one fellow that informed me of my need to use the KJV. Whether or not I use the KJV is the last thing on my mind. People need to hear that we are in trouble, as a country and individually, and if they are without Jesus Christ, they need to come to Him now. Additionally, I will use whatever translation I like to get that message across.

Another person basically stated that we are doomed and why waste time at the poles when we can’t do anything about the coming judgment anyway. Does Jesus Christ expect us to just roll over and play dead? Maybe that’s what you think, but I don’t think so. Again, I am reminded of Madeline Murray O’Hare. A whole boxcar load of bad stuff has come upon this country because good people did nothing. If this had been the attitude of George Washington, we would not be called the United States of America, but something like, England II.

Another equated me and Gary Bauer, Richard Land, James Dobson, Franklin Graham, Jerry Falwell, Cal Thomas, Pat Robertson, Tony Perkins, Paul Weyrich, Dr. John Willke, Patrick Mahoney, and Marvin Olaski as Judases, thereby calling in question my relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. This person also presented a page full of so called “facts” to supposedly support their accusations. More tripe.

First of all, Presidents don’t make the laws, Congress does, and that’s another problem we have; those in Congress who have the same narcissistic, greedy, lordship attitude. Unfortunately, we currently have a narcissist in the White House who has decided we don’t need Congress. He’ll just tell us what we need and what we are going to get. Executive orders are in full vogue. But you say, “Other Presidents have issued executive orders” and you would be absolutely correct. However, this guy has taken it to a new level. For some reason, the word “Caesar” comes to mind.

The first priority of the President of the United States and our Congressional leaders is to protect its citizens from foreign and domestic enemies. However, instead of the roosters guarding the henhouse, the foxes have come in to devour all they can. Our current administration has done more to devastate the well-being of the people than any administration in history. All we have left are our voices, for now, and we need to use them at the voting booths.

There is no doubt in my mind that we are under judgment. That’s a given for anyone who is paying attention. We have sat back and allowed corrupted people to remove every vestige of God in our lives. Therefore, God has given us up to our own vile affection. He is saying to us, “If that’s what you want, then that’s what you will get.”

“So I gave them up [emphasis mine] unto their own hearts’ lust: and they walked in their own counsels.” (Psalms 81:12)

 

“Wherefore God also gave them up [emphasis mine] to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:” (Romans 1:24)

 

“For this cause God gave them up [emphasis mine] unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:” (Romans 1:26)

It is true that America must diminish to the powers of the future world government, but cannot God delay a little longer, to give us more time to reach those who just might listen? He did so with the Assyrian city of Nineveh. Of course He can, and He may, if we are willing to listen to Him.

Some have a defeatist attitude of “Our country has gotten so bad, I just want the Rapture to happen now.” I would be thrilled for the Rapture, but by the same token, I wouldn’t mind just a little more time for those few who just might come to Christ now and not have to proceed into the Tribulation.

I have stated dozens of times that I, nor anyone else, have a clue as to when Jesus Christ will return for His Church at the Rapture, but if He came today, I would not be surprised. If He came before the year is out, I would not be surprised. I am not making predictions by the way, because it may be next year or the next year or …. That’s God’s business. My business, and yours, is to be doing whatever it is He wants us to do until He returns.

In the meantime, God has removed His protective hand from us, and allowed us to “do it our way.” So what do we get for it? Well, let’s take a look.

I noticed the other day that Alec Baldwin may run for Mayor of New York City. Just because one actor made a great President, now they all want to get in the act. Alec Baldwin! Give me a break! Why not just go with Charlie Sheen! This is where we have come in politics. Scary, isn’t it?

The Hollywood crowd has been a major contributor to the political persuasion of this country, and surely you can see where that has gone. Not only that, they have had a humongous effect on the morals of this country. You put the two together and what do you get? You get corruption to the ‘nth degree and we are loaded with it.

If that isn’t enough, the greatest power this country has ever possessed has been tossed aside by the Church like an old shoe. Many of the Church have joined the revelry of corruption or are feeding their face at its church socials and arguing over which translation to use. There is no power greater than the omnipotence of Almighty God, but few in the Church are using it. “Omnipotence,” by the way, means “all powerful.” Most in the church have joined the ranks of Jezebel’s priests, leaving very few Elijah’s to stand against the enemy. Very few will stand with David, in his dependence upon God against the Goliath’s of this world, but would rather recline and dine in the halls of King Saul and consult witches.

There are two reasons this country is suffering, and the suffering has just started.

Reason No. 1

The first reason involves those who belong to Jesus Christ, the true Church. We have become soft with the pleasures of this world, and allowed these pleasures to come between us and our Savior and Lord. We have allowed feelings and opinions to replace true doctrine, and thereby the enemy has crept in. Elmer Gantry has invaded the pulpits, while adulterers and fornicators sit in the choir. Thieves count the money and Pharisees serve as deacons. Entertainment, sports, and of course big meals keep us saying, “What a good boy am I.”

Liberalism from the “feel-good” crowd has taken over the pure Word of Jesus Christ. Jesus has been equated to a sissy, lovey-dovey, wimp that succumbs to any perversion that makes one feel good. It’s all about “how I feel” or “what makes me happy.”

Across the street, another religious crowd wants to get on everybody’s case if they don’t “goose-step” to their bid and call.

Reason No. 2

The second reason involves this country. This “once upon a time” Christian country, who used to support Israel, has instead become an enemy to Israel. Instead of Harry Truman in the White House, who was a main reason for Israel becoming a nation again on May 14, 1948, we now have Obama, an arch enemy of Israel. No U.S. President has done more to harm Israel than this guy. If a country wants to reap judgment, I can’t think of a better way to go about it, and brother we’ve got it coming.

I am completely aware of the Bilderberg group and their goals. I know these things must be, because God’s Word will not return unto Him void (Isaiah 55:11). I also know that God is a God of second chances (and more, many more), and He will allow us the extra time to get His Word out, if we are earnest in our endeavors.

The curtain is closing on this dispensation (Church age), and will open soon to finish the remaining seven years due Israel (Daniel’s seventieth week commonly known as the Tribulation). How much time is remaining for you, your family and friends to get your life in order? Only God the Father knows. If this country continues to be led by the narcissistic Muslim we have now, we will have far less time than if we change horses at the election booths.

I too am aware that the Lord will not come for His Church until the last person steps aboard the Ark of Salvation. So regardless of what is going on in this world, whether bad or really bad, He will wait on that last person to come to Him, then He will, “in the twinkling of an eye,” (1 Corinthians 15:52) remove His Church. I personally, for the sake of the lost, would rather it not be “really bad” when that last person steps on board. There may be a chance at the voting booths to temporarily hold back the worst, if it’s God’s will, for that last person to come to Jesus as their Savior and Lord.

Can America be saved by an election process? No. Is the glory quickly fading from the country we once were? Yes.

Some seem to think the election process is about Democrats and Republicans. It is not. Some seem to think it’s about getting the person with the accepted religion in office, or keeping the one with the unaccepted religion out. That is incorrect. It’s about people currently holding office who are wholly evil, who are intent on destroying this country and all it stands for, and making slaves of its people via government dependence.

Many of our key leaders have studied under and practice the teachings of the likes of Saul Alinsky. They are very good at what they do, and they have the general public believing they’re fighting for them. Not so! They are fighting for the advancement of socialism, and they are succeeding in leaps and bounds. We are losing the country our forefathers established!

I repeat, the man or woman holding office, whether as President or a member of Congress, should have the welfare of the people at heart. Again, the first priority of the federal government is protecting its citizens against foreign and domestic enemies. Is this being done by any of our leaders? Our country and its people, you and I, are not being protected by our leaders. To the contrary, we are being raped and pillaged, and most of us are not cognizant of the real facts (a politically correct way of saying “too stupid to know it”).

Our leaders have become our enemies. Most are wolves in sheep’s clothing. We are no longer a country “by the people, for the people, and of the people.” We are becoming a socialistic oligarchy in lightning speed. The smell of corruption is moving through the Republican side of the aisle, while the Democrats are so rotten they have given corruption a new name. If that isn’t enough, a man sits in the White House who is simply, flat out dangerous.

Obama is a devout Muslim who is nobody’s fool. He is very intelligent and knows exactly what he is doing. He is purposely burdening this country down with so much debt by government spending and entitlement demands, it is destroying capitalism and our country as we once knew it. The Democratic agenda rides on the coattails of the “Cloward-Piven Strategy” which is a method of pushing our society to such an economic crisis that capitalism will be destroyed and socialism will be instituted in its place. Richard Andrew Cloward and Frances Fox Piven are protégés of Saul Alinsky, as is Hillary Clinton by the way, et al. Several people in the Democratic Party are radical liberals who want nothing more than to destroy the country our forefathers created. Their goal is to destroy our lives by making us totally dependent upon the federal government, thereby always voting them back in office, so as to retain our hand-outs. They want nothing less than to be in power, stay in power, and subjugate the populace to their demands.

If the likes of Obama, Pelosi, Reid, Clinton, et al continue in American politics, it will be but a very short time until democracy is no more, our republic is gone and Marxist socialism rules the day in the United States of America.

The religious affiliation of our national leaders is not important, “unless” that affiliation is one that supports a goal of destroying you and me if we don’t accept their religion and/or beliefs. The priority of our national leaders is to protect and serve the people, by obeisance to our Constitution and Bill of Rights. Sadly, this priority is being abandoned by most all of our leaders, Democrats and Republicans, and it is becoming difficult to impossible to find someone who will honor that priority.

If I had my druthers, I would love to see true Christian men and women in all leadership positions, who are loyal to our Constitution and Bill of Rights. Men and women who would govern with the Bible as their textbook would be a blessing. We had that in the beginning, by the way. I know that is a pipe dream. We have what we have, and must work with what we’ve got. If it allows me just a little more time to get the word out about Jesus Christ, then I’ll hold my nose and proceed. Yes, I’ll go with the lessor of the evils, in hopes to buy time for the Church to get the message out about Jesus Christ, because our time is quickly running out.

Let us realize that Satan is attacking our country politically, through socialistic maneuvers, and religiously, through apathy.

My dear friends, I’ve been a Christian longer than most of you have been alive. It makes me angry and also saddens me to see what we have become in this once great country. We have never been perfect, but we, as a majority, were once God-fearing people. Many in the Church, today and in the past, have stood up for what is right. Unfortunately, most in the Church have sat back, and done nothing, while Satan has taken over the hearts of our countrymen. These same ones who profess Christ have jumped in the pool of Satan’s enticements and swam in the cesspool of sin along with the children of Satan. Instead of supporting the Word of God, they have allowed themselves to be sucked into the falsehoods of Satan’s gospel.

We are at a crossroads in this country. In my opinion, it is comparable to a leaky boat that is sinking fast. Maybe we can plug a hole or two in order to buy a little time to rescue some, but eventually, it is going to sink to the bottom. That’s all I’m saying. Lord, may we have just a little more time? All of you, as I, have family and friends who are good people, but just don’t get the fact that this Church age is quickly coming to a close. Seven years of hell on earth is forming before our very eyes, and will soon rise up.

I realize we cannot save this country with a vote, but maybe, just maybe, we can buy a little more time for those who need to get on the Ark of the Rapture. That of course, is God’s decision, but I recall Him saying in His Word,

“If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.” (John 14:14)

Grant Phillips