by Chris Doyle | Mar 3, 2017
Greetings!
No intro this week. Read and enjoy!
- Lacking training and understanding
A few weeks ago, a Facebook friend shared an NPR article about an adulting school in Maine (by the way, I found it humorous when I typed “adulting,” and autocorrect wanted to change it to “adulating”).
The school is designed to help “fledgling adults so they can become successful grown-ups.” The class has featured students in their late 20s and early 30s, helping them with an assortment of practical lessons such as how to get an oil change, fold a fitted sheet, make dinner instead of order carry out, pay bills on time, choose a career and manage money.
The article quotes an anthropology professor who said such inexperience among adulthood is due to lack of emphasis on life skills classes, such as home economics in the high school years.
Another article I read this week was National Review’s “How Historical Illiteracy Fuels Political Polarization.” The piece features surveys that reveal college graduates graded low on aspects of American history and civics. Maybe it’s not important to know that James Madison is the author of the U.S. Constitution or that a U.S. Senator’s term is six years, but government ignorance seems to be a major factor for why many now believe socialism would be better for our country than capitalism.
Here’s my point. The lack of basic fundamental knowledge is taking its toll. I don’t wade into the education debate much, and I admit I don’t have much experience and haven’t done thorough research to offer an expert opinion. But when I read about educated people well into their adult years not knowing how to cook a meal for themselves or college graduates believing if President Trump gets impeached then Hillary Clinton becomes president, our country appears to be in a rather ignorant condition.
Perhaps it might be better to focus on teaching basic life skills and functional knowledge of civilization than promote social liberal agendas.
- Beauty in the least
Speaking of social liberal agendas, promoters made it known this week Disney’s new release Beauty and the Beast features a character who has a “gay moment.” I have not made plans to see this movie when it’s out in the theaters. If Karen wants to see it, I will accommodate.
WordSlingers is planning to feature a blog reviewing Beauty and the Beast, but I will say that I am not surprised with this announcement of the film promoting homosexuality. Disney has made no secret of its support of the LGBT community. There were mentions of the lifestyle emphasized in Finding Dori, but I was told it was rather scant and mostly overlooked by viewers.
To be honest, I have a theory that perhaps the gay moment in Beauty also could have gone unnoticed or not been interpreted as the character displaying homosexual feelings, but influencers who desire to see homosexuality celebrated encouraged a more direct emphasis of the scene.
I am hesitant to suggest protest, though I respect those who have done so. I welcome discussion about this, but I recall a previous major all-out protest of Disney that did not fare well. What I do encourage is for Christian parents to have godly wisdom and proper discernment with how to handle this movie in regards to their children.
- Hacking The Shack
Speaking of newly-released movies, The Shack is in theaters this week. I will keep this DHD topic short because everything Brent Prentice said in his blog I support, and I encourage you to read his perspective.
When Prentice points out the book, and now the movie, do not present the “Triune God of the Bible,” he said, “In not discerning the errors of the book, a god has been created that does not exist, or better yet an idol has been fashioned.”
- Trump’s talk teeters to terrific trend
Many are raving about President Trump’s address he gave this week in Congress. I didn’t watch all of it, but what I did see I liked. And I agree with the many who commended Trump, even those who normally don’t offer him positive reviews.
I won’t get caught up too much about who stood and who didn’t, but it is apparent those who are in opposition don’t look too good right now. However one views Trump’s recognition of the Navy SEAL widow should consider how their constituents view them.
Trump’s approval rating is improving. I think it’s high time for his adversaries to cool their jets, quit finding ways to attack the President and his cabinet and focus on issues, specifically those that matter to Americans.
Confronting the President on issues would be different. I still have concerns about his stance on abortion, as well as on religious liberty. But trying to nitpick about the Attorney General or the Vice President, I don’t believe will win over many Americans at this point.
- Thunder Thoughts
The Oklahoma City Thunder have had an exciting week. Starting off with beating New Orleans and recently-acquired DeMarcus Cousins, then a phenomenal early 3-pt shooting performance and a successful result against Utah provided great viewing for Thunder fans. The game against Portland didn’t end favorably, but the unbelievable long bomb that Taj Gibson scored at the end of the first half was shot of a lifetime. I can’t believe my wife remained asleep after my exclamatory of amazement when the shot went in.
Russell Westbrook is just plain fun to watch. Yes, he can have his moments of disappointment, which cause the critics to line up and squawk about how he is doing too much and not involving his teammates (no peep out them when the Thunder win though). Actually, I think there has been more action from other players. Enes Kanter had a great scoring performance in the loss to Portland, and so did Alex Abrines, who made a clutch three-pointer with less than a minute left to bring the Thunder within a point.
I still like where the Thunder stand. Looking at the remaining schedule, I’m expecting anywhere between four and seven more losses, which means I’m predicting OKC to finish anywhere in the 49-52 win range.
- Mo. Baptists meet James Lankford
Oklahoma Baptists know how special James Lankford is. The U.S. Senator had a remarkable career change in 2010, after serving in full-time ministry.
Recently, he spoke at a conference in Springfield, Mo., and Brian Koonce of the Missouri Pathway wrote about Lankford speaking to Missouri Baptists. Baptist Press picked up Koonce’s article to share nationally.
I appreciate how Lankford explained why he changed to politics and serve, first in the U.S. House and currently in the U.S. Senate.
“I looked (the critics) in the face and said the same thing I say today: ‘To the best of my ability I’m following Christ,’” said Lankford about his response to those who opposed him “leaving the ministry.” “You may think there’s some sort of occupation title I’m supposed to have but I’m convinced there’s a certain person I’m supposed to follow, and where He leads me, that’s where I’m supposed to go.”
by Chris Doyle | Feb 24, 2017
Greetings!
Covering different topics this week. I’m starting off with a happy one – or at least one that makes me happy.
- The Thunder got better
The NBA trade deadline ended yesterday, and once again Oklahoma City Thunder G.M. Sam Presti pulled off an amazing transaction. I almost figured out a way to commit this week’s DHD to just writing about the Thunder, but I then realized not all potential readers are as fascinated with the OKC squad as I am. Plus, there are some other timely topics I should address.
However, it’s a happy day in Loud City! The Thunder picked up Taj Gibson, Doug McDermott and a 2018 second round draft pick from the Chicago Bulls for Cameron Payne, Joffrey Lauvergne and Anthony Morrow. I’m sorry to see those three players go, as they all were contributors and respectable teammates.
Adding Gibson and McDermott is huge. OKC gets a reliable 3-pt shooter in McDermott, which answers the Thunder’s greatest need, but Gibson provides another benefit. He’s an experienced, respected post player, and when you look at the roster overall, the Thunder could use more veteran play, especially from someone who has playoff experience.
How much does this improve the Thunder? It’s hard to say right now. They definitely are not to the level of Golden State or San Antonio, but considering the teams the Thunder are battling for higher seeding in playoff rankings, I definitely see potential to move up from the squad’s current seventh-place position. I would even say fourth place is not out of the realm of possibility, but OKC would need some help from other teams faltering.
Regardless, things are looking up for the Thunder.
- Transgender tension turnaround
This week, the Trump administration overturned President Obama’s executive order, pressuring schools to adhere to transgender allowances, such as bathrooms and locker rooms in schools. The reason this was a good move is, as Russell Moore points out, “Children should not be turned into pawns of culture war experimentation.”
I appreciate other points Moore offers in his column that encourage how Christians should respond and act toward those who are challenged with gender identity disorders. Don’t make fun or demean those who struggle with such issues. Be respectful because they already struggle with feeling alienated.
According to The Weekly, produced by the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, approximately 700,000 individuals in the U.S. identify as transgender. Studies have found the suicide rate among transgender individuals is 41 percent, which is much higher than the 4.6 percent rate of the overall U.S. population.
Though the White House should be applauded for rescinding the transgender order for schools, be mindful of the ways we should respect and love all our neighbors.
- MacArthur on transgender
Recently a friend on Facebook posted a video of John MacArthur answering a question about how to address transgender individuals. I thought MacArthur gave an excellent response, especially for Christians who may battle with understanding and relating to someone who is transgender. MacArthur will not win over the opposition with his explanation (well, except with the moving of the Holy Spirit), but I believe it is one Christians should hear and consider for a foundational basis. Consider watching this five-minute video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-HzZmvrzVE
- An amazing revival happening in Ada
I received reports from different sources about revival meetings happening this week at First Baptist Church in Ada, Okla. A friend shared with me a comment that Ada, First’s Pastor Brad Graves shared on Facebook. Here is an excerpt from Graves’ Facebook comment:
“Revival Report…We have on hand 199 decision cards, almost all are for salvations. 57 of them have been baptized so far, we have baptisms scheduled for the next two weeks. Other churches are scheduling their baptisms and follow up as well. Our combined Wednesday night attendance was not counted but it was somewhere in the 1500-2000 range with nursery and elementary kids included…”
The Baptist Messenger is planning to do a feature story in an upcoming edition on this revival experience in Ada. May it ignite revival throughout our country! Thank you, Lord!
- Wonderful to be a Christian
Check out a blog by Garrett Kell who offers five reasons why “It’s a Wonderful Time to Be a Christian.”
All five are legitimate and should affect each of us, as Christians, and how we approach life and interacting with our culture. The second reason features one of my favorite words – reconciliation.
Please read it. I believe you will find his reasons encouraging.
- The heart of Oklahoma’s state abortion bills
I have mentioned in the past how Oklahoma is considered the most pro-life state in the country. Our state legislature is doing its best to keep the issue of sanctity of life heightened. It’s been brought to my attention that there’s approximately a dozen or so legislative bills that have been proposed dealing with abortion laws.
Personally, I am concerned that there might be too many cooks in the kitchen. I’m sure they all mean well with the intention of supporting life, specifically unborn life, but I am praying that God will allow the right bill or bills to be passed that will encourage bringing about a culture that will not only make abortion unlawful but make such an act unthinkable.
Brian Hobbs wrote in this week’s Baptist Messenger about Senate Bill 710 which is called the Heartbeat Bill and would prevent an abortion from happening if the heartbeat of the fetus was audible.
Hobbs wrote, “…perhaps what is best about the Heartbeat Bill is that it brings up the very conversation we should be having. To have a heartbeat proves beyond any doubt the humanity of unborn boys and girls. A beating heart reminds us that it is from God Himself that we all “’live and move and have our being.’”
by Chris Doyle | Feb 17, 2017
Greetings!
I’m back home after spending the week in sunny California. No beach. No Disneyland. No searching for movie stars. It was purely a business trip. The only thing “Cali-ish” I did was I ate at In-N-Out Burger, which isn’t just in California anymore.
I had the privilege of meeting with other editors of Southern Baptist state newspapers and publications. Workshops, panel discussions, reports from leaders of Southern Baptist entities and nice evening dinners pretty much took up the majority of my time.
Some of my DHD topics come from my trip experience, but not all. I will offer some thoughts on other things happening in our wonderful world.
Here we go!
- An apology from Platt
David Platt is the president of the International Mission Board (IMB) of the Southern Baptist Convention. He is known for his book Radical, which if you haven’t read, you should. The description he offers in the book of a secret church meeting he attended in a country where the practice of Christianity is illegal is very intense, fascinating and convicting.
Platt met with my fellow editors this week, offering a report on the IMB. At the end of his formal report and before he fielded questions, Platt addressed a controversial issue involving the IMB’s participation in an amicus brief submitted to a legal trial involving a mosque in New Jersey. The brief supported the mosque’s position on the basis of religious liberty.
In the editor’s meeting, Platt apologized “for how distracting and divisive this has been,” as reported by Baptist Press. I thought Platt showed sincerity and humility in his remarks, and he reiterated how IMB will continue to focus on evangelizing around the world with the intent of bringing people to Jesus.
My favorite part of Platt’s talk involved a story he shared about taking an uber to a church where he was speaking that day. Not surprising, Platt connected with the driver whose name was Juan, and as they arrived at the church, Platt led Juan to make a profession of faith in Jesus Christ. It was a great story, and I praise God for Juan’s salvation.
But I must confess, I started wondering and even asked others around me after the meeting, how many other current top leaders of SBC entities would consider taking an uber?
- Gaines gaining ground as new SBC president
Steve Gaines also met with us to give his thoughts on the SBC and other issues. As pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, Tenn., Gaines was elected SBC president last summer, and when asked in the editor’s session about different political issues, Gaines offered viewpoints that favored a conservative perspective. Baptist Press also reported Gaines’ comments, which you could read here.
Here’s a story on Gaines you won’t read about in BP or other news sources. He was on the same flight I took Monday from Dallas to Ontario, Calif. When we arrived and went to the baggage claim, a young mother with small children was there to collect her bags. She sat about three or four rows ahead of me on the plane, and her baby boy cried a good portion of the three-and-a-half-hour flight.
The mother was tired, as we all were, but she had an extra task on her hands, literally, as she had to keep corralling her kids while looking out for her luggage. Before the conveyor belt began to move, Pastor Gaines goes up to the young lady and tells her he’s going to stay with her and help her claim her luggage. He told her his daughter has young children too, and if she were in this mother’s situation he would want someone to help his daughter.
I’m officially a Steve Gaines fan.
- Access to Gateway Seminary
The main attraction for holding the meeting in Ontario was the new location of Gateway Seminary, formerly known as Golden Gate Seminary, when it was in the San Francisco area.
We were treated to a very nice dinner at the Seminary’s beautiful new campus and got to hear the story of the transition, which Gateway President Jeff Iorg shared through the explanation of “seven miracles” that made this move happen while not interrupting any semester schedules or causing Gateway to experience any debt – rather, it retained excess money after the move of more than 400 miles south of the original campus, which happened a year ago.
I confess, my initial thought as I was about to hear Dr. Iorg speak was “I hope my phone doesn’t lose power so I can keep up with the Thunder-Knicks game.” I never once looked at my phone once he began to share about how difficult it was more than four years ago with all the challenges the Seminary facing.
Iorg said these burdens were causing him sleepless nights and physical illness, but then he told about one miracle after another, how God worked through an amazing financial offer for the original location to other financial support to finding the right location for a new campus to obtaining building permits much quicker than expected to having complete unity and support for the move among all students and Seminary personnel.
I am thankful to hear about God making Himself known through Gateway Seminary’s experience.
- Concerns of religious liberty continue
A hit was made this week against religious liberty. The Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission reported Barronelle Stutzman lost an appeal to the Washington State Supreme Court, as the florist refused to sell flowers to be used in a same-sex marriage ceremony because of “her relationship with Jesus Christ.”
This has been a major case for a few years and will likely reach the U.S. Supreme Court. However, such religious liberty cases have lost attention and possibly support, especially due to the inevitability of society becoming more accepting of same-sex marriage.
What I want to believe is Evangelical Christians are willing to listen and understand those who view life differently from the worldview of Biblical Christianity. Becoming “all things to all people that by all means I might save some,” as Paul said in 1 Cor. 9:22. What concerns me is some Christian believers misapplying Paul’s intention and purpose of this perspective when it comes to accommodating the LGBT community.
Reading the details of Ms. Stutzman’s case, she befriended her customer and gladly accepted his business at her floral shop, with an exception to one ceremony she believed was a demonstration of disobedience to God. Yet the government finds her action based on her convictions and moral beliefs, not based on malice, to be illegal. I pray the highest court in the land will rule in her favor.
- Westbrook at NBA All-Star Game
I’m finding out Russell Westbrook, at a press conference today in New Orleans, changed the subject to fashion whenever he was asked questions about Golden State or Kevin Durant directly. Say what you want about Russell and all the made-up drama, about him playing with the four other Warrior All-Stars. And of course, he will be on the court at some point with all four Golden State players. That’s what people want to see.
I don’t know for certain if I will actually watch the NBA All-Star Game this Sunday, but I do believe Russ will play hard and will demonstrate himself as a loyal teammate of the Western Division squad.
- Late Valentine’s Day observance
If you were keeping tabs on my week, you would know I was away during Valentine’s Day. Just so you know, Karen took the day off from work that day and enjoyed a Spa treatment. But I did make sure she got roses sent to her work the next day.
And Dave Ramsey would be proud of me because the roses were at a major discount. Plus, we will be going out to eat Saturday night, so hopefully I can remain out of the running for worst husband of the year.
by Chris Doyle | Feb 10, 2017
Greetings!
I am an Oklahoma Baptist, and I am a huge fan of the multitude of ministries done by and through Oklahoma Baptists. Approximately 1,800 churches that make up the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma (BGCO) have a major impact not only in respective communities in our state but well beyond, even to the uttermost parts of the world.
This week’s Doyle’s Half Dozen highlights six of the many ways Oklahoma Baptists have been making a difference in today’s society.
- Rose Day
The state’s largest annual Pro-Life rally occurred this week at the Oklahoma State Capitol. Hundreds, maybe even thousands, walked the Capitol hallways to deliver red roses to the offices of state representatives, senators, the Governor and Lt. Governor.
Rose Day originated not long after the ruling of Roe v. Wade in 1973, as two Catholic ladies would hand out roses at the Capitol. Oklahoma Baptist leaders learned about this ritual and decided to join these Pro-Life heroes, and for the last 26 years, the number of Rose Day participants has grown enormously since those early years.
Arguably, no other entity has made a greater impact on making Oklahoma become the “most pro-life state in the country” than Rose Day. Do the research, and you will find Oklahoma has not always valued the Sanctity of Life as passionately as today. But that has changed. Both the State Senate and House have a large majority of members who claim to favor Pro-Life legislation, on both sides of the aisle. It’s even possible that the next race for Oklahoma Governor will feature two Pro-Life candidates, which would thrill me to pieces.
This is possible because of Rose Day, because a multitude of Oklahomans are willing to come every year from all over the state the first Wednesday of February and make it known to our state leaders we are for laws that protect the sanctity of life. And every year, the House Chambers host a rally that features every state congress member and senator who stands in front of the masses who pack that place to say they promise to support the unborn and to value all stages of life.
Rose Day would not have such an impact had it not been for Oklahoma Baptists leading the charge. And Oklahoma would not be known as the most pro-life state in the country had it not been for Rose Day.
- Indiahoma and other smaller churches
I wrote about Indiahoma Baptist Church a few weeks ago in the Baptist Messenger. A town of less than 400 people, located 31 miles west of Lawton, Indiahoma decided to have its school system observe a four-day school week, beginning last fall. The problem with this format is what do the children do on Mondays when school isn’t meeting.
Indiahoma Church came to the rescue for Pre-K through 5th grade students. They now host MonDay Camp, which is free to families and provides both a spiritual impact and a fun educational environment. Imagine what this does for parents, especially single parents who can’t afford day care every week. And according to Pastor Les Banks, two families have been attending Indiahoma Church because of MonDay Camp, and a 5th grade boy has made a profession of faith one afternoon at MonDay Camp.
I love hearing about the innovative ways Oklahoma Baptist churches are impacting their communities. In a couple of weeks, the Baptist Messenger will be featuring a story on First Baptist Church in Red Oak and the church’s Baptist Breakfast Club ministry that has been serving breakfast to shut-ins every Sunday morning for the last 17 years.
There are many great large churches in major cities doing tremendous ministry work, but what about smaller communities that are not near a metropolis? This is where Oklahoma Baptists are making a difference. Places like Indiahoma and Red Oak rely on the support of the Oklahoma Baptists in their respective communities.
- Disaster Relief
National news reporters have called it the “Faith-based FEMA.” Baptist Disaster Relief (DR) has helped millions recover from natural disasters all over the world, and the top state DR team of volunteers is in Oklahoma, led by Sam Porter. This former Baylor University football player stands big and tall, but he’s not intimidating. His compassionate demeanor is quickly recognized. Consider him a real life human version of Smokey the Bear.
Porter has been interviewed many times, both locally and nationally, giving updates on what DR has done in impacted areas. But it’s who Porter represents that’s the story.
Oklahoma Baptists have been a part of many major tragedies. Oklahoma Baptist DR volunteers were involved in Ground Zero in New York City after 9/11. They were the point people after Hurricane Katrina, helping New Orleans recover. Think of the many hurricanes, tornadoes and other major storms that have been in the news for the past 20 years, and Oklahoma Baptist DR volunteers were there soon after these disasters occurred.
Probably the best publicity DR ever got was during a national broadcast on NBC in 2013. News anchors Brian Williams and Harry Smith were reporting live from Moore, after the historic May 2013 tornadoes struck. Smith turned to Williams, when talking about recovering from storms and said, “If you’re waiting for the government, you’re going to be in for an awful long wait. The Baptist men (referring to DR volunteers), they’re going to get it done tomorrow.”
- Falls Creek
Other than the Disaster Relief ministry, Oklahoma Baptists are best known for Falls Creek. Known as the largest Christian youth camp in the world, Falls Creek Baptist Conference Centers is about to celebrate 100 years of impacting young people for Christ.
Last year, almost 90,000 students attended one of the summer weeks at Falls Creek. Its history and impact on many who have made life decisions for Christ would be almost incomparable. I suspect only the Billy Graham Crusades in the past century could surpass the Kingdom work that has been done in the Arbuckle Mountains in southern Oklahoma.
- Prominent Public Servants
James Lankford and Todd Lamb are two of the most prominent Oklahoma Southern Baptists who are among the state’s government leaders. Lankford begins his second term as U.S. Senator. Lamb also is in his second term as Lt. Governor.
Scott Pruitt, Oklahoma State Attorney General, is about to be approved to serve as the national administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency. Though this has been a controversial decision, Pruitt has withstood his critics and answered more questions from Senate committees than any other appointee by President Trump.
Pruitt is a member of First Baptist Church of Broken Arrow and has been said by those who know him well to be a respectful servant-leader and a man who lives by the teachings of Scripture.
And I know other Oklahoma Baptists who have held government positions on different levels and have honored God through their service as public servants.
- Leading in Baptisms
It was reported this week that Oklahoma Baptist churches have an increase in the number of believer baptisms. In 2016, Oklahoma Baptist churches baptized 830 more believers than in 2015. Compared to other Southern Baptist churches in other states, this is a major trend breaker.
I believe it is due to the recent emphasis Oklahoma Baptist churches have placed upon revitalizing Sunday School and small group Bible study fellowships. The BGCO has led churches through an initiative called ReConnect Sunday School. From this initiative grew a stronger focus on evangelism through Sunday School and small groups, as churches focused on training members how to share the Gospel, providing plans and scheduling dates on how and when to invite people to church and then following practical approaches for witnessing to friends, family, co-workers and neighbors.
I remember a large publication, a few years ago, making fun of this emphasis on Sunday School, using antiquated references in mockery. This magazine’s jeering didn’t last, while Southern Baptist churches across Oklahoma have found new believers who are following the Lord in obedience through observance in baptism and getting involved in local church ministry.
May God continue to use Oklahoma Baptists to impact His Kingdom!
by Chris Doyle | Feb 3, 2017
Greetings!
It’s beautiful weather at the moment. Let’s see if it remains beautiful when I complete writing about six timely topics for this week’s version of Doyle’s Half Dozen.
- SEC report
I had the privilege of covering the Oklahoma State Evangelism Conference on Monday and Tuesday at First Southern Baptist Church in Del City. People across the state come for the opportunity to connect with other Oklahoma Baptists and be inspired and encouraged to share the Gospel.
I heard many great speakers. Thom Rainier, president of LifeWay Christian Resources, was the keynote speaker Monday night, and Frank Turek, apologist and author of the book I Don’t Have Enough Faith To Be an Atheist concluded the conference Tuesday night.
I heard a multitude of stories. If I gave an accurate account of how many tales were told, there would’ve been enough to fill an edition of the Reader’s Digest. The majority of them involved connecting with people and sharing the Gospel with them.
One of my favorites was told by the very first speaker of SEC. Tom Elliff, retired president of the International Mission Board and longtime Oklahoma pastor, spoke about having eternity in mind whenever you talk with people. He spoke to a waitress often at a restaurant and shared the Gospel with her at least four or five different times, he said.
He and a church intern went to lunch, and Elliff was encouraging the young man about connecting with people with the intention of sharing the Gospel, even if it means they don’t accept Christ at that setting. Just as the two of them sat down, the waitress came to their table, and said to Elliff, “I’m ready.”
Elliff responded to her, “Okay, do you want to pray or do you want me to lead you.” She replied, “I know what to pray.” And Elliff said at the SEC, “She prayed herself right into Heaven!”
May we all be challenged to share the Gospel with everyone, even if they don’t believe after that presentation. God will stir the hearts of those who hear and have been exposed to the powerful message of the Gospel.
- Trump’s tasks
So what will be the next issue or action President Trump will do to get people riled up?
This time last week, he was making known his temporary travel ban in the U.S. involving seven countries. The timing and wording of his executive order was not the best. But boy howdy there were a lot of tempers flaring last weekend. It must have been a record how many times Psalm 82 was quoted on Facebook, as well as the phrase “nation of immigrants.”
He also announced his nomination for the Supreme Count. Neil Gorsuch is now in the spotlight and on the hot seat. Many people I admire believe Gorsuch is a good pick, and since selecting a Supreme Court nominee was one of the most popular reasons for why people voted for Trump in the last presidential election, I am thankful for how this SCOTUS pick resulted.
Dear friends, may I offer a suggestion? Don’t post your immediate anger on Facebook the next time Trump does something. I’m not saying you have to agree, but Trump only has been on the job for two weeks, yet it seems blood pressure rates are skyrocketing.
Plus, you may need to do more research before you go off on the next Trump decision. Like learning how other presidents may have made similar decisions.
Give at least two days after reports come out about Trump’s next controversy. Sure, you won’t be the first to comment, but you might be saved from looking silly.
The intelligent person restrains his words, and one who keeps a cool head is a man of understanding (Prov. 27:17).
If you haven’t already read Ryan Smith’s “The Day Social Media Died,” check it out here.
- Non-Gendered Scouts
This week Boy Scouts of American announced they are now accepting girls who choose to be identified as boys. Read Baptist Press’ report here.
All I will say, is this is not a surprise. The process of the Boy Scouts succumbing to the Sexual Revolution over the past few years was way too easy to predict.
- Russell in the news
Check out the recent article in the New York Times about OKC Thunder floor leader Russell Westbrook.
The writer gives a fascinating take on Russell’s whirlwind season. I love reading about his methodology of how he goes about his life and game preparation. I knew about the ritual of Russ eating PBJs.
The only thing I didn’t care for is the slap about OKC taking the team from Seattle. Puh-lease!
- Shout out to COMM group co-workers
I work with a great crew on the Communications group at the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma (BGCO). I already mentioned the week started out with a full two days at the State Evangelism Conference. On Wednesday, we had “At Home Day” at the BGCO, which is a monthly meeting of all BGCO employees.
I was excited to hear two of my newest co-workers share their testimonies during At Home Day. Stephanie Boone, BGCO COMM group ministry assistant, and Emily Howsden, Messenger staff writer, shared how they made a profession of faith in Christ, as well as other experiences of their spiritual journeys.
It’s been a joy to work with both of these young ladies since they came on board in Oct. Hearing them share what God has been doing in their lives was an extra blessing to me.
Praise God for such an awesome workplace with wonderful co-workers!
- Super Bowl spiel
I don’t have a big interest in the Super Bowl this weekend. I’m predicting the New England Patriots to win, but I will be rooting for the Atlanta Falcons.
It is exciting to hear about ministry opportunities happening in Houston, this year’s Super Bowl host city. Baptist Press reports a group of Disaster Relief volunteers helped with repairs around H-town this week, highlight what is being called Super Week of Caring.
Another BP story tells how NFL players deal with pride. One said pride is “one of my biggest sins, by far.”
Patriots offensive lineman Nate Soldier opened up about his 3-year-old son battling cancer. “I felt a glimpse of the pain that God sacrificed for us when He gave up His one and only son,” Solder said.
Finally, Falcons tight end Jacob Tamme shares about suffering an injury that will have him on the sidelines during the Super Bowl, but he remains strong in his faith in God. I was pleased to read the comments Tamme made about “God’s bigger than we think He is.”
The BP article also said Tamme’s twitter bio describes him as “Christian, husband, dad, football player. Imperfect at each. Trusting in a perfect God.”
The weather got colder as I conclude. Such is the way of life during an Oklahoma winter.
