Category: U.S. constitution

Remarkable Insights from Pauline A New Home

FeaturedRemarkable Insights from Pauline A New Home

Monday through Friday I deal with different subjects in this blog. I also post my blog to my Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld. Tuesday’s I try to focus on Insights. This week I am taking another look at Remarkable Insights from Pauline A New Home.

‘At that moment the President was still building his Cabinet, which currently held Vice-President Sarah Adams and Secretary of State Mark Taylor. But today he welcomed Jessica Harper into his office.
The twenty four year old Jessica was a graduate of Michigan State University, located in East Lansing, Michigan. She had majored in education and had planned to continue for a Masters Degree. In fact, she had already enrolled at the time of her arrest.
“Have a seat Miss Harper. May I call you Jessica?”
“Yes, although some simply call me Jess.”
“Any preference?”
“Jess is reserved for friends and I have a hunch that we’re going to be friends, so Jess is fine.”
“Does that mean you are accepting the position of Secretary of Education?”’

The above quote is taken from my novel Pauline A New Home. If you’ve read the book you know that President Adams was in the process of forming his cabinet shortly after the Christians landed on Pauline. Today’s insights come from that necessary step as the Christians formed their new government.
Whenever a new government is formed the new leader needs men and women around him that he can trust to carry out whatever agenda he may have for his government. It matters little if it is an existing government on Earth or a brand new government on some distant planet, you need government and you need the right people to run it.
In our country the President, who is elected by the people, selects people he feels will help him administer his government. These men and women are then submitted to the Senate who either approves of disapproves. If approved then they run their respective department in a manner that supports the Presidents will.
Representative Democracy.
Here in America we have what is called a Representative Democracy. This is not the same as Democracy. In Democracy you have the people making laws, etc. It is unwieldy and closely resembles mob rule. Representative Democracy is where the people elect representatives to make the decisions for them. If the people are unhappy with their representatives they have the right to replace them.
When first formed it was truly unique. Since then other countries have tried to copy us with limited success. As with the government on Pauline our government adopted a Constitution based upon Biblical principles. Some people have challenged this fact, but while the Bible is not mentioned in the Constitution the ideas either came directly from the Bible or indirectly.
Some countries modified their constitutions or charters. Great Britain had already adopted a form of government that has largely continued to this day. In their government they have a King or Queen born for the job and a Prime Minister chosen is the leader of the winning party and appointed by the King or Queen. Many countries have followed this pattern.
But to my knowledge no country has truly imitated the United States. Not that we haven’t tried to export it. But it remains unique. The problem is that our type of government is linked to the Christian faith in spite of the detractors. When we remove God from our government we run into trouble.
Wall of Separation
For example, there are many politicians who insist on a “wall of separation” between the government and religion. They claim it is constitutional, although the term is nowhere found in the constitution. It first appeared in a letter by President Thomas Jefferson to a group of Danbury Baptists in 1802. They were worried that the government would do as governments in Europe, namely run the church. His letter was to reassure them, that they were protected by a wall of separation, namely the 1st Amendment. That wall was to keep government out of the church, not to keep the church out of the government.
Unfortunately in today’s world politicians don’t want to be bothered with morality (look at their lives if you doubt that). So they reinterpret the wall statement to mean the church is to be kept out of the government. Most Americans today don’t know this because modern history books reflect the current view rather than historical fact. It’s called revisionism!
This tearing down of the relationship between church and state causes additional problems!
Based on the new understanding God was kicked out of our schools. Bible Scripture has been removed from buildings; Bible knowledge has been banned from our schools; and Bible standards are systematically being removed from all public institutions.
Persecution of Christians.
Christians find it rough in colleges where toleration is preached but persecution is practiced. Every year we read of Christian college students being barred from this activity or that activity. But it’s not’s just colleges. It is showing up in government. We recently witnessed the attempt to destroy a good man whose only crime was that he was religious. Whether or not you believe the woman who claimed to be a victim, her story lacked credibility and was even denied by people she claimed were there. Plus, of course, she didn’t remember how she got there, how she left, where there was, and a lot of other details.
Crime.
We also see a rise in criminal activity by our young people. If they kill someone the finger is pointed at the NRA whether or not the killer was a member (usually not). The real culprit is not the gun used but the fact that our government has removed absolutes from our lives. Children grow up with no moral absolutes, therefore having their consciences instructed by TV and the movies. The only absolute they are taught is that the end justifies the means.
Of course, this thinking doesn’t apply to speed limits on the road. Try telling the policeman that the speed limit is only a suggestion since there are no absolutes.
Violence.
Our children are growing up in a violent world. That’s a fact. I grew up watching westerns, cops and robbers, and war stories. That didn’t make me violent. My parents were not particularly religious, but they instilled in me some absolutes. And every one of them can be traced back to the Bible.
The Bible teaches Christians to love one another. Not the love as expressed in Hollywood, but a love that is based on respect for one another; a love that truly cares for others. Christ is our example, but the world denies Him. They’ll use His name but ignore His Word (Bible). Is it any surprise that children that have grown up without Biblical teachings is violent to others?
Apathy.
The other side of violence is apathy. Women can be raped and no one will help her; people can be beaten and murdered while people look the other way.
Why?
“Because they are not concerned with human life except their own. So instead of stepping in, or calling 911, or providing the police with the needed information, they look the other way and keep their mouths shut. It is a tragic day we live in.
Abortion.
The Bible clearly teaches that abortion is a deadly sin.
“If men strive, and hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart from her, and yet no mischief follow: he shall be surely punished, according as the woman’s husband will lay upon him; and he shall pay as the judges determine. And if any mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life,” Exodus 21:22-23.
Homosexuality (aka transgender, gay, etc.)
In the Book of Romans (1:22-28) the subject is dealt with clearly. But if people don’t read the Bible, if they don’t go to church, or are taught otherwise in school it is going to be a rampant problem. Today immorality has taken the position of being the new morality. And it all began with the removal of God and His Word from our schools!
Family
The family is the basic unit of our government. When we have strong families we tend to see more respect for government, we value absolutes, and we are more agreeable with one another. But today the family is being attacked on almost every level.
Call to Action
There is issue after issue where the Bible has expressed itself, but today most people either are unaware or don’t care. And the results are tragic!
Those of us who are Christians have got to do more than protest. We need to take political action. That includes taking moral stands. It includes using the power of the vote. And it includes being a daily example.
I speak to everyone including myself. We are in danger of losing America!
VISIT MY AUTHOR’S PAGE TODAY: amazon.com/author/rfrederickriddle
ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) or Death Ship (Book One), Pauline A New Home (Book Two), or Task Force Hunter (Book Three), I value your reviews.
If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or ePub).

– – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

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Early Voting

FeaturedEarly Voting

Monday through Friday I deal with different subjects in this blog. I also post my blog to my Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld. Monday’s I try to focus on issues. This week I am taking a look at Early Voting?
Early Voting Starts
Today is the first day of Early Voting in many parts of Florida and in other states as well. If you missed voting by mail you might want to take advantage of early voting.
Aside from control of the U.S. House and U.S. Senate (worthy of everyone voting) there are numerous other issues right here in Florida that need your vote. They are:

  • Governor of Florida
  • U.S. Senate race
  • Other offices
  • 13 amendments

But I’m Thinking of Not Voting
That is your right. But I contend that not voting is very foolish. Our founders were very wise in creating a Representative Democracy. While it is true it is based on Biblical principles, it is also true that it hinges upon an informed voter. True, it is not easy to be informed with the biased media these days, but there are manifold resources available to you to keep informed.
I Don’t Like the Candidates
That again is your right, but it doesn’t justify not voting. Whether you are a conservative or liberal you have the right to vote bought by the blood of others. You need to vote. But when people don’t vote it weakens our government and results in the wrong people being elected. Take a look at this:

  • In 2008 and in 2012 the Christian right stayed home in large numbers. If they had  voted, the statistics show that there wouldn’t have been eight years of President Obama. They stayed home and he got elected, giving us ObamaCare and continuing the recession through most of 2016 (forget the experts that said it was over years earlier – they forgot to consider the people without jobs).
  • In 2016 the Christian right got out in large numbers and President Trump was elected. The recession came to a grinding halt, the economy is surging, other nations may not like President Trump but they’re giving him what he wants, and we now have the most conservation Supreme Court in years.
  • In 2008, 2012, and 2016 conservative voters either not voting or voting strongly influenced the outcome. Your vote is extremely important.

I liked Obama
That’s fine. I still urge you to vote. A Representative Democracy thrives when all people, even those of differing viewpoints, get out and vote. It is your right, exercise it.
But There’s a Blue Wave Coming
Did you read last Friday’s blog? A Blue Wave is becoming more and more unlikely. Especially after the American people witnessed the Democratic version of tolerance and cooperation during the Kavanaugh hearings. It was a shocking display of arrogance, deceit, and violence.
In addition they tried to deflect our attention from their offenses to Kavanaugh’s passionate defense of his record. They wanted him to roll over and let the lies stand. I found his defense passionate, detailed, and compelling. The Democrats showed the world what kind of government they would install.
But if you, a conservative, don’t vote that opens the door for another blue vote. In effect your vote could actually go to someone or something you don’t support.
What About the Florida Issues?
Here in Florida we not only have some very controversial elections, we also have amendments (some 13 I believe) that will impact our lives. I have been researching these amendments and know how I’m going to vote. However, each one of us needs to make up our own minds. Don’t depend on the media, also search them out on the internet.
Conclusion
Get out to vote! I heard one man say he was going to exercise his right not to vote. That is extremely dangerous. I want my candidates and issues to win, but I’d rather have someone vote contrary to my vote than not vote at all. Why? Because is we don’t vote we will lose that right and probably a lot of other rights as well!
VISIT MY AUTHOR’S PAGE TODAY: amazon.com/author/rfrederickriddle
ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) or Death Ship (Book One), Pauline A New Home (Book Two), or Task Force Hunter (Book Three), I value your reviews.
If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or ePub).

– – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Insights from World of Shem

FeaturedInsights from World of Shem

Monday through Friday I deal with different subjects in this blog. I also post my blog to my Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld. Tuesday’s I try to focus on Insights. This week I am taking another look at World of Shem.
Noah’s heart was thrilled at hearing God’s Voice. Listening carefully, he was astonished at the words God now spoke!
“…Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made He man.”
As God spoke it suddenly dawned upon Noah: Henceforth man is responsible to God for all our sins. Everyone of us will answer to a holy God, but He will also hold us as a people not only responsible for ourselves but for others also. If a man kills another, I as the patriarch must also take his life. This means I am expected to rule over them and take responsibility for them.
These thoughts staggered him.

After Noah and his family left the Ark God spoke to Noah and established government. In the past people ruled by might. There were kings, queens, and others whose word was law. If they thought you deserved death you died; if they thought your land and possessions should be taken away, they were taken away. In other words, the ruler had absolute power.
Capital Punishment.
Now God institutes government. Part of that establishment is Capital punishment. Today people argue against it, but God instituted it. The fact is that there is no rational argument against the death penalty.
Some people argue that it doesn’t reduce crime but history proves otherwise. According to history most crimes are committed by repeat offenders. This includes murder, rape, etc. When a person is sentenced to death it is because they committed a heinous crime.
While it might seem trivial to some, the fact is that no one has ever come back from the dead to commit another crime! Considering that repeat offenders constitute most criminal acts, this is huge. It is an obvious reduction in murders, rapes, etc. no matter what people who love to manipulate statistics want to tell you.
What About Innocent People?
That is a real problem that requires real solutions. Doing away with the death penalty is not a real solution, it’s a feel good solution that accomplishes little or nothing. Our “experts” need to focus on improving the collection and use of evidence. I for one think that police should be required to investigate all possible suspects and not focus on just one until the evidence supports such focus. Check out the facts even if the facts stand alone. Make sure that the lone fact is indeed a fact and, if so, pursue it. How many times has someone been convicted wrongly and the real criminal is long gone? Just saying.
What About Passing New Laws?
The answer to that question depends upon the situation the new law addresses. However, we all too often seek new laws to address crimes that are already addressed by existing law. Sometimes the problem isn’t the law, but the enforcement of that law.
That Would be Hard to do in a Democracy.
Perhaps. But first realize we do not live in a democracy, we live in a representative democracy. That is a whole different animal. The rule of the people (democracy) historically has been a failure. In fact, I would say that whenever someone has started down that road someone took over and you got the rule of one or a single group. True democracy leads to anarchy which usually requires a strong hand to overcome.
The Constitution Set Up A Representative Democracy.
We live in the best country because we have a representative democracy as instituted and defined in the constitution. This year we will be exercising our right to vote. That is a God given right to every citizen in America. It should be guarded (photo ID), protected, and used.
I imagine there may be some out there who don’t agree with my political views, but we live in a country where you are free to disagree and to be wrong. More important, you have the right to express your view in the voting booth. Part of the downward slide of our country has been apathy.
Immorality comes upon our country because we turn away from God’s Word and go our own way. It is also the result of not voting. Just because you are only one vote and it seems everybody is against you that is not a good reason for not voting.
Get out and Vote!
ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) or Death Ship (Book One), Pauline A New Home (Book Two), or Task Force Hunter (Book Three), I value your reviews.
If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or ePub).

– – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

A Government Mess

FeaturedA Government Mess

Monday through Friday I deal with different subjects in this blog. I also post my blog to my Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld. Monday’s I try to focus on issues. This week I am taking a look at A Government Mess.
Rethinking Government
I thought I knew our constitutional government. I was always taught there were three branches of government: Executive, Legislative, and Judicial. Turns out I was taught wrong. At least according to our news media.
What Does the News Media Say?
Well, let’s take a look at the Justice Department. According to the News Media the President is not supposed to exercise authority over the Justice Department. They are supposedly independent from the Administration.
The problem with this is that, aside from the Constitution, historically speaking the President has always had authority. For example, President Kennedy used the Justice Department to go after those who opposed him. And so have other presidents, including Obama. Yet now that Trump is President he supposedly doesn’t have authority over it.
You can take a look at every department of the Administration. Constitutionally they are all under the President, just like any well-run company. But the News Media keeps saying that Trump is endangering the proper status quo, the independence of the Justice Department.
This Would Be Dumb
If this was how our government was set up it would be dumb and unworkable. You literally make the President a figurehead. In other words, he would be unimportant. We would have a governmental mess that makes our government weak at home and abroad.
Let Trump Be President
There are people outside the Administration’s inner core that are trying to bring down the President. They have the ear and cooperation of the News Media.
I don’t for a second believe the resistance movement within the Administration’s command structure actually exists. It is possible, but unlikely. And if there is or are such people they should resign or be fired. Having people that close to the Presidency is dangerous for the President and for the country.
Trump Triumphant
What is so amazing is that with this resistance movement, also known as the Deep State, apparently formed before Trump took office, being so widespread and powerful, Trump has been by every measure a success.  Take a look:

  • Economic Success – I hear Obama claiming his policies resulted in the resurgence. Really? It wasn’t until after the election that company executives were emboldened enough to start new projects and hiring new employees. And these weren’t low tech jobs, but good paying high tech jobs! Technically Obama was President, but the real cause was the election of Donald Trump.
  • Foreign Success – Trump carries a big stick, but he gets what he wants. NATO countries are now providing greater financial support to NATO; Europe is becoming more cooperative; North Korea has backed down and negotiations are probably underway; Mexico has signed a better deal than we formerly had; and Canada has been brought screaming to the table.

Under Trump There is No Mess
The facts suggest that the media and the left (bedfellows) are the ones in a mess. They keep attacking and losing. Yeah, the poles say they’re winning. But actual elections keep going Trump’s way. Please remember these are the same poles giving Hillary the victory. The media consistently creates false narratives and proclaims the end of the Trump Era only to be upended by the truth.
I can hardly wait for the actual election and seeing Trump continue his amazing accomplishments!
ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) or Death Ship (Book One), Pauline A New Home (Book Two), or Task Force Hunter (Book Three), I value your reviews.
If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or ePub).

– – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Nomination of Brett Kavanaugh

Nomination of Brett Kavanaugh

Today’s Issue: Need for a Constitutionalist
Monday’s I try to focus on issues. This week I am taking a look at the nomination of Brett Kavanaugh for Supreme Court Justice.
There are a lot of side issues in this nomination with the democrats acting like spoiled babies. Even today I saw an article that indirectly attacked Kavanaugh though it was aimed at the GOP. The author of the article made a big issue about whether the nominee was likable. Claims that the GOP thinks he should receive Senate approval simply because he’s a nice guy. Actually I don’t know of any senator who would ever make that claim.
But the writer missed the most important issue: The View of the Constitution.
When selecting a person to be on the Supreme Court, we all want our favorite politics represented. Democrats generally want a liberal and Republicans generally want a conservative, but that doesn’t tell us of the person’s view of the Constitution.
Unfortunately there are elitists who believe they know better about what is good for Americans. They can be either Democrat or Republican or any other party. These same people view the constitution as a living document. To some extent so do I, but not as they do. They consider it a living document that can be interpreted according to the times we live in.
My view is that the constitution is a living document because it can be amended. When the constitution was first written there was opposition to it because it failed to protect certain perceived rights. Thus, it was amended.
And throughout our nation’s history there have been times when the constitution has been amended through the constitutional mechanism. That is the right and proper way of making the constitution viable for our generation and future generations.
But in matters of law and governance the constitution is the absolute authority.
It is not up to an activist judge, whether liberal or conservative, to twist the constitution to his/her opinion. It was meant that the judges up to and including Supreme Court judges protect and enforce the constitution. This requires a strict adherence to the constitution. No opinion, no outside document, and no circumstance should ever hold sway in contrast to the constitution. It is the absolute authority.
But what about our rights?
When black men and women’s rights needed protection an amendment was passed; when women’s rights were threatened an amendment was passed; and when other rights were threatened specific amendments were passed. These are time consuming avenues that are meant to allow a thorough examination of the issues before a vote. It is meant that the American people not elitists in Washington D.C. determine what is needed.
The Supreme Court needs Constitutionalists.
Judge Kavanaugh has a career resume that demonstrates that he takes a literal view of the constitution. If this causes him to vote conservative most of the time then so be it, although I’d bet that sometimes we conservatives will not like his vote. Why? Because we conservatives don’t always stick to the constitution either.
We don’t need Activist Judges.
By definition an activist judge is not a constitutionalist. Whether liberal (usually) or conservative (sometimes) they tend to bend the constitution and the law to fit their own bias. I think Americans are getting sick and tired of that.
We need men and women who will stick by the constitution and by the law. And if the constitution or the law needs changed, follow the constitutional mechanisms provided! This approach served our country well for its first 100 years and then we started getting cute with our interpretations. And look at the mess we have!
That is the criteria for selecting a jurist for the Supreme Court. Not the person’s likeability, not the person’s sex, and not the Senate’s political bias’s. The Senate is suppose to determine if the nominee fulfills the Constitutional requirements not the current politically correct view. If they’d do that the entire process would not take nearly as long as it probably will take.
Based on what I’ve heard and read, Brett Kavanaugh deserves Senate approval.
ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) or Death Ship I value your reviews.
If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or ePub).

– – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

America’s Birthday

America’s Birthday

Today’s Issue: America’s Birthday
Monday’s I try to focus on issues. This week we celebrate the 4th of July, our country’s birthday!
What do you think about when you hear the words, 4th of July?

  • Parades?
  • Speeches?
  • Fireworks?
  • Picnics?

All of these are great. But what about the sacrifices our ancestors made. Many lost their lives, while others lost their wealth and health. Much blood was spilled. For what?

  • Independence?
  • Freedom to worship God?
  • Freedom of Speech?
  • Freedom from taxation without representation?
  • Right to bear arms?
  • All of the above?

I favor the last, All of the above. All of these and much more are what these people made sacrifices for. Today we live in a world where much of this is taken for granted, abused, and often dismissed.
What about the Right to Bear Arms?
I’ve never belonged to the NRA nor do I plan on joining. But I believe strongly in the right to bear arms. I am also in favor of reasonable laws governing the ownership of guns. The key word there is reasonable. But reasonable seems to take a back seat as far as the anti-gun crowd is concerned. Their answer is for all of us to love one another. This coming from teens, most of whom have yet to learn what real love is. Hint: it is not the love that Hollywood peddles. And who will obey these laws? Not the criminals nor those bent on doing harm. Only law abiding citizens will. Which means the criminals will have an unarmed citizenry to prey upon.
What about Freedom to Worship God?
This country was founded by Christians, our Constitution is based on Biblical principles, the Preamble references Him, and the practice of our pioneers was to worship God. But today Christianity is becoming an abused child. While religions like Islam, which worship another god, have many rights and protections, Christianity is undergoing attacks. And unless we turn back to God it will only get worse.
What about Freedom of Speech?
Nowadays we live in a world governed by people who want to take away our right to disagree and express our own opinion. While the Liberal meltdown over the Trump election is a classic example of hatred and the effort to suppress those who support Trump, it is by far not the only one. Colleges and universities are now increasingly becoming institutions where freedom of speech is fast disappearing. Right now it is centering on conservative political stances and upon Bible believing Christians. But if not corrected it will get worse. Eventually we will have a dictatorship of thought.
What about Freedom from taxation without representation?
With a Congress that endlessly debates and does nothing, we are in effect experiencing taxation without representation. It is the home of the ‘swamp.’ There are too many Republicans and Democrats more interested in their own political agenda than they are in solving national problems. So are problems fester and become worse. It is a miracle that the Trump Administration has gotten so much done while dealing with a do-nothing Congress. And yet he has accomplished much.
(A little side note here: Some liberals have the audacity to say that the rebounding economy is a result of Obama’s tenure. His eight years in office did little for our economy which was inching along not on strong industrial growth, but on low paying jobs. You want to see when the economy took off look at the day after Trump’s election and since!)
Ladies and gentlemen, if you want to see America get back on track and “be great again,” you need to support Trump. You don’t have to like him, but right now his administration is the strongest thing going?
What about the Church?
The church is under attack from without and within. The Bible has been diluted, the message lost, and the people weakened. Don’t get me wrong! There are churches that stand for the Word of God, that preach salvation by no other name but Jesus, and that worship God faithfully. But they are disappearing. But the question is legitimate. Our real need is for revival!
ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) or Death Ship to the Stars I value your reviews.
If you would like to review any of these books contact me at marketing@tr-indbkstore.com with the subject line indicating that desire. An example of an appropriate subject line would be: ‘Seek to review [book Title].’ In the email make sure to indicate your email address, your name, and the choice of copy (PDF or ePub).

– – – – – – –

R Frederick Riddle is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

The Persecuted Church

The Persecuted Church

Christians are being persecuted around the world. Even here in America we are seeing forms of persecution. The media, some government bodies, and colleges are now taking an anti-Christian view.

In this first blog about the Persecuted Church I am taking a look at America, so-called Christian America. We now live in a country where believing in the fundamental truths of the Bible is ridiculed and punished.

Recently I read a column by Kathleen Parker. Now, to be honest, the two of us would probably disagree on a lot of things since we apparently have two different worldviews. But I found her article interesting and well written. The article concerned the religious liberty battle raging between the city of Philadelphia and the Catholic Social Services. This battle also included the Bethany Christian Services.

Both of the services turned away an openly gay couple from adopting a child. Why? Because both organizations had religious objections based on their understanding of the Bible. Protected by the constitution, right? Apparently not. Shortly afterward the city’s Department of Human Services “suspended foster care intake with both Bethany and CSS.”

Now Parker and I would differ on our view of gays, but we agree on religious liberty. But the real point of bringing this up is that attacking people for their Biblical stand is becoming all too common. The article itself referred to the forcing of devout bakers to create wedding cakes for gay marriages. This is a sad time for a country that is still identified as Christian.

But may I take it further? Not only are Christian values being stomped upon, but cults and other religions are getting preferential treatment. We frequently hear of Dearborn, Michigan, not far from where I once lived, being run as a Moslem city. Is it true? I haven’t been there in decades, so I don’t know. But if true, it is contrary to our constitution and, for that matter, to our history. But Dearborn is just one example. How about our military where a small group of atheists had forced the military to turn against the very men and women who served, some as chaplains?

Fortunately, the election of Trump has at least slowed down the secularization of America, but it will take a revival to stop it cold and reverse it. But will Christians take a stand; will Christians be revived; and to the point, will America return to its Biblical roots and both honor and worship the one true God?

Some people say no, it’s too late for America. But when I read the Bible, especially the Old Testament, I find examples where God revived His people when all seemed lost. I believe He can still do it, He is all-powerful, but we Christians need to fervently pray for revival. And while praying take a close look at our own lives.

Is the church persecuted in America? Not like in other countries, but it has started.

ARE YOU A BOOK REVIEWER? I am always looking for book reviews. Whether it is Perished The World That Was (Book One), World of Noah and the Ark (Book Two), World of Shem (Book Three), World of Abraham (Book Four) or Death Ship I value your reviews.

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R Frederick Riddle is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Profile in Faith John Dickinson

Profile in Faith John Dickinson

John Dickinson (1732-1808) was a Revolutionary General, Signer of the Constitution, Governor of Delaware, and Governor of Pennsylvania. More importantly he was a professing Christian. Listen to these words provided to us by Wall Builders:

  • Rendering thanks to my Creator for my existence and station among His works, for my birth in a country enlightened by the Gospel and enjoying freedom, and for all His other kindnesses, to Him I resign myself, humbly confiding in His goodness and in His mercy through Jesus Christ for the events of eternity.
  • [Governments] could not give the rights essential to happiness… We claim them from a higher source: from the King of kings, and Lord of all the earth.

Known as the “Penman of the Revolution” because of his twelve letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania, Dickinson was very involved with the revolution and the establishment of a new nation. Consider:

  • Member of Continental Congress.
  • Signee to Continental Association.
  • Drafted 1774 Petition to the King.
  • Member of 2nd Continental Congress.
  • Wrote Olive Branch Petition (to the king).
  • Wrote final draft of Declaration of Causes and Necessity of taking Up Arms.
  • Wrote the Model Treaty.
  • Wrote first draft of Articles of Confederation and Perpetual Union.
  • Member of 1786 Annapolis Convention calling for Constitutional Convention of 1787.

Dickinson’s religious affiliation was Quaker, Episcopalian. In his Last Will and Testament, he wrote: Rendering Thanks to my Creator for my Existence and Station among his works, for my Birth in a Country enlightened by the Gospel and enjoying Freedom, and for all his other Kindnesses, to him I resign Myself, humbly confiding in his Goodness, and in his Mercy through Jesus Christ, for the Events of Eternity
This was a man who practiced his faith. He had strong views and he put them into action even at the risk of life and limb. We owe a debt to men such as he!
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R Frederick Riddle is the author of several books and is best known for Christian Historical Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Profiles in Faith Gouverneur Morris

Profiles in Faith Gouverneur Morris

Known as the man who wrote the final draft of the Constitution, Morris was also the man who spoke the most often during the Convention (173 times).

But what is known of his faith?

Actually we don’t know that much in spite of his much speaking. Nonetheless, we can surmise a few facts.

First of all we know that he was a member of the Episcopal Church. While little is known of his activities within the church it is hard to believe that this gifted man simply faded into the background. It is likely that he served within the church and, since he came from wealth, gave substantially to it. This is speculation, but this author feels it is a logical conclusion.

Second we know he was familiar with the Bible. This is based on his speeches and his writings where he often quoted the Bible. This suggests that he spent a fair amount of time in the reading of the Bible, which would not be the habit of a deist.

Third, he believed in the depravity of man which was more in line with Christianity than the Enlightenment. Deists tend to believe in an absentee God rather than a personal God. They also reject the supernatural as seen in the Bible. Morris, as stated above, was very acquainted with the Bible and was apt to quote it.

Fourth, while some claim he was a deistic realist, the evidence seems to be more correctly that he was influenced by this thinking.

Fifth, he strongly favored freedom of religion.

Sixth, he was against slavery.

The truth is we simply don’t have enough information to say whether Morris was a Christian or not. However, his career reflected not only a highly education mind (attended King’s College, later known as Columbia), but a mind attuned to Christian thought.

So where do we place him?

In my opinion he would be considered within the Christian faith. Probably a weak Christian (theologically speaking) with ties to both Christian and Enlightened thought. He was also a close friend of George Washington whom we will profile next.

A comment on historians who point to Deism as the religion of our founders. First, this time period coincided with the Enlightment, so historians seem to think this impacted everyone. Second, modern day historians may have a bias against Christianity. Yet the founding documents of this nation (Mayflower Compact, Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution) all indicate a Christian belief. I think the burden of proof must lay with those who claim deistic beliefs of our fathers and we should assume Christian beliefs unless proven otherwise.

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R Frederick Riddle is the author of several books and is best known for Historical Fiction. For more information on him or his books visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.

Profiles in Faith James Madison

Profiles in Faith James Madison

Many people, including historians, claim that Madison and the other founders as well were deists. But they do so without much evidence. But what do Madison’s own statements reveal?

“watchful eye must be kept on ourselves lest, while we are building ideal monuments of renown and bliss here, we neglect to have our names enrolled in the Annals of Heaven.” (emphasis added)

Notice the words Annals of Heaven. This is not a deist term, but clearly speaks of heaven, whereas the word ‘annals’ would indicate a book or record. In other words, he is speaking of salvation and having our names written in the Book of Life.

“For men who occupy the most honorable and gainful departments and [who] are rising in reputation and wealth, publicly to declare their unsatisfactoriness by becoming fervent advocates in the cause of Christ.”  (emphasis added)

Here he indicates a desire that men of high position be bold in their faith, even becoming fervent advocates in the cause of Christ! This is a strong statement and evinces a belief in personal soul winning.

On these two quotes alone we can safely surmise that Madison was a Christian not a Deist. But there is more.

Although initially opposed to amendments to the Constitution, he supported the idea of freedom of religion where the government does not favor one denomination over another. He wasn’t afraid of the church influencing government, but rather government establishing a national religion. Read:

“The civil rights of none shall be abridged on account of religious belief or worship, nor shall any national religion be established.” (emphasis added)

An interesting fact was that he was inclined to have paid chaplains for Congress. As President he signed a bill that economically aided a Bible Society to distribute Bibles. Further, as President he signed proclamations for national days of prayer, fasting, and thanksgiving. These are not the actions of a Deist.

Later in life he seems to have retreated from these positions with his ‘Detached Memorandum.” However, this memorandum does not reflect his public statements nor his actions, which in my opinion makes one wonder if it was written by him at all. But whether it was or wasn’t the fact remains that both publicly and historically his actions were that of a believer in Christ and not that of a Deist.

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R Frederick Riddle is the author of several books. For more information on him visit his Amazon Authors Page. He is also co-founder and Vice President of T&R Independent Books where his books are featured. To reply to any blog you have the option of commenting on a blog and/or sending an email to marketing@tr-indbkstore.com. You may also be interested in his Facebook page at RFrederickRiddlesWorld.