Category: Authoritarianism

George Washington’s Warning to the Nation and Its Meaning for America Today

A while back, I wrote a post about George Washington’s warning in his Farewell Address. I’ve been thinking about it again lately, and I wanted to come back to it because his message still feels important today. Washington warned us about the problems that can come from being divided, getting caught up in political fighting, and letting outside influences pull…

When Governments Choose Fear Over Progress

Reflections on Leadership, Responsibility, and the Path Forward  Introduction  Governments exist to serve, protect, and uplift their citizens. At their best, they foster environments where individuals flourish, communities prosper, and opportunities are accessible to all. Effective governance creates the foundation for thriving societies—building schools for education, hospitals for health, and roads for connection. However, when fear becomes a guiding principle,…

Ornate jeweled crown beside aged parchment scroll and quill with inkwell

Why Israel’s Request for a King Matters for America Today

A simplified look at history and its modern implications Sometimes, history has a way of teaching us valuable lessons, even centuries later. One such moment is when the nation of Israel, in ancient times, asked for a king to rule over them. This story, found in the Bible, offers important insights for countries today, including America. Let’s break this down…

Lessons from History: Finding Truth in Turbulent Times

Contemplative Look at History, Prophecy, and Our Present Age Introduction The world today feels turbulent. As we look at America and the broader global stage, news headlines scream of conflict, division, and uncertainty. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, wondering how we got here and what comes next. In these moments, many people turn to the Bible—not just for comfort, but…

Cracks in the Foundation: What the Bible Says About America’s Deepening Divisions 

Finding Hope and Guidance Midst Our National Struggles  America today feels more divided than many of us can remember. News headlines announce the latest clash or controversy. Social media amplifies anger. Conversations—even among friends or family—can quickly turn tense. If you’re feeling worried, confused, or even hopeless about the state of our society and democracy, you’re certainly not alone. Many are asking: Where do we…

Cracks in the Foundation: How Deepening Divisions Are Shaping American Life 

An Honest Look at the Troubling Trends Undermining Our Democracy and Society  Introduction: The Widening Gap in American Culture  There’s no denying it—America feels more divided than ever. We see arguments not just about politics across dinner tables, on social media, and in the news. These arguments are about the basic rules that hold our society together. If you feel worried,…

Habakkuk’s Woes: A Call to Justice

How a Bold Prophet Spoke Up for What’s Right Have you ever wondered why people who seem to do the wrong thing keep getting ahead? That’s exactly what bothered Habakkuk, one of the most honest and down-to-earth prophets in the Old Testament. Unlike others who kept quiet, Habakkuk didn’t hesitate to ask God hard questions about why unfairness and injustice…

How Leaders Misuse Power: Understanding Perverted Justice

Understanding the Dangers of Perverted Justice in Simple Terms Introduction Imagine a society where the people in charge of making and enforcing laws are no longer working for the good of everyone, but instead use their power to go after those they don’t like. This can happen when a leader has a personal grudge—what we call “personal animus”—against someone and…

Navigating Uncertainty: Hope for Democracy and Faith

Reflections on a Time of Uncertainty In my lifetime, I have witnessed the United States go through many trials—conflicts, elections, cultural changes, and periods of healing. Yet, as I look at the current state of our democracy and the role of the Church within it, I find myself more concerned than ever before. The values that once seemed unshakable now…