Our case study, Ahab (not the whaler, but the seventh king of the northern tribes of Israel) was a despicable human being and a lousy ruler. He and his supermodel wife worshipped the false gods of promiscuity and profligacy. He did some good by fortifying some cities and benefiting the national economy. But the rest …
The Conscience of the Country
Kings, Prophets, and Presidents: A Warning about Power Abuse (Part 3 of 4) We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. Sometimes we must interfere. Elie Wiesel The stories about Kings David and Ahab abusing their power are the basis of these few posts. …
Presidential Power Plays
Kings, Prophets, and Presidents: A Warning about Power Abuse (Part 2 of 4) “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” Abraham Lincoln Power abuse is nothing new to humanity. Man’s inhumanity to man is as old as humanity itself, especially with respect to the …
“Suffer Well”
A good theology of suffering teaches us not to waste our sorrows, but to sidle up as close as we can to the heart of Jesus as we endure our pains. While I’d rather sound like Elijah than Eeyore when I pray, the “positive confession” can sometimes be more spiritualistic than spiritual. I want to …
