Biologically There is No Such Thing as “Race” Part 2

by Cynthia Cummings-Walker
A Word to the Wise (lifeandbibleblog.com)

Deleterious Effects of a Race-based Social Construct

One time my husband was returning from a business trip where he had flown on the company’s private jet. On the way home once my husband entered our predominately White city, a police car pulled behind him. When my husband turned into the neighborhood we lived in, so did the police. When he turned into our cul de sac, the police turned in there also. Once the police saw our garage door begin to open, they circled around and left.

What a dichotomy. From private jet to suspect, all within an hour. This is not an indictment of police. It’s about a general perception of Black people who are living within a race-based social construct. They can be perceived as guilty until proven innocent.

Because a Black person can’t have their Resume, financial portfolio, and address clearly displayed at all times, they are generally seen as some type of menace. Problematic for some, deadly for others.

Black people face situations daily that White people never even have had to think about. That is one reason it must seem incredulous to them when they hear certain scenarios about discriminatory practices.

Within this racially stratified culture, some White people make excuses for the mistreatment of Black people, saying they deserved it. While other courageous White people have spoken out against racism and white supremacy.

One of the reasons I cherish my genuine White friends so much is because they know many of my experience first-hand. They understand the plight of Black people. I never have to hear them make excuses or defend racism.

From the wealthiest Black person to the poorest ones, they have shared experiences wherein no matter what level of education, wealth or fame achieved, Black people in society are inordinately portrayed and treated as though they are inherently genetically inferior, angry, and violent.

A Race-based social construct is very complex. Currently, there is no easy way to dismantle it, yet there are steps that can be taken to quell its effects in the meantime. It will have to be a journey just like so many other changes in society when people deem it so.

Personal Decisions Should Take Precedence over Other People’s Biases

I am not a victim of this Race-based social construct. I have many more advantages and opportunities than the enslaved Black people who initially came to America. They did not speak the language. They were deprived of their cultural norms. They were not permitted to learn to read or write. They were robbed of their dignity. They were treated inhumanly.

Nonetheless, freed Black people left plantations with only ragged clothes on their backs, yet with sheer brainpower, strength, courage, determination, and the help of abolitionists they survived, thrived, and excelled in every area that makes America one of the most advanced and prosperous nations in the world today. I walk in their footsteps, unfettered by obstacles and barriers.

My decisions determine how I live, not someone else’s biases. It really doesn’t matter what settings a person is born into. A person’s initial environment does not determine how their life will be lived; their decisions do. No environment guarantees failure or success. A person’s decisions determine that.

If a person is born into poverty, they don’t have to spend the rest of their lives there. They can rise above their circumstances. A basic education is free. Libraries are free. If the person excels in school, college scholarships are available which is almost free. There are mentors who can help guide a person who is tenacious and teachable. That person’s decisions will determine whether they win or lose.

On the other hand, a person born into wealth and privilege, does not have a guarantee of success. They can use their advantages wisely, or squander opportunities. They have a choice. Sadly, there are countless wealthy people who find themselves drug or alcohol addicted. Fortunately, there are all kinds of programs to help anyone with these struggles. Wealth couldn’t keep them from unnecessary pain and heartache. Better decisions could have.

I taught my children and grandchildren this concept: “Decisions Create Environment”. Their daily decisions will either give them options, or have privileges taken away. They have a choice. They must decide what they want the outcome of their actions to be now, and as adults. No matter what they are faced with, what they do about it is up to them. I pray that they always choose to overcome.

Moving Past Not being Racist to being for Anti-Racism

I know that all White people do not embrace the ideology of superior and inferior “Races”. They are not racist. However, in today’s society it is not enough for a person not to be racist. Another step is needed.

Some White people do not see their actions as racist because they do not say or do the obnoxious things that overtly racist people do. I understand. However, sometimes White people have an unconscious bias of which they are unaware. Many times, when a Black person mentions anything about racist words or actions, they are labeled as “pulling the race card”.

When another White person points out something that appears racist, it can be enlightening. Non-racist White people appreciate the insight when these things are brought to their attention by another White person. True racists reject the information and call, or label, the White person the opprobrious term a “N-word” lover.

Many times, when a Black person mentions anything about racist words or actions, they are labeled as “pulling the race card”. I so appreciate the fact that my White friends understand the plight of Black people in America. They know that they have White privilege. When necessary they use their privilege to make a difference in the lives of Black people, and others. Many times when a Black person mentions anything about racist words or actions, they are labeled as “pulling the race card”.

I believe that one of the most effective ways a White person can help to quell overt racism is to say something. Perhaps it can make a difference and possibly lessen the humiliation a Black person may feel. I know that these acts have lessened my pain, and possibly enlighten the person who inflicted it.

I have benefitted from the adage: “If you see or hear something, say something.”

A White co-worker of mine who had recently moved to the area, attended a cocktail party where there were only White people present. She was astonished at how freely people were using the N-word, joking about, and disparaging Black people. When my friend couldn’t take it anymore, she raised her voice and said that her mother was Black and the conversations were very offensive. Although her mother was not Black, that was the only thing she could think of at the time to try to stop the overt racist conversation. It did.
A couple of Black friends and I were seated in a hotel restaurant for about 10 minutes without being waited on. A White couple, who came in after us, who had been waiting to be seated finally were given a booth. Immediately the waiter went over to them to take their order. The man pointed out to the waiter that while waiting he noticed that we had been sitting there for a while without service and that the waiter should wait on us first.
A White acquaintance of mine decided to be a waitress in an extremely popular restaurant in a predominantly White area where we lived. During the training for new employees, they were told, “Don’t worry about giving Black people good service because they don’t give good tips.” My neighbor was appalled, and asked, “If Black people get poor service, why should they leave a good tip?” She was told in so many words that Black people were not a priority there. She walked out right then, never to return.
Recently my husband and I were in a restaurant that required a reservation. We came in on time and were seated. For about 10 minutes of watching everyone’s table being waited on except ours, and not even being able to make eye contact with a waiter, we got up to leave. Before we could get to the door, a White Manager asked us why we were leaving. We told her. She asked us to return to the table and we would be waited on immediately. She sent a waitress over that we had not seen that evening. We received excellent service from that point on and a hefty discount.

This was an anti-racism action to me. A teaching moment for waiters. We have been in restaurants with the same issue and no one questioned or cared if we walked out.

White People and Black People Need to Develop Friendships

Some White people proclaim that they are not racist because they have a Black friend. For a White person to have a good relationship with a Black co-worker or neighbor does not prove that a person is not racist. Usually, those relationships are cordial and superficial. W

I am not making a judgement here. This is basically the American way. When there are a couple of Black families in the neighborhood, or children in a school, that doesn’t really matter that they share the same space if they are devoid of personal relationships.

When a White person grows up in an all-White environment, lives in an all-White neighborhood, goes to all-White schools, White houses of worship in all faiths, attends all-White parties and celebrations from a child up, they have no opportunity to know Black people personally. They will primarily rely on what they’ve been told by sources they trust.

A couple of years ago I was in an international Book club wherein we read and discussed the book “White Fragility” by Robin DiAngelo. Robin is a White woman explaining from her own experiences why many White people perceive Black people the way they do. I learned so much from that book and diverse group discussions.

What has been invaluable to me is White friends. They individually have stood by me through thick and thin, and I, them. They have been true friends to me in every way. We love each other. My friends have gone into battles with me, encouraged me and fought for me. They were willing to open those doors that I had no access to as a Black person. The doors that were figuratively for “Whites only.”

A close friendship with people of diverse cultures and ethnicities is extremely important in closing the “racial” divide. I have benefited in ways that I would never have expected. Bottom line is that developing genuine personal relationships with Black people and others of diverse backgrounds can dispel myths on all sides. Why not at least try it?

Continued in Part 3

Biologically There is No Such Thing as “Race”

Cynthia Cummings-Walker
A Word to the Wise (lifeandbibleblog.com)

Nothing Biological Identifies “Race”

God created the world in all of its beauty with its landmasses, climates, bodies of water, vegetation, forests and flowers, and every living creature. Then God created the human race. He created mankind in His own image, according to His likeness (Genesis 1:26).

Then God created people with diverse nationalities, ethnicities, cultures, skin tones, eye and hair colors and textures. What a beautiful picture of diversity. The only “Race” that God created is the human race.

I understood this more clearly when I took a DNA test to determine my ancestry. My genome showed that my ethnicity originated from two continents – Africa and Northwestern Europe. There was no “Race” indicated. “Race” is not identifiable in the human genome genetically or biologically, nor is it scientifically quantifiable. Something that does not exist cannot be measured.

Identifying “Race” would be like attempting to measure the miles that Santa Claus travels around the world on Christmas eve. Yes, children see Santa, sit on his lap, and tell him what they want for Christmas. They wake up on Christmas morning to open the toys Santa left. None of this proves that Santa exists. It’s merely a part of American tradition and culture which so many enjoy.

Santa Claus and “Race” have much in common. Santa Claus is beneficial to the people who embrace him, and the retailers who make billions of dollars a year off of this folklore. The designation of “Race” is advantages for those who want to perpetuate an inferior and superior grouping of people.

Think about it, biologically human bodies basically function the same way under a 2mm skin covering. If a person needs a blood transfusion there are no racial groupings. Blood is blood by type. When a person needs an organ transplant, there are no racial categories to choose from. Compatibility in blood and tissue type are requirements. “Race” is not a factor because “Race” does not exist.

Disagree? Of course, everyone is entitled to their own opinion about Race. I’m not bothered by that. Opinions are just opinions. Facts are facts. Where opinions and facts differ is that opinions don’t have to be based on any specific science.

Facts are based on information predicated upon universal truth, scientific, genetic, and biological research, and data. The most brilliant minds in the world have not identified anything such as “Race”.

“Race” is a Created Social Construct

Since “Race” classifications have no scientific validity, why in 21^st century America does this racial designation continue to exist? There is no benefit in this created race-based construct except for those who believe in the theory of superior and inferior “Races”.

This has been exponentially the case in America since 1619. Because a Race-based social construct has been an integral part of American society for centuries does not justify its continuance. To quote Booker T. Washington: “A lie doesn’t become truth, wrong doesn’t become right, and evil doesn’t become good, just because it’s accepted by a majority.”

Why in America should Black people need to check a box that says African American, indicating “Race”, on so many mundane forms if it is not required on a Driver’s License, Passport, or other official documents which are identifiers?

When Black Americans travel anywhere in the world they are classified as a citizen of the United States of America, period. Yet, here in this nation, Black people are expected to use the prefix, African. I do not.

Furthermore, this whole idea of people of “mixed Race” being identified as Black or African American is telling. This harkens back to the legalized “One Drop Rule” referring to hypodescent (automatic descent to the subordinate group) which was outlawed in America by the Supreme Court in 1967.

Because Black people are not monolithic, some may think “Race” designations matter. That’s okay. However, for those who see “Race” as the race-based social construct that it is, perhaps they should question the validity of the “Race” question on forms. I have.

Not once has anyone been able to give me a valid answer as to why “Race” is important there. Some intellectual discussions about the validity of “Race” may change the narrative after a while. I have seen changes, and progress when I have raised the issue.

I think that it is important to say here that I do not consider myself to be a helpless victim of this raced-based social construct. My decisions determine how I live, not other people’s biases.

Continued in Part 2 and 3

Self-Examination Time

by Cynthia Cummings-Walker

Self-Reflection

People are so busy these days with little time to sit in contemplative silence without their thoughts racing to the next thing. It seems so difficult to live in the moment, or even have time for self-reflection.

“Is my life going the way I wanted it to, or am I on auto pilot stuck in a mindless routine? Do I have specific goals of what I want to accomplish in my life and career? Am I self-aware, or just being herded along with the bustling crowd with no clear direction?”.

When we periodically take time to self-reflect, we can make mid-course corrections if necessary, or completely change direction when we find we are on the wrong path in our quest for a fulfilling life.

When a person is not self-aware, they may be making decisions that are completely unrealistic, which can have dire consequences.

One of the main areas I see this manifested is in dating, especially online dating. Although a person’s goal is to meet a potential mate, when they are not self-aware their choices can be off kilter.

Lacking Self-Awareness

“To thine own self be true.” William Shakespeare

Usually a person looking for a love relationship try to look for their ideal person. They want to meet a highly successful businessperson, someone wealthy, or even a celebrity…a person who is the epitome of sophistication and physical perfection.

In online dating, many have been conned into thinking that they are communicating with their ideal person, never asking themselves these questions:

Why would a person of that caliber need to go on a dating site when they lead lavish lifestyles, meet all kinds of successful people in business, social engagements, and travel?

Why would an average person sitting in front of a computer looking for love think that they would be the type of person to attract someone of such “high value” when they have almost nothing in common?

Of course there is nothing wrong with being average. Most people are. The issue here is the total lack of self-awareness, honest introspection, or being realistic enough to know that perhaps they are aiming too high.

Some people overlook someone who would be perfect for them, yet because the person does not meet their ideal, the potential mate is rejected. They are just not good enough.

“For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment….” Romans 12:3 (NIV)

Self-Deception and Denial

Many times, it does not appear that the person doing the searching considers what they are bringing to the table. Is it enough to justify such high standards in the person they want as a mate?

For example, there are women who have very high standards and expectations of what they want in a man. They will settle for nothing less. He must be 6 feet tall, earn at least 6 figures, be handsome and have an athletic body. This type of man is considered by many to be a “high value man”.

In looking at the woman, she has no formal education, works at a fast-food restaurant, is a single mother receiving government assistance, is not concerned about eating healthy or exercising, yet believes she deserves a “high value man.”

On the other hand, there are men who make an average salary, lives in a very modest apartment, drives a 5-year-old car, has a belly that hangs over his belt, yet he is looking for a woman who is smart, beautiful, sexy, and the embodiment of female perfection.

There is nothing wrong with the woman or man here in terms of what they look like or how they live. The problem comes when the person is living in denial and self-deception, believing that their situation should have no bearing on the type of person they desire.

Be Realistic

“I pray…..that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters,….” Philippians 1:9–10 (NLT)

When people are realistic, they are reasonable in what they look for in others. They won’t have high expectations of others, and low standards for themselves.

When we are realistic about ourselves, we can make choices that will ultimately take us to where we want to go in life, and with whom.

On the other hand, being unrealistic can cause someone to be harmed in so many ways. People have been used and abused by those who prey upon people who live in self-denial and are not self-aware when it comes to relationships.

Be What You Want In Others

You cannot withdraw money from a bank where you made no deposit.

Invest in your personal growth by doing those things that will cultivate a healthy mind and body. Strive for excellence in every area of your life.

Read, study, travel, use the gifts and talents you have, build healthy relationships, improve your appearance without risking your life, go to therapy if you need it. Create new habits. Leave the past in the past. Forgive. Love God, yourself, and others.

“For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.”(Jeremiah 29:11)

Be prepared for what the Lord has prepared for you!

Questions for Self-Reflection

After self-examination, are there some things you need to re-evaluate or change?

If so, what will you do to change…. lower your expectations of others, or raise your standard for yourself?

The Perfection Is in The Imperfection

By Cynthia Cummings-Walker

My 11-year-old granddaughter was given some coins for a game she won. As she looked at the quarters she realized that one was very different from the others. The face of the quarter depicted George Washington, as usual, yet the back looked unique.

My granddaughter decided to do some research on Coin websites. She discovered that quarters, like the one she had, could be worth as much as $1,000.00. However, the valuable quarter had to have a specific defect which would make it valuable.

My granddaughter’s coin was perfectly shiny but did not have a flaw. Therefore, it was only worth the 25 cents that average quarters are valued. A coin having a specific defect is what makes it so valuable. It had to be imperfectly perfect.

The Illusion of Perfection

In today’s society, perfection appears to be the goal as a mark of achievement or value. Men and women will have all kinds of cosmetic procedures performed in order to have the perfect face and body. Some have died or are disfigured as a result of underqualified, or unqualified surgeons.

Celebrities themselves have admitted that they don’t really look like their professional photos. Makeup, lighting, editing, and filters create the mirage of beautiful, perfect, beings. It is all a façade. If actors and models were so perfect there would be no need for the entertainment industry to use extras like body doubles, and hand models.

The Value of Imperfection

Years ago there was a mold that all models had to fit into. They had to be extremely thin and as perfect looking as possible. Sometime later, women came along who refused to change what seemed to be imperfections so that they could become top models.

Cindy Crawford refused to have her facial mole removed. Margot Hemmingway refused to have the gap in her teeth corrected. Those imperfections are what caused them to stand out in the industry and they became supermodels.

Today, the standards in the entertainment industry have changed because those who do not fit into a “model mold” are the ones sought after. There are prominent celebrities and models who would not have had a chance in the past.

Nowadays models can have vitiligo, facial scars, a missing limb, ambulism and all kinds of physical differences that make them interesting and different. People today want uniqueness, not uniformity.

Who Are you Trying to Please?

So many people are discontented with their physical appearance. If their hair is curly, they want it straight. If their skin color is dark they want to lighten it. If their skin color is light they want to darken it. Some want medical procedures to shrink an area, while others want medical procedures to enlarge something.

I am certainly not attempting to judge how people feel about themselves. My concern is for those who are preoccupied with physical perfection as though it is the gateway to success and happiness.

Plenty of people who look perfect in face and body have turned to illegal drugs or even suicide because they are so unhappy. Their inner self is not in alignment with their outward appearance.

Many people will invest all kinds of money in how they look and what they wear yet are bankrupt in terms of cultivating an inner beauty.

“Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within,….which is so precious to God.” 1 Peter 3:3–4 (NLT)

Cultivating inner beauty, integrity and character will take a person much further in life than a pretty face with a nasty attitude. “As a ring of gold in a swine’s snout So is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion.” Proverbs 11:22 (NASB)

Embrace being Perfectly Imperfect

“Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness;…” God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them;…” Genesis 1:26–28a (NASB)

Everything and everyone God created is perfect because we are created in His image and likeness regardless of any “imperfections” we may see in ourselves or others.

I do not believe that God created anyone “ugly”. As the saying goes: “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” Standards of beauty are generally determined within ethnicities, cultures, or society; all designed and created by God.

People can reject someone based on their own personal reasons or prejudices, yet no one can stop God’s plan for your life. Embrace who you are because you know whose you are. Do the best you can with what you have to work with. Improve what you can and embrace the rest.

Investing time in developing and maintaining a close relationship with the Lord has earthy benefits and eternal rewards. When you trust God by believing what He says in His word, the Bible, your life will be filled with thanksgiving, praise, and gratitude for the life He has given you, imperfections, and all.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5–6 (NASB)

Question for Reflection: Have you ever considered this?:

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:16 (NASB)

Believe. Pray. Read the Bible. Trust. Obey

Is Age Just a Number?

by Cynthia Cummings-Walker

Age is Just a Number

Have you ever heard the saying, “Age ain’t nothing but a number.”? It implies that a person is only as old as they feel. A person in their 20s can be a couch potato while a 70-year-old still runs marathons. A younger person’s lifestyle may make them look and feel 20 years older, while an older person’s lifestyle allows them to look and feel 20 years younger.

A person’s physical age does not automatically determine their insights, strength, vitality, common sense, wisdom or how they live their life.

Do You Really Know How Old You Are?

The date of someone’s birth does not definitively determine their age. The death date is an indicator of how old a person really is. If a person is only going to live until they are 25, at 20 they are old. If a person is going to live to be 90, then at 40 they are young.

Some people may say: “I’m too young” while others may say “I’m too old.” Neither is correct. The Bible is full of examples of how God used people of all ages to accomplish His purposes.

Never too Young

In I Samuel 2:26 “Now the boy Samuel was growing in stature and in favor both with the Lord and with men.”

In 2 Kings 5:1-3 God used a little girl, to tell Naaman, captain of the kings army, where the prophet Elisha was, so he could get healed of leprosy. After Naaman was healed he said: “Behold now I know that there is no God in all the earth but in Israel..” 2 Kings 5:15a God was glorified through the testimony of a child.

Luke 2:41-50 tells how at 12 years old Jesus was in the temple with the teachers, listening, asking questions. “And all who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and His answers.” Luke 2:47 “And Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” (vs 52).

Never Too Old

As I looked back over my life, I had some regrets about things I did not do when I was younger. I was thinking that I’m too old. I don’t have the strength or stamina I had when I was young. My mind is not as sharp as it used to be. I’ve been through too much. It’s too late.

My excuses were contrary to how Scripture addresses the issue of age. There are many things in life that have to fit into an age category. God’s promises have no age requirements or limits.

Moses was 80 years old when he led the Israelites out of Egypt; “Moses was 120 years old when he died, yet his eyesight was clear, and he was as strong as ever.” Deuteronomy 34:7 (NLT)

Sarah was extraordinarily beautiful as an older woman who had to dissuade powerful men from trying to take her away from her husband. Genesis 12:11. Sarah also had extraordinary faith. Hebrews 11:11

Anna, a widowed prophetess, was 84 years old and still serving in the temple with fasting and prayers night and day. Luke 2:36–37.

Caleb – “I am eighty-five years old today. I am still as strong today as I was in the day Moses sent me; as my strength was then, so my strength is now, for war and for going out and coming in.” Joshua 14:10–11 (NASB)

Lydia – a businesswoman and worshipper of God (Acts 16:14-15) who believed the gospel message, she and her household were saved. She invited the disciples to stay at her home.

What do these Young and Old Have in Common?

They lived by faith and obedience to God. Like the rest of us, they had trials and tribulations, failures and successes. What makes the difference in being spiritually productive throughout life is being devoted to the Lord in worship, prayer and obedience to His word.

“…But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.” Psalm 1:2-3 (NLT)

Be Like a Tree

“But the godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon…They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green, They will declare, “The Lord is just! He is my rock!..” Psalm 92:12-14 (NLT)

The godly will flourish like palm trees: Palm trees are beautiful to look at with their plumage blowing in the wind. Yet, in the fiercest of storms Palm trees can withstand winds of up to 145 miles per hour. They can bend 40 or 50 degrees without snapping. After the winds and rain have passed, they stand back up again. Like the palm tree, you will bend and not break even though storms of life may be raging. Have faith in the promises of God that He will never leave nor forsake us. He will cause ALL things to work out for our good.

Grow strong like the Cedars of Lebanon: We become strong as we grow in our relationship with the Lord. We learn to trust His leadership. We will have strength to overcome trials and be victorious in everyday life. “The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped;” Psalm 28:7 (NASB95)

Even in old age they will still produce fruit: Fruit bearing is the outcome of obedience to God through praying for others, evangelizing, discipling, mentoring, giving godly counsel, financially supporting.

They will stay fresh and green: The routines of life can become boring and mundane. If we daily seek guidance from the Lord through reading Scripture and praying, God will direct our path by opening our eyes to ways we can accomplish His purposes and live the abundant life He has promised.

They will declare, “The Lord is just! He is my rock!..” As we age, we can be a living testimony, as to the love and faithfulness of God throughout our life. We can share the ups and downs and be specific about how we persevered with the help of the Lord. This can be an encouragement for our descendants to know that they have a godly example to follow. “I have been young and now I am old, Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken…” Psalm 37:25 (NASB)

Are You Prepared for your Number to be Called?

Because we don’t know how old we really are, Psalm 90:12 (KJV) tells humanity: “So teach us to number our days, That we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.”

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” John 3:16-17 (NASB)

What Does Mother’s Day Mean to You?

By Cynthia Cummings-Walker

The Upside of Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is designed to be a day of celebration honoring motherhood and the influence mothers have on society. It is a day which is celebrated (on different dates) in around 50 countries around the world.

In America, many preparations go into the celebration of Mother’s Day. Family get togethers, gifts, flowers, cards, and all kinds of communications are a huge part of the Mother’s Day celebrations. Mother’s Day is customarily a day when mothers can be treated like a queen and let other family members serve her.

For those who have a wonderful relationship with their mother, this is certainly a day to celebrate the love, guidance and sacrifices made by one’s mother. When you are the mother, it can be such a rewarding experience that your child or children value you and show you appreciation on Mother’s Day.

The Downside of Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is not a day for rejoicing and celebrating motherhood for everyone. There are those who see Mother’s Day from an entirely different perspective. Sadness, loss, stress, grief or regret can be the feelings experienced. This depends on the relationship a person has, or had, with their mother, or child. For some, their mother is deceased, or their child has passed away. Bereavement.

Many women who wanted to be a mother yet were unable to have a child can experience sadness on Mother’s Day because of what never was.

Perhaps a person is estranged from their mother, or child through irreconcilable differences, lifestyles, abuse, or challenging temperaments, whereby they suffer the pain of the loss of the relationship. Mother’s Day can be filled with regret about things that could have been handled differently.

Sometimes a child may forget to acknowledge their mother on Mother’s Day. It does not have to be due to willful neglect. The busyness of that child’s life on Mother’s Day, or other factors can be the culprit. Nothing personal.

7 Actions that can Improve the Mother’s Day Experience

Look at photographs or other memorabilia depicting happier times that can bring a laugh or comfort you.
If your mother or child has passed away, shed tears if you must, don’t feel guilty or think you have to be strong for others.
When you feel vulnerable, try to surround yourself with people who understand what you are going through and will provide compassionate support and positivity.
Be involved with activities or traditions that will distract from the specific celebration of Mother’s Day.
Don’t interpret everything depicted on social media as though everyone, except you, are thoroughly enjoying the day. Avoidance of social media may be prudent.
Try to focus on what you have versus concentrating on what is missing in your life.
Try not to take the failings of others personally on Mother’s Day. People’s actions are not necessarily about you. It could be about what they are dealing with that has nothing to do with you.

There are no pat answers about what to do, or not do. Try different things to see what works for you when you are faced with holidays that are triggers, instead of celebratory. Mother’s Day is difficult for me because both my mother and my beloved daughter have passed away. I try not to focus on what I’ve lost. I make the best of what remains and try to live a life of gratitude and praise for the many blessings in my life that I can enjoy if I choose to.

Psalms 147:3 says that God heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Whatever the wound, for whatever the reason, the Lord loves us and is willing to help those who pray to Him for peace and guidance. Things take time so be patient. Trust Him. It will come.

Whatever Mother’s Day means to you will most likely determine how you will experience it. If it has been a day of sadness. I pray that you will find ways to experience joy in the midst of sorrow. Nonetheless, to all of the mothers out there, and those who have been in the role of a mother, I wish you a very happy, blessed and enjoyable Mother’s Day!

The New Gospel of Republicanism

By Cynthia Cummings-Walker

Let me begin by making it emphatically clear that I am not a democrat seeking to demean or demonize republicans. I am A-political in terms of voting. I research candidates in terms of knowledge, skill and morality regardless of their political party. As a Christian my actions are predicated upon biblical truth, not religious dogma or heresy no matter where it comes from, including the pulpit.

My heart aches at the direction many conservative, evangelical “Christian” republicans have moved in in terms of exchanging the power of the biblical Gospel into the new gospel, republicanism. Have you ever noticed how many bible covers are American flags, or how patriotic bibles are prevalent where there used to be “Holy Bible” or a cross on the cover? It is not what is on the outside that matters, it’s what this new emphasis symbolizes in so many ways.

Has the old rugged cross upon which Jesus Christ was crucified been exchanged for a shiny gold elephant with an American flag backdrop and a little bit of Christianity sprinkled on top?

CP POLITICS | MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2022

Evangelical group to spend about $40M mobilizing Christian vote ahead of midterms Timothy Head, executive director of the Faith & Freedom Coalition, a social conservative national grassroots organization headed by longtime Christian activist Ralph Reed, estimates that his organization will spend between $36 million and $42 million on a nationwide effort to target Christian voters.

“Thus says the Lord: “Cursed is the man who trusts in man And makes flesh his strength, Whose heart departs from the Lord.” Jeremiah 17:5

Millions of dollars spent to elect Republicans

NOT To Support missionaries to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ all over the world, discipling, and ministering to people both home and abroad.

NOT To Provide for the needs of those who should be shown the love of God through meeting their needs both physically and spiritually.

“For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’ … “And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’” Matthew 25:35–40 (NLT)

Republicans call what Jesus said to do, Socialism.

NOT To Glorify God through how we live and treat others. “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 (NASB)

Glorifying God is a Christian’s ultimate responsibility.

Baptist News Global NEWS MARK WINGFIELD | SEPTEMBER 19, 2022

Voting the wrong way makes Christians ‘unfaithful’ to God, Mohler says

Albert Mohler is the president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, impacting 50,000 churches.

Being able to vote is a privilege American citizens can enjoy. There is no mandate from the Lord in scripture compelling people to vote. However, there is scripture that refutes this heresy that by voting republican is accomplishing God’s purpose and plan for the United States of America.

Unfaithfulness to God according to Scripture is:

NOT Following God’s plan for the world according to Scriptures.

“And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18–20 (NASB)

NOT the most important thing a Christian should do:

“and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ “The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30–31 (NASB)

NOT Representing Jesus Christ in society and the world.

“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Corinthians 5:20–21 (NASB)

NOT warning Christians against having religion, devoid of a relationship with God.

“Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’ But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’” Matthew 7:21-23 (NLT)

The New Gospel is Sacrilege

“Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons. These people are hypocrites and liars, and their consciences are dead.” 1 Timothy 4:1–2 (NLT)

This ‘new gospel’ declares that Christians must be devoted to the Republican party or are unfaithful to God.

This ‘new gospel’ says that salvation no longer gives the power to resist sin. Only civil law can do that.

This ‘new gospel’ blames the condition of society on democrats, instead of the devil, the prince and power of this world.

This ‘new gospel’ ignores Romans 13:1-2 “Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished.” Republican Christians don’t have to submit to the governing authorities when Democrats are in office.

This ‘new gospel’ declares that abortion and homosexuality are the worst sins and nothing else matters. The Republican candidate can be incompetent, degenerate, dishonest, or a scoundrel; Christians should just close their eyes and vote straight republican because God wants them to.

This ‘new gospel’ rails against abortion, LGBQ issues, and human trafficking as though stamping out these things will make America great, taking her back to her Christian roots. “If you want that, you’ve got to vote republican, or else…”

The Word of God vehemently disputes this doctrine of demons which primarily flows from church pulpits and behind podiums across this nation. Christians might as well name their Gold Elephant religion ‘Republicanity’ because it has certainly replaced biblical Christianity.

God’s Plan for the World

God created government to regulate society and keep its citizens safe, not stamp out sin. He is not requiring a nation to force spiritual principles on a populace. God’s desire is that everyone comes to know Him and have a close and personal relationship with Him. This comes through salvation, a spiritual law.

Romans 3:23 (NASB) “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”

Romans 6:23 (NASB) “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Romans 5:8 (NASB) “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

John 3:16 (NASB) “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”

Mark 12:30–31 (NASB) “and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ “The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”

Matthew 28:18–20 (NASB) “And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Questions for Reflection:

Have you succumbed to the new gospel that the only way to change society is through voting republican, instead of God’s divine plan?

Are you devoted to the Lord through scripture reading, prayer and obedience to His word so that you are able to distinguish biblical truth from error?

The Miracle of an Ordinary Day

When we wake up in the morning, we never know what a day will bring. Someone didn’t even wake up.

On any given day someone has a heart attack, an upsetting diagnosis, serious accident or injury, a job eliminated, a divorce finalized, a sudden death, an important relationship ended, victim of a crime.

These things happen to someone somewhere every day. In light of all that can happen, when we live through an ordinary day without a personal catastrophe, or knowing about one, that is a miracle in itself.

A Miracle

One day it dawned on me that I am thankful for what I see. Am I thanking God for what didn’t happen?

I love flower gardening and grow lots of flowers. One day I was weeding and pruning flowers that are in front of the wooded area in back of my house. When finished, I decided to prune the holly bushes.

As the branches fell to the ground, I would pick them up and place them in a bag. When I got to the last bush, as I reached down to pick up branches, my hand went across something solid under the bush. When I looked to see what it was, there was a huge copperhead snake curled under the bush.

I was terrified. I couldn’t believe it. The snake had every opportunity to sink its teeth into my neck or face, yet the Lord protected me from the unseen danger. Copperheads are the type of snakes that are most likely to bite. In North Carolina there are more copperhead bites than all other snake bites combined.

It was a miracle.

Story time

A person’s alarm clock did not go off as scheduled which made her late for work. Because she was late, she was unable to have coffee with some co-workers she enjoyed starting off the workday with. For lunch she went to a restaurant. It took what seemed like forever to get her meal. Late again.

Nothing was going right that day. When she got home she was going to relax and soak her aching feet. As soon as she was getting ready to plug in the foot massager, the power went off in the house.

She couldn’t believe how rotten her day had been. She prayed and asked God why He would allow almost everything to go wrong when she had not neglected to pray for a good day.

The Lord replied: “You overslept because there was a reckless, speeding driver that was going to crash into someone. If you had been on the road at that time it could have been you.

You weren’t able to have coffee with co-workers because the conversation was a lot of gossip and complaint about the company you work for and I didn’t want you to become embroiled in the controversy ahead.

Your lunch was delayed because the chef was sneezing and not feeling well. Another chef had to be called to replace him. This caused a delay in meal preparation which prevented you from getting sick from possibly contaminated food.

I know you really wanted to have a nice foot soak, however, there was a short in the wiring. If you had been able to plug it in you would have been electrocuted.”

A Miracle.

So many times, we don’t understand what is going on behind the scenes. We blame God for not answering our prayers when He is answering them. A prayer for safety. A prayer for job security. A prayer for health.

1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 (KJV)

“Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

Christians are to trust God and be thankful in every situation. He knows and does what is best whether we understand it or not. I’ve learned to be thankful for the miracles God has performed in my life even though I can’t specifically say what some are.

Miracles are not always manifested in spectacular ways. They can happen during an ordinary day in what didn’t happen.

Question for Reflection:

Are you thankful in every situation, or quick to complain and blame?

War Within God’s Church

A Word to the Wise Lifeandbibleblog.com

By Cynthia Cummings-Walker

Many Christians have gotten really comfortable in America because there is freedom of religion. They are secure that no governmental interference can stop them from practicing their faith. However, this is a false sense of security if one believes that only those on the outside can destroy what is inside the church. Not so. There is a war raging within the Church, and primarily over politics.

Individuals who agree on secular politics are considered comrades in arms. Those with a different viewpoint are seen as an enemy in an all-out war. This seething animosity is having devastating effects in the Church and in many Christian circles. This war is the antithesis of how Christians are required to live.

When a person is born again, they become a part of God’s family. The old way of living is gone, and a new nature is given (2 Corinthians 5:17). All of this bickering is not reflective of a new life in Christ. The Apostle Paul wrote: “for you are still controlled by your sinful nature. You are jealous of one another and quarrel with each other. Doesn’t that prove you are controlled by your sinful nature? Aren’t you living like people of the world?” 1 Corinthians 3:3 (NLT)

This abhorrent behavior is comparable to ‘christian’ cannibalism. Galatians 5:14–15 says: “ For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another.”

Casualties of War

Christians are a part of God’s family yet are overlooking the consequences of being at war with each other. When surveying the combat zone, the unity that Christians are commanded to have is in tatters on the battlefield. It is scattered with broken and destroyed relationships, dry bones, broken people, the spiritually dead, deceived, and deserted. Many have been injured or mortally wounded in a barrage of false doctrines, personal attacks, Christians shooting their wounded, and fraternizing with the enemy.

Scripture Forbids Believers to be Comrades with Unbelievers

There is no problem with Christians having friendly relationships with unbelievers. Having similar interests is one thing, collaboration is another.

“You adulterers! Don’t you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God.” James 4:4 (NLT)

Christians should love people, minister to them in both word and deed. However, beyond that if we partner or join forces with them this is a violation of the Lord’s command.

“Don’t team up with those who are unbelievers. How can righteousness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? What harmony can there be between Christ and the devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever?…. Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 6:14–18 (NLT)

Since a Christian’s overall responsibility is to be salt and light, how can a Christian justify being joined with the god of this world whose agenda is to blind unbelievers and oppose the gospel?

“If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News.” 2 Corinthians 4:3–4 (NLT)

Other People Are Not the Enemy

Although some may see the battle as against the person of the opposite political party, this fight is not merely a war of words between people. Sadly, so many Christians have lost focus on who the real enemy is, and what the conflict is ultimately about. The enemy is the devil.

“Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith….” 1 Peter 5:8–9 (NLT)

Satan wants to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10). Causing division, strife and warfare amongst Christians is a part of the devil’s masterplan. Scripture is straightforward about who the enemy is and what type of war Christians are fighting.

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12 (NASB)

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses.” 2 Corinthians 10:3–4 (NASB)

God, our Commander in Chief, has given Christians His battle plan, and the battle gear to put on in this spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:13–17 (NASB) “Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” James 4:7 (NASB) “Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”

Be Reconciled to God and One Another

There are severe consequences for disobeying the Lord’s orders. When a Christian has a chink in their armor by being devoted to politics, or no armor at all, it was easy for the devil to incite internal conflict all in the name of government.

The Church is not immune from the consequences of sin or discipline from the Lord. A lot of people think that because God loves us means that He has a “warm fuzzy feeling” like a loving parent has for their child. Not so. God is holy and that is the measure by which He judges. Therefore, if we replace God’s righteous standards with human emotion that will override the consequences of sin, we have missed the mark.

It can be confusing. The Bible uses anthropopathisms (attributing human emotions to God) to help us relate to God in ways mankind can understand. God’s emotions are pure, based on His righteous standards. Depending on experiences we have had, human emotions can cloud our judgement or distort truth.

Let’s say that a woman has been abused by her father, her husband or other men in her life. God represents Himself as a man. This can negatively affect her emotions regarding God because she believes that a man cannot be trusted. Since we have a sin nature, human emotions can be corrupted. God’s emotions are incorruptible because He is God.

Once Christians know that they have been disobeying the Lord’s commands, a cease fire is warranted, weapons dropped, confession of sin and asking God for forgiveness.

1 John 1:9–10 (NKJV) “ If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Rebellion has Consequences

When Christians choose not to cease and desist this ungodly behavior, divine discipline from the Lord is on the way. God is longsuffering and patient, yet there comes a point when rebellion continues and the Lord has to put a stop to it.

“For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.” As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? If God doesn’t discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children at all….. God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way.” Hebrews 12:6–11 (NLT)

In Conclusion, Unify

1 Corinthians 1:10 (NLT) “I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose.”

The Apostle Paul writes: “Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace...” Ephesians 4:1–6 (NLT)

Questions for Reflection

“Then Elijah stood in front of them and said, “How much longer will you waver, hobbling between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him! But if Baal is God, then follow him!” But the people were completely silent.” 1 Kings 18:21 (NLT)

What Do You Say?

Who Will You Obey?

“You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God.” Ephesians 2:2 (NLT)

Which Side Are You On?

The Lord is God, follow Him!

Is the Republican Party an Extension of the Church?

By Cynthia Cummings-Walker

Some may wonder why I am singling out the Republican Party’s connection to Christianity, while not referencing the Democratic party (which certainly has its fallibilities). The Democratic party does not claim to have God backing them. The Republican party does. That is the issue herein.

It is well known that conservative evangelical Christian pastors, ministry leaders, and media purport that the Republican party is God’s choice to advance His initiatives in the political realm.

The two reasons being: (1) America was founded as a Christian nation and the Republican party will return her to her roots. (2) God has chosen the Republican party to do His work through enacting legislation that embodies Christian creeds.

Countless Christian leaders vociferously admonish their congregants and constituents to vote for republicans as though the Republican party is an extension of the Church. What makes matters worse are the fallacious reasons given that are not in line with American history, civil law, nor the Bible.

Myth: America was founded as a Christian Nation

Fact: The United States of America is not a Christian nation and never was. She was built on human trafficking, theft of land and genocide of native Americans. Furthermore, the first ten presidents of the United States lives were racked with scandals, and they owned slaves.

The United States of America was founded as a civil institution, governed by secular laws, as outlined in the Constitution of the United States of America:

“WE THE PEOPLE of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, ensure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare; secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”

There is no mention of God, or religion in the VII Articles of the Constitution.

Myth: God has chosen the Republican party to legislate Christian principles.

Fact: There is a separation between Church and State within the first Amendment to the Constitution.

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof;….”
Amendment I

The government is required to remain neutral when it comes to religion. It is prohibited from favoring one religion over another: or favor religion over non-religion. The government cannot interfere with religions and no religion can dictate how government should function. There is a separation between Church and State (the Establishment Clause). That is why prayer was taken out of schools.

Bible Support for the Separation of Church and State

When the Jews attempted to lure Jesus into a divisive political discussion, Jesus’ answer was succinct.

^“Then they asked Him (Jesus), saying, “Teacher, we know that You say and teach rightly, and You do not show personal favoritism, but teach the way of God in truth: Is it lawful for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” But He perceived their craftiness, and said to them, “Why do you test Me? Show Me a denarius. Whose image and inscription does it have?” They answered and said, “Caesar’s.” And He said to them, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.””
Luke 20:21–25

Jesus acknowledged that there is a legitimate duty to government, and a sacred duty to obey God.

Jesus Christ foreknew that under the corrupt Roman government He would be falsely accused, arrested, beaten, unjustly convicted, and sentenced to death. Yet, He did not try to change or disparage the Roman government. “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:17 (NIV)

There is no regenerative or sanctifying power within secular law or a political party which can change sinful human nature. Only salvation does. (John 3:3;16).

The Lord has revealed the way in which Christians can have a powerful impact upon society. The believer in Christ should share the gospel while living in obedience to God’s Word, the Bible.

Christians are commanded to love God and people. Pray. Obey. Evangelize. Disciple. Be salt and light. Be an ambassador for Christ. Being a political operative for any political party is not part of God’s plan to improve society.

Voting is an integral part of American government and I appreciate having the privilege to do so. Although it is an arduous process, I research the qualifications and character of each candidate. I believe it would be irresponsible for me to vote straight party line whether the candidate is qualified or not.

If I were choosing a surgeon, dentist, electrician, or plumber, the person’s political party would not be a part of the process. Their professionalism, expertise and integrity are what my decisions are predicated on. When choosing a political candidate to vote for, basically the same pragmatic criteria is applied.

The United States of America is a great nation with all of its ethnicities, cultures, laws, freedoms, and religions, which makes governing her complex and controversial. No political party is perfect or does everything it promises. We pray, research, and do the best we can with who we have to work with.

As for me, to the best of my ability I perform my secular duty to country in an honorable, conscientious manner; and my spiritual, sacred duty to God as He requires.