If I see one more article or tv spot about "giving back" I swear I'm going to scream!
It's so obvious that this is a successful attempt to shape what people think is good and admirable. Especially when I see stories about children "giving back". When I was growing up children were recognized for their achievements; now only altruism is lauded.
How much would I give to see even one businessman, sports star, or celebrity say "No one gave me anything. I earned it!"
How much would I give to see even one businessman, sports star, or celebrity say "No one gave me anything. I earned it!"
My neighbors, are all grieving their problems, the attitude of the kids, the poor education they are provided. And all I can do is look at them and say HAHAHAHAHahahah...See what happens when you don't know what Condoms are for? That little 50 cent piece of latex/rubber can save you hundreds of thousands of dollars easily in your life.
http://www.galtsgulchonline.com/posts/e3...
How do you know I am not grounded in principles? I expressed only uncertainty in the existence of a supreme being. You have to admit there is no concrete evidence either way. Faith is something we all have to grapple with. So? I don't have enough faith for you? Too bad.
I accept Dave Ramsey as he presents himself as I do most people until they prove themselves to be otherwise. Why would I judge him? He is doing a service and giving information for which many people benefit. To criticize him is your right. However, criticism generally reflects onto the criticizer, not the recipient. He's gotten rich doing it? So? His understanding of his religion is just that, his. He has a big platform with which to express his opinion and others can take or leave it as they wish. I will say it takes enormous courage to express a definite opinion for all to hear and then have to endure the criticism (not to mention threats of bodily harm in this day and age) that is sure to come.
Here is the problem. If you do not ground yourself in principles that are immutable, then you are not grounded at all and, therefore, the basis for your decisions have no reason to not change day to day or less often.
Pragmatics is one of the worst bases to make decisions on (moral decisions that is) because how do ever know it will always work? If you are the one setting the rules, since you can change so can the rules.
The trouble with Dave's message is that he tries to implement Christian practices, especially giving, into his business which really only have meaning for those who are believers in Jesus Christ and, therefore, have the ability to actually do those things in a manner that really matter. For the purpose which he does it, it is a business decision, not a decision which makes him a better person or a better Christian.
How can I say that? Well, take this example. Dave touts tithing to the church as an "evangelical" Christian (whatever that means), but doesn't teach that to others on his program as part of his "financial peace" plan. Well, why doesn't he? Well, if he did that, what difference would he be than just another Bible teacher right? He doesn't teach that as a reason because that isn't what will get him more money; however, if he simple tells others that "giving is a good idea because most rich and successful people are great givers" then that sounds great, especially when you look at all the money supposedly given for great moral ends such as Bill and Melinda Gates through their foundation, the moral implications of which can easily be argued to not be toward better ends for humanity.
At the end of the day, if your sacrificial giving isn't as unto the Lord Jesus Christ and God the Father, then it is for selfish reasons.
Choose this day whom you will serve; it is either yourself, or God.
My husband and I have busted our tails to provide for ourselves and our children, but we also try to make sure they understand what goes into every dollar, and how to earn money and to survive. I have two boys and I refuse to see them become these sorry excuses for men that I've seen along my way. As soon as I feel they are old enough, my kids will read Atlas shrugged, and I have already begun teaching them about her and her teachings. They will definitely not be giving away their earnings or business to just anyone.
ening. I think she (or he?) should raise h--l with the
schoolboard and DEMAND that this s--t be
stopped. As to the other commentator ( Temlakos), it seems
to me less like Gerald Starnes, and more like
Ivy Starnes, or--hold your stomach--Eugene
Lawson (Yuckh!!) (Parenthetically, if I had a
child, I would not send him to kindergarten,if I
could reasonably get out of it; I didn't go, and
didn't need to; little children need to be at home,
and they can be taught phonics there).
Jan
This is why we have the concept of an 'oath under duress'. If you are pressured to take an oath, it is not valid.
Jan
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