A few months ago, Brett and I were interviewed by Todd Hertz for a piece on ChristianityToday.com. Well, it’s up — and we’re excited to share it with you.
When twin brothers Alex and Brett Harris were 16, they started a blog to encourage their peers not to waste their teen years but to instead “do hard things.”
Since then, the 19-year-old brothers have launched a website that gets 1.2 million hits per month, started a series of international youth conferences, created a 20,000-member grassroots campaign to support presidential candidate Mike Huckabee, and released the book Do Hard Things (Multnomah).
Todd Hertz, managing editor of teen publication Ignite Your Faith, talked to Alex and Brett, now freshmen at Patrick Henry College, about their book and future plans.
Nice interview gentlemen! 🙂 I am so glad you guys are continuing to get good publicity. You are in our prayers.
Guys, great job. I’m glad you are still able to keep up with the Reb even though you are heading to college. 🙂
Nice! Keep it up!
Great job, guys!
Great Job!! Your ministry with the Rebelution has really challenged me to not settle with the world’s standards. Keep it up!!
Awesome job!
Great interview. Really summed up the message of The Rebelution. Couldn’t agree more on the McCain/Obama issue!
Great interview guys!
Congratulations on the interview. It was really good!
I couldn’t agree more on the political issue brought up. By the way, do you guys have any good suggestions on getting involved in helping campaign? I’d like to, but I’m not quite sure where to start.
Thanks, and congrats again!
It’s good to know that the Rebelution has been recognized in our world. Our society can’t ignore something so big and life-changing, it’s cool to see the ripples spreading out.
Great job on the interview!
In Christ Alone,
Rebecca Whitpan
Wow you two think up smart anwsers Fast!
The Lord has used you two mightily for HIs kingdom, May He who is at work be faithful to complete it!
I’m a little worried now, i’ll admit it. I’m a highschooler, and we just learned today that our lunch schedule was going to be changed. at my school, we had a youth group meeting on Friday’s at lunch, but with this new schedule, we wont be able to do that. i’m thinking now is the time for us to band together and come up with a solution to that. and my math teacher was saying today, if we could come up with another schedule for the school day,that allowed clubs to meet during the day, because that was a big concern of the class, we could present it to the board. but i’m worried no one but me will try at all, and my brain doesnt work to figure out schedules that will work. I’m just hoping for something good to happen. If you really want to, you can pray for this, at least to get resolved a little.
~Amber Lynn
Yay that is exciting!! Praise God for yet another opportunity to spread the message of Do Hard Things!!!
Great interview, guys! It’s great the message of the Rebelution is continuing to be spread! By the way, Brett, how was the conference this past weekend?
Great job guys!
“What Christ did was the ultimate hard thing we couldn’t do for ourselves. And that’s why we do hard things. That was great Brett. And how very true. You both did absolutly wonderful!
Hey, did I ever mention that my family and I were (and still are) firm supporters of Huckabee? In fact we made a few videos for him that were on “Huck’s Army” and my brother still blogs on there all the time. He is actually doing it as I speak :). I love Mike Huckabee! But every time I think of him I can’t help but realize what a great man our country has lost. :(. But I agree that we should now support McCain. Although I really don’t like him much. But he is much, much better than Obama. Man, even writing Obama’s name gives me chills. (shudder)
Everyone please continue to pray for Godly leaders in our country!
God bless!
Sarah. 🙂
I am glad that the message of “do hard things” is getting heard by so many people who are in desperate need of hearing this vital information for that I commend both of you gentlemen. As a proud Christian AND a democrat, I am so tired of people implying that in order to be a “real Christian” one must be a republican. I for one am tired of going to church, or logging on to Christian websites and they all imply this…..but whatever. May God bless you all.
Great interview; thanks for posting it!
*two thumbs up*
wow that’s really cool! Great interview.
I admire so much of what you do, but you seem to lose some of your convictions when it comes to politics. Does it not matter to you that McCain has already promised to do things that break his oath of office? I don’t mean to offend, but I think you should look at him more carefully before you give McCain your support.
Good interview. I agree with you on the Christians-should-be-involved-in-politics issue.
However, I also agree with Rebecca. McCain is not the best president we could have. My parents and I are not voting for him this year. (We’re not voting for Obama either, just to let you know!) Has anyone heard of the Constitution party? We are a very conservative party dedicated to interpreting the Constitution exactly according to the intent of the Founding Fathers. The party has actually grown in popularity the last few elections. This year the candidate is Chuck Baldwin. If your state is expected to go overwhelmingly toward one or the other candidate (my state, Maryland, always goes to the Democrats), PLEASE consider voting for Chuck Baldwin. This party needs publicity! However, if your state is a swing state and it could go either way, I think we would MUCH rather it go toward McCain than Obama!
I’m sorry–I had to throw that out there. Great interview, though–I heartily agree with everything else you said!! 🙂
Hey guys, your book was awsome and this interview was as well!! I recently delivered a sermon on “Do Hard Things” in church for youth Sunday. The reaction was awsome. Many teens have never even thought about the low expectations the world holds us at. Many, young and old, appeared to be encouraged and hopefully willing to read your book and be encouraged to change the world. We ARE strong and CAN make a difference! Keep it up!
Great article! Good job, guys.
Amen, “Do Hard Things” is for everyone. Not just teenagers, but adults and little kids as well!
Soli Deo Gloria. 🙂
~ Alyssa C.
“Likewise, my only qualification, which is also by his grace, is that I was willing to say, “I’m going to obey you when it’s hard.”
It’s very interesting to read that statement as it is a lesson God has been bringing home to me of late. I was trying to figure out if a particular hard thing was really what God would have me do. In the end I came to the conclusion that He does want me to move ahead in this really hard task. The main reason I came to this conclusion was that I realized that most of my motives for not doing this hard thing were fear or laziness. I wasn’t really willing to live the statement “I’m going to obey you when it’s hard.” Say it yes, live it no.
So, I thought that was a great conclusion to the interview and found it very encouraging.
Hey Hannah, who says Maryland can’t be a swing state? (I’m a maryland resident myself so please don’t take me wrong.) The way I’m seeing it right now, Obama has the edge and every vote for McCain shows that we don’t want the U.S. to go the liberal (and sinful) way some are trying to take it. Voting is however a matter of personal conviction and values. But I really don’t think it’s a matter of party affiliation.
Great interview! It’s always nice to hear you both go into detail explaining “Do Hard Things” and other stuff. Thanks for sharing it with us!
Grace EC:
I totally agree–voting is not a matter of party affiliation. My parents are registered Republicans, but that doesn’t mean they always vote Republican. I just like Baldwin’s morals and standards and Christian background, and that’s why I brought up him and his party. (Sorry–I didn’t mean it to sound like I was campaigning for the Constitutionalists! 🙂 ) On a side note, McCain might be more liberal than you think–take a look at his records. He’s better than Obama, but there are people better than McCain. (Huckabee was one of them.)
A wonderful interview and I know so many people needed to hear that. Its wonderful what God is doing through all of his people even though I am young and the rest of you are young we don’t have to have low expectations. We really need to do hard things now to be prepared for the future. thank you are sharing the interview and again for doing what God called you to do and writing your book!
Keep up the good work brothers!!
Hey, I just heard about the movie produced by PHC called “Come What May”.
Are you two involved in it in any way?
Anyway, it sounds like an EXCELLENT movie!
God bless!
A political party is a group of people who have a common understanding of nature and purpose of civil government. The purpose of a political party is to recruit, train, and support individuals to participate in civil governance – from electors to elected officials and everything in between. Like any other association their common understanding and purpose bind them; disunity through confusion must be checked if the party is to survive. As we have seen those who participate in the Constitution Party of Georgia recognize Jesus as Lord in the realm of civil government; their actions must reflect the obedience and honor He is due. We are taking the challenge to “do hard things” for the glory of God in the political realm seriously.
Some argue that such a political party dooms itself to failure in today’s culture, for such a political party will never attract enough support to accomplish its purpose. The fallacy in such a view is in how success is defined. This view defines success by adjusting the principles or policy of the party to include as many voters as possible to achieve electoral victory. The recent history of the Republican Party is an instructive example. Note how the leadership of the party intentionally disregarded the stated platform of the party in order to “cut in” as many voters as possible – almost always at the expense of the taxpayer. Conservatives in the party gripe and complain; those who had a vested interest in the party supported the variance and are rewarded by party leadership. The Republicans used this strategy and gained electoral victories to the point that from 2000 to 2006 they had control of the federal legislature and executive. A majority of the federal Supreme Court’s justices serving during this period were nominated by Republican administrations; this means that the Republican’s victory was complete at the federal level. But far from the reversal of the Democrat’s failures, the Republican’s failures were greater still. Our constitutional and religious liberties have suffered more damage, our federal government has sunk deeper in debt yet creating more welfare subsidies to individuals and corporations, our military stretched thinner as our troops are dispatched to more international police actions and our borders remain minimally defended against foreign invasion. This is not victory; this is failure on a grand scale!
In contrast our former presidential candidates Howard Phillips and Michael Peroutka set forth a different vision of victory. They defined victory as being faithful to do your duty honoring the Lord Jesus Christ in the political sphere, and leaving the results to the wise and gracious providence of an omniscient God. Such a vision of victory means that the Constitution Party of Georgia as a political party can only be successful when the Church is proclaiming the Gospel and making disciples of the citizens of Georgia, teaching them to obey everything He has commanded us. This vision of victory means that the work and success of the party is dependent upon supporters who are self-governed under Christ’s rule, who are part of families who honor God in their relationships with each other and their neighbors, who are part of congregations of Christians who are faithful to do the work of the ministry in their community. This principle of the growth of the Kingdom of God is noted in Daniel’s prophecies as well as Jesus’ parable of the mustard seed in the Bible. When these citizens are united in their confession that Jesus is King and Lord in their civil affairs, the work of the Constitution Party of Georgia will bear fruit in raising up of men to elected office who fear God and who apply the Word of God to every area of their public service – both ethics and law. King Jesus is calling you and me to a multi-generational commitment to fulfill this vision of victory. He is ready to pour out his Holy Spirit to those whose hearts are completely His in this work. I encourage you today to pray, work, and give to make this vision a reality.
I will definitely be throwing my support behind Senator McCain, and here’s why.
1-He is pro-life
2-He is for keeping marriage between one man and one woman
This election is about the core Christian issues of marriage and the life of the unborn. Why not vote for the man who has the best chance of winning, keeping marriage sacred, and overturning Roe v. Wade?
If we do not throw our support behind McCain, we could have a man in office who has never authored a major piece of legislation, has associations with Jeremiah Wright, Father Phleger, William Ayers, and Louis Farrakhan; is pro-choice, pro-‘civil unions’, and will restore the ‘Fairness Doctrine’….
I must say that I have great respect for Chuck Baldwin, but he has no chance of winning this election. I believe John McCain has the best chance at winning the election, and between he and Senator Obama, is most in line with my beliefs as a Christian.
Hey guys!
Great interview!!
I have to agree with Hannah Y, McCain is NOT the best choice for this country. It’s an issue my family has been struggling with this election. Do they vote for the next best thing, or for principles and the BEST choice. (I sure wish I were old enough to vote!) I live in Colorado, which is a swing state, so the question is… is not voting for McCain a vote for Obama?
~Hannah~
This is my favorite interview you’ve had. Thanks for sharing!
–And P.S. Hannah Peck: Yes. A vote against McCain in this election season IS a vote for Obama. One of them will be sitting in the oval office this upcoming year.
I agree with Sarah Byrum. Although I disagree with McCain in several areas, the prospect of Obama as president makes those differences seem smaller. Refusing to vote for McCain does not literally give Obama a vote, but it DOES increase his lead over McCain by one. And votes do add up. So I would encourage everyone to vote, whether or not we think McCain will make an ideal president. Because I think we can ALL agree that Obama is FAR from an ideal president.
As my mom often says, sometimes it comes down to choosing the “lesser of two evils.”
Come on people if there’s a draft I really don’t want to go to war witch Obama has said he will send all girl’s and boys to war if there’s a draft Girl can you even think how hard that would be you can’t say “Sorry Can’t do today you Know PMS” so Vote for McCain The Harris Boy’s are right on! Good Job
Brett,
Thank you so much for coming to Texas to speak this weekend at the TETM Conference. Your words were an invigorating challenge. It was such an encouragement and blessing to be able to listen to what you said. Thank you so much for taking time out of your mid-term studying and tests to come and speak; that truly was a Hard Thing for the Lord. Thank you again.
In Christ,
Sarah
good job!
Thanks Sarah, That was really more of a statement than a question, I didn’t say what I meant very clearly. 🙂
I think it would be a nightmare if Obama gets in, I can’t even imagine how nasty it might get. Which, it looks like there’s a VERY big chance that he will. Perhaps if he does, those American’s that are calling him the “Messiah” will get a rude awakening at how decieved they are! Maybe this is what our nation needs. So many have so quickly forgotten things like 9/11 and the threats to our country and freedom. What will it take to jolt this nation out of it’s lazy stupor?!! I don’t believe things are going to get better, not according to the Bible. Maybe this is the means of uniting an army for the Lord. I’m a little scared of what things might come to. But, the exciting thing is…God is obviously doing some very powerful things in our generation and He’s in control, what a relief! 🙂
Blessings, Hannah
Brett:
Thank you so much for coming all the way to Texas to speak last weekend. I was very encouraged and challenged by your message. I think that my favorite statement that you made was, “There is nothing more dangerous than a young person who knows what’s worth dying for.” Your quotes from Jim Elliot also really hit home. Thank you for your ministry!
Hey everyone,
Here I am again. My dad and I just had a great discussion on the whole political thing and I wanted to share some of the things we just talked about. First of all, yes, not voting for McCain is a vote for Obama. So what? What if Obama is exactly who God wants in office? Think about it this way. Joseph served as second in command under Pharoah. He saved Egypt from starvation and made it large and wealthy. That same kingdom that would later enslave the Hebrew nation. Yet we all know that Joseph was WITHOUT A DOUBT put there by God and instep with His will and plan. What about Daniel? He served the very nation that had enslaved him and his people, and he also was solidly instep with God. Doesn’t that just blow you away! He served under several kings in succesion and because of him, Babylon profited and flourished. WOW!!! I mean HELLO?! Who would think it? Today, we’d consider anyone who did that some kind of a weasel who out to be tried for treason. 🙂
My point is, God put some terrible people into power and He also had some faithful followers under them. His plan was greater than anything anybody could imagine, why should it be any different now?
So the choice is: stand in the gap or make a statement. A miracle could still happen, our God is greater than the polls. All I’m sure about is this, we can’t put God in a box. How many times did He bring Israel down to raise them up again? Our hope is in Him, I hope. 🙂
Brothers and sisters in Christ, if God wants Obama in, he’ll get in. We have to be listening to the Spirit and in step with God’s will in our lives. That’s what matters.
Blessings, Hannah
P.S. I’d love to hear feed-back from any of you on this.
P.P.S My dad still doesn’t know for sure who he’s going to vote for. He isn’t sure whether God is leading him to stand in the gap or to make a statement. 🙂 Just thought that might help a little. (I do know that he won’t be voting for Obama :-D)
“What Christ did was the ultimate hard thing we couldn’t do for ourselves. And that’s why we do hard things.”
This sounds pretty much like a John Piper quote to me! 😉
I’m glad the Rebelution is still getting good publicity! It’s a message that needs to keep spreading!
I SO don’t want Obama to be president. With my brother joining the Navy that would NOT be cool. If you don’t want Obama in, than you need to vote for McCain.. even if you don’t agree with everything he does. Besides.. Sarah Palin rocks! Why wouldn’t we want her to be vice pres?
I just realized that neither of you were present at PHC when the movie “Come What May” was in production there, so pardon my previous question.
God bless!
RBMA: my family is in the same predicament. My brother is planning on going to Annapolis. However, maybe not if Obama becomes president.
Sarah Palin is amazing! As our governor, she has done some great things! (yep, I’m living in AK) Only thing is, we’re a bit put off that she won’t be our governor if she becomes vice president 🙁 She and Trig are the most amazing picture of pro-life! The greatest thing about it is she doesn’t have to say a thing.
However, no matter who becomes president, we’ve got to remember that God is faithful through it all!
I don’t know whether a vote against McCain is a vote for Obama or not. I doubt it is, but frankly, I don’t care. All I know and care about is that my conscience does not sit well with voting for a man who picked a woman for a vice-president (leaders of countries should also be spiritual leaders, and women should not be spiritual leaders over men, which is a whole other topic in itself) and who is known in the Senate for ranking exactly in between extremely liberal and extremely conservative (look it up for yourself). George Washington wisely foresaw all this meaningless fuss and made it clear that he did not want parties. Well, we made ’em. Now why only two? Can’t we have more options? We can’t always be going with the “lesser of two evils.” Sometime it’s going to come back to hurt us. Don’t vote based on “party affiliation” or “look-who’s-gonna-get-in-if-I-don’t-vote-for-this-person.” Vote according to the Bible and trust God with the rest. We can’t always just go with whatever looks best on the outside (i.e., Republicans over Democrats). Dig deep. Find the facts. Talk to people you trust (I talk to my dad). Compare it to the Bible. What does GOD say on these issues? What does HE think is important? And if Obama does get in, well, apparently that’s God’s plan, and, though we may not like it or understand it, whatever He says goes.
This is what I think is important, and as far as I know, it lines up with Scripture. If it doesn’t, please let me know (I’m not joking!).
1. Abortion is wrong, all across the board. From the moment of conception, a baby is a human being with God-given rights and its life should be protected as such.
2. Freedom of speech, for doing it in a calm and organized manner (no rioting, mobbing, etc.). No persecution for speaking against sins and respectfully expressing one’s opinion.
3. Homosexuality and gay marriage is a sin. Marriage is defined as one man and one wife as divinely instituted by God.
4. Personal property. The government should not and can not take our property by force or any other method after it is legally ours, including forcing elderly people to sell their paid-off homes because they can’t afford the property taxes.
5. The Constitution should be interpreted EXACTLY, and I mean EXACTLY, according to the ORIGINAL intent of the Founding Fathers.
6. States’ rights. Now this is very, very important: Anything and everything not specifically delegated by the Constitution to the federal government is reserved for the state and local jurisdictions. That includes things such as nationally-supported public schools (which is totally against the Constitution).
7. American government committed to ITS OWN PROBLEMS. If there’s one thing we as a nation need to do, it’s get our noses out of other people’s business. Why are we even part of the United Nations? We have plenty of our own problems to deal with. I do understand that since we got ourselves in Iraq, we can’t just pull out suddenly–we need to get out honorably and with respect to our brave soldiers and the struggling Iraqi nation (I have several family members in Iraq). I’m not picking at that. I’m just saying that across the board, we have to stop policing the world. Get the beam out of our own eye before we try to pick the speck out of our brother’s.
That is where I stand. That is where Chuck Baldwin stands, too. And that is why I am voting for him. We have gotten so far off-track as a nation. We need new options, and we need to rethink the candidates’ and our morals and line it up with what God says in the Bible, which, as you all know, ALWAYS has the last say. And who is going to make new options if we don’t? We’re Rebelutionists, aren’t we?! 🙂 I know it would take a miracle for Chuck Baldwin to become president. But the more people who vote for him, the more publicity he gets and the more people hear about him and are likelier to vote for him or people like him in upcoming elections. God could put him in the Oval Office this year. Nothing is impossible. But God’s not up there voting in a literal sense. We are the ones with that responsibility. Sometimes we have to do things by faith, not seeing the outcome. God likes when we obey and don’t just sit back and wait for the world to right itself.
Disclaimer ( 🙂 ): I’m not trying to tell anyone to vote for one person or another. McCain is definitely better than Obama in many ways. But I seemed to cause a big political debate with my first comment, so I just wanted to make clear where my family stood and why.
I am trying to comment but my comment wont come up HELP
Maybe my comment is to long the short ones always come up!
Terrific interview! I was especially interested with the part where you contrasted public schoolers’ and home schoolers’ reactions. I’m a home schooler, and you nailed my reaction to the letter!
Dear RBMA and Charity Jacobson,
I completely understand where you’re coming from, what with brothers going into the military. BOTH of my brothers are in the military. I posted yesterday, and in it I pointed out how both Joseph and Daniel had to serve under ungodly kings. Esther did the same thing, only she had to marry the guy!! God’s plan in having those men in those postions unfolded into spectacular events. I believe we need godly leaders in our military now more than ever. My oldest brother is in the Air Force Academy and before he went in he did A LOT of praying (along with my parents) about this very issue. Obama wasn’t in the picture yet, but my brother wasn’t so naieve as to assume this kind of thing would never happen. There is no doubt in our minds that that is where he is supposed to be, God couldn’t have made it clearer. My other brother is Army ROTC and God’s clear hand in placing him where he is is also evident. Joseph and Daniel are a couple of the most amazing men in the Old Testament. Their firmness of faith and persevering godliness even under while being under the authority of a heathen king (or kings, Daniel served under 7?) is proof of what God can do in those situations. (Another point that is worth pointing out here is that they were both teenagers when they were taken captive, but it didn’t matter, they still stood strong. Yet another perfect example of teenagers doing hard things!)
God bless!
Hannah
Man it stinks that I can’t see the interview on my cell phone right now but I would bet that you guys did great. I hope that school is going great. And I can’t wai to see the interview. Oh have any of ya’ll heard of Casting Crowns? In Christ Jordan.
Great interview you two! You both did a good job.
Jordan,
I’ve heard of Casting Crowns 🙂 They’re a great band. I especially like their new song Slow Fade.
God Bless!
Hello, I agree with almost everything you said, but not the McCain part, First here is a great article to read called: John McCain pro life? What a joke! by Chuck Baldwin.
(To visit a link copy it then paste4 it in the address bar)
newswithviews.com/baldwin/baldwin465.htm
I don’t want Obama or McCain to get the white house but between the two of them I hope Obama wins! (I am not saying vote for Obama, I am saying don’t vote for either). Here is why:
generationcedar.blogspot.com/2008/10/obama-less-dangerous-than-mccain.html
If a person went and said: I’M VOTING FOR CHUCK BALDWIN almost everyone would say your wasting your vote! If all of those people would do the hard thing and vote like a Christian should (not voting for the lesser of 2 evils, God does not allow us to choose sin/evil, God commands us to vote only for men who are biblically qualified, see 2nd Samuel 23:4, Deut. 18, Prov. 14:34) I think some of the candidates like Chuck Baldwin would have a chance. but everyone says your wasting your vote. I say DON’T vote for McCain, vote for a person who is qualified like Chuck Baldwin!
Dr. Chuck Baldwin is running for president as the candidate of the Constitution Party. He is on the ballot in all but 14 states and theoretically could win. He has been endorsed by Ron Paul. Chuck also has this web site with a neat video.
baldwin08.com/Home02.html
Chuck is a pastor in FL. and you will find no one with a more pro-life record. He understands our Christian history and foundation. He understands our nation’s needs today. I will not be able to vote this year, but if I was I would not waste my vote, Chuck deserves it. Winning at any cost is too expensive, voting by pragmatism instead of principle is immoral, and if you keep up that mentality our nation is toast!
Samuel Adams said:
Let each citizen remember at the moment he is offering his vote that he is not making a present or a compliment to please an individual–or at least that he ought not so to do; but that he is executing one of the most solemn trusts in human society for which he is accountable to God and his country. ”
DON’T settle with the worlds low expectations and go with the flow, voting for the lesser of two evils, Lets do the HARD THINGS like facing the giants, going against Obama and McCain and voting for Chuck Baldwin! He still has a chance! It does not have to be either giant – McCain or Obama, no, have faith in GoD (-: … “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible”. Matthew 19:26
~Stephen G.
Nice job guys! I just started reading Do Hard Things and I’m very happy for your enormous success!
This is for everyone planning to vote third party.
The Constitutionalists believe (Quote from their platform)“[we] should strive to live in peace with all nations, without interfering in their internal affairs, and without permitting their interference in ours. We are, therefore, unalterably opposed to entangling alliances -via treaties, or any other form of commitment – which compromise our national sovereignty, or commit us to intervention in foreign wars.” (end quote) This frightens me because I believe we need to support Israel. The Constitutionalists say they are “unalterably opposed” to alliances with other nations. I can never support a party that would not support Israel. They are God’s chosen people and God says in Genesis 12:3 “I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you.” If we are not for Israel, we are against them.
In addition, this is not a matter of voting for the lesser of two evils, this is a matter of fighting AGAINST the greater of two evils. If Obama becomes our president we will have a Democratic president, a Democratic Congress, and very shortly, a Democratic Supreme Court. Abortion will have no limits, homosexuals will be considered a minority and anyone who opposes them will be accused of hate (and probably imprisoned). Parental rights will be destroyed and the government will require all children to attend its schools. The Fairness Doctrine will be enacted and we can say goodbye to conservative and Christian radio. In a nutshell, the church will be underground and liberty will be dead. This is why, with all of McCain’s failings, our family is supporting him. We wanted Huckabee (we love Mike!), but Mike himself has strongly urged us to vote for McCain.
Please, Please!!!!! Reconsider.
Sarah.
I have been reading some of the comments on this article. Many have suggested that we should support a third-party candidate, specifically Chuck Baldwin of the Constitutional Party. Of those who hold to this view, there seem to be two sub-groups. 1) Those who do not think Mr. Baldwin has a real chance of winning, but want to make a strong statement and grow the Constitutional party for future elections. 2) Those who think that Mr. Baldwin might actually win!
I see the thinking behind both these lines of thought, and I admire your desire to do what’s right. However, I must respectfully disagree with you.
For the first argument, the idea is that the Republican Party has been infiltrated by those who are neither Christian nor even conservative, and that we must start over with a new party. That is the long-term plan.
But there is a problem with this. Creating more parties does not create more Christians, and it does not create more conservatives. We will still have the same number of people who agree with our views, but our votes will be split between two parties – one truly conservative, and one only semi-conservative. The culture war is fought by convincing people, not by simply changing their party-label. That’s why we need to reform the Grand Old Party, not start a new one.
For the second argument, let me first say that I know what it is like to stand up to giants. During the primaries, I supported a man who many said did not have a chance. This man had an incredible character, and put what God thought about him before anything else. It would have been wonderful had he won the nomination!
But he didn’t.
For some reason that I can’t see right now, God let him lose.
And now, the right thing to do is support John McCain, in spite of the fact that he is very, very far from what a godly Christian candidate should be. The other option, Barack Obama, is simply too terrifying. Could God do a miracle and let Mr. Baldwin win the presidency? Of course! But from what we can see now, it looks like that is not his plan. We must not confuse stepping out in faith with presumption on God’s will.
Well I only ask abt Casting Crowns because there first cd has A song on it by the name, What if His people Prayed. I love that song. I think if you haven’t heard it you should look it up, but for those of you who have. I believe that if we pray not caring abt what denomination we had or such abt thinks that need to be done, like the ending of abortion, and the right to pray in school, or even Goverment. Then things will change. And for those of you who do not think that Miccain is a wonderful choice for president than you your right. But God help me if I don’t do everything in my power to tell people to vote for him. Why? You may ask. For one reason. I don’t want Obama in the White House. This election. And for all the rest of us who are now able to vote, its not about what we want, atleast it shouldn’t be. Because every person we put in that office, we need to put in there so are children’s life’s are easier, and their’s and so on. And in my eyes Miccain will do a better job at it. Than a man who says that our country and goverment doesn’t need the bible, and laughs at the Lord almighty. My friends we need to pray, we need to seek the Lord on this til we feel we can’t do it anymore, and we need to fast. I shall not say much more, my vote is for Miccain. Like one of ya’ll said choose the lesser of two evils.
Everyone needs to realize something–the Lord leads people in different ways to vote for the candidate He wants them to. I know this in my own life–several dear friends are voting for Chuck Baldwin, but after much prayer, I felt the Lord was leading me for John McCain. No, the guy isn’t perfect; he is moderate in areas. But that is who I am to vote for. (For one thing, the Supreme Court hangs so much in the balance–does anyone want to see the justices Obama would put in?!)
All that to say is Alex and Brett are voting for who God lead them to choose. We can’t say “Oh, you’re wrong–you’ve got to go Baldwin!” Who are we to make them change their minds.
More than aruging over a candidate (and I do it far more than I should) we all should be praying that the Lord does a mighty thing on behalf of the Christians in this country that desire His ways and righteousness.
The one thing I think people need to remember is that God has not given us a spirit of fear. We need to do what we believe is right (meaning vote for the person who we believe is really the best, not just the lesser of two evils). Don’t vote for McCain just because you don’t want Obama. Vote for the person you believe is the best one for the job.
Hey Alex & Brett!
Thanks for the great work you are doing in politics and standing up for Christian values. We definitely need more Christians in that area. My brother and I recently started a blog about God and politics because we saw such a lack of info out there for young Christians. So it’s so encouraging to see Christians like you two speaking out and getting out there. Yes, politics is controversial and many will not like you for it, but it is crucial if we want to see Christian principles preserved in our law books and in our culture.
Lisa
It was a great interview!!! Congrats guys!!!
These question is for you both, I dont get it I thought Obama was the best candidate for your country , why is McCain a good choice if he is not in the republicans isnt him a liberal?
I ask because I might not now very well because i dont live in USA but I really want to know any president of USA affects us in different ways… well i hope for an answer and congrats again!
Anabel
I respectfully disagree with supporters of the Constitution Party. Not over their decision, for the right to vote for whomever one wants is a right fundamental to the fabric of America. However, I disagree with the zeal which they denounce supporters of McCain’s ticket. Both sides of the party supporters are exercising the exact same right. In fact, I disagree with the definitive zeal with which their decision is announced. They declare, in effect, that they will vote for whom they believe best representing their personal values, and God will do His will, apart from their choice. Have any of you considered that God may have a plan that needs you to be carried out? That your choices matter in the global scheme of things? Whoever is elected president will irrevocably change America, and possibly the world, depending on the efficiency of global relations.
A previous comment wrote off voting because of pragmatism, and said we must vote only on principle. I agree that principle is one of the main things that should drive your decision in major situations. However, it is not the only thing. Even some missions options must be discarded because they are not viable. Chuck Baldwin is not a viable political candidate, in my opinion. History shows that the only mentionable mark third party candidates have made in an election is to split a party’s vote. In this case, it will split the conservative vote, effectively guaranteeing a win for the Obama ticket. For those who believe that a miracle could make Chuck Baldwin win: did you first ask God to motivate President Bush into making more progress, or did you assume he was a lost cause because he is not a member of the Constitutionalist party?
The reasons put forth for a vote for Chuck Baldwin and the Constitutionalist party are a strange cobble of long- and short-term vision. Prospective voters want to make a stand now so in four years the Constitutionalist party will have a better chance in the presidential election. And if Obama gets in and runs amok in those four years, who cares? We made a stand, right? A lot can happen in four years, a lot of good or a lot of bad. McCain is a better insurance policy against the degenerating of equal rights for all. I am afraid all of them would go quickly under Obama.
My definition of success is notable progress made in the right direction.
I personally have my support behind Sarah Palin, who is definitely pro-life, pro-adoption, and pro-(man+woman)marriage. McCain would not be my first choice, but because he picked Mrs. Palin my family is going to vote for him… and who knows? Sarah Palin could end up being the President. I think the best ticket would be…
Sarah Palin & Mike Huckabee 2012!!!!
Anabel Cuevas: On the scale of 1-10, with 10 being most liberal, Obama is a 10 and McCain is a 5. (That’s what my dad read.) Do you live in Europe? If so, you might have heard Obama was better because most of Europe is rooting for him!
Sarah Pena: Just FYI, we already have a Democratic Congress. The media blames Bush for not getting things done. It’s not his fault–the whole Congress is against him. And that same Congress will be in session for another four years. You were right though–a Democratic Congress along with a Democratic president will be scary! But remember: the President is only one part of three equal branches of government (i.e., the president is not a king). Who we put in the House and Senate has as much of an effect on our country as who we put in the Oval Office.
I am not trying to bash McCain or tell anyone who to vote for–I think several people have misunderstood me (and others with my views) on that point. I was just trying to say what Adams said so well:
“Let each citizen remember at the moment he is offering his vote that he is not making a present or a compliment to please an individual–-or at least that he ought not so to do; but that he is executing one of the most solemn trusts in human society for which he is accountable to God and his country.”
I will be accountable to God for the vote I cast next week. You will be too (if you are old enough to vote). Just keep that in mind. If you think McCain is the best person for you, then go for it! I do not look down on you, and neither should anyone else. It’s not my job to tell you who to vote for. I just mentioned Baldwin because I had hoped you all might give voting for him open-hearted, prayerful thought.
Let’s get back to the real reason for the post–Alex and Brett’s great interview; most of which, I’m sure, we can agree on.
This is really random, and has little to do with what the post was about.
But I am just reminded constantly of my need to live with eternity in view.
With the election and everything that’s happening around us, it’s so hard
for me to remember what I am really living for, and the crown that awaits
me one day. In struggles and hardships, dwelling on that fact is such a comfort!
Alex and Brett,
I just remembered that you two have a birthday right around the corner. Since you’ll be leaving the teen years behind, I’m sure it’s a time of reflection. May you continue to seek God’s will for your lives and may He bless you as you have so often blessed me.
Happy Birthday!!!
A sister in Christ…
Hey guys! Just wanted to wish you both a happy birthday! God Bless you in the years to come.
Eric Novak
(Not to sound like a copycat, but) Happy birthday! I know it’s sometime around now, but I’m not sure of the exact day. Thanks for being such godly examples for Christian teens. I really appreciate all that you two have done to help others and further the Kingdom through the Rebelution.
Vote Chuck Baldwin!!! If enough Americans voted for him he might win!
Do the right thing, come what may!
Elisabeth, Palin and Huckabee would be an incredible ticket!!! Definitely agree with you. It was McCain’s choosing Sarah Plain that made me think about voting fot that ticket. I thought McCain was too liberal….but due to some reading I have done, I have changed my views slightly.
And apparently, it is y’alls birthday, Alex and Brett…or was…or else we are way off. May the Lord bless you richly in the year ahead. May you grow in grace and in the knowledge of Him. May he continue to use you both mightily for His kingdom!
Elisabeth Gruber,
I totally agree! Palin and Huckabee would be a knockout ticket!
Brett and Alex,
I don’t know if it’s really your birthday or not but everyone else says it is, so… Happy Birthday! How does ot feel to no longer be teenagers?
God bless!
Sarah. 🙂
Hannah Y.:
Thank you so much for answering so soon and no Im not from europe Im from Dominican Republic in the caribbean(close to Puerto Rico and Cuba), I didnt knew it was like that I got my conclusions from my history teacher and my classmates, but thank you for explaining…
Alex and Brett:
im kind of confuse when is it your b-day? is it today or in a week? well if it is today Happy B-day!!!! 😀 and thanks for being such a good example through your teenage years! God bless you both! And one good news I think for you guys, in my school we are starting a group of debaters for the first time any advise?
In Jesus, Anabel
Well, if it is your birthday, then happy birthday! If it’s not… oops. 😀
Just a note; come what may politically, God is still in control. Obviously, that doesn’t mean that we should sit back and just watch (sometimes, we are the instruments through which God chooses to work, which is pretty amazing if you think about it), but it does mean that we should trust Him if things don’t turn out the way we’d hoped they would. And, if we live long enough, that time will come, because humans are finite and fallible. But God is infinite and perfect, and absolutely nothing is going to put a road-clock in his path.
Sola de gloria!
So, I Think That John McCain Has Made Bad choises, especially with President G. W. Bush, But He spent almost a year in a prison Camp, and Refused to leave until every soldier that got in before him was sent home. He’s got character. And, He picked out Sarah Palin, which was a great choise.
I’m a Half-Liberal Republican, and a REBELUTIONARY. Thanks Alex & Brett
And, If I may ask, Where Can I find out if Alex and Brett are Republicans. Really, I think That both Presidential Candidates aren’t good presidents. I Agree with Elizabeth Kelley: “Come what may politically, God it still in control.” I Believe God will bring us what is best, But take a look at the old Testament… When Isreal Strayed from God, They began Falling. America Is ruled by Drones of another Evil: Communism. Obama, “Distributing the Wealth” Is exactly what happened to Russia, and it turned into the United Socialist Soviet Union. God was NOT OPn their side. I think if we becom, Which we are, Like the Soviet Countries, we will Fall…united, we fall…
Hey guy loved the interview!
Personally im not much into politics (and i no that i shold get more involed and im trying my best to) But i think that it is great that you guy can have the courage to be able to have done every thing you could to try to help your canidiante get into office.
I would be so scared to even try and do something like that because i a shy person and have troubles stepping out of my comfort zones. But Im working on it.
Once again great job and the interview and God Bless!
Happy B-day Guys!!!! 😀 thats a good thing you are not going anywhere and thanks for recalling that each of us is a rebelutionar, have a great day and may all you do is for God´s grace have a great year!!! And it is a good thing your b-day is today because is my cousin´s too and my b-day was eleven days ago we turned 17 both!
and keep on changing the world!!!!
In Jesus,
Anabel
Happy Birthday from the Whitmire clan, all 14 of us. Thank you for your hard work. Man that sounded a little cheese.
In Christ
Jordan
Nathan,
You asked, “Where Can I find out if Alex and Brett are Republicans?” If you read the interview, you see that Alex and Brett say that they supported Mike Huckabee who is a very, very strong Republican and they started “Hucksarmy” which now supports John McCain. Hope that helps!
God bless!
Sarah. 🙂
Great comments everybody! Alex and Brett I thought the interview was great; it answered some questions I had on where you two stand politically this season. I agree with you wholeheartedly!
I wrote a paper summing up some of the conclusions I have come to concerning voting for Palin and Mcain, especially addressing the fact that Palin is a woman. Anyone who is interested can read it on my blog, I love discussions!
In Christ,
Lauren Ashley
Nathan:
I agree; communism has not worked historically, and it’d be a VERY bad way to go. And yes, the USSR was rather an ugly mess. But God is “on the side” of His people, for sure. “So do not fear, for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10, ESV). Come communism or democracy, bread lines or Safeway’s, McCain or Obama, God’s not gonna let go of us. (Huzzah for that! He’s awesome, isn’t He?!)
I agree with Rebecca, we don’t want Obama to win, but that does not mean we should vote for McCain, God can do anything he wants, I don’t think Baldwin can win, but if God wants him to, he will. go to my blog to see why I think we should not support McCain.
~Stephen G.
I hope this works… last time it didn’t show up.
I’d rather not become involved in this little debate.
I’d rather just say a big ‘thank you’ to Alex and Brett. You’ve changed the way I veiw my, and the way I live it. Thanks for being eye-openers.
Soli Deo Gloria!
Courtney
A note…
Oops, it seems I left out the word life in my last post.. sorry!
“I hope this works… last time it didn’t show up.
I’d rather not become involved in this little debate.
I’d rather just say a big ‘thank you’ to Alex and Brett. You’ve changed the way I veiw my life, and the way I live it. Thanks for being eye-openers.
Soli Deo Gloria!
Courtney”
In Him Alone,
Courtney
It’s always great to hear what others are doing to give me a little encouragement…cool!
I really liked your blog! i read 4 others that are on similar subjets, but they domt update very often, thanks.
I came across your blog on the google search engine and saw a few of your earlier posts that you did previously . I just added you to my Google News Reader. Keep up the great work. i will Look forward to reading more from you again.
hahah! niceeee! that must of been some hard work! goooood job!
It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d most certainly donate to this brilliant blog! I guess for now i’ll settle for book-marking and adding your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to new updates and will share this website with my Facebook group. Talk soon!