I really don't have an answer for that question, but I do feel like we need to give each other the freedom to hear and follow God's call on our own lives. What He asks of one of us may be totally different than what He asks of another.

Much of this article resonated with me, but I disagree with the conclusion about parental worry -- which I think can lead to the idea that God somehow releases us from our calling as mothers when He calls us to something beyond mothering. When I (or my husband) start to really worry about one of our children, it is usually for a good reason. Often, he or she needs more of our time and support, and we reduce the amount of time we are spending at work or on other things to re-focus on him or her. If I were Sarah Palin (or a man her position), I would be rightly worried about my pregnant teenage daughter and infant with special needs. I would think a lot about whether this was the time to change jobs, much less take one with huge responsibility and intense media scrutiny.

I am extremely concerned about Mrs Palin balancing her role as vice president with the possibility of being president with her role as wife and mom. I know in Alaska she depended heavily on her extended family to help her out.
Will they be moving to Washington? I know the Washington schedule. It is brutal. We all make choices but in my opinion either the country or her children are going to suffer from her decision to run for vice president.

I think Ms Palins outspoken political views make her fair game for comments. She has every right to live her life as she chooses (we are all given free will).

But when someone claims to be a devout christian and lies repeatedly about her record and then takes revenge on people who disagree with her, raises taxes on food in Alaska where food is already outrageously expensive, doesn't believe in global warming, and protecting the environment for our children. That person is not Christ like.

And lastly I must say that I know getting pregnant at 44 is not easy for any woman. To get pregnant during your first term as governor shows a lack of respect for the life and health of her unborn child as well as a lack of commitment to her constituents. I don't think her children should be the issue; but she has neglected her children.

And to see war as the mission from god is heinous. The bible is very clear. Using faith as an armor to fight against his will is the greatest sin of all.

Love this article because you express so many of the thoughts I have had. I am a counselor and I'm always telling people, "Yes, you can have it all you just can't have it all at the same time." (I don't really mean we can have everything our heart's desire...I'm just using an expression that we can have it all).

I too am inspired by Sarah. She makes it look easy - I know I certainly couldn't do all that, but I commend her for living out her gifts!

And I do like the fact that people are once again talking about "feminists." I recently blogged that Jesus was the ultimate feminist:
http://rumorsofglory.net/blog/?p=321

I cannot understand why and how Gov. Palin continues to repeat a claim that she opposed the "Bridge To Nowhere" when the facts are clear that she not only was for the funding until the political currents changed, she kept the money after deciding not to build the bridge.

While I greatly admire her commitment to choose life for her son, her juggling of family and professional life, and being a voice for working mothers everywhere, I am horrified that she chooses the politically expedient, dishonest campaign tactics of misrepresenting facts for political gain.

If she's going to hold herself up as a role model for Christian women, then she must do it with honesty and integrity. To do otherwise is an affront to Christ and a terrible, terrible testimony to non-Christians. If she really believes that she is "called for such a time as this," then surely she believes God will honor her courage not to bend facts or seek to mislead the public.

It grieves me greatly that so many "Christian leaders" like Dr. Dobson and Gov. Palin resort to the most un-Christian behaviors of the postmodern world, deeming "situational ethics" unacceptable until they come in handy.

Shame on us if we don't call our leaders on the carpet for their hypocrisy. Whitewashed sepulchers indeed.

I think it's great that Sarah Palin is running! Not all of us are cut out to take on the challenges she is taking on, but the best thing we can do is support her in prayer. Not all of us are called to stay at home as moms. I know---I had a telecon with a client from my hospital bed within a day of giving birth to my daughter. And I know I would be so miserable if I had to stay at home all day---it's not who God made me, and I know many other Christian women, both here and abroad, who feel the same way. God has given us talents and abilities and He expects us to use them where He places us, and sometimes that is not just the kitchen (don't get me wrong---there's nothing wrong with that either---I sometimes envy those moms who can do that and love it all day long!). Yes, Washington can be brutal; I know from experience. It won't be easy if she ends up as VP, but just because she has been given this opportunity, no one should put her down---put her on your prayer list instead!

I think Ms Palins outspoken political views make her fair game for comments. She has every right to live her life as she chooses (we are all given free will).

But when someone claims to be a devout christian and lies repeatedly about her record and then takes revenge on people who disagree with her, raises taxes on food in Alaska where food is already outrageously expensive, doesn't believe in global warming, and protecting the environment for our children. That person is not Christ like.

And lastly I must say that I know getting pregnant at 44 is not easy for any woman. To get pregnant during your first term as governor shows a lack of respect for the life and health of her unborn child as well as a lack of commitment to her constituents. I don't think her children should be the issue; but she has neglected her children.

And to see war as the mission from god is heinous. The bible is very clear. Using faith as an armor to fight against his will is the greatest sin of all.

I couldn't have said it better... so I'm going to quote Mara on this one.

"And lastly I must say that I know getting pregnant at 44 is not easy for any woman. To get pregnant during your first term as governor shows a lack of respect for the life and health of her unborn child" --Mara

Respectfully, this comment from Mara is unfortunately a product of believing in the lie that life (i.e. babies) must be born in a perfect vaccum in order to be considered worthy of life. Her comment shows a lack of understanding about what it means to truly "respect life".

Perhaps you can argue the decision to have a child (or allowing for a "surprise") is irresponsible, but that clearly does not show a "lack of respect for life". Once God blesses with the creation of life, regardless of if you are prepared or if it's the right time or if you are ready, the true meaning of "respect for life" is to defend life's right to existence, regardless of the circumstance. Thus, Palin's decision to keep her unborn child with down's syndrome and to encourage her teenage daughter to keep her baby are true examples of what it means to respect life.

Whatever else you say about Palin, no one can argue that those two decisions she made are monumental examples of living out your faith, regardless of the consequences.

I think it's fine and great to disagree with Gov. Palin's policies and worldview, but I have to admit I'm quite troubled by the comment(s) criticizing her "getting pregnant." What a horrible thing to say!

Do you think, then, that we should require women in leadership to be sterilized? Or impose discipline if found to be sexually active with their husbands (or any one else)? Maybe FORCED abortions?

Of course, male politicians have children in office all the time and no one says boo. The truth is, that being a child of a politician--man or woman--is no easy road. The McCain, Obama, Biden, and Palin kids--along with many others--could all tell you that.

Sorry, I'm just shocked and pained that that comment was echoed. Do we really devalue children and women and the gift of pregnancy and childbirth that much in this society?

I am a stay-at-home mom and I am rooting for Sarah Palin! I think Cheryl's comment about God's call on each of our lives is right on - we each have a unique calling! Thank you Caryn for pointing out that we should not worry and that we need to trust and follow God - especially when He leads us down that impossible looking path.

For Mara (& Bet) - I am not sure when you decided you were equal to God, but I know that my Bible teaches us to judge not lest we be judged by the same measure. I am pretty sure all of us have "half-truths" or "outright lies" that would not stand up to the kind of public scrutiny we bestow on our governmental leaders. We can disagree with her politics without being nasty toward her and claiming she is not being Christ like. Being judgemental is not Christ like either, but the vast majority of us do it.

As for her personal life, we don't know the circumstances of her pregnancy. Maybe it was a total surprise - it wouldn't be the first one I have heard of. Since you seem to be a devout Christian too - would you rather she had gotten an abortion? And just because she is a working mom does not mean her children are neglected. Some of the most loving, caring moms I have known are women in high profile, demanding jobs in the corporate world.

Finally, as the spouse of a war veteran, I wish the Christian folks who hold the view that all war is wrong, would learn to be very careful in choosing their words. There were many wars and many soldiers in the Bible that were commended by God.

As much as Sarah Palin's decision would NOT be the same as my own ... I am reminded of my namesake, Deborah, in the book of Judges. She ruled over Israel! It never mentions children, but her husband, Lappidoth, was mentioned and one could assume she did have children. She had HUGE responsibilities over the nation of Israel and she still had a famly to tend to. God called her to this position, in spite of the fact that women didn't do things like that.
Do I consider Sarah Palin a prophetess? No. But if she and her family have carefully considered this decision and feel it's what they are called to do, I'm not one to argue! It's certainly not a choice for every woman, but then, that doesn't mean it's not a choice for ANY woman EVER.

GOD BLESS SARAH PALIN CHECK OUT THE VIRTUOUS WOMEN IN THE BIBLE WONDER WHO CARED FOR THE CHILDREN OF THE VIRTOUS WOMAN IF WE FOLLOW CHRIST HE WILL TAKE CARE OF ALL OUR NEEDS HOW MANY SINGLE PARENTS ARE THEY TODAY THEY HAVE TO WORK AND RAISE CHILDREN I HAVE BEEN IN A SUPERVISORY POSITION FOR 18 YRS I HAVE A DISABLED DAUGHTER I AM NOW A SINGLE MOM TRYING TO PUT MY YOUNGEST DAUGHTER THRU COLLEGE NONE OF MY CHILDREN WERE NEGLECTED WHO ARE ANY OF US TO JUDGE WHAT OUR GOD IS ABLE TO DO LET HIM WHO IS WITHOUT SIN CAST THE FIRST STONE WE ARE NOT HERE TO FULLFILL OUR WILL BUT GODS WILL

Oh my Bet & Mara! I know that Gov. Palin may have increased the sales tax but at the same time she greatly reduced property taxes and established a Permanent Fund Dividend that amounts to $2069 this year and a Resource Rebate of $1200. I don't know if that is per person or per household. I do know one would have to purchase a lot of food to offset that.
I would be interested to see scriptural facts to support global warming - we are commanded to be good stewards of the earth - beyond that I believe it completely egotistical to even imagine that we can control the climate.
As to having a baby at 44 - it's no one's business but the Palins. Neglected her children? I doubt it.
Why hasn't anyone raised such a hue and cry about all of the pop stars that have babies and very demanding careers - what about Katie Couric and all the other professional women who do both? Christ-like? She (Gov. Palin) must feel a little like the woman Jesus saved from stoning by asking her attackers to throw the first stone if they had no sin in them. I am not implying that she has done anything wrong - but she is certainly being stoned! I thank God for her willingness to stand against the garbage. God just may use her to give us what we need instead of what we deserve in leadership in this great country. I will continue to pray for her and her family.

Thanks for this article! I didn't see it as political in basis, but rather thought provoking concerning what the role of a woman should be. It was inspiring to me because of the challenge for us as Christian women to recognize that God leads us all differently. We should pray for one another and affirm his ability to lead other women - perhaps to a place we might not have considered. That is giving Him glory and declaring Him soveriegn.

Okay,

I am neither republican or Democrat, But I am a Christian Mother…..who can careless of being politically correct but more so biblically correct.

But some of the comments I have read thus far have me scratching my head a little here…..

Why are some of you ladies using Palin’s Accolades, endeavors, or higher calling if you will, as some sort of " evil mirror” to underline or maximize your own frailties, failures, fears, or faults, or even using it to mock your own accomplishments, ( to say what you do , or who you are aren't good enough)?

I smell a strong fragrance of INSECURITY here! Why are we as mothers, allowing Palin's calling to bring intimidation and worry into what God has inspired us to do, outside of our homes, jobs, communities, motherhood, or the four walls of the church, etc? If I know I'm striving on a daily basis to please God not just in my calling to being a Godly mother, but beyond my responsibilities as a wife and mother, then NO One’s achievements can make me feel any less or push me to be something I’m not or do more than God has given me the grace and wisdom to do or handle. I applaud Sara Palin’s accomplishments, I have no reason to feel not one ounce of annoyance by her achievements, However I will not forfeit my purpose, because someone has been given bigger size shoes to walk on their road to success and fulfillment. I matter too!

Without bragging, I applaud myself ! I vote for myself, certainly not in a political position, but being the BEST ME. I toast myself! For what? For striving to raise 7 Godly children daily, all under the age 20, without ending up in a “crazy House” by noon, for fighting to have a godly marriage for 20 years, when sometimes I want to give my loving husband, a Good Brooklyn New York thump and a Jersey kick for saying stupid things, and for defeating my fears, and answering the call beyond mother and wife hood, to start my own successful business, and inner-city shelter and medical center for abused children .

Each of us has been given the grace to fulfill a calling that others have not been graced with! How many times have someone came up to you and said, Girl, I don’t know how you do it from day to day, how can you stand this or that, How do you do it all? Its not that you are super woman or Mom, its that God has given you the grace to handle your day to day task, and calling. That's why its so important that we don't imitate others, because we can do what they do, but we may not have the measure of Grace to handle the calling or task that God has given them.

And by the way staying home 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or having your children right under your noses, does not mean you get a free pass to having a perfect family, or children who don’t have struggles, or face tough obstacles. Neither does it mean we should ignore those obstacles. We are outsiders looking in, and to assume Palin is not involved as she should be ( to our standards) in her daughter’s life or handling her family obstacles, is not fair.

Enough about that, what about you? Pick up your banners, bull horns, and campaign signs,. Celebrate the new you, and the adventure that life/ God is taking you . Because Girlfriends, you may not be Sara Palin, But don’t you think your own adventure, accomplishments, and purpose beyond the kids, needs your praise and vote too?

Blessings,

I am truly excited about Sarah Palin running for VP. And after hearing her speech and McCains I am proud and excited to vote for them. I just hope that all the above comments about Palin lying and such are based on fact and not just what you heard on the local news or CNN.

Did you ever think that maybe she didn't plan to get pregnant when she did? It could have been a surprise. I can attest to that. I have 3 of them! Things don't always go according to your plan.

And I hope that the comment about her taking revenge wasn't about the cop whom she sought to be fired. He threatened the life of her and her family.... i think that's grounds for being fired.

And as for her comment on the war being " a task from god" she was on with Charles Gibson this evening and she said that quote was a repeat of something she told her church about Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln said "let us not ask if God is on our side, but let us ask if we are on God's side" and that's what she was refrencing. She told Charles Gibson that she couldn't say if the war was God's task, she said she had no place to do that. But she said she believes God's plan is that everybody have freedom and peace and the pursuit of happiness. That's where she was coming from.

The thing that gets me with all this hooplah with Palin is that (where the media is concerned) if she were a left wing liberal who was pro choice none of this would be an issue. her not staying home and taking care of her children wouldn't be an issue, her pregnant daughter wouldn't be an issue...It just shows how one sided most of the media is. And I think that everything about her makes her more real, genuine and relatable. She's not perfect, but if God only used perfect things we'd all be in trouble. It's a miracle that He chooses to use broken imperfect things.

I am all for empowering women, and have been a stay at home mom as well as a professional woman. I listened to Palin's interview on ABC and it is scary to think she could be the President of the USA, the greatest nation on the earth, and, with a finger on the nuclear button. Her foreign policy on Russia stems from the fact she can see it from Alaska! She says she is ready to wage a war against Russia. We spent years through the Cold War and she is itching to start another one. It is not the same as moose hunting.
She also said she did not blink when asked to be VP. As a Christian and a mom, I would have to pray about it and think about it before I made such a leap, especially with a new born with special needs.
I also found Sarah Palin's comments on Obama very sarcastic and not very Christ-like. Demeaning another to score a point is not very becoming.
I really have a problem with Dobson representing Evangelical Christians such as myself. As Christians we should be doing the task of promoting the Gospel not the the GOP!

Why are we comparing our lives with Sarah Palin. Here we go again..if Sarah Palin can do it, then we..God may have called her , he may have not have called her.
Its time to stop speculating and learning how to hear and obey the voice of God for our own lives. Only the end can determine the means. how many women have projected the success image again and again only to find out much later the damage it has done to their offsprings and marriages.
I believe God calls us for many many things but in His time. So if Sarah Palin has heard God..good for her. Its between her and God. We ought not to compare.

I firmly believe that GOD in HIS wisdom hasbeen preparing Sarah Palin for just such a time as this ...we need her.
She is not perfect ... do you know anyone who is? Man or woman?
If so I would like to hear from you.
I only know One perfect Person ... He came to earth quite some time ago ... I believe He would say "look for the good" and "quit picking people apart!"
I say GO Pailin as far as you can ... GOD will take care of all the details.

Of course I cannot speak for God or answer that question, but I can say that I am disappointed that Sarah Palin will viewed as a role model for working mothers and used as an example that women can achieve more than mothering. I believe this takes away from the blessing of being a full-time Mom and focusing completely on children and not forcing them to compete with a mother's attention on her job and career at a time in their life when their mother should be at home. Yes, I said it, at home. We don't need another example of a mother trying to do it all and juggling her children in the process. That's not what we need, more mothers (married or single) thinking that it's OK to focus on the career AND giving their children whatever attention they have left when they get home from work. When did it become okay for mothers to give their children "left over" attention and time (when it can be squeezed in)? Use to be nothing took precedence over mothering. I don't think Sarah Palin is a bad mother or an awful person. I just don't think that she should be elevated to such a height that mothers will be looking up to her.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

God's in control.

Proverts 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

I trust that God is in control and that Palin is in his hands.

I don't want to be with the media and attack my sisters and brothers in the Lord.

SUPPORT would be a DYNAMIC effect for someone doing Gods works!

What a testimony she is for the Kingdom of God!

Palin ~ you go girl! Your reward is in Heaven!

.

Let those with out sin cast the first stone!
and my mother's favorite - people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones.
What right are you given to judge Gov. Palin?? Are you God's voice of judgment?? Get the planks out of your own eye's before you talk about someone else's speck.
We all fall short of something, who are we to condemn anyone??
Good for Gov. Palin and her daughter, and to the nay sayers, just wait till your daughters get that age, oh' holier than thou, my kids are perfect parents.

Thank you Dee for what you said!

I have to admit at first I thought...oh she should be home with her kids..then I heard her speak and it brought to mind "I can do ALL things through CHRIST who STRENGTHENS me".

I know that what she's striving to do will be hard...the right and important things always are....and to most of us it seems impossible..but you know what? so her family life won't be the same as what we see as normal...but I also think of the positives...her family is going to be light beams in a dark dark world. Her kids are going to grow up meeting and possibly influencing heads of state from all over the world.

I love that she is an average person...it could happen to anyone of us who strives to have godly influence in government.

She is undertaking changing the government so America is still the best place to live for ALL children.

"And I know I would be so miserable if I had to stay at home all day---it's not who God made me, and I know many other Christian women, both here and abroad, who feel the same way."

Not to pick on the writer of this comment, as I agree with much of what she had to say. But rather, to question if our happiness is really the key decision-making factor to our choices. I've been reading Jeremiah lately, and Hosea. I don't think they particularly enjoyed what God called them to, most of the time. But it was a job that God required of them, and they were obedient.

As far as Palin goes, my problem is how the Religious Right keeps changing the definition of pro-family, etc., to fit the candidate of their choice. James Dobson and his cronies do not cast my ballot -- only their own. They have a right to their opinion, but they do not have the right to form mine. God gave me my own brain, thanks! :)

Interesting post, interesting comments, interesting election!

We Christian women should show an example to the world by our love, not our sniping campaign ads and lies. It has been hard for me to see any love or grace radiate from Palin. I see Barack Obama, defending Palin by saying that family is off limits and giving an example of how his mother was 18 when she had him as a great example of "Let he among you who is completely without sin cast the first stone." No elected official is without flaw but we should vote for candidates who share the values of Jesus… caring for the least of God’s people, strengthening and supporting families, taking care of God’s great earth and working for peace in our own communities and abroad. For me, I believe Barack Obama is better equipped to serve the common good.

I am so thrilled that John McCain chose Sarah Palin to be his running mate, and it surprises me that Christian women are not supporting her in her choice. If elected, she has the power to be our voice in the Executive Office! Isn't that an amazing thought? A strong, bold, Christian women who is not afraid to stand up for what is right. Someone who will address issues head on - no political talking in circles.

The next time you see her speak. Look at her eyes and tell me that you do not see the same clarity you see in your Christian friends - those who truly love the Lord. I know you know what I mean.

I was not sure who I was going to vote for until McCain chose Palin. Now I have no doubt.

I have some difficulty understanding why a Christian would vote for Barack Obama. Obama's worldview and family values are not consistant with the Christian worldview and family values. I don't agree 100% with McCain and Palin on some of the issues, but their worldviews and family values are consistant with Christians. I believe that the character and experience of the person is also important in this election. What do you really know about Barack Obama? What does he really believe? Have you read any of his books? Do you really understand who he associates with and what this background and experience really tell us about his character? He did not spend 20 years in a "Christian" church. Check out Obama's church. Do some research. Find out the facts, not just on Obama, but on Palin, Biden, and McCain as well. You really can't rely on the mainstream media to tell you the complete and whole truth. Many things are taken out of context and non-issues have become fodder for media frenzy. Even more important, PRAY that God's will be done in this election, not yours, not mine. AMEN!

The question is: Do I or you want to vote for someone who thinks like George Bush?--when the facts are that Palin's running mate for president has voted 90% of the time for his and Cheney's ideas, supported his vetoes, etc. Is that "Change"? Do we think our home finances should resemble GWB's, with our country now with billions of dollars of indebtedness when the country began his term with a surplus? And would we okay some other country infringing our borders trying to kill those they regard as enemies, as we evidently are now doing in Pakistan--against that country's will? I doubt it. Palin is certainly charmng and self-confident (hubris?), but I would prefer a woman with a less superficial Christian outlook. And for the record, I was never a Hillary supporter now annoyed, and therefore ready to go for another woman, regardless.
Finally, Palin must not have been paying enough attention as governor to her now-pregnant teen-age daughter. And which of us would encourage that daughter now to marry a foul-mouthed high school dropout (if that is correct) who has said he doesn't want kids. What kind of a marriage will that be? As someone else wrote on the internet, we evangelicals should be ashamed to be applauding a woman who chose to embarrass her daughter before the world by opting to further her own career aspirations.

My understanding from Scripture is that the priorities God honors are: God first; marriage & children second; vocation third. God and vocation (calling, whether religious, secular or political) are not synonymous.

No hesitation to run for VP? That concerns me. Is nothing in life more important than the pursuit of position and power and the fulfillment of personal ambition? That's not the model of Jesus.

As for family responsibilities. God has given mothers and fathers the glorious privilege of molding and shaping the future of not just our nation but also our world one (or five or more children) at a time. Does that responsibility seem to fall disproportionately on mothers? Yes, so deal with it especially during the early formative years of their lives.

As for Dobson et al. - I am appalled that the same people who held Jamie Lynn Spears up as the scourge of adolescents everywhere are now touting Bristol Palin as the poster child for the pro-life movement. I applaud the choices of both Jamie Lynn and Bristol to honor the lives they helped conceive. But we can't have it both ways without confirming in the minds of unbelievers our hypocrisy.

Finally, who will provide the extra time, attention, therapy, interaction that Trig will need to fulfill his God-given potential? Piper's not old enough yet to do a mom's job.

Just some things to think about.

anne-marie-what about Barack Obama's position on abortion, do you think that serves God??? No politician is perfect as no human is but McCain and Palin are much more suited to running this country than Obama. God is in control and we will all cast our votes but His will will be done.

I think the comment about the side-swapping comments is hilarious.

I'm a Canadian and intrigued by Palin myself. I'm jealous she looks so darn good after being a new mom and being a mom of so many!! That's where we can get in trouble, in comparing ourselves. God has obviously created her differently than I. I wouldn't have the energy to do all she does. This is where the issue of "will we feel pressure to be supermom" comes into play. If we get caught up in images and comparing, we may fall prey to that. If we have a healthy understanding of unique callings and gifting, and can applaud and cheerlead others, then we'll do okay.

I have often pondered the issue of working moms vs. stay at home moms. My own daughter is bright with a consistent honours school average. She wants to pursue a career in the medicine. I believe that to whom God has given much much is required. I'm thinking my own daughter may not have the same calling as I did - to be a fulltime mom.

I think God does call some to stay in a career, as strongly a call as others have to fulltime parent. There are some positions in the world that need talented women. And for those, I believe God will provide. He will provide energy and assistance if they ask him for his direction.

Each of us have a unique calling and we do best to heed it.

On another note, I believe there ARE some women out there with wrong motives. I'm sure many haven't put God into the equation at all. I don't know that much about Palin's faith life. I hope she has put God into the equation and is sure of his call.

I am disappointed at some of the mean spirit in comments concerning Gov. Palin. I, too, am a stay at home mom, and believe it's the best choice most of the time. But, there are times when God changes our path. Gov. Palin has a very supportive husband who has said that he will stay at home with the children. She will have all the help she needs for household needs as the VP. I am glad that there will be a pro-life/traditional marriage/right-to-bear-arms/right to worship Jesus Christ... advocate if McCain/Palin win. Obama is the most liberal of liberals on all issues that matter to most believers. I can't even think how a believer can vote for someone who supports abortion and gay marriage. Dr. Dobson isn't perfect, and he doesn't presume to tell anyone whom to vote for, just that he is voting for McCain/Palin because the people who do respect him want to know. There are plenty of examples of women in the Bible who were not stay at home moms. The examples mentioned of Deborah, Prov. 31 woman, are important. And there are also those like Queen Esther who put her own life on the line for her people. I know plenty of stay at home moms who keep quite busy with watching soap operas,etc.. while ignoring their children. It's what we mothers do with our time that is telling the real story. And while we can call ourselves stay at home moms, are we really? I am very involved in our church and women's ministries and that takes up as much time and energy as at least a part time job. I also have plenty of friends who don't work outside of the home but are so busy with their agenda of appts for this and that. None of it that is important or productive to anyone but them. But they are too busy to pay much attention to their kids. Also, let's not depend on the main stream media to tell us the "truth" about Gov. Palin. They don't. I don't believe that she wants to have a war with Russia, just that she would if it was necessary. When she was asked to be VP, she had already had time to pray. They had given her a head's up with all of the paper work that she had to answer and all of the investigation into her finances, etc ..that had to be done to see if she had anything in her background that woud eliminate her from consideration. She did consider it carefully, and with her husband, before saying yes when they finally decided to ask her. I am personally thrilled that God has raised up a godly woman to be on the ticket. Let's pray mightily for her, there is a huge spiritual warfare going on. And where we disagree, let's leave it to the Lord to show us HIS plan. PLEASE, let's not leave our sister, yes... our sister, defenseless. We should be surrounding her with our support and prayer.

I CANNOT Believe You People Would Criticize Sarah Palin For Being A Mother And Taking On The Role As Vice President, Especially As Women.

Why Is Everybody Up In Arms About Palin Playing A Double Role As Mom And Politician, When Nobody Seems To Find It Important That The MEN Are Supposed To Take On Roles As FATHERS As Well. I Guess It Just Attributes To The Facts That Our Sense Of "Family" Is Going Downhill. I'm Only Eighteen And I Can See That.

Instead Of Looking Down On Someone Like Sarah, You Should Step Back And Look At Why You Feel That Way About HER And Not McCain, Biden, Or Obama. Maybe You Should Be Concerned About THEM Taking On The Role As President/Vice President And FATHER.

As For Having A Baby At The Age Of 44, Why Is That All Of A Sudden A BAD Thing?!?!?!? Haven't You Ever Heard Of An "Accident!?" And Even If It Was Intentional, Why Does It Matter? That Is SARAH'S Choice, And God Didn't Have To Let Her Get Pregnant. God Had Just As Much To Do With It As Sarah And Her Husband. If It Wasn't Meant To Be, It Wouldn't Be. Furthurmore, At Least She Didn't ABORT It. And Have We All Forgotten About Sarah/Sarai? She Was NINETY When She Found Out She Was Pregnant With Isaac. I Don't Care If That Was Thousands Of Years Ago, Ninety Is A LOT Older Than 44. Abraham And Sarah Had A LOT More On Their Shoulders Than Sarah Palin Does Or Ever Will. God Took Care Of Them, God Will Take Care Of Sarah.

Maybe This Criticism Is A Good Time To Step Back And Look At Yourself, Do Some Good Soul Searching Of Your Own.

Don't Criticize What Isn't Yours To Criticize. How Many Of YOU Have Been Offered A Vice President Position!?

Ladies,

IT IS NOT WHAT WE THINK, IT IS WHAT GOD THINKS. As a motherless daughter, me and my 6 sisters know the impact of not having a mother's guidance. Why do we leave our children then try to legislate morality? The late Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy who said her major role as "to take care of the President" "if you bungle raising your children, I don't think whatever else you do well matters very much."

I'm with Mara on this one as well. Being a "strong, bold Christian woman" is one thing if one intends to live up to that calling. The Bible is very clear that motherhood is of utmost importance to the Lord. I compared Proverbs 31 to Ms. Palin's campaign -- I am deeply concerned that she did not share with her family the status of her unborn child; in fact, she continued to lie to her daughter, Willow, after Willow commented on the baby looking like he has Down syndrome.
If Ms. Palin "didn't know how to break the news" to her own family, how will she ever break important news to our country! As a Christian family, this would have been the perfect opportunity to be in prayer together over this situation, not hiding things from one another.

I believe that while Ms. Palin appreciates the 'right to life' of an unborn child, she clearly has no respect for the world, and its life, for which God has made us responsible. Life encompasses much more than an unborn fetus...it includes those who are going to war and innocent people, whose lives are being taken by us in other countries as well.

It's definitely a time for serious prayer. I appreciate this opportunity for Christians to discuss this.

I maybe in the minority but I don't see Mrs Palin as a role model. Does God's children call themselves "pitbull?" .

Secondly, she is not being truthful on the bridge to nowhere and ebay. A lie is any attempt to decieve. While she may be a wonderful lady, politics brings compromise.

Third, people are saying "she like us." I don't want someone like us. I want someone smarter than us. While I don't agree with Hillary she was smarter and from a top school like the other candidates. Yes, it is redundant but the VP is a heartbeat away from the president. Our world is in a terrible crisis and this election should not be taken likely. This is not a girl power slumber party. I voted for Bush both times for religious. Now I take the position of Pastor John MacArthur and not Dr Dobson. " America moral decline is a spiritual and , not a political one, and it's solution is the gospel, not partisan politics."

Fourth, she has a family. They are God's gift to us. What we do with them is our gift to him. As a mother who tried to do it all and have friends to try to do it all, it really has an impact on my children. I know that many women have to work or may feel that they are not built to be a housewife. We should try to build our career around your home. It's a loving and selfless act.

Finally, I don't think she's qualified and we don't have time to know her like we got to know the others and Hillary Clinton. It's like someone jumping in the marathon in the finally leg. Her selection to manipulate women's vote. There were better choices in the Republican party.
WHILE I WOULD LOVE TO SEE A WOMEN IN THE WHITE HOUSE. SARAH PALIN IS NOT IT.

Please study up on the issues.

I would like to respond to the comment regarding Charles Gibson's interview. Sarah Palin did not say it is God's will for war. Gibson took what she said out of context. It was on Fox news that I saw the entire clip of a prayer where she made the comment, “Pray for our military men and women who are striving to do what is right. Also for this country, that our leaders, our national leaders are sending them out on a task that is from God. That’s what we have to make sure that we’re praying for, that there is a plan and that that plan is God’s plan." Mainstream media (abc, cbs, nbc, msnbc, etc) are very liberal, extremely biased and are very much slanted towards the media. The same liberals who have taken the Pledge of Allegiance out of our schools, the same liberals (democrats) who want to remove the 10 amendments from our court houses. This is not what our founding forefathers would have wanted. Anyone who is pro choice can not be following God's truth. Psalm 139: 13-15, "for you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place." I recommend a book to women, "Lies Women Believe and the Truth that Sets Them Free", by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. Great book! Every women needs to read it!!!!!

I would like to respond to the comment regarding Charles Gibson's interview. Sarah Palin did not say it is God's will for war. Gibson took what she said out of context. It was on Fox news that I saw the entire clip of a prayer where she made the comment, “Pray for our military men and women who are striving to do what is right. Also for this country, that our leaders, our national leaders are sending them out on a task that is from God. That’s what we have to make sure that we’re praying for, that there is a plan and that that plan is God’s plan." Mainstream media (abc, cbs, nbc, msnbc, etc) are very liberal, extremely biased and are very much slanted towards the media. The same liberals who have taken the Pledge of Allegiance out of our schools, the same liberals (democrats) who want to remove the 10 amendments from our court houses. This is not what our founding forefathers would have wanted. Anyone who is pro choice can not be following God's truth. Psalm 139: 13-15, "for you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place." I recommend a book to women, "Lies Women Believe and the Truth that Sets Them Free", by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. Great book! Every women needs to read it!!!!!

To say "who are you to judge,"and quote scripture to avoid the truth. That same bible says we are to be chaste keepers at home Titus 2). We only like the bible as long as it is not stiring in our pot. God is First. Our family is first before our Country. We can't neglect our family then try to pass laws correct inmorality. We cannot walk away from our responsbility and say some women are not bent for homemaking or that are jealous. Dee said she was being biblically correct but did not quote one scripture.
Mary quotes scriptures (Jer. 29:11 is out of context. God was talking about Judah's coming out of exile) that has nothing to do with raising family.
Yes, we can be loving but we can be honest. If this was a liberal lady we would be raking her through the coal.

It's like Israel in the book of Lamentations
we want to wailing about our terrible culture but we want to do whatever right in our own mind.
Don't complain about our cultures sexual promiscuity, abortion, pornography and homosexuality when we are not commited to our responsbilities as mothers.

Pardon me but God is sovereign. He is in control with or without Palin.

It grieves me greatly that so many "Christian leaders" like Dr. Dobson and Gov. Palin resort to the most un-Christian behaviors of the postmodern world, deeming "situational ethics" unacceptable until they come in handy.

It's all politics- even when they call themselves "evangelicals" - they will say just about anything to get a vote. Why look at the Democrates as evil liberals. The Right Wing Republicans should not throw stones, they need to get their own house in order. Enough with all this Esther and Deborah comparison. Just say that this Palin lady likes the spotlight - so if you want the spotlight - you should shine with truth not darkness.

Sherry - yes!! I agree with you - I am thrilled that an outpoken Christian woman is on the ticket. I will pray she stays humble before our God, keeps her dependence on HIS power for her position. I will pray for her children to know God's power in each of their lives, to choose to follow Him wherever He leads, as they see their mother has done. And, I pray for her husband, that they can stay strong in their devotion and commitment to each other while she is in the forefront of all this public attention. I don't expect any human to be perfect, and won't be disappointed when Mrs. Palin might "fail" - but will pray she stays honest before God and can be a mighty warrior woman for Him, as was Deborah!!

I applaud Sarah for accepting the challenge and responsibility to run for VP. as a women/ mother she has made a choice. As a Christian she is always going to answer to her heavenly father. Women can work/lead and have husbands and children...and still do a great job. I agree that having extended family support helps to reenforce values that have been taught and are important. most important we need to stand behind Saraf and with her in prayer and know that only she is walking her walk . we can eitherencourage her or destroy her.

Like Esther, I believe that Sarah Palin has been chosen for a time such as this. Esther won the King's heart over all those other women; what God has loosed in Heaven will be loosed on Earth. Let Sarah loose!

As a Lutheran pastor and partner to a smart, strong, and God-called woman, I have to say that this article scares me. Sarah Palin's motherhood has nothing to do with her vice-presidential bid.

Have we noticed that the overwhelming majority of the conversation concerning the Republican ticket is now about Palin, not McCain (the actual presidential candidate)? This is called a "gimmick."

When God calls us we see that reflected not just in the circumstance, but in our God-given abilities and characteristics. Rather than guessing at whether or not God is calling her to be vice-president, we should vote based on what we as humans can know and perceive. If she then assumes the office, God has been active. If she doesn't, God has been active.

Leave speculation about God's activity out, and act as humans living in creation. God will be active even without our perfect awareness (which we will never have) so we should get about the business of being "not God" and use the gifts and reason God HAS given us.

By the way, being a Christian is not enough to be the vice-president. That's the same logic that found many people voting for George Bush two elections in a row!

Martin Luther wrote that he'd rather have a competent Muslim in a position than an incompetent Christian. Of course, ideally, we'd love to have a competent Christian.

The point is, being Christian is not one of the job requirements for public office. It makes a good candidate better, but it doesn't make a poor candidate "good enough." If we are willing to elect Sarah Palin because she's Christian, I am CERTAIN we can find a more competent Christian woman for the job.

I saw this excellent discussion and forwarded it to a mom who would probably like to read it.

As a mom with a special needs child, I am very excited to have the possibility of having an advocate in Washington for special needs families. God bless her!

I had my first child at 44 while working a very demanding job at a large church. Without the support of that Christian community, I do not know if I would have had the strength to raise my daughter. Frankly, I am sickened by some of the comments posted by other women. The judgement of not only Sarah Palin but any working mother troubles me greatly. The assumption that if a mother works she is a bad mother is wrong. Shame on you.

I am proud of Gov. Palin and her straightforward testimony as a Christian. I am sure that having a downs syndrome child was inconvienant while governor - most of these children are aborted. Gov. Palin stood by her faith in God and His choice - not the world's. She has the support of her husband and her family. She honored her husband first in her announcement speech - a lesson we could all follow. She is an ordinary person called at at extraordinary time.

The attacks on her are not unlike the ones I have faced my entire career. As a woman, I have always had to work harder and prove myself much more than my male colleagues.

I would wish that Sen. Obama and the other men in the race could face the same scrunity as Gov. Palin.

As a Christian, I am mystifyed how any other Christian could support a man for President that believes so stongly in the murder of children. I praise God that the pastor of my church had to courage to preach about the biblical view on abortion. I was once a feminist - now I have a Christian world view. Read Now How Shall We Live by Chuck Colson.

This election is about the world viewpoint verses the Christian viewpoint. I am praying for the discernment of the American people.

What about her off the wall Pentecostal beliefs? My church speaks out against people who feel God is communicating with them abiblically. Tongues with interpretaion is a recent phenomenon, early 20th century. What happened to Pentecostalism for like 1,900 years? I visited one of these churches once and it was like watching Jerry Springer. McCain needs to do more research as to what mainstream Christians accept and will tolerate.

Pastor Gary, has stepped back a foot or two farther than most of us and hence, has gained a broader view of the political arena. We ARE voting for McCain or Obama. The VPs are important, but we should be listening to the platforms of the presidents. We also need to focus on what THEY say and do and not what the media (which is often liberal/non-Christian) reports that they say and do.
God is in control, but that doesn't mean that Satan is not battling hard to bring the Christians of this world under his control. Nothing makes him happier and more excited than when we as Christians pick each other apart and divide ourselves. We need to pray for Sarah and her family to stand strong under spiritual attack --whether she gets to Washington or not. She's a Christian in the spotlight and under fire. We need to support her with prayers for her marriage, for her family to continue to pray together and stay in the Word daily because they will not survive without it. Pray that God strengthens their faith through adversity; walk along side of them, whether you agree or not. They have claimed Christ as their Savior and theat makes them brothers and sisters in Chrisat. You and I cannot look into their hearts to judge them one way or another.
Email Sarah Palin if you disagree politically or spriitually with her choices. Avoid passing on gossip or unvalidated stories about what she has done or not done. (Besides, the media's accepted that as their job.) When I finished reading this entire blog, I felt frustrated and uncomfortable with many of the comments made in the comfort and privacy of our individual computer stations that most of us would never say to Sarah in person. If you have a complaint, go to Sarah and offer your advice. We are all sinful---but as Christians we are forgiven. Remember to offer that grace you have received to others. It separates us from the masses and is part of the energy that powers "his little gospel light of mine."
And Caryn, you raised an interesting question: Will Sarah raise the bar for Christian moms? Regardless of what life path a man or woman chooses, God must be his/her leader. To fearlessly and accurately follow what He has mapped out for each of us, takes a mature faith. Sometimes that maturity is reached early in life, other times it takes longer. So as Christians, we should NOT compare ourselves to one another and feel inadequate because we may all be at different walks in our relationship with God. So it's relative, don't you think?
Praise our Father for his love and mercy, pray for personal guidance and for our country and continue to show love and grace to one another.
Blessings!
(Footnote: Just for the record, it is NOT difficult to get pregnant at 44, and spending much time, energy and love on a lovely Christian daughter does not insure that she will not get pregnant. These are not opinions; I speak from experience---experience that grew my faith beyond my wildest dreams ;-)

I am a new Christian, and what I have read from some of you concerns me. Ladies, the point of elections in the United States is to vote for the person(s) we feel most competent to do the job: It isn't about being a man or a woman, black or white, nor being Christian, for that matter. My personal beliefs are between God and me - this country was founded on that freedom.

Yes, it is admirable that Sarah Palin is stepping up to the plate, but is it any less admirable of the other three candidates (not to mention one being part Black)? In fact, all four of them claim to be Christian and all attend church regularly. Hasn't God also given them a next to impossible task? I commend them all. Besides, who are any of us to decide God's ultimate will?

I, like you, am trying to make good and just decisions in life. And, I study almost daily these matters that concern us from a Christian perspective. I recently read a new book that addresses all of these issues with wisdom and balance, called "What's Your Spiritual Quotient?" It has helped me to understand these concerns from God's perspective, according to the Bible.

I pray that each of you vote with the best interests of this great nation at heart - not because of the gender, race or religious beliefs of a candidate. Any less would deem the efforts of our forefathers null and void - and continue the division that exists in America.

One final thought. The Bible says, among other things, the following: "The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases." (Proverbs 21:1)

I think we all agree that this country needs help and it needs competent leadership. Some tough decisions have to be made, regardless of who we elect to guide us. Ultimately, we need a leader who walks with wisdom in addressing the many challenges faced by the citizens of our country. Please vote with the intention of having the best qualified leadership, and trust that God will direct their heart.

Pentercostals have no role in my government. Please, couldn't McCain have chosen someone with more intelligence? This reaks of a political maneuver that shows his lack of concern for the public as a whole.

To all of you who think the Obama/Biden ticket better represents Christian values than the McCain/Palin ticket:

Is aborting a child okay? (Obama thinks it is.) Is partial birth abortion a heinous procedure? (Obama thinks it is not.) Is same-sex marriage against the will of God? (Obama thinks it is not.)

All other issues (economy, environment, foreign policy...) are gray areas about which much can be debated and one's opinions can change over time, and policy can be tweaked and modified. However, abortion and gay marriage are NOT. They are black and white: you are either for - or against - them.

How any Christian can vote, in good conscience, for a candidate who supports abortion and same-sex marriage is beyond me.

I think moms, like anyone else need to listen closely to the whispers of the Lord to figure out exactly what and how much they are called to. I believe the motherhood is one of the highest callings a woman can have. A woman who chooses to stay home and focus on the development and nurturing of her children is helping shape not only the future of her community but the future of God's Kingdom. However, since we are talking about "calling," God does call some moms to some things out side the home and if He is doing so, then He will provide, equip and carry the load for her.

Please remember as Christians we should vote policies, NOT personalities. People are fallible as we all know. Are their policies what we want? Have they been and will they continue to be good stewards of God's earth - the air and the animals? Will they love their neighbors (remembering that we are ALL our brothers' keepers) as themselves? Will they do good to them that hate them? We should examine their records, not just their words. Political advisors and speechwriters livelihoods depend on their ability to sway voters to their viewpoint. Remember the parable of the Good Samaritan - actions speak louder than words.

Yeah, sorry, but I'm in the this-doesn't-make-good-sense-to-me camp, precisely because of what the good Reverend Gary said. It spells gimmick. I didn't hear Sarah Palin claim that God called her to be the Vice President. (If He did, all these comments are mute points, it'll be as He wills it to be, regardless of your opinion or mine.) I did hear her say that, when she was asked, she didn't hesitate for a minute. Well she should have. This wasn't just her decision...man or woman... this is something that impacts the entire family and they should have all sat down and prayed about this.

If it had been Mr. Palin who were asked to be VP I would say the same thing. I would question his devotion to his family if he chose to traipse off on the campaign trail leaving his wife and five children in their current circumstances.

Bottom line, Sarah Palin's nomination may be a boon to working mothers' egos, and that's a good thing, probably the most positive outcome there can be.

As for the Palin family, how could this be good for them? As for our country, how could this be good for us. Finally, as for you and me...remember... they'll know we are Christians by our love. But they'll judge us by our actions, truthfulness, kindness, and fruit.

Don't Criticize What Is Not Yours To Criticize.

And Here's Something Else To Think About. Remember The Story Of The Adultress???

Have Any Of You NOT Made A Mistake? Then Don't Condemn Someone Else For Theirs.

I wonder why some people have already decided how neglected the Palin children are or will be. Has anyone considered that a move to Washington may be in the best interest of baby Trig? There are so many programs and advocacy groups for disabled children and their families in and around the DC metro area. (Not to say that Alaska would not have options, but maybe not as many.) I think it is safe to speculate that any number of them would be thrilled to be a part of the Palin family's support structure.

Also, so many people seem to think that the VP goes to some undisclosed place for the duration of their term, never to be seen or heard from! Of course, I exaggerate. My point is that the Naval Observatory (home of the VP) is only a ten minute drive to the White House...who wouldn't want that commute. I also do not think the VP does their own shopping, cooking or cleaning! When you remove everyday chores such as these, there is an amazing amount of time left in the day.

Can Sarah Palin and her family survive the pressure cooker of Washington politics and maintain a healthy, productive family life? Why not? Why are we so quick to interject our own experiences and then judge someone else's decision based on them?

One last thought, what a wonderful example of the love, inclusion and uniqueness of this country than to have a disabled child grow up in the White House. It was not long ago when children with Down Syndrome were sent away to institutions. What an ambassador to the sanctity of life little Trig can be!

Who knows maybe the real world changer in the Palin family is not Sarah, but little Trig!

Wow! Thanks for the article an the opportunity to discuss this....however...

Reading through these comments I became very uncomfortable. Who are we to judge someone's personal decisions?

It is not right for us to say if Gov. Palin's reactions are good or bad. What she should do with her family or what she shouldn't. I don't know how she came to the position she has but things happen for a reason. God's reasons. He doesn't make mistakes. (I have to tell myself this over and over because life does get complex.)

Gov. Palin has skills, experience and talents that were given to her by God just like you and I.

All of those things lead to the facts of her position as Mayor and Governor. When you run for office you must open your book of facts. Sometimes your personal decisions mingle with professional decisions, sometimes we work hard to make sure they don't. No one on this earth is perfect. Either way the facts are the facts. Her personal decisions are her own.

As for me. I think it is right to check out the facts and pray for the right answer to come into my heart and then vote.

I hope everyone get the facts!

OBAMA/BIDEN 08! God bless Palin, but we need the right people in office. Please do not be fooled because Palin "looks like you". Being a hockey mom does not mean that you could run the country. As old as McCain is (God forbids) if he dies, would you really want this person to run a White house when she can't even run her own household? Please think about the seriousness of it and not the "Oh, she's a working mom like me" aspect. If you fall for that, Republicans have you fooled

Sarah Palin is a woman who is ambitous and comfortable in her own skin. When I hear so much critisism of a person who is unafraid to use her life the way she feels led to do, I can't help but think of the word jealous, not a pretty thing to be.

I am not a young mom any longer but a very blest mom and grandmother. I remember the guilt placed upon woman of my generation for NOT being a working woman, for NOT having a career and for BEING the "stay-at-home" mom. My thought is that out there in our world are women who would love to be at home 24/7 with the family and then there are those who would go looney-tune if they chose that lifestyle. It isn't really what society approves or disapproves of, it's what God wants from us in our life choices.

Do I spend my time being judgemental of the Sarah Palin's of our world...no. Do I spend my time judging the mom's who stay at home....no. I spend my time looking for ways to give encouragement to all women through the grace of God and the words and/or actions God blesses me with.

If we all spent more time seeking God's will for our own lives we wouldn't have so much time to be critizing others or digesting all the media hype on "the woman of the hour".

God knows what the outcome of this election is already. I think more than anything, God wants us to be prayful and thoughtful as we make our voting decisions no matter our party affiliation.

God Bless America!

I think Palin is a courageous woman. If God has called her to this place, she has graciously accepted the challenge knowing it would put her and her family up against every reporter, newpaper, democrat and demonstrators to say the least. God used a lot of people in the bible that you would think could never be used, but God is all powerful and His ways are not ours. We've got to remember that He knows what He is doing and He will do it through people He can use and I believe Palin is one of those people. Will she be perfect, no, but she has even said that herself and acknowledged they face challenges like any other family. I support her to the fullest and we should all be praying for her in this role and for her family.
God bless America even though we don't deserve it please.

Ladies. Wake up. She cannot do it all. She can be the vice president, but someone else will be raising her children. She will not be home. She will be unavailable to them for weeks at a time except by cell phone. I do think it was honorable for her to choose life, but an 8 month old baby deserves more than a cell phone.. People generally are not all good or all bad. I think it is sad to demonize people with whom we don't agree with. Unfortunately, I don't understand Dobson. He has been so pro women in the home. And it is one thing for me to have been away from my infant/toddler during the day, and then come home at 430 to pick her up. I am there to take her to all her activities, and give her a bath every night. I understand the "feminists" applauding her, but I don't understand the conservative Christians. Suddenly, they are overlooking things that are very important to them, in order to approve this candidate. If mom is not going to be there for them every day, then dad needs to be. Her kids should not have to "take the hit" so she can be vice president. They will have issues as a result. Perhaps then she can call James Dobson for help.

One other issue. It isn't whether she is better or worse than Obama. It is whether she says she is a Christian and has been lying publicly and/or doing unethical things. It has gotten to where if you say you are against abortion and gay marriage, you can do just about anything else, and it is fine. That is sad. The Bible has many other things to say about ethics, and although I am a conservative Christian and am against abortion etc, I also am very concerned with the lack of ethics in Washington. The Bible also says we should not lie or cheat or steal, and that we should take care of the poor. Why not say that you have evaluated the candidates and have decided you prefer her, instead of refusing to acknowledge that she might be wrong about something?

Wow! Talk about a "can of worms" being opened up with this one! Concerning Sarah Palin - I don't know the reason why she and her family were thrown into this messy political arena at this time. I wasn't in John McCain's head or heart when he picked her, neither was I in Sarah Palin's head or heart when she made the decision to get on board. However, as a believer, I choose to accept that "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven". (Ecc. 3:1) I believe God knows what He is doing - we don't. I am also a firm believer that He is still in total control - we are not. As an American that has read the Bible and believes what it says concerning the end of it all, it's easy to see that our nation is headed for trouble, regardless of whether the Democrats or Republicans take office. No politician, man or woman, can change Biblical prophecy. We all need to be very careful what and who we support. There are spiritual issues that Christian believers should be giving much consideration. The natural issues that are bringing division will not matter in the end. According to Matthew chapter 6 verses 31-33, "Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Let's get with the "real" program here and stop bickering about who will do what and who should or shouldn't be doing this or that. Ultimately, it will be God's will - God's way. Whoever He has chosen to be the vessels to fulfill His ultimate plan for America will be what happens. We just need to try to seek His kingdom and His righteousness in all of this - lest we support something or someone against Him. Do you want to go against God? I don't!!!

Do you think God expects more or less from moms in terms of calling?

More or less than what?

God expects from each of us whatever it is he has called us as individuals to do. I don't think you can lump people together in regards to God's "expectations" simply by virtue of being mothers.

And I have my doubts about God's role in Sarah Palin running for Vice President. I really don't think you can say that she has some sort of divine calling or mantle. Give me a break. Unless you know her intimately enough for her to have shared her prayer life with you, I am extremely skeptical of any (ALL politicians' actually) claims to be annointed by God.

PLEASE DO NOT JUDGE SARAH PALIN LIKE YOU KNOW HER. THERE IS SO MUCH MUD SLINGING RIGHT NOW. WHO KNOWS WHAT SHE DID, OR HAD ANY CONTROL OVER. IE. HIGHER TAXES ON FOOD IN ALASKA. WE ALL PAY FOR THINGS IN OTHER STATES TOO. I DONT PARTICULARY CARE FOR OUR GOVERNOR. I DIDN'T VOTE FOR HER. BUT I DON'T JUDGE HER MOMMY SKILLS, HER JUDGEMENT ON WHAT SHE CAN/CAN'T HANDLE ETC. I'M SURE SHE'LL HAVE A LOT OF HELP WITH HER FAMILY. SHE MIGHT HAVE TO GET A NANNY - AND THAT WOULD REALLY BE OKAY. SO LETS LET GOD WORK IN OUR LEADERS. PRAY THAT GOD'S PICK IS PUT IN OFFICE AND LET EVERYONE WALK THEIR OWN PATH - W/PREGNANT TEENS, DOWN SYNDROME BABIES, A JOB, ETC. HER CHOICE - GOD GAVE HER FREE WILL - IT'S REALLY NONE OF OUR BUSINESS HOW SHE RUNS HER PERONAL LIFE - UNLESS ILLEGAL OR UNBEFITTING OF A VICE PRESIDENT. TAKING CARE OF YOUR FAMILY, DEPENDING ON OTHERS FROM YOUR FAMILY TO HELP YOU- THAT'S NOT BAD - THAT'S THE AMERICAN WAY OF LIFE OUR SOLDIER'S ARE FIGHTING FOR. BE GLAD WE ALL DON 'T HAVE TO WORK IN SWEATSHOPS TO FEED OUR FAMILIES. BE GLAD WE HAVE RIGHTS. DON'T SWEAT ABOUT SARAH HAVING TO RAISE HER FAMILY AND BE THE VICE PRESIDENT? SOUNDS LIKE A NO-BRAINER LADIES. I'M JUST GLAD THEIR IS SOMEONE I CAN FINALLY VOTE FOR!

I'm reminded of all the Missionary stories I have heard or read. I particularly sought out the part of the (women, wife & mother) who went along on these missionary journies with their husbands and having children in the process. Raising their children in foreign countries. In some cases the wife having to work to make ends meet and at times having to live in extrodinary evil, corrupt and dangerous times. Yet story after story you read or hear of the wife who continued the work her husband left behind because he died in the cause of Kingdom Work. Her leadership is displayed of what constitues what is righteous, even though all the odds were against her, yet victorious in the work of the Lord. So, God does call His own to work out His Righteousness. I will be praying for Sarah Palin, that God will use her in a mighty way if she is elected with John McCain. A mom and still working.

Let me start off with my "stats." I am a minority woman with a law degree and licensed to practice in two states. I have been a committed Christian for 25 years and have only held the hand of one man, my husband who is a pastor. I gave up a high paying, prestigious job to be a fulltime mother to my boys, as I believe that being home was a more important calling. I continue, however, to work for a legal publishing company, fulltime out of my home.

I am well-read and informed, but am really struggling with which way I will cast my vote. Things I like about Obama: he walks his talk when it comes to family values. From all indications, he loves his wife and girls and is true to them. He and his wife seem respectful and real. He is highly intelligent and I love what he represents in terms of multculturalism in the US and beyond. Yet, at the end of the day, he comes down on the "liberal" side of so many issues that I do not know if I can in good conscience vote for him.

Regarding McCain and Palin, I have a hard time respecting McCain and his wife's "family values" as they have lived them out. Their prior marriages, estrangement with extended family, and extreme wealth make them seem out of touch. McCain in the past has shown such disdain for Christians, I'm not sure why and how that would change other than the fact that he is pandering to us. Regarding Palin, I'm not sure what exactly everybody is enamored with; other than having her special needs child and supporting her pregnant daughter, I have yet to see any Christian fruit (it is possible in the political arena, look at Huckabee). No matter how you look at it, she simply is not qualified to be VP or President. It's insulting me to me as a Christian, a woman, and professional, to think that this is the best we could come up with.

God, lead me to the right vote!

God's will, will always prevail but at the same time God has always allowed us to do our will even when He knows it is wrong.

My personal and biblical opinion is that a mother should be with her children to train them. If Gov. Palin has taken it that God is leading her to be VP, well and good. No one can argue that but she should do everything as a true and practicing Christian even in politics.

As for working mothers, I see Gov. Palin being used here to get that vote for them as if they care about women, nursing mothers or working mothers. Every woman should vote according to convictions based on biblical principles.

It is a pity that a man such as Dobson, highly upheld for a family life, should suddenly support a mother with young ones to leave them for such a public life as being the VP in America.

'In God we trust', is this still true or is 'In Me I trust' to do as we please manipulating our way through the Scriptures?

God bless America!!!

I am not convinced that God is calling Sarah Palin to possibly be our Commander in Chief but I do know He has called her as a mother of a special needs child. Can she fulfill this role as God intended?

The Bible is very clear; Matthew 7 tells us all about judging; what are we all doing? Just exactly that. Governor Palin is a believer, she has lived her life the best she can and knows how and what have we done? We have all put her on trial. Can we trust in the Lord that He will bring the right candidate to power--whether it be Obama or McCain. Vote with your heart ladies, you know who is pro-choice and who is prolife...so there the matter ends.

It would be great to have a special needs advocate in Washington; however, Palin's record says it would not be her. As governor of Alaska she slashed the Special Olympics budget in half. What I see is just another politician with all the lies that go along with that. We are called to be salt and light. I wonder how many nonchristians have turned away from Christ's love because of people like Palin, Bush, etc.

SARAH PALIN! YES I THINK IT'S ABOUT TIME THEY GET A WOMAN IN THE WHITEHOUSE. WE NEED SOMEONE WHO KNOWS WHT IT TAKES TO RUN A HOUSEHOLD. ABOUT BEING A CHRISTIAN! ISN'T THAT WHAT THIS NATION WAS FOUNDED ON? THEY USED THE BIBLE IN ALL THINGS THEN. NOT LIKE NOW. AND OBAMA IS MUSLIM WHETHER ANYONE WANTS TO ACCEPT IT. WHY DID HE REFUSE TO BE SWORE IN ON THE BIBLE IF NOT? THIS PROVES TO ME THAT I WOULDN'T NOT VOTE FOR SOME ONE WHO WOULD BE ASSOCIATED WITH 9/11. AGREEDED THAT YOU CAN'T LUMP EVERYONE OF THAT BIELEF IN THERE BUT IT WOULD MAKE ME VERY AFRAID WHAT HE WOULD DO TO OUR COUNTRY. HE STUTTERS VERY BADLY WHEN EVER HE IS ASKED A QUESTION. AT LEAST SARA ANSWERS RIGHT OFF. BESIDES WHOSE TO SAY WHEN MCCAIN IS GONNA DIE. PEOPLE ARE ACTING LIKE HE'S GONNA DROP OVER ANYTIME. THERE HAVE BEEN OTHER PRESIDENTS OLDER THAN HIM. HE MAY OUTLIVE ALOT OF YOU PEOPLE OUT THERE. GOD DECIDES WHEN OUR TIME IS UP!! BUT I THINK OUR NATION NEEDS TO GET BACK TO GOD OR IT'S NOT GONNA MATTER WHO GETS IT.! WITHOUT HIM AMERICA IS GONNA FALL. WE NEED TO REALLY PRAY THAT GOD/S WILL BE DONE. IF YOU DO YOU CANNOT VOTE FOR A PERSON WHO BIELEVE IN ABORTION, GAYS. THOSE ARE CONTRARY TO THE WORD OF GOD WHETHER PEOPLE BIELEVE IT OR NOT. GOD'S WORD DOESN'T LIE!!

My vote will most likely go to the Mccain/Palin ticket this November. But only because I believe it is better than the alternate. I have a hard time with the fact that Palin is a mother of 5 and governor of the state of Alaska, let alone vice president. I believe a christian mother's priorities should be as follows:
1. God
2. husband
3. children
I don't believe it is possible to live according to these priorities while also juggling such a demanding job.

Titus 2:3-5
3Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. 4Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, 5to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.

I loved the blog and it was refreshing to read something favorable about Sarah Palin with all of the negativity that is out there.

I am saddened though by the comments about her neglecting her children and her decision to have a child at 44 etc. But I have read some good rebuttals to that and hope that we all know that only God and Sarah know what she should be doing. All we can do is continue to pray God's will for her life.

But I have to say, the last posting by adnamaj struck a nerve in saying what a mother's priorities should be. I just have one question for you on that - Have you ever read Proverbs 31? It seems to be that Sarah is living that out LOUD. That Prov. 31 woman just didn't care for her kids and husband and God, she was a business woman, she took care of her helpers, she took care of her family. She had so many hats to wear (and wore them well) that I have heard people say that this HAS to have been more than one women.

So before we go thinking that God, Husband and Children are all that we were created for, take another look at Proverbs 31. While I agree that those are PRIORITIES, it is not impossible to do more and juggle those as this scripture shows us. The word calls her a Wife of Noble Character. Her children called her blessed, her husband praised her and she didn't make it into the Bible for nothing!

I agree with the quote given above:

"Yes, you can have it all you just can't have it all at the same time."

I am not against working mothers or mothers who are involved in activities outside home, (we all need to be well-rounded and do things for ourselves. I also can't wait for the USA's first female President, and Australia currently has its first female Governor General) but we're not talking about any old job here - we're talking about an incredibly demanding, all-hours, after-hours, weekend job here that Sarah Palin has taken on, when she has an infant who has special needs as well as a teenage daughter who will have extra needs, as well as her other children! This is not because of financial necessity, but of career choice.
Something's got to give, and I don't think it will be her job!
Unfortunately, the timing here is not probably what she wanted or planned, but it's happened. Now she's made the choice to have an even more demanding schedule than she had before, right at the time when her family needs her most. I think the hardest choice women have to make is not to take on extra work / tasks, but to let go of them! It's a sacrifice that has to be made and is incredibly difficult, but will be paid off in the long term, with a family who can say that their mother was available to them when they needed her (and I don't necessarily mean being at home 24/7). It's a season of mothering that can never be taken back, but won't last forever!

Thank you Marcy for sharing your thoughts about my post. I want to clarify one thing. I stated what I believe our priorities should be. I did not say that those things are all we are created for. I believe God, husband, and our children need to be our top priorities, in that order. We may be able to fit other things into our lives, but the other things should never come before God, our husband, or our children.
So, if a mom is able to earn money for her family, and not sacrifice her priorities, that is fine. But that means she would be serving God, and meeting the needs of her husband and children first. Their needs would never be sacrificed or passed off for someone else to take care of. I do not believe it is possible to do this and hold such a demanding position as vice president of the United States. Something would be sacrificed. Whether it be her vice presidential duties or her family, I do not know.

I want to say that my views are not an attack on Sarah Palin. My previous posts express my opinion of the situation, not the person.

I've been a stay-at-home, work-at-home, work-outside-the-home mom. My kids have done private school and public school (no homeschooling, but I have lots of friends who homeschool). And as the sheer number of comments on this one post illustrates, the nomination of Sarah Palin has re-ignited the "mommy wars." It's unfortunate, because it distracts us moms from some of the real, lots-at-stake issues we need to be focused on.

It bothers me that so many moms are up in arms, and that they (we) are spending countless hours debating--and fighting--about the candidates and their lifestyles. I have friends on both sides of the political spectrum, so I came up with a humorous Dr. Suess parody video that encourages moms to vote their beliefs, not fight about them.

It's called "Red (State) Mom, Blue (State) Mom."

You can check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GxVugi06wyM

I long for moms to quit fighting among themselves and instead fight for the changes we want to happen!

I too, must say that some of the remarks about Sarah Palin are unjust and judgmental. I think we should leave that to God. The glass house and prostitute examples fit.
As far as her family facing potential doom to her not being available, I know of many kids (now grown-up) whose mothers worked outside the home a lot and have grown to be wonderful parents of their own families! I have a friend, female, whose husband has taken on the mother's typical presumed place in the home. The kids are fine and the relationship is good. Its not for me to judge this. Should you? Leave it to God.
I admire that she did chose to have her Down's syndrome baby and raise him. I am pleased that she isn't hiding her pregnant daughter. She isn't parading her as someone to be emulated either. Mistakes and sin happen in Christian homes as well. Thank God for forgiveness and the ability to learn from those mistakes! He is much more forgiving then many of the comments here!
She would have indeed had time to pray and decide , with her family, to take on this job. There is a lot of investigation, as noted above, and therefore time to talk with God and family before giving 'yea' or 'nay'. God doesn't work on our timetable I understand.
But what gets me ,out of all the discussion, be it for or against- is the basic knowledge, which no one person has denied and is known to be blatantly against the Biblical teachings...that Barack supports abortion and homosexuality. How can you get around that? How can you say he is Godly in his beliefs? What "God" are you referring to that would agree with this? As far as I know, this is wrong.
Oh, and the nursing association I belong to supports Obama. Am I quitting my membership? No, as far as I know, things in the USA are still based on the Constitution. I can pick whom I wish to vote for without punishment or being ostracized for this. Let us pray with the next election, your rights, like this, are not taken away by whom you chose to support.
After all the reading, I still believe God is in control and if the USA changes in a negative way, it may be that it is simply time for Biblical prophecy. Rather then disagreeing, lets spend more time supporting each other, those who are running for government (of our choice) and most of all -God's decisions.

I love this article -- thank you so much for writing it! It gives me encouragement that a woman with all of Sarah Palin's family commitments is still willing to step up and pursue such a big calling, as you put it. In that regard, I find her an inspiration in what God may have in store for me and any other woman that can draw inspiration from that.

It really gives me peace and confirmation about the path God has got me on as a wife, mother, business-owner and participant in other ministry callings on my life. I listen TOO much to the opinions of people (believers and non-believers alike) about what they think I should be doing or not doing, instead of listening to the Lord and, with confidence, faithfully obeying the call He has on MY life.

Bless you!!

Why are you so "certain" that this is a calling from God? Do you believe that every pastor, teacher, elected, or appointed official are all called by God into those positions? Do you believe that it could be possible that some people "call" themselves? I believe that Almighty God can as the Word says, "turn the hearts of the king any way He chooses," but not necessarily that he calls ever person into the position that they hold. Would / could God go against His Word? Is the family important to God? Food for thought!

RE: P. SHIRER'S BACK TO THE BIBLE
Unless the distinction between means (the Bible) and end (Jesus Christ) is acknowledged and strictly applied, we are facing the risk of Scripture addiction and the complete loss of life itself (John 5: 39-49). The Christian N.T, like its Jewish O.T and the Muslim Quran, is like a treasure map but not the treasure itself! We have at hand the prospect of a scripture-free "new covenant" under which God will be a household name (Jer. 31: 31-34) without any scripture and without inter-faith enmity between Jews, Christians and Muslims. What a potential!

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