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This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Forced charity robs citizens

Sally Jackson (Dec. 1) commiserates about cuts to social spending, lamenting that the Almighty must be shaking his head, disapproving of our national hard-heartedness.

Sally, God’s commandments to national charity pertain to ancient Israel! New Testament teaching, to Christians: “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” Jesus commands no secular nation-state to social welfareism!

Liberals despise Christian opinion in public forum. Since other belief systems can vociferate their religious tripe under freedom of expression, and the gentlest Christian expression is condemned as a violation of church-state separation, why invoke God?

The welfare state violates our Constitution. Federal government has no authority to create jobs, or erect a social safety net. Benevolence must be personal. No one has the right to make a personal charity national law forced on everyone.

Charitable organizations by the thousands are ready to help the needy. When federal and state governments cease to rob citizens’ wallets to pay for power-grabbing charity votes to keep liberals in power, truly benevolent organizations will have much more voluntary money to put where it really matters.

Rod Foss

Spokane

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