The Theme of McNaughton's Book

The overall theme of the book was to lead the reader through the story in a way that they could see how Josh developed a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.  He began by simply knowing about Him.  Then he prayed in faith, he sought after His Spirit as a guiding “Voice” in his life.  As he was obedient, he was given more tests, more experiences that brought him closer and expanded his faith.  Eventually, because he persisted, he actually came to know Jesus on a personal level.  This is the theme.  It is heady stuff for some, but I believe it is what Jesus meant when He said, “This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” (John 17:3)

This book is filled with humor, danger, adventure, and all kinds of unexpected twists to keep the reader engaged in the journey Josh Knight experiences as he learns to “know God.”  Each of us, if we will simply “be believing” can reach up to Him and if we are persistent, we will find Him. 

http://www.jonmcnaughton.com/content/Knight2.pdf

This morning I read through each review about my book on Amazon and was touched by the many heartfelt writings.  Each person pulled something different from the book and I wished I had more prizes to spread around as they were all so good.  I tried to weave into the story the different principles that have helped me in my life, and each would lead ultimately to the overall theme.

Here is part of the reviews that qualified to win the prizes:

Dee Dee Manning wrote:

“McNaughton reminds us that we have a loving Father who wants us to come to Him with our prayers, our love, our thanks and gratitude and who wants to have a deep personal relationship with us.”

Ellen McKittnick wrote:

“Don’t stop seeking God . . . we are here to find God and spread the light.”

I was looking for themes about seeking God and developing a personal relationship with Him.

From the book it reads:

Chapter 5, Sacred Treasure

“How many of you have accepted Jesus and believe in Him?” said Nathaniel with a loud roaring voice.

The congregation stood on their feet and shouted praises to God. Josh could feel the electricity in the room.

And then with a whisper, Nathaniel said, “How many of you - not just believe in Him, … but know Him.”[1] The room was silent.

“The Master desires to be your closest friend, come to Him, pray to Him, love Him, show him it’s not just idle words. Where is your heart and your treasure?[2] Come unto Jesus and you will find a treasure greater than diamonds or pearls, Amen.” Nathaniel turned and without a word, left the chapel.”

Chapter 12, Build an Altar

“Josh felt a great desire to go seeking after God. How would he do it? He thought about how the Indians would seek Him through signs in the heavens or the signs of nature. Many people look for miracles and read their Bible; they go to church. But how should he do it?

Josh remembered the “Grand Master Key” that Nathaniel taught him.

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and abraideth not; and it shall me given him.[3]

Josh decided that prayer and asking was the best way for him to accomplish his task. Just as the verse said, he lacked wisdom and needed to know. He would do it—he would ask God.”

Again, thank you to all those who participated in the contest and I’ll keep you posted as the sequels to the book are published!

---

[1] John 17:3

[2] Matthew 6:19-21

[3] James 1:5

MCNAUGHTON ART GIVEAWAY

This should be a fun contest and I chose to offer my biggest prizes to date. 

Here is how to enter:

      1.     Go to Amazon and get the new Kindle copy of “Knight of the Superstitions.”

Here is the link:   http://tinyurl.com/kqx4ouw

(If you don’t have a Kindle, there is a free Kindle App that will allow you to read it on your computer.)

      2.     After reading my new book, go back to the Amazon page and write a short review explaining what you felt was the main message of the book.  You can give whatever review you like, but the first three that nail the purpose of the book will be the winners.  There are many thoughtful messages within the story, but what do you think is the central theme through out the book?  Be sure that I can identify your name in the comment.

      3.     I will award a $400.00 gift certificate for the first to state the correct theme of the book.  I will award a $150.00 gift certificate for the second and $75.00 for the third to get the correct answer.  Also, I will personalize each painting as you wish.

I felt inspired to write this book and this prize giveaway seems like a good way to help the readers look a little closer.  Best of luck and I will announce the winners as soon as the first three get it right.

Short Review about the Book

The book is written at a young reader level and is filled with humor and adventure, but is also filled with thoughtful insights into God, patriotism and life.  It follows the story of Josh Knight, the son of the local football coach who is blessed to receive painting lessons from a real angel.  He has more than he bargained for as he learns about the unseen Spirit World, the powers of Angels, how to fight Satan and even how to paint a beautiful painting.  I think the message is profound for those who wish to look a little closer.  Best of luck!

KNIGHT OF THE SUPERSTITIONS--a little read

Here is an excerpt from my new book.  It is written for young readers, and is filled with humor along with thought provoking questions.  Here is a selection from my chapter called, "Political Correctness."

“Dad, what’s the deal with all the political correctness going on today?” asked Josh.

“What do you mean?” responded Coach.

“Well, it seems like people are looked down upon if they have different ideas about society than those with a more liberal view. For example, I have teachers at school that believe God should never be spoken of in the classroom, or that black people need to be treated different than white people, or that women should be allowed to fight in our wars, and it’s politically incorrect to suggest otherwise. I don’t get it,” said Josh shaking his head.

“I think that there are some people that feel it’s intellectually superior to take the liberal stand regardless of the consequences. Almost thirty years ago, there was a U.S. Senator named Joseph McCarthy that wanted to root out the Communist sympathizers in the government and he got in hot water for speaking his mind and pointing out those whose actions were un-American. He was the most politically incorrect man in America at the time and they destroyed him. In today’s world, if you don’t play by the rules—you’re finished.”

“But why should I have to play by the rules, Dad? Why can’t I just speak the truth and make a stand for what’s right?”

“You certainly can and you should, but people will hate you for it. Some will respect you, but those people tend to be quieter. I remember during the Vietnam War, I got in trouble for speaking my mind all the time. I once mentioned to your grandpa that I thought the war was morally wrong and he laid into me for being un-American and then, when I saw how the veterans were being treated at the airport and complained about it, somebody threw their drink at me and flipped me off. Sometimes I think being politically correct means you have to put up and shut up.”

“I don’t like it, Dad,” said Josh.

“Yes, it stinks. So, are you having some problems with this?” asked Coach.

“Most all my teachers are this way. It’s their opinion or no opinion. Any suggestions?”

“Well, they are your teachers, so you need to be respectful. I would just show them the facts and leave it at that, but don’t be afraid to speak the truth.”

See more at: http://tinyurl.com/kqx4ouw

The New Book

Introduction for Knight of the Superstitions:

I had been thinking for some time about writing an autobiography for my children and posterity to try and document the many outrageous and incredible experiences I have had throughout my life. As I considered the task, my impression was that there were many lessons and principles that could benefit more than my own family. People are hungry for not just a good story, but inspiring thoughts and true principles that add meaning to our lives.

This story was just too good to keep to myself. My life has been a fantasy/science fiction novel with a twist. I felt that the best way to write my story would be to change the events around a bit, add a few things to connect the dots, and change some names and places to protect the privacy of those who may wish to remain anonymous. Perhaps I should take my own advice and keep the story to myself, but then nobody would know what really happens when our “eyes are shut.”

This book is a fictional tale about God and patriotism. Within these pages you will learn that some superstitions are based on truth. There is an unseen world that is dark and evil, but also bright, glorious and divine. Each of us is born with a mission in life and if we look for signs, we can discover who we really are and where we are going. You will also learn how to fight the Adversary, all about the unseen Spirit World around us, how to really speak with God, to protect yourself in battle, and paint a beautiful painting . . . all in one book!!

As you read, you may see some symbols that are unique to my writing. If you see / / / / / / / / / / / / this means that I felt the text was too sacred to include on these pages. If you see XXXXXXXXXXX it means I chose to leave out the bad language. (I don’t want my kids thinking their Dad writes bad words, you know.)

Each of us sees the world through the prism of our own experiences. My suggestion, if you choose to continue to read this book---try to decide where you think the truth ends and the fiction begins…and as I was told long ago…

“BE BELIEVING!”

 

The book is available at the following link: http://tinyurl.com/kqx4ouw

 

 

The Word "Racist" Means Nothing Anymore

I get angry letters every day from people who disagree with my paintings.  I don't mind, it comes with the job.  But, I think I should offer a tip to those liberals who think they got the best of me.  Don't call me a "racist" if you want to sound intelligent.

We used to use the word "racist" to define people who associate themselves with groups that openly hate others based on race. For example: KKK, White Supremacist, Black Panthers, etc. 

Now, if you even appear to look cross-eyed at a black person, regardless of the reason, you are slapped with the word. Some people are so afraid to be called a racist that they defend the inexcusable and turn a blind eye. The word, "racist"now is the catcall of every liberal toward anyone who doesn't agree with them. I have Conservative black friends who are also called racist for simply disagreeing with liberalism. We see only hypocrisy now, as liberals redefine the meaning and browbeat their opponents for fear.  

I suggest we use the word how it should be used.  If someone openly says they hate another because of the color of their skin; whether they are black white, brown or yellow---they are a racist---period.  If they criticize another and they happen to look different, they are expressing their opinion; as long as it doesn't descend into racial slurs and so forth.  We all know the difference, so the next time you hear the word "racist", consider how it is being used.  Are they identifying another as a true racist, or trying to name call to win with a weak argument.

What is a True Christian?

In today's world, Christianity has become diverse with over 20,000 different Christian denominations; many of which profess completely different interpretations of the Bible. The Apostle Paul taught, "One Lord, one faith, one baptism." (Ephesians 4:5) So here we are, many of us trying our best to come to Jesus and be saved. How are we to know what "truth" is and where to go to find it?

In the parable of the lost sheep, Jesus spoke of how the shepherd left the flock to find the one. Each of us is important to our Lord. If we will call out to Him, He will find us. We should not put our trust in man, but in our Father who is in Heaven. If we will do our best in this life to embrace what we believe to be true based on the words of the Master, I believe much of the misunderstandings on points of doctrine will be resolved in the world to come. God is merciful to those who love Him.

In my experience I have met with many groups of people as I have traveled. I have come to know the Catholics, the Baptists, the Presbyterians, the Evangelicals, the Jehovah Witnesses, the Mormons (this is my faith), the Mennonites, and many more. One common feature I have seen in every denomination that professes Christ is that there are truly good people who love Jesus and wish to emulate Him in there lives. But there are also those who are filled with hypocrisy and find fault in everyone else but themselves. I'm not mentioning this to point fingers...it is simply a fact of the world we live in.

Anyone can call themselves a Christian. But when has the acceptance of others ever been a prerequisite to entering the Lord's Kingdom? I believe the only thing that matters is how we stand in the Lord's eyes. In my painting, the suffering Jesus looks back as if to say, "What will you do? Will you stand as a witness of me?"

I believe God will judge us based on what is in our heart and our actions. It is true that we are saved by the grace of Jesus if we come to Him and repent. But to be numbered among the true Disciples of Christ we must truly love Him. "If you love me, keep my commandments." (John 14:15) And then He said, "Thou shalt love the Lord with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thy self." (Matt 19:37-39) As humans, we often fall short, but if we strive to be more like Him and express that love through our service to others, we will be good Christians.

There is one more element that I believe qualifies one as a "true Christian." I like the scripture, "perfect love casteth out fear." (1 John 4:18) As a Christian, we must not fear. Even if it means that we must stand alone. And after we have done all that we can do, we must continue to stand. "And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved." (Matt 10:22) A true Christian's love for Jesus Christ will motivate him to stand up for his beliefs, to love others unconditionally, and to be an advocate for truth and righteousness...regardless of the consequences. That we may find the strength do so is my reason for painting this picture.

What Would Happen If...

What would happen if political correctness became unpopular and people said what they really thought?

What would happen if racism only inspired images of white supremacists, Klu Klux Klan and Black Panthers and NOT every nuance under the sun?  And people just stopped being so sensitive and blaming skin color for every societal problem.

What would happen if news organizatons actually just gave the news without trying to persuade the public’s opinion.

What would happen if we ended the war on drugs and only prosecuted those who infringed on other's rights?

What would happen if we no longer had winner take all Electoral College methods used for tallying state elector votes?

What would happen if the US Supreme. Court could only comment on the constitutionality of cases and Congress would decide whether it was constitutional?

What would happen if gay rights had no effect on Christian families or institutions and the laws only affect the tax benefits? Would Christians no longer feel threatened?

What would happen if State Senators were elected by the State Legistlation as it was before the 17th Amendment and lobbying was illegal and there were term limits?

What would happen if we made education completely controlled by the state and community with no federal government involvement?

What would happen if we just told all Social Security recipients that we will pay back what they put in and end the panzi scheme for good?

What would happen if we brought all the troops home from Afghanistan and used the money to secure the borders?

What would happen if violent crime were punished in such a way that the offender would shudder at the  thought of ever doing it?

What would happen if non-profit status only applied to charitable organizations and churches?

What would happen if all federal regulations were dissolved and businesses were simply accountable to their employees and patrons for any wrong doing?

What would happen if Government completely kept their nose out of all healthcare issues and people could make their own decisions?

What would happen if the US Treasury started to print Treasury Notes and the Federal Reserve was concluded to be unconstitutional?  And we no longer borrowed money from other countries to fund our debt?

 
If all the above were to occur how would it effect America?  Would we be better off having made those changes or kicking the can further down the road?