[Paul_B]

Interesting article. One fault is it's a broadbrush:

> This belief among his followers is another element behind Bush's apparent imperturbability. His signals to them have produced a mass of people who unequivocally embrace the notion that their president was given to them by Providence.

I dare say that many of us do think he is God's man "for such a time as this", however that does not translate to a lack of criticism for some of his positions. Spending, coddling Arafat for a couple years (though never as much as Clinton did), backing the likes of Arlen Specter, etc. have all been cause for chagrin among Christian conservatives. Some actually have bailed, to go to, perhaps, Buchanan. But most are more practical and have learned/are learning the need for compromise and incrementalism. Especially when elections are won and lost by razor thin margins, we don't have the luxury of being overly independent of mainstream choices.

Speaking of Arafat, there's a case that shows that Bush can change his position. Bush giving him too much legitimacy was very troublesome. But he eventually backed off on that and took a harder line. I don't recall an announcement that the policy had been changed, and certainly there was no apology, but the policy was indeed changed for the better.

[Miss Marple]

I believe President Bush was given to us for such a time as this.

However, I also believe Clinton was given to us for that time. (Whether as a punishment, a test, or for some unknown good that will be later revealed, I do not know.)

That is why we are to pray for ALL leaders, not just those we like.