Snollygoster

snolly
Snollygoster…sounds like something you might blow out your nose!

But the truth is much worse.

Snollygoster is defined as a politician who will go to any lengths to win public office, regardless of party affiliation or platform.

“One of the earliest references comes from the Columbus Dispatch in October 28,1895 which defined the term as a fellow who wants office, regardless of party, platform, or principle, and who…gets there by sheer force of monumental talknophical asumnancy.” (politicaldictionary.com)

President Harry Truman used the word snollygoster in 1952 when talking about politicians who like to make a show of public prayer. He said, “I wish some of these snollygosters would read the New Testament and perform accordingly.”

Amen! Especially the need to perform accordingly.

I watched the last debate of the Presidential Hopefuls from the Republican party, but I didn’t see much hope. I thought for a moment that I was watching a rerun of “Saturday Night Live” from the 70’s. All that was missing was Rosanna Rosanndanna asking the questions. Of all the candidates running for president, not one has manifested the character the office of President deserves. This is the year of snollygosters!

But there is hope!

Our hope is not in a candidate for president. Our future is not determined by the rule of men. The foundation of our joy is not the government. We find hope, joy and life in Jesus Christ!

God is in control and He governs the affairs of men. Jesus told Pilate “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above.” (John 9:11) Pilate thought he was in control. But Jesus makes it clear that God was sovereign even over Pilate’s decision. He is still sovereign.

“O Lord, God of our fathers, are you not God in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. In your hand are power and might, so that none is able to withstand you.” (2 Chronicles 20:6)

So next time you see a “snollygoster” about to “spruik,” don’t be like one of the “nattering nabobs of negativism.”

Keep your eyes on Jesus!
 
By Jerry Grimes

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