{"id":81995,"date":"2023-08-02T00:01:17","date_gmt":"2023-08-02T08:01:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/?p=81995"},"modified":"2023-06-11T09:23:01","modified_gmt":"2023-06-11T17:23:01","slug":"multiple-millions-of-americans-carry-good-luck-charms","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/religious-news\/multiple-millions-of-americans-carry-good-luck-charms\/","title":{"rendered":"Multiple millions of Americans carry ‘good luck charms’"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\nVictorian silver mounted rabbit’s foot ‘lucky charm’ (Sobebunny)<\/em><\/p>\n

COGwriter<\/a><\/p>\n

Voice of America<\/em> (VOA) ran the following:<\/p>\n

\n

Nearly Quarter of Americans Carry Lucky Charms<\/h2>\n

Nearly one in four Americans carries a good luck charm at least occasionally, according to a new survey.<\/p>\n

According to a YouGov poll, seven percent of Americans carry a lucky charm every day, four percent said they carry one frequently, and 13 percent said they carry one occasionally. Seventy percent said they don\u2019t carry a charm.<\/p>\n

A lucky charm could be a shirt, a pair of shoes, a coin, a bracelet or a piece of ribbon. In fact, at the World Cup, star Lionel Messi tied a ribbon<\/a> given to him by a fan around his ankle.<\/p>\n

According to Elle<\/em><\/a> magazine, actress Cameron Diaz wears a lucky necklace, as does Lindsay Lohan. Actor Benicio Del Toro is reported to have a lucky ring.<\/p>\n

Women are slightly more likely to carry a charm, with 26 percent saying they carry one at least occasionally, compared to 20 percent of men who say they do. 07\/13\/18 https:\/\/blogs.voanews.com\/all-about-america\/2018\/07\/13\/nearly-quarter-of-americans-carry-lucky-charms\/<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

So the above is talking about 80 or so million Americans.<\/p>\n

However, if you include religious icons like crosses, the amount of Americans who carry ‘good luck charms’ is much higher. Plus, various tattoos are considered to be ‘good luck.’<\/p>\n

Back in 1971, the old Worldwide Church of God published the following about the occult, superstitions, and good luck charms:<\/p>\n

\n
\n

Traditional Christianity is being abandoned for other forms of “worship.” Oriental religions, witchcraft, the occult, so-called Christian “sects,” and outright paganism have drawn thousands from the mainstream churches. WHY are people turning to the mystical in an age priding itself on scientific and material knowledge? …<\/p>\n

Witchcraft is only one of many new forms of “worship” attracting thousands of new converts each year. Astrology, spiritism, occultism, Ouija boards (they have outsold Monopoly sets), Tarot cards, and other associated items are big business. …<\/p>\n

There are approximately 2,000 active secret sects in France, which include the “onionists” (God is shaped like an onion), the navel worshippers, and the Druids (Druids are also in England and have an annual festival at Stonehenge). One report estimates the French spend about 1,000 million francs ($200 million) a year in consulting 60,000 sorcerers.<\/p>\n

Germany is the traditional land of witches, spells and hexes. According to the German Medical Information Service, 10,000 people are engaged in witchcraft there. Charges of witchcraft often come up in court.
\nIn the United States there are those who actually claim to be practicing “Satanists.” …<\/p>\n

It is estimated that at least 5 million Americans plan their lives by the stars. This naturally does not include the additional millions who consult their daily horoscope out of curiosity or buy zodiac-decorated items ranging from drinking glasses to silk pajamas. There is enough business to keep 10,000 full-time and 175,000 part-time astrologers on the go.<\/p>\n

More than two thirds of the daily newspapers in the United States carry astrology columns. …<\/p>\n

For the millions who would not associate themselves with any of the aforementioned “cults,” there is still widespread superstition, often just an offshoot of astrology, witchcraft, or the occult.<\/p>\n

According to one estimate, there are 20 million people in the United States alone who actually carry with them a rabbit’s foot or other good-luck charms<\/strong>. This does not include millions more who cross their fingers, knock on wood, cower before black cats, throw salt on their shoulder, or experience triskaidekaphobia (fear of the number 13). …<\/p>\n

People are dissatisfied with our materialistic society. They are equally disenchanted with the standard-brand churches which seem to give no alternative to the secular world. In their frustration to find a power beyond themselves, they seem to feel the only other path open is mysticism and the psychic.<\/p>\n

One of the major causes for the collapse of Rome was the decay of religion from the status of moral judge and champion to a hollow shell of ritual and liturgy. In desperation, people turned to astrology, sorcery, and divination, the natural refuge in a time of confusion and collapse. (Grabbe LL. The New Fad: MYSTICISM and the OCCULT. Plain Truth, November 1971<\/span>)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n

The amount of superstitious Americans has seemingly increased over the decades.<\/p>\n

Good luck charms are a form of idolatry.<\/p>\n

They bring to mind something that the prophet Jeremiah wrote:<\/p>\n

\n
5 <\/span>Like scarecrows in a cucumber patch, their idols cannot speak. They must be carried because they cannot walk. Do not fear them for they can do no harm–and they cannot do any good. (Jeremiah 10:5, CSB)
\n<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Good luck charms do not physically harm one, but they are spiritually bad.<\/p>\n

Consider also some of what the Apostle John wrote:<\/p>\n

21 Little children, keep yourselves from idols (I John 5:21). <\/span><\/p>\n

8 But …idolaters…shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death (Revelation 21:8). <\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Many think there is nothing wrong with carrying a good luck charm.<\/p>\n

But notice also the following:<\/p>\n

\n
14<\/span> Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. <\/span>15<\/span> But outside are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie. (Reve3lation 22:14-15)
\n<\/span><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n

Idolatry is a lie. See also the article: What Did the Early Church Teach About Idols and Icons?<\/a><\/p>\n

Good luck charms are a form of idolatry and idolaters are not among those who will inherit the Kingdom of God<\/a>, unless they repent–which they can (see Christian Repentance<\/a> <\/span> and Universal Offer<\/strong> of Salvation<\/strong>: There Are Hundreds of Verses in the Bible Supporting the Doctrine of True Apocatastasis<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Those interested in early Christianity may wish to study the following documented items and presentations to learn more:<\/em><\/p>\n

What Did the Early Church Teach About Idols and Icons?<\/a> Did the early Church use icons? What was the position of Christians about such things? A related sermon is available: The Second Commandment, Idols, and Icons<\/a>.
\nWhat is the Origin of the Cross as a ‘Christian’ Symbol?<\/a> Was the cross used as a venerated symbol by the early Church? Three related YouTube videos would be Beware of the ‘Ecumenical Cross’<\/a>, The Chrislam Cross and the Interfaith Movement<\/a><\/span>, and Origin of the Cross<\/span><\/a>.
\nWhat Did the Early Church Teach About Idols and Icons?<\/a> Did Catholic and Orthodox “saints” endorse or condemn idols and icons for Christians? A related sermon is available: The Second Commandment, Idols, and Icons<\/a>.
\nThe Occult Explosion – What Does It Mean?<\/a> A booklet by Herbert W. Armstrong which also includes a challenge.
\nThe Bible and Astrology<\/a> Should Christians avoid participating in astrology or did God inspire it? Does the Bible encourage astrology? What does the Bible actually teach? What is astrology? How does astrology differ from astronomy? Should Christians Be Involved In Astrology?<\/span><\/a>
\nOMENS? DIVINATION? HOROSCOPES? THE ORIGIN OF ASTROLOGY<\/a> Where did astrology come from? Should you read your horoscope?
\nDoes Astrology Work?<\/a> Many believe and follow astrology–but does it work? Here is a link to the article in Mandarin Chinese: S`f\u001fg\/Q\u00c6xnT\u0017\u00ff\u001f<\/a> .
\nTattoos: History and Biblical Teachings<\/a> Would you like to know more about the history of tattoos, social concerns about tattoos, health risks of tattoos, and what the Bible teaches about them? Here is a related video titled Should Christians Get a Tattoo? <\/a>
\n<\/span>Clear Proof that the Shroud of Turin is Fake: Debunking the ‘reasons’ that the Shroud of Turin is real<\/em><\/a> There is NO proof that the Shroud of Turin has Jesus’ image and those who are willing to believe the Bible can prove it is fake. Here is a link to a related video: Could the Shroud of Turin Be Real? 12 Reasons to Consider<\/a>.
\nContinuing History of the Church of God<\/a> This pdf booklet is a historical overview of the true Church of God and some of its main opponents from Acts 2 to the 21st century. It also goes over many original Christian doctrines that many later tried to change. Related sermon links include Continuing History of the Church of God: c. 31 to c. 300 A.D<\/span><\/a>. and Continuing History of the Church of God: 4th-16th Centuries<\/a> and Continuing History of the Church of God: 17th-20th Centuries<\/a>. The booklet is available in Spanish: Continuaci\u00f3n de la Historia de la Iglesia de Dios<\/a>, German: Kontinuierliche Geschichte der Kirche Gottes<\/a>, French: L \u0019Histoire Continue<\/em> de l \u0019\u00c9glise de Dieu<\/a> and Ekegusii Omogano Bw\u2019ekanisa Ya Nyasae Egendererete<\/a>.
\nWhat Did the Early Church Teach About Idols and Icons?<\/a> Did Catholic and Orthodox “saints” endorse or condemn idols and icons for Christians? A related sermon is available: The Second Commandment, Idols, and Icons<\/a>.
\nThe Ten Commandments: The Decalogue, Christianity, and the Beast<\/a> This is a free draft\/unedited pdf book explaining the what the Ten Commandments are, where they came from, how early professors of Christ viewed them, and how various ones, including the Beast of Revelation, will oppose them. A related sermon is titled: The Ten Commandments and the Beast of Revelation<\/a>.
\nThe Gospel of the Kingdom of God<\/a> This free online pdf booklet has answers many questions people have about the Gospel of the Kingdom of God and explains why it is the solution to the issues the world is facing. Here are links to three related sermons: The World\u2019s False Gospel<\/a>, The Gospel of the Kingdom: From the New and Old Testaments<\/a>, and The Kingdom of God is the Solution<\/a>.
\nUniversal OFFER of Salvation, Apokatastasis: Can God save the lost in an age to come? Hundreds of scriptures reveal God\u2019s plan of salvation<\/a> Will all get a fair chance at salvation? This free book is packed with scriptures showing that God does intend to offer salvation to all who ever lived\u2013the elect in this age, and the rest in the age to come. Here is a link to a related sermon series: Universal Offer of Salvation 1: Apocatastasis<\/a>, Universal Offer of Salvation 2: Jesus Desires All to be Saved<\/a>, Mysteries of the Great White Throne Judgment (<\/a>Universal Offer of Salvation part 3)<\/a>, Is God Fair<\/a>, Will God Pardon the Ignorant?<\/a>, Can God Save Your Relatives?<\/a>, Babies, Limbo, Purgatory and God\u2019s Plan<\/a>, and \u2018By the Mouth of All His Holy Prophets\u2019<\/a>.
\nIs God Calling You?<\/a>\u00a0This booklet discusses topics including calling, election, and selection. If God is calling you, how will you respond? Here is are links to related sermons:\u00a0Christian Election: Is God Calling YOU?<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0Predestination and Your Selection<\/a>; here is a message in Spanish:\u00a0Me Est\u00e1 Llamando Dios Hoy?<\/a>\u00a0A short animation is also available:\u00a0Is God Calling You?<\/a>
\nChristian Repentance<\/a>\u00a0Do you know what repentance is? Is it really necessary for salvation? Two related sermons about this are also available:\u00a0Real Repentance<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0Real Christian Repentance<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Victorian silver mounted rabbit’s foot ‘lucky charm’ (Sobebunny) COGwriter Voice of America (VOA) ran the following: Nearly Quarter of Americans Carry Lucky Charms Nearly one in four Americans carries a good luck charm at least occasionally, according to a new survey. According to a YouGov poll, seven percent of Americans carry a lucky charm every […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-81995","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-religious-news"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/81995","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=81995"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/81995\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":81996,"href":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/81995\/revisions\/81996"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=81995"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=81995"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.cogwriter.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=81995"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}