What to do? We need improvements in many areas, but here are six things citizens can do to help to contain government spending. First, renew the drive for term limits and other institutional means that can lessen the pull of the Inner Ring. Second, character counts: Don't just vote on the basis of campaign promises, learn whether the candidate has the internal moral compass to fight the passion for the Inner Ring. Third, since many politicians don't have that compass, support Paul Weyrich's idea of setting up a budget-cutting commission similar to the military base-closing commission that did a good job, and push for an up-or-down vote on the commission proposal.

Fourth, don't become overly impatient: Remember in a fallen world that only by the sweat of our brow do we accomplish even small things politically. Fifth, push President Bush to veto some spending programs to show that the administration is serious about restraining federal discretionary spending. Rudolph Penner, a Republican and former budget office director, said, "One wonders how serious the White House is about holding the line." Three years into the administration, it's time to stop wondering.

Finally, as Coburn writes, "The devolution of federal power I am advocating must be accompanied by a much more determined effort on the part of the church, in particular, to care for the needs of the poor and the elderly. ... The best way to drive out the culture of dependence and entitlement in America is through the relentless love and compassion of caring neighbors."