The Longest Year
In this week's edition of The Equipped, we reflect on the one-year anniversary of the violent Hamas incursion into Israel, which led to ongoing conflict and devastation in the region. As Israel continues to face attacks on multiple fronts, the longing for peace feels distant. Yet, we are reminded that while earthly peace may be elusive, a deeper, eternal peace is promised through Jesus, the “Prince of Peace” (Is. 9:6).
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Tension on the Korean Peninsula
In this week's edition of The Equipped, we examine North Korea's symbolic demolition of key road and rail links with South Korea, signaling a departure from any pretense of reunification. As tensions rise, this is a reminder that while nations engage in conflict, our call as Jesus followers is to reach the hearts of individuals—God’s love extends to every corner of the globe, including places of isolation like North Korea.
Return to Normal
As Amazon plans a return to five-day in-office work weeks in January 2025, many see it as a sign of the pandemic receding into history. While some call this a return to normal, others believe a “new normal” has emerged. In the midst of these shifts, let us remember that our true purpose is spreading the Gospel, as Jesus foretells in Matthew 24, focusing on the eternal rather than the temporary changes of this world.
Same Story All Over Again
Congress is set to pass another continuing resolution (CR) to avoid a government shutdown, extending funding until December 20, when another spending deal will be needed. The federal budgeting process has long been broken, with spending decisions on autopilot and Congress failing to regain control. As voters, we have the power to elect leaders who take the power to tax and spend seriously, as Jesus reminds us in Luke 16:10 that those trusted with little can be trusted with much.
War on the Northern Front
Israel is now engaged in two wars: the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza and a new escalation with Hezbollah in Lebanon. As violence intensifies, the biblical principle that the Jewish people are God’s chosen nation (Gen. 12:1-3) reminds us to stand in prayer for all those suffering. We must recognize the long-standing hostility toward Israel and pray for peace, while also understanding the special covenant God has with the Jewish people.
Federal Reserve Rate Cut
For the first time since 2020, the Federal Reserve lowered its target rate for federal funds, which influences borrowing costs for Americans. While this reduction affects financial decisions, as Christians, we are reminded that our money and resources ultimately belong to God. Jesus frequently spoke about money and warned against allowing it to displace Him in our hearts (Matt. 6:21). It’s important to view finances with an eternal perspective, keeping God at the center of all we do.
Amassing an Army
Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered an expansion of the Russian military, adding 180,000 troops by December 1, making Russia’s military the second largest in the world. Despite ongoing casualties in the war with Ukraine, there’s no end in sight to the conflict, and further expansions may follow. This relentless push for power reflects an insatiable desire, and as Jesus followers, we must pray for those suffering under this leadership, trusting in God’s ultimate authority over all earthly powers.
A Second Assassination Attempt
For the second time in two months, a shooter attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump, but was apprehended after being fired at by Secret Service agents. With the election approaching, tensions are high, and it's a crucial time for both campaigns to prioritize safety and for Jesus followers to focus on praying for peace and using words that bring life rather than contribute to division.
Strife in South America
The recent events in Venezuela and Brazil highlight the dangerous intersection of power and information control in today's political landscape. As authoritarian tendencies loom, it is imperative for us to advocate for the freedoms of expression and choice, affirming that truth and open discourse are the foundations of genuine liberty.
Six Hostages Killed
Six hostages held by Hamas since October 7, 2023, were killed in a Rafah tunnel just before Israeli forces attempted a rescue, prompting protests in Israel for the return of remaining hostages. Amidst this, a temporary agreement allowed ceasefires for polio vaccinations in Gaza, underscoring the region's complex issues of violence and compassion.
Free Speech or Aiding and Abetting
The tenuous relationship between government and social media is once again on full display, this time in France as Pavel Durov, CEO of the app Telegram, was arrested (but not yet charged) on suspicion the company is engaged in illegal activity (including trafficking, fraud, illegal material involving minors, and abetting organized crime). Under French law, Durov must be either formally charged or released after four days in custody. Elon Musk, owner of X, is publicly defending Durov, posting “#FreePavel” on the X platform…
A Second War in Israel
Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated with recent cross-border attacks, adding to the challenges Israel faces. While the focus remains on Israel's conflict with Hamas, Hezbollah's actions highlight the broader threat in the region. Despite the ongoing conflict, we are reminded to persist in faith and prayer, trusting in God's ultimate promise of peace (Rev. 21:4).