“The true follower of Christ will not ask, ‘If I embrace this truth, what will it cost me?’ Rather he will say, ‘This is truth. God help me to walk in it, let come what may!’”

A. W. Tozer

Table of Contents

1. Protests Erupt Across the UK

2. Taylor Swift Concert Terror Plot

3. Other news you should know

4. Share this newsletter

Protests Erupt Across the UK

The fatal stabbing of three young girls at a dance class in Southport, England, triggered the worst unrest in the UK in over a decade. Fueled by anti-immigration sentiment, violent protests spread across towns and cities, targeting mosques and accommodation housing asylum seekers. Despite the violence, communities responded with rallies against the riots, clean-up efforts, and fundraising for affected individuals. Authorities condemned the unrest, with more than 400 arrests made and ongoing efforts to address the spread of false information and violence.

There are few things as powerful as people peacefully uniting over a common interest and seeking to make their voice heard; in fact, Christians should be known for it (Proverbs 31:8-9). There are few things as unproductive and destructive to a city (or a movement) as people congregating and acting in a violent manner (Proverbs 29:8). We know that the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God (James 1:19-20). Though murder surely angers the heart of God (Proverbs 6:16-17), it does not merit behavior that could cause more harm. Our governments exist to protect the citizenry and appropriately respond to evil (Romans 13:1-4). Should we speak up when they fail to do so? Yes, loudly and often, leveraging whatever influence we have. Should we further unrest and chaos as a means to that end? No, as far as history shows, that usually doesn’t end well. 

For this reason, it is imperative to elect officials who create and uphold policies that align closest with biblical principles for justice and order (Proverbs 16:12, Isaiah 32:1). When you have leaders who have considered the wisdom of the “ancient paths“ (Jeremiah 6:16), you have leaders who understand how to best love and care for the “outsider” (Deuteronomy 10:18-19, Psalm 146:9) while maintaining peace, security, and flourishing for their nation (Exodus 12:49). 

For further learning on how the Bible would have us think about immigration, listen here. 

_{By: Kirby Mankin}

Taylor Swift Concert Terror Plot

A foiled ISIS-inspired terror plot targeted Taylor Swift's Austrian concerts, where two radicalized teens planned a deadly attack. The suspects, aged 19 and 17, were arrested in Vienna after authorities uncovered their plan to drive a bomb-filled car into the crowd at one of Swift's sold-out shows. The older suspect, who had sworn allegiance to ISIS, had explosives and bomb-making materials at his home. The younger suspect had recently been hired to work security at the concert venue. Due to the severity of the threat, Swift's three Eras Tour concerts in Vienna were canceled, leaving fans disappointed. Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner said, "The situation was serious, the situation is serious. But we can also say: A tragedy was prevented."

We live in a fallen world (Romans 8:20-22); one might say it often resembles a nightmare dressed like a daydream. The reality of sin and darkness can envelop us in fear, but it is crucial to remember that our true hope and security lie in Christ alone (Psalm 46:1).

This would-have-been tragedy illustrates how the enemy "prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). God detests murderous hearts (1 John 3:15), and this event serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly young men and young women can be radicalized if they are not anchored to the Savior of the world (Colossians 2:8).

While the cancellation of Taylor Swift's concerts might leave fans feeling like it's a cruel summer, we should express our gratitude to God for those who protect civilians and celebrities from such evil efforts (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Their vigilance reflects God's providential care amidst the threats of our world (Psalm 121:3-4).

May we be equally as leery of being radicalized in the idolatry (1 John 5:21, Jonah 2:8) or worship of the gifts of men rather than their Maker (Romans 1:25).

_{By: Jamie Wilder}

Other news you should know

🚫 Lying about military service? Not a good look.

🏊🏻 Crossfitter tragically dies in livestreamed event.

🏀 Is this win surprising?

🏃🏻 Now this was impressive.

🎤️ Trump and Harris will debate this September.

🔫 This bodycam footage was released from the Trump assassination attempt.

👎🏻 We’re predicting these free speech laws won’t turn out well.

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