“I always told Him, I trust you. I don’t know where to go or what to do, but I expect You to lead me, an’ He always did.”

^{Harriet Tubman}

Table of Contents

1. Hamas Tunnel Under UN HQ

2. The Spirit of Aloha

3. Other news you should know

4. Remnant Resources

5. Share this newsletter

Hamas Tunnel Under UN HQ

The Israeli military uncovered a network of tunnels beneath Gaza City, including some extending beneath the United Nations' headquarters, alleging Hamas involvement. Israel contends this compromises the UN's mission, accusing United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) of either negligence or complicity. UNRWA denies prior knowledge of the tunnels and highlights its lack of expertise in military matters. Amidst claims of UNRWA employee support for Hamas and a suspension of funding from some Western nations, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant calls for UNRWA's dismantling, labeling it "Hamas with a facelift." He also proposed alternative aid mechanisms for Gaza. Hamas denies involvement, dismissing Israeli claims as lies. The revelations intensify scrutiny over UNRWA's role and funding, fueling debate over aid distribution.

UNRWA's response to allegations of collusion with Hamas demands utmost transparency and accountability, and any evidence of complicity should be addressed seriously (Ephesians 5:11). Scripture urges courage in opposing evil and taking swift action upon confirmation of wrongdoing (Psalm 94:16). Proverbs 29:12 underscores the importance of integrity in leadership, urging accountability and honesty.

According to their website, “the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence are at the heart of all UNRWA operations.” It’s hard to imagine they're not hypocritical by their own standards if the allegations are proven true (Matthew 23:28), given that they contradict UNRWA's professed principles. However, awaiting the outcome of thorough investigations is essential before making conclusive judgments (Proverbs 18:17). While human institutions may falter, the perfect embodiment of perfect values is ultimately found in Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:9-10).

_{By: Jamie Wilder}

Over Half of Americans Unsatisfied

A New Gallup poll reports that less than half of Americans are "very satisfied" with their personal lives, a three-percentage-point decrease over the past year and just one point above the record low in 2011. Economic uncertainty has historically correlated with dips in personal satisfaction, as seen during the 2007-2009 recession and the global economic crisis in December 2008. While majorities across demographics report at least some satisfaction, only specific groups, such as those with higher incomes, married individuals, regular churchgoers, and Democrats, have a majority expressing high satisfaction.

There is nothing about this report that is particularly surprising. What is surprising is that there is not a report accompanying this one sharing that there is a people in America with an inordinate amount of joy, hopefulness, and life satisfaction irrespective of their life circumstance. This should be the testimony of all truly abiding with the Lord (Habakkuk 3:17-19). The remnant, like Paul, should be declaring to a watching world, “for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:11-13). It is an indictment on the health of the “church” in America that her margins of “satisfaction” are almost indistinguishable from those of higher earnings and political affiliations.

While it is human to struggle with hard times, it is the privilege of God’s people to model a resilient faith (Habakkuk 3:19; Jude 24; 1 Peter 3:15; John 16:33).

_{By: Todd Wagner}

The Spirit of Aloha

The Hawaii Supreme Court's recent decision undermines residents' Second Amendment rights by invoking the "Spirit of Aloha" as grounds to restrict firearm ownership, contradicting both the U.S. Constitution and Supreme Court precedent. Despite recent landmark rulings affirming individual gun rights, the Hawaii court upheld a conviction for carrying a loaded gun without a permit, citing outdated interpretations of the Second Amendment. This decision defies legal precedent, possibly allowing other states to follow suit. If unchallenged, critics think this erosion of constitutional principles could threaten the rights of citizens nationwide, extending far beyond the realm of gun ownership.

Hawaii’s problem is not that their “spirit of Aloha” is being threatened by individuals who want to practice their 2nd amendment rights; it is that the Spirit of Christ, which bears the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, is not being yielded to. As against these things, there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23). Until we turn as a nation to the Prince of peace, we will continually find ourselves in the middle of legal and soon real controversy. Meanwhile, this activist decision by the Hawaiian Supreme Court is a harsh reminder that human judges are not a reliable place for human confidence to be placed (Jeremiah 17:5). We have a spiritual problem in America that will not be solved by taking away long-protected rights from those who seek to obey the law. The sooner we as a nation remember that “the law is not made for a righteous person, but for those who are lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers and immoral men …” (1 Timothy 1:9-10), the sooner we will stop advocating for more laws that take away freedoms from those who seek to obey them.

_{By: Todd Wagner}

Other news you should know

🏆 The Chiefs are back to back Super Bowl Champs again!

🇺🇸 When's the last time you heard a President talk like this?

👴🏻 86% of Americans think Joe Biden is too old to serve another term. Majority think the same of Donald Trump.

🇳🇮 Tough times in Nicaragua.

📄 Who dunnit? 

💵 Money can’t buy happiness, but could it buy you 30 seconds?

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