July 12, 2024

Abortion Bill Fails, Olympic Refugee Team, War in Israel Near Ceasefire?

July 12, 2024


July 12, 2024

“We live in a culture where we rarely take time to reflect, rest, or reconnect with our souls and God.”

John Mark Comer

Republicans Block Abortion Bill

Senate Republicans recently blocked the Reproductive Freedom for Women Act, a Democratic-led bill (S 4554) that aimed to expand abortion rights based on protections from Roe v. Wade. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Patty Murray, sought to ensure "reproductive freedom for all," potentially allowing abortions up to birth unless states intervened with protections. Despite support from most Democrats, the bill failed to advance with a vote of 49-44, falling short of the 60 votes needed to overcome a Republican filibuster. Critics viewed the bill as a symbolic gesture unlikely to become law, highlighting ongoing political divisions over abortion policy in the U.S.

Abortion is one of the greatest tragedies of our age, but it is not something that was introduced by our culture (Leviticus 20:2–5; 2 Kings 21:6; Jeremiah 32:35). Nothing is new under the sun, and the murder of an innocent child in the womb has always been an atrocity to God (Exodus 21:22–25; Ecclesiastes 1:9). 

With the RNC relaxing its position on federal abortion limits, Christians should be the biggest advocates for the lives of these pre-born children since God hates the shedding of innocent blood (Proverbs 6:17). It is clear that Christians must be those who stand in the gap, praying, and calling sin out (Ezekiel 3:16–21; Habakkuk 2:1). While we call sin out, let us be the first to welcome repentance as we ourselves have been forgiven, knowing that the only unforgivable sin is unbelief (Matthew 12:31–32; Ephesians 4:32).

Whether the introduction of the bill was a gesture to gain a political advantage or not should not matter to Bible-living Christians. For we have a more sure prophetic word that shows us where the good way is that we might find rest for our souls (Jeremiah 6:16; 2 Peter 1:19). Let us then rightly divide the Word of truth, looking to please the one who has enlisted us in this good fight (2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Timothy 2:4; 2 Timothy 4:7).

By: Jack Mueller

Refugee Team at the Olympics

After fleeing war and persecution, 36 athletes from 11 countries will compete in the Paris Olympics as part of the Refugee Olympic Team, symbolizing hope amid record global migration. These athletes have overcome immense adversities. A Cuban gold medalist defected from his country and now trains in Florida, striving for Olympic glory again. An Afghan breakdancer fled the Taliban and is training in Spain for her Olympic debut. A Syrian long jumper trekked from Aleppo to Berlin to pursue his dream, while an Iranian wrestler who fled to Italy prepares for the Games. "No matter how dark the days become, the sun is always going to rise," one athlete reflected. 

God has made much clear through His Word, two of those being:

1. He loves the refugee—and therefore we should as well (Deuteronomy 10:18-19).

2. Suffering, in Christ's economy, is intended to lead us closer to Him (Romans 5:3-5).

In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Paul writes, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever."

It's a beautiful thing to behold an underdog story. In fact, after a survey of Scripture, we are hardwired to enjoy stories like these. God often uses those in lower stature to shame those in higher positions (1 Corinthians 1:27). As believers, we know we may not see an end to worldly suffering on this side of heaven, but we are called to seek to give God glory in the midst of it (1 Peter 4:13). Athletic events, like suffering, are just a mere shadow of what is to come—for we know that ultimate reality is found in Christ Jesus (Colossians 2:17).

By: Jamie Wilder

Ceasefire in View?

Israel and Hamas have agreed to transfer control of the Gaza Strip to a new Palestinian force during the second phase of a three-stage ceasefire and hostage-prisoner release deal. This force, composed of 2,500 US-trained supporters of the Palestinian Authority, will manage security in Gaza with backing from moderate Arab states. Despite no official confirmation from Israel or Hamas, the agreement comes as a strategic move to transition from Hamas rule to a different governance structure in Gaza, following Israel's military offensive triggered by Hamas's October 7 attack. Negotiations facilitated by American, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators are ongoing, aiming to solidify a permanent ceasefire and address the hostages' release.

“When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy” (Proverbs 11:10). Wickedness perpetrated against enemies or one’s own people deserves swift and decisive action (Romans 13:1-7, Proverbs 24:20). 

This land continues to hold deep meaning to many people groups. While we all may agree the fighting must come to an end, it is doubtful that there will be as much agreement on ownership and governance of this land. While its future continues to unfold, we should be rooting for peace and truth to reign, healing to begin, and the gospel to go forth among those afflicted by the weight of war. 

The wicked, terrorists, corrupt politicians, evil men, and women should remember that while the Lord is “not slow” (2 Peter 3:9), he hates those who love violence “with a passion” and “will rain fiery coals and burning sulfur” down upon them. “For the Lord is righteous, he loves justice” (Psalm 11:5-7). 

By: Kirby Mankin

Other news you should know

😬 Quite an unfortunate gaffe.

📢 Biden held a news conference yesterday, here’s how it went.

👋🏻 Some Dems aren’t holding back.

📀 Feels like we all saw this coming.

🤔 Which one is it, George?

🆚 Beastie Boys v. Chilli’s.

Share your thoughts at [email protected]