“If you read history you will find that the Christians who did the most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next.”

CS Lewis

Johnson Ouster Fails

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) survived a challenge from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) to oust him from power. Greene's effort lacked support within her party, with only 11 GOP votes in her favor, while a majority of Democrats voted to save Johnson. The vote to table Greene's motion was 359-43. Johnson, grateful for the support, hoped to end the divisive politics that had characterized recent congressional sessions. Greene's campaign to remove Johnson did not gain traction, and despite her passion, her resolution lacked significant backing. Johnson's allies, including Democratic leaders, played a crucial role in preserving his speakership, avoiding a repeat of the turmoil from the previous speaker's ousting.

A fool is quick to quarrel (Proverbs 20:3). And it is foolish to despise learning from past mistakes (Proverbs 1:7). For many in the House of Representatives, they would prefer that their colleagues would have learned something – anything – from this late last year when the House was speaker-less for weeks. The same can be said for their constituents, no doubt. 

Greene's stance, though passionate, aligns with the folly of those who delight in quarreling and "delight in airing their own opinions" over nobler means and ends (Proverbs 18:2). While compromise in matters of faith should always be avoided (2 Corinthians 6:14), political disputes should not be elevated to spiritual truths (Matthew 22:21). As believers, let us seek understanding, not strife, and find joy in aligning our lives with His wisdom (Proverbs 3:13).

_{By: Jamie Wilder}

Israel Enters Rafah

President Biden has warned Israel against proceeding with a major ground invasion of Rafah, stating that he would withhold certain weapons if such an operation occurs due to concerns over civilian casualties. Israel initiated a limited operation in Rafah on Tuesday, prompting the White House to express apprehension. The Biden administration has already paused one shipment of bombs destined for Israel, including 1,700 500-pound bombs and 1,800 2000-pound bombs, citing worries about their use in densely populated areas like Rafah. While reaffirming support for Israel's security, Biden emphasized efforts to restrain proactive military actions and advocated for an extended cease-fire in Gaza to facilitate humanitarian aid and hostage release.

The pressure to end the conflict and suffering in Gaza should be acutely felt by world leaders and believers alike (Romans 13:4, Proverbs 31:8-9). The watching world must remember that Hamas, a terrorist organization intent on the annihilation of the Jews, began this conflict… and ultimately is the one who can make choices that would make a cease-fire possible. We cannot make assumptions or judge the ulterior motives or hidden intentions of Israel as they consider a ground assault; though this conflict is undoubtedly complex, the Lord will do that (1 Samuel 16:7, 2 Corinthians 5:10). We can, however, judge the terrorists who continue to allow the Palestinians they purport to represent to suffer under their unwillingness to release hostages, cease their attacks, and abandon their wicked mission (Proverbs 29:2). Israel is right to defend themselves, and while millions do suffer, Hamas has left them no choice. 

We must pray God gives wisdom to leaders trying to navigate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the definite threat of Hamas in the Middle East (James 1:5). 

_{By: Kirby Mankin}

Other news you should know

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🏠 A map of median home prices by county.

🏀 Sports columnist pulled off of coverage after awkward interview.

❌ Judge denies Trump defense mistrial request.

👦🏼 Barron Trump is entering the chat.

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