“War creates no absolutely new situation; it simply aggravates the permanent human situation so that we can no longer ignore it.“

CS Lewis

Table of Contents

1. Western Weapons in Ukraine

2. Trump Found Guilty

3. “Super Size Me” Actor Dead at 53

4. Other news you should know

5. Share this newsletter

Western Weapons in Ukraine

The call for Ukraine to use Western weapons to strike targets within Russia, a long-standing demand from Kyiv and its allies, is gaining traction among Western leaders, although the United States has yet to endorse this approach, aligning itself with the Kremlin's opposition to such actions. However, there are indications that this stance within the Biden administration may be evolving, particularly in light of Russia's recent military aggression in Ukraine. Ukrainian officials argue that current restrictions on the use of Western-supplied weapons have left them at a disadvantage in the conflict with Russia. Despite concerns about potential escalation, there is growing pressure from Western allies, including France and Germany, to reconsider these restrictions, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken suggesting a possible shift in U.S. policy. The risk of escalation and fears of antagonizing Russia continue to appear to influence decision-making in Washington.

A nation, like the individual (Exodus 22:2-3, Luke 22:37), has the right (Romans 13:3-4) and should have the readiness to defend themselves against enemies/evil and yet must continually remind themselves it is always wise and prudent to “abandon the quarrel before it breaks out” (Proverbs 17:14) and that those who live by the sword will die by it (Matthew 26:52).

If the watching world believes that evil has “broken out” against Ukraine it must allow them the same opportunity to defend themselves and stop the aggression being used against them in the same way they do other nation-states. 

But there are other principles which inform how nations should engage in warfare found in what is commonly called “Just War Theory” or “just war philosophy” which should also be considered even when there are legitimate reasons for war. These include the law of proportionality, the law of last resort, right intention, just cause, and, most relevant to Ukraine’s situation, the principle of “probable success.” There is little doubt that Russia has the ability to bring much greater destruction to Ukraine than the Ukrainians are able to Russia. The fact that Ukraine has no hope of defending itself without help from NATO states, along with the unpredictable nature and the difficult-to-discern motives of Putin and Russian aggression, all must be factored into how Ukraine is helped. The remnant must remember that we have limited information and that “the naive believe everything” (Proverbs 14:5a) even while we continually ask the Lord to give “sensibility” to our leaders (Proverbs 14:5b). Any investment in this war that is fueled by corruption or motivation to feed the “military-industrial complex” violates the law of “right intention” and any cowardice in responding fully to evil fails God’s command for Kings to defend the rights of the afflicted and needy among us (Proverbs 31:8-9).

Pray for leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Stay as informed as possible (Proverbs 19:2), remain vigilant against evil, and be continually aware of the evil within yourself (Jeremiah 17:9).

_{By: Todd Wagner}

Trump Found Guilty

Donald Trump, the first former U.S. president convicted of felony crimes, was found guilty of all 34 charges related to illegally influencing the 2016 election through hush money payments to a porn actress. With a stoic demeanor, Trump faced the verdict as crowds gathered outside the courthouse. The conviction, marking the end of a historic trial, raises questions about Trump's future sentencing, voting eligibility, and potential impact on the 2024 election. Despite Trump's claims of a rigged trial, the verdict underscores the legal repercussions and political implications of his actions.

_{*This is a developing story.}

There is much to be said and speculated about this breaking news. In moments where issues are incredibly complex and the media undeniably biased, we hold fast to what is true. Yes, history is being made, but history, namely that found in the most trusted book history has ever seen, has also assured us that all that is hidden will come to light (Luke 8:17), Jesus will reign as King (Luke 1:32-33), and we need not live in fear of life or death (Matthew 10:28), (or our country being/becoming a “banana republic”) (2 Timothy 1:7). Our hope is found in the promises of God, not the politics at play in Washington or courtrooms. 

We recommend you read this thread by Todd Wagner on X and the short letter he references for further understanding of what we think is a fair, clear, thoughtful, and accurate representation of what we are seeing happen in this conviction and election cycle. It will undoubtedly only get more interesting from here.

_{By: The Remnant News Team}

“Super Size Me” Actor Dead at 53

Morgan Spurlock, the filmmaker behind the groundbreaking documentary "Super Size Me," passed away at 53 from cancer complications. Known for his 2004 film, in which he ate only McDonald's for 30 days, Spurlock raised awareness about fast food's dangers and America's obesity epidemic, earning an Oscar nomination and $22 million in box office revenue. Spurlock also hosted the FX series "30 Days" and made nonfiction shows for Hulu and CNN. Despite his professional achievements, his 2017 admission of sexual misconduct and his struggle with alcoholism since age 13 marred his public image.

Spurlock's impact on American awareness of food quality is significant. While he cannot be solely credited for this shift, his documentary work notably raised public consciousness. However, the idea of caring for our bodies is not new; Scripture long has attested to our bodies being temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19).

In all facets of life, whether eating, drinking, or engaging in creative pursuits like documentary-making, the ultimate goal should be to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31). The remnant ought to prioritize "supersizing" spiritual nourishment over mere indulgence and faithfulness over fame (Ephesians 5:18, Matthew 4:4, Matthew 6:33a). By aligning our choices with God's will, we will be blessed beyond measure no matter the number of our days (Matthew 6:33b).

_{By: Jamie Wilder}

Other news you should know

🚨 More alarm bells for Biden.

📖 Ten commandments in LA schools?

🚢 Not this again… submarines will start revisiting Titanic.

💸 Melinda Gates gives $1B away.

✖️ Musk will testify for SEC over Twitter deal.

🎈 I’m sorry… what? North Korea sending waste via balloon over South Korea border.

🐤 Third case of bird flu identified, the second in Michigan.

🏀 The Dallas Mavericks are headed to the NBA Finals.

Share your thoughts at [email protected]