“Action springs not from thought, but from a readiness for responsibility.”

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Table of Contents

1. Melania Trump on Abortion

2. More Men in Church

3. VP Debate Recap

4. Other news you should know

5. Remnant Resources

Melania Trump on Abortion

In her forthcoming memoir, Melania Trump expresses strong support for abortion rights, advocating for a woman's autonomy over her body and decision-making. She opposes government intervention in reproductive choices, which puts her at odds with her husband's party and its anti-abortion stance. Melania emphasizes individual liberty and personal freedom, citing various legitimate reasons for abortion, including medical concerns. Her stance, publicly expressed in her book, contrasts sharply with Donald Trump's role in restricting abortion rights, despite his attempts to distance himself from the resulting controversy. 

Tragically, it has already been established that both political parties are failing to put forward a pro-life candidate in this year's presidential race. Now, thanks to a soon-to-be-released memoir by Melania Trump, we now know that at least one candidate is yoked to a "completer" (Genesis 2:18) who completely disregards God's expressed intention that leaders use their position to protect the vulnerable and weak (Proverbs 31:8-9). Repeating tired "pro-choice" mantras like "a woman's right to choose" and a woman's right to "control her own body" as her reason for advocating for "abortion rights," Mrs. Trump reminds biblically minded voters that both candidates for President hold positions that God hates (Proverbs 6:17). Whether or not Mrs. Trump's book will accomplish her goal of revealing "her truth" over media misrepresentations, her instagram post has already made it clear that "her truth" is not aligned with the Lord's when it comes to the value of life in the womb (Psalm 139:13-14, Genesis 1:27). Even more potentially troubling to our nation, is her husbands recently articulated support of banning abortion after fifteen weeks given that well over 90% of abortions happen in the first 15 weeks. Calling for a "fifteen-week ban" is another example of using deceptive word choices to create the appearance of conviction when, in reality, there is little (Matthew 15:8). Being committed to killing a few fewer humans than your opponent is not a good example of leadership (Galatians 6:4-5). 

While it is normal for a spouse to have "occasional political differences" with their husband, as Melania states she sometimes has, it is deadly when leaders and their spouses have any differences with a good and righteous God when it comes to protecting and valuing life (Proverbs 14:12). Even if Trump's wife or Harris' husband won't spur them onto love and good deeds, the remnant must (Hebrews 10:23-24).

_{By: Todd Wagner}

More Men in Church

For the first time in modern American history, young men are more religious than young women. At Grace Church in Waco, Texas, this gender shift is visible, with men filling the pews and leading services. Gen Z women, however, are leaving church at a striking rate—almost 40% now identify as religiously unaffiliated. Factors like the #MeToo and #ChurchToo movements and debates over abortion, sexuality, gender roles, and social justice have influenced this divide. As Pastor Bracken Arnhart notes, young men are drawn to "harder truths," seeking leadership and clarity. However, many young women feel alienated from these environments, expressing concerns about their place in the church along with the church's stance on social issues. "I can't go to a place of worship and know that the person next to me thinks that gay people are going to burn in hell," said Ms. Clark.

It’s heartening to witness the Lord moving in the hearts of young men, calling them to deeper devotion. Part of being a man is standing firm in the faith (1 Corinthians 16:13). When men strive to follow Christ and emulate His sacrificial, servant-hearted life, they contribute to a healthier, more vibrant world.

However, the call to “hard truths,” structure, and responsibility is not solely for men—it extends equally to our sisters in Christ (Ephesians 4:4-6). The church, much like the Gospel, is for all people—both sexes and all nations (Galatians 3:28). Sadly, many young women are leaving the church for various reasons, particularly the influence of political and social justice issues, as well as the sins exposed among prominent pastors.

As believers, we must gently support those hurt by church leaders or members, mourning with those who mourn (Philippians 4:5, Romans 12:15). However, this compassion should not blur the line when addressing the issues many young Americans have with the church’s teachings over the past 2,000 years. We must remain uncompromising on biblical fidelity regarding life, gender, and sexuality (2 Timothy 3:16-17), as compromise can lead to the very failures that caused pain to women in the first place.

Brother or sister, seek a local church that honors God (Acts 2:42). Every command in the Bible aims for your ultimate good and joy (John 10:10, Deuteronomy 10:13). Don’t compromise your faith due to cultural pressures or misleading narratives (Romans 12:2). Embrace the true story of redemption in Christ and find a loving community that calls you into deeper fellowship with the One your soul was made to know (Hebrews 10:24-25).

_{By: Jamie Wilder}

VP Debate Recap

In the only scheduled vice-presidential debate of 2024, Sen. JD Vance appeared more confident and attempted to recast himself as a moderate, while Gov. Tim Walz struggled with awkward moments and nervousness, particularly on foreign policy and past false statements about Tiananmen Square. Vance maintained a moderate tone on abortion but avoided addressing his previous hardline stance while focusing on building empathy and promoting conservative family policies. The debate was largely civil, with both candidates seeking to present their competencies without engaging in aggressive attacks.

In the midst of a highly contentious election cycle, the Vice Presidential debate brought viewers across the country something they could all agree on: civil discourse and respectful debate are a lost but cherished art. This is reminiscent of a truth that should define the remnant: hold fast to truth and communicate it in and with love (Hebrews 10:23, 1 Corinthians 16:13-14).

In a world that thrives on contention, polarity, hate, and creating and exposing enemies, the remnant must walk and talk in a manner worthy of their King (Ephesians 4:1), whose example of embracing, teaching, and sharing truth considered “radical” in his day - with immense clarity and love - is to be marveled at and multiplied (Matthew 5-7, Luke 10:25-37, Matthe 18:21-22, 20:16 etc.). There were certainly times that Jesus used anger (John 2:13-17) and “name-calling” (Matthew 3:7), but he was never petty, never out of control, and certainly always crystal clear on who the real enemy was (John 8:44). 

The general response of the public, mainstream media, the right, and the left leaves us more keenly aware of the world’s longing for things to be “right” (Romans 8:19-22)… this is our moment; let us not lose out on our opportunity to shine like lights in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation (Philippians 2:14–15) because our hope is too fixed on possible outcomes. 

_{By: Kirby Mankin}

Other news you should know

 💸Virginia school board pays over $500k to teacher fired over pronouns.

🎳 Dockworkers’ union to suspend the strike until January to allow time to negotiate a new contract.

😨 Helene’s death toll tops 200 and is expected to grow.

🔫 Infamous movie ‘Rust’ may actually make it to the big screen three years after on-set deaths.

👮🏻 Convictions handed down in Tyre Nichols trial.

🌀 FEMA without enough funds to make it through hurricane season.

🏐 Another volleyball team refuses to compete with transgender players.

🇬🇧 The UK gives up sovereignty over islands in the Indian Ocean.

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