Read Time: 5 min 56 sec | Listen to Podcast

WORLD NEWS

Middle East Tensions

Israel is weighing its retaliation options after Iran launched at least 180 ballistic missiles in its largest-ever attack on the country Tuesday.

With help from U.S. allies, Israeli defenses largely neutralized the barrage, but tensions are rising. Prime Minister Netanyahu warned that Iran "will pay" for its actions, while President Biden and G7 leaders urged Israel to respond “in proportion.” The White House advised against Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities and is “discussing” Israeli strikes on Iran’s oil infrastructure.

The Lebanese Health Ministry reported that the conflict has killed more than 1,300 people since mid-September, with 1.2 million displaced and thousands more expected to evacuate. Thursday, Israel announced the death of at least nine soldiers since it began its ground invasion in Lebanon.

__

CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE
War is heavy and ugly and reminds us of the need for redemption through Christ. Jesus came to lighten our burdens and bring us unexplainable peace. Pray that the Middle East would experience the peace that comes through Christ alone.

“Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 (CSB) (read full passage)

POLITICS

Unsealed

A 165-page document submitted by Special Counsel Jack Smith in former President Trump’s stalled election interference case was unsealed Wednesday.

In it, Smith presents additional testimony from aides surrounding January 6th and makes his case for why the trial should proceed despite the Supreme Court’s summer ruling that presidents are immune from criminal liability for official acts. Smith argues that many of Trump’s actions were as a political candidate, not official acts by the sitting president.

Trump called the brief an attempt by the “Harris-Biden regime to undermine and Weaponize American Democracy,” and his team has requested an extension for their response to the filing until after the election.

Now, the judge will decide if #45 committed “private crimes,” for which he can be prosecuted, or if his actions were prosecution-immune official conduct.

__

CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE
Discussing controversial issues can lead to strained relationships and hurt feelings. Christians can demonstrate God’s love by showing graciousness and humility as we seek truth and justice.

“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer each person.”
Colossians 4:6 (CSB) (read full passage)

FROM OUR PARTNERS

End the War on Salt

Healthy hydration isn’t just about water. 

You lose water and sodium when you sweat, so both need to be replaced … It just makes sense. Unfortunately, most electrolyte drinks contain a bunch of sugar and sketchy ingredients you don’t need.

Enter LMNT.

LMNT has a science-backed ratio of sodium, potassium, and magnesium to help you sleep soundly, sharpen your focus, and improve your energy. Try fan-favorite flavors like Citrus Salt or Raspberry Salt mixed into ice water or seltzer for a refreshing pick-me-up, or try the new LMNT Sparkling—a bold, 16-ounce can of sparkling electrolyte water. 

Always feel your best with LMNT. Try it today and get a free sample pack with any order!

U.S. NEWS

Aftermath

Helene has become one of the deadliest hurricanes in U.S. history; over 200 have died, and hundreds more remain missing.

While many areas are transitioning to rebuilding, western North Carolina––where entire towns were washed away––remains focused on search and rescue. The mountainous terrain has posed challenges for first responders, who can only access some flooded areas by helicopter.  

Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas says FEMA is “meeting the immediate needs” but “does not have the funds” to get through hurricane season, which ends November 30. Congress gave FEMA $20B as part of a short-term spending bill last month, but Mayorkas called on the Capitol (which is currently in recess) to approve more money. President Biden, Vice President Harris, and former President Trump all surveyed impacted areas this week. 

__

BE DOERS
TPO subscribers have donated more than $36,000 to Operation Blessing, a faith-based relief organization that has teams on the ground providing emergency supplies, hot meals, and debris removal in Valdosta, GA, and Asheville, NC. Join us in continuing to support OB’s efforts to meet physical needs and show the love of Christ.

“If a brother or sister is without clothes and lacks daily food and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, stay warm, and be well fed,’ but you don’t give them what the body needs, what good is it?”
James 2:15-16 (CSB)

The real winner of Tuesday night’s VP debate was… civility? Senator JD Vance (R) and Governor Tim Walz (D) exchanged compliments, showed empathy, and focused criticism on their top-ticket rivals: VP Harris and former President Trump. A CBS News flash poll of viewers showed a near-even split: 42% said Vance won, 41% favored Walz, and 17% called it a tie.
 
 
OpenAI is now valued at $157B, almost double its valuation in February ($80B). OpenAI says that ChatGPT has 250 million weekly users, including 12 million paying subscribers, but is expected to lose close to $5B this year. The latest funding round, which generated $6.6B, included investments from Microsoft, Nvidia, and others with a spare billion layin’ around.
 
 
A doctor has pleaded guilty in the death of Friends actor Matthew Perry, who overdosed on ketamine in his jacuzzi last October. The 54-year-old doctor, one of five people indicted in the case, admitted to obtaining the drugs through a fraudulent prescription before reselling it to Perry’s personal physician. He faces up to 10 years in prison.
 
 
They “don’t need no education,” but Pink Floyd decided to… “grab that cash with both hands,” selling its music catalog and name-and-likeness rights to Sony Music for ~$400M. The iconic British band had been seeking $500M, but band member infighting reportedly repelled suitors. Sony’s latest purchase follows similar catalog acquisitions, including those of Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, and Queen.
 

The New York Mets ended the Milwaukee Brewers’ season in stunning fashion last night, as Pete Alonso’s 9th inning 3-run homer led to a 4-2 victory. The rest of the Wild Card playoff series were clean sweeps, and round two begins tomorrow when the Yankees host the Royals, Cleveland hosts Detroit, L.A. hosts San Diego, and Philly hosts the Mets.

WHIPPED CREAM ON TOP

Recreating art masterpieces with household items…

What Savvy Christians Are Splitting
Health care costs, with Medi-Share*

Have you ever stared at a $2,000/night AirBnB listing thinking to yourself, “You know, if I shared it with 14 friends, this would be doable!” Well, that’s essentially what Medi-Share is… with a few tweaks. 

Instead of an Airbnb, it’s your health care costs. Instead of 14 friends, it’s 350,000 fellow Christians. Medi-Share is a faith-based, community-driven alternative where members share over $50 million in medical expenses every month—supporting real needs like surgeries or unexpected illnesses.

And you can join Medi-Share year-round without having to wait for enrollment season. See if Medi-Share is right for you!*

*Editor's Note: Health Care Sharing is not the best option for everyone, but is an excellent option for many. Take the time to research if it’s right for you & your family.

What Our Families Are Studying
“Healthy in Body, Strong in Spirit” Family Devotional*

Too often, we (and our kids!) have a one-dimensional view of God. We get trapped thinking maybe he only cares about our spiritual lives but not our physical… or vice versa.

In this seven-day devotional, families with young children will explore how and why God cares for our bodies and our souls. You’ll see how God designed and knows every part of us––our souls, bodies, and minds. He’s not only our provider but also our creator, healer, protector, and comforter.

Join us as we go through this seven-day free devotional!