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Keith Siegel and Omri Miran are shown in undated footage released by the armed wing of Hamas.

Keith Siegel and Omri Miran are shown in undated footage released by the armed wing of Hamas.

With a fifth dominant victory in this year's Six Nations, England picked up another "well-deserved" Grand Slam but are determined to get better.

Alex Salmond is said to want a deal to maximise pro-independence MPs and MSPs in return for support in a no confidence vote.

Alex Salmond is said to want a deal to maximise pro-independence MPs and MSPs in return for support in a no confidence vote.

Olwen Collier died from head injuries after falling into the cellar of the Stag and Pheasant in Carmel, south Wales.

Olwen Collier died from head injuries after falling into the cellar of the Stag and Pheasant in Carmel, south Wales.

Axel Disasi has a stoppage-time goal disallowed but Chelsea come from two goals down to dent Aston Villa's top-four hopes at Villa Park.

Taoiseach asks justice minister to bring forward legislation so asylum seekers can be returned to the UK.

More than 12,000 people rally to urge the prime minister to stay in office as he decides whether to resign.

Chelsea manager Emma Hayes says Kadeisha Buchanan's sending-off against Barcelona was the "worst decision in Champions League history".

The original owner of the watch, businessman John Jacob Astor, 47, went down with the ship in 1912.

Durham Police say they are treating the incident as unexpected and enquiries are ongoing.

Manager Chris Wilder admits the Premier League “has been too powerful” for relegated Sheffield United this season, but says supporters can “trust him” to stay at the club.

The doctor told the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg he could no longer look NHS colleagues and patients in the eye and stay as a Conservative.

Activists say the woman gave birth alone in a forested area at the border with Belarus.

England sealed a third consecutive Six Nations Grand Slam and sixth straight title with a clinical victory over 14-player France in Bordeaux.

A 58-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder after an incident on Friday morning.

A pastor who set a Guinness World Record for his remarkable 72-year tenure at a church in Texas has died at age 94. The late Rev. Dr. Doris Nathaniel Benford Sr. was known for his lengthy service at the Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church in Texas City and his passionate dedication to his congregation. #Pastor #Baptist #Churches #GuinnessWorldRecords #Texas #Obituary

Marcus, 16, says he fled a life as a child soldier in South Sudan and hopes to study in the UK.

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah says if he speaks "there will be fire" after he argued with manager Jurgen Klopp on the touchline during the 2-2 Premier League draw at West Ham.

The presenter thanked everyone for their "kindness and good wishes" and is home with his family.

Peter Smith, 64, was 10 metres off the shore when he was attacked by a bull shark, a local official says.

The university president's decision to bring in the NYPD lit a wildfire of protest over the Gaza war.

The BBC learns that UK forces may be used to deliver aid

In a culture where social media and societal pressures shape a young person's identity more than biblical truths, the new film "Identity Crisis" explores deeper questions of self-worth, faith and divine creation, star Maria Canals-Barrera told The Christian Post.  #IdentityCrisis #MariaCanalsBarrera #faithbasedfilm

The TV personality urges his followers to "please wear sunscreen" after being diagnosed with skin cancer.

The abuse suffered by eight girls in West Yorkshire has been described as "abhorrent in the extreme".

The lost Lego piece was one of millions which fell off a cargo ship and into the sea in 1997.

Officials in several countries say spice mixes made by MDH and Everest may contain ethylene oxide.

This "OMG" moment for Humza Yousaf is latest in a long line of nasty surprises for a party that has been in decline.

A Nigerian local government official said that a Christian in Otukpo County’s Entepka village was killed by herdsmen last Saturday, after they killed two others two days earlier on April 18 in the Entepka District’s Adoka-Icho community. #Nigeria #Christianpersecution #ReligiousFreedom #Fulani #BenueState

Even in our highly secular age, multiple studies show that good things come from walking with God, in prayer, through His Word, and attending church. #Comfort #peace #GodWord #fearoftheLord #churchattendance #mentalhealth #depression #secularism

Do whatever you can, whenever you can, wherever you can, however you can. And by all means, regardless of cost or consequence, do not be silent! #Antisemitism #Holocaust #Hamas #Gaza #ColumbiaUniversity #Nazi

Anyone paying attention can see that American universities have become a clown show. But, the pundits and politicians calling to abandon the universities and the humanities to the wolves have it wrong. #Universities #genocide #Jews #Harvard #antisemitism #Hamas #Israel #highereducation #indoctrination #Marxism

True morality cannot be legislated, but behavior can be. What’s more, we cannot help but legislate behavior, and only a truly committed dullard would claim that behavior has no connection to morality at all. #Legislatingmorality #law #anarchy #politicalpower #morality #righteousness #evangelism

The faith crisis facing churches and denominations nationwide was fueled by the collapse of the family at home. #Marriage #churchattendance #family #households #brokenhomes #loneliness #singleness #evangelism #repentance #sexuality

The United Methodist Church General Conference has advanced a measure meant to allow different regions of the global denomination to determine their own standards on LGBT issues. #UMC #UnitedMethodistChurch #LGBT #bookofdiscipline #GeneralConference #regionalization

Dr Tijion Esho is struck off after admitting an improper emotional relationship with a patient.

The first week of the Trump trial revealed more about the DA's case and how Trump will behave during the trial

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem recalls shooting a dog and a goat in a soon-to-be released memoir.

The man went near the animal on an ice floe near the world's northernmost settlement in Svalbard.

Residents are fed up with visitors dropping rubbish and parking illegally as they seek the perfect photo.

A prominent conservative political commentator has announced that she has joined the Catholic Church, vowing to provide more details about what led to her conversion in the future.

An estimated 10,372,100 lives have been lost since the Abortion Act came into effect on this day in 1968.

Moran Yanai was threatened with death and moved from place to place during her ordeal.

Respected evangelist Rico Tice has left the Church of England over its decision to introduce blessings for same-sex couples.

The $6bn package includes air defence munitions but not the missile systems Ukraine says it badly needs.

"Many women are surprised but delighted to discover they are able to stay in monasteries and convents both here in the UK and in many countries across Europe,"

Sony’s 2006 “Paint” advert is widely considered one of the most ambitious in history - but how was it made?

The UK's largest cider maker blames a drop in demand on its decision to uproot thousands of trees.

When we feel lost, God is our true north. He is the one who can lead us where He wants us. It is so easy to get caught up in listening to the world, so sometimes, it is best to shut it out to create a quiet space for God to work.

The Biden ally says outrage about the situation in Gaza is justified but protesters should condemn Hamas too.

The Biden ally says outrage about the situation in Gaza is justified but protesters should condemn Hamas too.

South London team Unity Allstars Black compete for the "three-peat" in Florida's cheerleading

The BBC's Suranjana Tewari considers what the future holds for the hugely popular social media app.

Buckingham Palace has broken the long silence over the King's health with some positive messages.

Caroline Mitchell said the "cultural expectation" to have children has often made her feel excluded.

The student who said "Zionists don't deserve to live" has since been barred from the Columbia campus.

John Barnett had been giving a formal legal deposition against the plane manufacturer before his sudden death.

The orphaned calf swam from British Columbia after several rescue attempts by a First Nations community.

British Columbia wants to "urgently" restrict where drugs can be used under its decriminalisation project.

The BBC's Nada Tawfik on what the court heard from close Donald Trump allies, including his former assistant.

Severe and powerful storms have moved across several US states, leaving many experiencing power shortages.

Lisa Pisano, once near death, is recovering well after receiving a new kidney from a genetically modified pig.

The pastor of a Roman Catholic church in San Francisco placed partial blame for a parishioner's recent stabbing on the local government, which he said has allowed crime and mental illness to run rampant in the city. #SanFrancisco #Crime #RomanCatholic #California

Protest groups on more than 20 campuses are all aiming at the same target - university investments

More than a month after announcing he would resign amid escalating gang violence, Haiti’s Prime Minister Ariel Henry formally submitted his letter of resignation. #Haiti #ArielHenry #Resigns #Missionaries

What started a week ago at Columbia University has led to hundreds of arrests at multiple college campuses.

Pastor Charlie Dates of Salem Baptist Church of Chicago has come under fire from a sports talk radio host for praying at a press conference for the NFL’s Chicago Bears announcement of plans for a new $4.7 billion stadium on the Chicago lakefront. #CharlieDates #Stadium #Chicago #SalemBaptistChurch

US President says he is "happy" to face rival who claims he is ready "anytime, anywhere, anyplace".

While the moon doesn't look particularly pink, it's named after pink flowers called wild ground phlox.

Tarana Burke says the overturning of Harvey Weinstein's 2020 conviction in New York is not a blow to MeToo.

The Baltimore-area principal was placed on leave and received death threats over the hoax clip.

The King's medical team are "sufficiently pleased" with his progress after he was diagnosed with cancer in February.

Do activists often invest their work with religious significance? All the more reason for Christians to be discerning co-laborers. I love nature documentaries, especially those narrated by David Attenborough. Whether watching with my children or on my own, I love seeing the majesty of the snowy Alps or kelp forests. But I’ve noticed that in recent years, nearly every somber vignette of a species struggling on the edge of survival ends with a call to action. Viewers are beckoned to take responsibility for causing a poor animal’s plight and to consider how they can fix things before the species is gone forever. I understand the impulse to believe that animals’ struggles should move humans to action. However, it is the ethics informing the narrator’s pleas that seem a bit muddled. By many documentarians’ admission, the species we marvel at on screen have emerged out of eons of struggles to survive and adapt to their surroundings. Sometimes, the narrators even remind us that this process has resulted in countless prior species disappearing into extinction. Whether you believe in a young or an old earth, in God’s hand or in meaningless physical forces guiding history, we can all agree that change, death, and selection favoring adaptability are features of life on earth. Witnessing it in real time makes for compelling television drama, but the moral indictment that you and I contribute to grave evil when one of these species goes extinct does not seem to square with the documentarians’ worldview. What compels us to see polar bears possibly going extinct in terms of moral right and wrong? If we take human action out of the equation, isn’t history littered with the bones of countless species that have gone extinct? Are not humans and their actions part of nature? A robust theology of creation care If we listen closely, ...Continue reading...

Actor and comedian Russell Brand announced Friday that he is going to be baptized on Sunday, following the culmination of a months-long public wrestling with the tenets of Christianity. #RussellBrand #baptism #Hollywood #Thames

The National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA is launching a series of events known as "Freedom Summer," hoping to mobilize voters and observe the 60th anniversary of the original summer of civil rights activism. #NCC #NationalCouncilofChurches #voterregistration #election #presidentialelection #religiousleft

Ex-porn star Brittni De La Mora, who became a Christian after her life was radically changed by Jesus, took to X this week to warn Kanye West not to start a pornography studio that he plans to call “Yeezy Porn.”  #ExPornStar #BrittniDeLaMora #Jesus #KanyeWest #Ye #PornographyWebsite #YeezyPorn

Emma chose the name change because Emily Stone - her real name - was taken by another actor.

Protests have erupted across more than two dozen campuses, including in New York, Texas and California.

Actor Lucas Black recently shared that he has no regrets stepping away from NCIS New Orleans in 2019 in order to put his family first.

The US Secretary of State was speaking to the BBC at the end of a three-day trip to China.

The Southern Baptist Convention remains an overwhelmingly conservative denomination, but new data suggests the people in the pews are more politically diverse than is commonly assumed.

Taylor Swift's new album, The Tortured Poets Department, has garnered criticism from faith leaders who have taken to social media this week to express their distaste with the lyrical content that they believe mocks God and Christians.  #TaylorSwift #NewAlbum #TheTorturedPoetsDepartment #Critics #MockGod #Christians #AntiChristian #Antifaith

Secretary of State Antony Blinken says the US will act if China does not stop sending parts to Russia.

The government plans to close its porous border with Myanmar to boost security, separating ethnic groups that straddle the boundary. Ngamreichan Tuithung runs a Christian boarding school that sits right at the border of India’s Manipur state and Myanmar. Amazing Grace Mission School is based in Wanglee Market, a small Indian town, and serves around 150 students from Myanmar and 6 from India. Since Myanmar’s 2021 coup, the school has become a safe haven for parents wanting to send their children away from the violence of the war raging on in Myanmar. To Tuithung, it’s an opportunity to share with students and parents “about God’s love and how God is taking care of us.” For decades, some parents in Myanmar (also known as Burma) have been able to easily send their kids to school in India, thanks to a government policy that allows citizens of either country living within 10 miles of the border to freely enter the other country without a visa. Many tribal communities share ethnic ties, familial bonds, and a way of life transcending territorial boundaries. Tuithung, who is from the Naga ethnic group, grew up in India but has many relatives in Myanmar. Because of their close ties, he can speak Burmese and visits them often. However, all this will change as the Indian government proceeds with its decision to close the international border between India and Myanmar, which shares boundaries with four Indian states: Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. India’s home minister Amit Shah says the action is needed to “ensure the internal security” and “to maintain the demographic structure” of northeastern India as the war in Myanmar continues. Plans include constructing a fence and implementing a surveillance system. Tuithung believes that even with tightened borders, the government will provide ...Continue reading...

Actress Candace Cameron Bure recently shared a video in which country singer Hillary Scott of Lady A leads worship at church.

The rage of the mob is a poor substitute for real community. This piece was adapted from Russell Moore’s newsletter. Subscribe here. As Columbia University and other elite campuses erupt into protests against the United States’ diplomatic and military support of Israel’s war against Hamas, US Sen. John Fetterman denounced the antisemitic speech of some of these protesters, remarking on the social platform X, “Add some tiki torches and it’s Charlottesville for these Jewish students.” Whatever one thinks of Fetterman’s analogy or of the Israel-Hamas war, we would do well to listen to the common ring of the Charlottesville chant, “You will not replace us! Jews will not replace us!” with the one recorded this week on the Columbia campus: “We have Zionists who have entered the camp!” An observer might have asked in Charlottesville, “What Jews are trying to replace you?” The white nationalists there would no doubt have told such a person that a shadowy cabal was seeking to import immigrants, to commit “white genocide.” Just so, another observer might ask at Columbia, “What Zionists have entered your camp?” Israeli military forces? No. The “Zionists” in question are Jewish students—one wearing a Star of David—attempting to walk on campus. At one level, the video of the students chanting seems almost farcical, like a parody out of an old episode of Portlandia. The leader yells out a sentence; the followers repeat it back—even to the point of repeating back, in unison, “Repeat after me.” Does that part really have to be repeated? Well, kind of; that’s part of what happens in a chant. The message is not reasoned discourse. The rote nature of the repetition ...Continue reading...

Muslim leaders have filed complaints of blasphemy against a leading Christian pastor in Indonesia. #Blasphemy #Christianpersecution #Indonesia #Asia #GilbertLumoindong #IndonesiaBethelChurch

An artificial intelligence chatbot program aimed at helping people learn more about the Roman Catholic Church teachings is being used by over 180,000 people across 165 countries. #CatholicChurch #MagisteriumAI #chatbot #Catholics #artificialintelligence #Church #Gospel

Before my grandfather was put on hospice care, he shared his estate plan with our family. He was a generous man, but we had no idea he had accumulated SO many assets. As a result, my wife and I will be inheriting a lot of money. At age 30, we have no experience managing this kind of money. We need some guidelines. #Inheritance #hospicecare #riches #investment #wealth #wisdom #financialstewardship

Most practically, this month begs the question: What does society really hope to gain from our prison system?  #SecondChanceMonth #redemption #prisoners #anger #massincarceration #crime #homicide

Locked into that job for eight hours a day, five days a week — 40 hours a week with two weeks' vacation each year. For most of us, it is then that we really begin to question, “Is this all there is? #Graduation #work #job #purpose #career #retirement #KingdomofGod #discipleship #hope

In what may be the most offensive moment of his entire White House term, President Joe Biden attempted to fly under the radar by dropping his new provisions regarding Title IX regulations just before a weekend. #Genderidentity #sex #TitleIX #JoeBiden #discrimination #womensports #LiaThomas #transgender

Nowadays with so many questionable practices in the Church, leaders need to rekindle their understanding of what it means to be called by God to ministry. #Ministry #calling #passion #fearofGod #holiness #sin #humannature

This idea of an inevitable clash between the Gospel and politics is false and contrived. #ukraine #churchpolitics #churchstate

A Pentecostal pastor is urging his congregants not to embrace the “God Bless the USA Bible” that includes documents central to the founding of the United States, deriding it as “blasphemous.” #2024presidentialelection #DonaldTrump #GodBlesstheUSABible #CentralChurch #LoranLivingston

Delegates at the United Methodist Church General Conference voted this week to allow a regional body based in Eastern Europe to disaffiliate from the denomination over theological issues. #Eurasia #UnitedMethodistChurch #GeneralConference #schism #NorthCarolina

DeGeneres returns to the spotlight with a new stand-up show - two years after her talk show ended.

Christian parents must allow their children to occasionally endure hardship to build resilience if they want them to understand God's purpose for them, according to an education expert. #Parents #FocusontheFamily #Children #ChristianPsychologist #KathyKoch

Different minimums for males and females ruled discriminatory.

Whatever one thinks about that – and opinions sharply differ – it is a political and cultural phenomenon of great importance. But what is its history? How has the US 'evangelical right' emerged as such a political force? And why is it so supportive of Donald Trump and MAGA?

Amid a growing push to reunite orphans with extended family rather than keep children in residential homes, Kenyan authorities are set to adopt a new program that will phase out traditional orphanages over the next decade.

The summer monsoon will bring relief, but it's still weeks away.

What Parisians think about the event and the legacy it could leave

Steve Young is part of the tests to see if an mRNA jab can stop the deadliest skin cancer returning.

The plan would organize UMC churches in four global regions, with each given more leeway around same-sex marriage and other theological issues. The top legislative body of the United Methodist Church passed a series of measures Thursday to restructure the worldwide denomination to give each region greater equity in tailoring church life to its own customs and traditions. The primary measure, voted on as the UMC General Conference met at the Charlotte Convention Center in North Carolina, was an amendment to the church’s constitution to divide the denomination into four equal regions—Africa, Europe, the Philippines, and the United States. According to the plan, each region would be able to customize part of the denomination’s rulebook, the Book of Discipline, to fit local needs. While church regions in Africa, the Philippines, and Europe have already enjoyed some leeway in customizing church life, the United States has not. The vote on the constitutional amendment passed 586–164, or by 78 percent, which means it surpassed the two-thirds majority needed for constitutional amendments. It must now go before each smaller church region, called an annual conference, for ratification by the end of 2025. If ratified by two-thirds of delegates to the annual conferences, the restructuring would allow the four regions to set their own qualifications for ordaining clergy and lay leaders; publish their own hymnal and rituals, including rites for marriage; and establish its own judicial courts. A new Book of Discipline would have one section that could be revised and tailored for each of the four regional conferences. The two-week worldwide meeting is the first meeting of the General Conference in five years, due mostly to delays associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. It follows a painful schism that has split some 7,600 US-based churches from the denomination—a ...Continue reading...

The actress tells BBC News survivors feel betrayed after a new rape trial is ordered for Harvey Weinstein.

The BBC's Nada Tawfik runs through the most significant moments in Thursday's testimony.

Looking back on life, sometimes I wonder how I have made it this far. Through the trials of life, sometimes it felt as though there was no way to move forward. Then, I am reminded of who guides me each and every day. I have only made it this far in life because of The Way Maker. Thank you, God! Remind yourself today of this promise: God will never leave you. No matter what you are facing. NEVER is a very powerful word. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about the word NEVER. God will NEVER abandon you. This doesn't mean you won't endure trials. However, He promises to ALWAYS be with you. We can't run. We can't hide. He is ALWAYS with us. May everyone who knows Your mercy keep putting their trust in you, for they can count on You for help no matter what. O LORD, you will never, no never, neglect those who come to you. Psalm 9:10 TPT So, let’s hold on to God's promise of joy! Sometimes, we struggle to believe this or wrap our minds around it. It's hard to see past our suffering when we're in the midst of it; even when we do, it's impossible to fully grasp how much joy, peace, and fulfillment we will have one day in heaven. When we look toward better days here on earth, our expectations are low because we know we can't have perfect joy or complete contentment on this side of heaven. We can take heart and hold on to the promise God has for us as His people that we will one day soon have perfect joy that infinitely overcomes any suffering we once endured. 

Loran Livingston, lead pastor of Central Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, delivered a Sunday sermon to his congregation of about 6,000 people concerning the importance of studying Scripture rightly without outside interference from false doctrine.

Although Chick-fil-A has approximately eight locations in the Portland area, it will be the first Chick-fil-A within the city limits in two decades.

A new law provides a pathway to ban the popular app in the US. Here's a look at what it could mean for creators.

Family and friends of Grammy-winning artist Mandisa will celebrate her life Saturday during a funeral service at a Brentwood, Tenn., church that will be live-streamed.

The world is realizing anew that our faith has tangible benefits. This is an opportunity for the gospel. As Christianity continues to decline in the West, the broader world has begun to notice something’s missing. There seems to be a growing awareness that—for all the scandals and failings of the church—the loss of a Christian culture leaves us all worse off, and that there are benefits to being a Christian and to living in a Christian society. For example, Derek Thompson recently wrote in The Atlantic about the loss of community that comes with declining church attendance. “Maybe religion, for all of its faults, works a bit like a retaining wall,” he concluded, “hold[ing] back the destabilizing pressure of American hyper-individualism, which threatens to swell and spill over in its absence.” Likewise, Harvard scholar Tyler J. VanderWeele has extensively researched the benefits of participation in religious services, finding that it leads to improved mental and physical health, happiness, and sense of meaning. Statistically, going to church regularly will help you flourish as a human being. As Brad Wilcox, a professor at the University of Virginia, has shown, regular church attendance even correlates with a more satisfying sex life! And then you have those like former atheist Ayaan Hirsi Ali who explain their conversion to Christianity at least partly as a response to the decay of the contemporary world, a world threatened by “woke ideology,” “global Islam,” and authoritarianism. “The only credible answer, I believe, lies in our desire to uphold the legacy of the Judeo-Christian tradition,” Hirsi Ali said in an essay announcing her new faith. Famous atheist Richard Dawkins objected to Hirsi Ali’s conversion yet seems to ...Continue reading...

Christian worship leader and activist Sean Feucht is taking action in response to anti-Israel protests at well-known campuses such as Columbia University and New York University.

How the keeper of the beat is adapting to shifts in worship music. It was a church drummer’s worst nightmare. In the middle of a service, David Wagner was playing “Heaven Invade” with his worship band when his in-ear monitors stopped working. Wagner posted a clip on Instagram of what happened. It includes the audio that should have been coming through in his monitors: a mix of the sound from the band, some added reverb, and of course, the click track—a repetitive tapping sound that keeps time, usually sounding for each beat. Halfway through the video, one of the vocalists—his wife—passes him a new pair of headphones. The role of the worship drummer has changed a lot over the past 20 years. In addition to the evolving sound of worship music—moving away from rock and toward electronic dance music— drummers have adjusted to new production setups, becoming the person on stage who makes sure that musicians and tech are fully in sync. Since the rise of contemporary worship bands during the late 1990s, many churches have adopted technologies that were once reserved for live concerts in stadiums and large auditoriums, where musicians needed in-ear monitors and click tracks due to crowd noise and echoes. For veteran church drummers, these changes are pushing them to develop new skills and to adapt their approach to the music. Some say these shifts are making drumming more boring, lower stakes, and monotonous. Others are finding that new tools allow them to be creative, to explore using their instruments in different ways, and to experience new freedom as worshipers on stage—even if they are behind a Plexiglas cage. Wagner, who has been a drummer for 12 years, moved to a church in Murray, Kentucky, that uses in-ear monitors (IEMs) about 3 years ago. ...Continue reading...

When you are frightened, burdened, terrified, consumed with worry, weary to the point of quitting, pray this and watch God work through you, around you, and, yes, for you. #Discouragement #disappointment #ministry #burdens #struggle #quitting #purpose #worry

Some individuals within the church mistakenly align the doctrine of physical healing with the so-called "prosperity gospel." #divinehealing #miracles #Jesushealing #medicalmiracles #Gospel

When a woman faces an unplanned pregnancy, she considers abortion because she feels alone or threatened by abandonment. #Fellowship #sin #orphans #Jesus #grief #unplannedpregnancy #sacrifice #abortion

Certainly not at Columbia University, nor at Yale. Sahar Tartak, a Jewish student at Yale who is also a conservative reporter, was physically assaulted and blocked by protestors while attempting to film the pro-Hamas demonstration — which included taking down an American flag on a university flagpole — at that university. #Jews #safespaces #antisemitism #ColumbiaUniversity #Hamas #Gaza #Israel #ethniccleansing #genocide

Seven teenagers have been arrested by Australian police for allegedly belonging to a network that follows "violent extremist ideology".

There's a reason the aim for this year's Earth Day referred to both governments and churches as those who must commit to ending plastic production.

It is also simply not the case that the 'Old Testament' is 'angry, vindictive, and bloodthirsty', in contrast to the New Testament.

Immortalised in the classic movie Chariots of Fire, Liddell was known for his unwavering faith in God and his refusal to compromise his beliefs for anyone.

Instead of safeguarding the democratic norms ensuring equality for all, prevailing authoritarianism is stripping India's heritage of deep spirituality and replacing it with the divisiveness of religiosity.

The top court will hear arguments on Thursday in a case that could redefine presidential power.

The Southern Health Trust says the move is not out of concern but to provide extra assurance.

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Blinken's trip is a sign of improved US-China ties, but the two still view each other with suspicion.

The World Health Organization also finds higher rates of drinking and vaping among teenage girls.

One of the nation’s leading evangelists is warning Christian parents that Taylor Swift’s newest album contains lyrics that seemingly oppose the faith. Swift released The Tortured Poets Department on April 19.

"They're depressed and anxious and have been discipled, so to speak, by social media and phones and all that," he said Tuesday during the panel discussion about the Asbury outpouring at the Evangelical Press Association's convention in Lexington, Ky. "But that doesn't mean they are not hungry for something that's good and right and true and real."

Let us not give up meeting together—even when we disagree. Recently, a woman at my church approached me with a question borne out of genuine curiosity. She asked, “You’re a female theologian. Why did you choose to come to our church when women aren’t allowed to preach here?” Since much of my work as a Bible scholar is public, it is no secret that I support women’s full participation in ministry, including in church leadership. So I wasn’t surprised that someone happened to notice my convictions did not match our church’s practice on this issue. It’s a good question, and one I’ve wrestled with regularly—since, at present, I don’t feel I’m able to serve our church in all the ways that God has called and equipped me. I so long for the body of Christ to embrace the gifts of all its members, not only here but around the world. But as CT’s April issue reminds us, the global church is far from united on what women can and can’t do in church. Still, I was glad my friend asked me about our family’s decision-making process, because it’s face-to-face conversations like this that prevent polarization. The role of women isn’t the only issue that divides us today. Approaches to racial reconciliation or diversity initiatives, our posture toward climate change, and politics—particularly when there’s another contentious presidential election in sight—are all areas that threaten to fracture our faith communities. According to The Great Dechurching, a recent book by Jim Davis, Michael Graham, and Ryan P. Burge, people are leaving the church in unprecedented numbers. Forty million Americans who used to attend church no longer do—that’s 16 percent ...Continue reading...

NIL deals in college athletics present new challenges—and opportunities—for colleges and students. When Deverin Muff played Division I college basketball at Eastern Kentucky University, student athletes weren’t allowed to earn money off their name, image, and likeness (NIL)—their personal brand. Now he’s a professor at the university, and some of the players in his classes have agents. An NCAA policy change in 2021—heralded by Muff and other Christian athletes as a matter of fairness—allows college athletes to earn money beyond financial aid or scholarships. “This is a matter of justice, frankly. … It righted a historic wrong,” said Pepperdine University sports administration professor Alicia Jessop. College sports, especially football and basketball, draw in billions in revenue. Christians in college athletics have welcomed the change to allow NIL deals, according to interviews with CT. But they are also navigating an unknown landscape and finding challenges along the way. The NCAA itself is still reeling from the resulting shifts in the economics of college sports, passing additional NIL rules just last week. Jessop was recently teaching a class on NIL deals at Pepperdine, where she is also the faculty representative to the NCAA. One student decided to put the class into practice immediately and reached out to a sunglasses brand to pitch a deal. In a short time, the student had a free pair of sunglasses delivered. “It’s a teaching tool,” said Jessop. “They think they’re learning about NIL so they’re focused, but they’re getting a whole business curriculum put in front of them.” Under the new NCAA rules passed last week, schools can be more directly involved in NIL deals and they can offer a support system that helps educate students ...Continue reading...

Columbia, an Ivy League school in New York City, became an epicenter when a tent city dubbed the “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” was created on the school’s campus.

There is, however, a deeper reason that we should go to church than just that the Bible commands us to. #Church #gathering #congregation #worship #LordsDay #preaching #Gospel

It’s up to us as parents to guard the spirits and souls of our kids by guarding what we allow them to see and hear. #Media #Hollywood #Satan #entertainment #faith #parenting

What is taking place between Israel and Iran is setting up a future battle that Ezekiel mentioned over 2,600 years ago. #Iran #Israel #Hamas #MiddleEast #Hezbollah #Gaza #Palestine

“The very first temptation in the history of mankind was the temptation to be discontent … that is exactly what discontentment is — a questioning of the goodness of God.” #Faithfulness #savinggrace #salvation #worldlypassions #joy #peace

Everything about this post, from the “repeat after us” mantra to the silliness of the first sentence and the absurdity of the second sentence, shouts Babylon Bee more than NOW, except that the radical left espouse such ridiculous positions that it unintentionally appears as self-satire. #Womanhood #whitesupremacy #KarlMarx #patriarchy #RileyGaines #feminism #trans #transgender #nationalorganizationforwomen

A public consultation about proposals to introduce abortion clinic 'buffer zones' across Scotland has revealed widespread opposition.

"I don't believe in a vengeful God, I believe in a loving God that loves us so much."

The starring role in a June auction at Christie's will be taken by the Crosby-Schoyen Codex, the oldest known book in private hands. Written on papyrus in the Coptic language, it contains the oldest complete version of the First Epistle of Peter and the Book of Jonah.

Police have provided an update on their investigation into the death of 47-year-old Christian artist Mandisa on April 18 as fellow musicians have reflected on the impact she had on their lives.

I have been the parent that expected everything to be perfect. Let me tell you what I have learned...

There were more than 12,000 UK deaths in the past decade, many of them needless, a charity warns.

Parents in England can now access 15 hours of free weekly childcare for their two-year-olds.

Christians can disciple each other toward action, prayer, and hope. I’m 26 and mostly full of enthusiasm for the future. But when I think about the heat waves, floods, and humanitarian crises that I’ll likely experience in my lifetime, I feel a sense of dread. And even more so when I think about the future of my children and my children’s children. I wonder if they’ll get to experience all the beauty of God’s creation that I so cherished while growing up. As a young farmer, I feel my chest tighten as I watch weather patterns and the seasons become more and more erratic. I worry if there’ll be wars for food and water with a warmer climate, or if water sources will be polluted and the soil will be eroded. Many people, especially my age, feel the same way. A recent survey asked 10,000 young people across the world about their thoughts and feelings regarding climate change. According to the findings, three out of four young people think the future is frightening. More than half reported feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, and powerlessness when thinking about climate change. And around 45 percent of respondents said their feelings about climate change negatively affected their daily life and functioning. These fears have become so prevalent in our generation that a new term has been coined: eco-anxiety. In a way, young people today have fulfilled climate activist Greta Thunberg’s provocation to leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in 2019: “I don't want you to be hopeful, I want you to panic. I want you to feel the fear I feel every day.” But while I respect Thunberg’s contribution to putting climate change on the world’s agenda, I disagree with her on this. I don’t believe that panic will help us. ...Continue reading...

C.S. Lewis recommended discernment over diatribes in exactly the moments we’re most eager to indulge in critique. I’d just finished reading one of C. S. Lewis’s lesser-known books, Studies in Words, when I happened upon a recent New York Times report on evangelical support for Donald Trump. The former president’s summer of legal woes is off to an early start, and many have asked whether the present trial (or another) will lose him support ahead of Election Day. The answer—among his base, anyway—is undoubtedly no. If anything, the opposite is true: In some circles, his adversities are hailed as a kind of vindication, his endurance on the campaign trail as a sign of divine blessing. “For some of Mr. Trump’s supporters, the political attacks and legal peril he faces are nothing short of biblical,” the report said. “They’ve crucified him worse than Jesus,” one Trump enthusiast told the Times. Now, the Lewis book is mostly fascinating linguistic history, but the last chapter examines how we use language to dispense criticism, and its final two pages are precisely the warning our political culture needs as we plod through another contentious election. It’s certainly the warning I need and the warning I hope fellow Christians will heed, particularly those of us in politically diverse families, friend groups, and congregations. I realized how much I needed it as I read that Times article. It published on Easter Monday and I read it the same day, the drama of Easter weekend fresh on my mind. Suffice it to say, the crucifixion line did not sit well with me. “Worse than Jesus”! I remember thinking. I agree some of this legal stuff is far-fetched, but are you kidding me? Do these people not know what crucifixion entails? Do they not know Trump probably sleeps on silk ...Continue reading...

Passive. Aggressive. Passive-aggressive. These are not the men the world needs. Which begs the question: What kind of man does the world need? #Passiveaggressive #men #cultivating #serving #AdamandEve #safety #protection

As we acknowledge that illegal immigration is a violation of the law, we must not lose sight of the humanity inherent in others. #Illegalimmigration #racism #JosephandMary #refugees #nationalsovereignty #openborder #humantrafficking

Christian fundamentalism trained me up in the way I should go. I never imagined that when I was old, its training would cause me to depart from it. #Fundamentalism #judgmental #politicalorientation #progressivism #conservative #legalism #identity #Christianity

They say that even a broken clock is right twice a day. That’s what I found myself thinking when I read reports of recent comments by the spokesman of the Iranian Islamic regime foreign ministry, Nasser Kahani, and I found myself agreeing with him. Sort of. #NasserKahani #Iran #Gaza #Hezbollah #Israel #Hamas #Syria #mullahs #Islam #Biden

Our words really matter. Whether we realize it or not or acknowledge it or not, what we say impacts people in profound ways #Words #sticksandstones #insults #thedevil #Hell #eternity #Hitler #spiritualmaturity #thetongue

The government wants to stop people smoking by raising the legal age limit for buying cigarettes.

The 23rd April is St George's Day but St George was not the original patron saint of England, so who was? This is the story ...

During April, as the world commemorated the 100th anniversary of the Titanic disaster, the stories of three courageous priests resurfaced.

Who was St George and how did he become patron saint of England? 23 April is St George's Day. But who was St George and why is he patron saint of England? This is the story ...

The cost-of-living crisis is having an impact - but health concerns remain the top reason for quitting.

An online friendship between two mums led to a new kidney for five-year-old Destiny-Rae.

They include a judge and prosecutors who have previously tangled with Mr Trump, an all-in defence team and several curious witnesses.

As the world looks to tackle the urgent issue of global child poverty, our faith calls us to address the deeply connected issue of how extreme weather affects children. #Poverty #pain #creation #extremeweather #drought #flooding #compassion #EarthDay

The number of under 65s struggling with poor health is rising - and it's a threat to the economy.

With catastrophic losses — upwards of $13 billion dollars in market value — consumer outrage was packing a serious punch to Nike. #Nike #DylanMulvaney #trans #BudLight #woke #LGBT #Target #Disney #BlackLivesMatter #Xinjiang

If Darwin was right, the naturalists can’t even have confidence in believing naturalism is true. Or anything else for that matter.   #Truth #absolutism #enlightenment #atheism #Darwinism #doubt #naturalism #evolution

How should those within the pro-life movement — especially those who call themselves Christian — react to these protestors? #RoevWade #Dobbs #abortion #prolife #morningafterpill #anxiety #forgiveness

This month, I celebrated 43 years in full-time ministry. It’s hard to believe I’ve been at this work that long — maybe because most of the years have been great joys. Here are some things I would do differently, though, if I were starting again #Ministry #prayer #wisdom #vacations #criticism #regret

We asked some GPs what they thought of other professionals taking on their responsibility for sick notes.

Campaigner Andy Evans said it has raised awareness of those given infected blood products.

Specialist clinics are helping increasing numbers of young ketamine users with damaged bladders.

How often do we find ourselves caught up in rushing from one task to the next without pausing to rest and recharge? In our fast-paced society, the concept of Sabbath rest can easily get overlooked or dismissed as impractical. But what if prioritizing rest is not only practical but essential for our spiritual and emotional well-being? Biblical Foundation:  "Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work..." - Exodus 20:9-10a (NIV) The practice of Sabbath rest is deeply rooted in Scripture, dating back to the creation story when God Himself rested on the seventh day after completing His work. Throughout the Old and New Testaments, we see God's command to observe the Sabbath as a day of rest, reflection, and worship. In our modern world, where productivity is often valued above all else, taking a Sabbath rest may seem counterintuitive. However, God's design for Sabbath rest is not just about physical recuperation but also about spiritual renewal and intimacy with Him. Consider the story of Elijah in 1 Kings 19. After a great victory over the prophets of Baal, Elijah found himself exhausted and discouraged, fleeing into the wilderness. But in his moment of weakness, God provided for him, sending angels to minister to his needs and speaking to him in a gentle whisper. Elijah's experience reminds us that even in our lowest moments, God is present, offering us rest and renewal. Similarly, in Mark 6:31, Jesus invites His disciples to come away to a quiet place and rest awhile after a busy season of ministry. He understood the importance of rest in sustaining their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Sabbath rest offers a profound opportunity for believers to experience the benefits of trusting in God's provision and sovereignty. In the rhythm of weekly Sabbath observance, we are invited to release our grip on productivity and control, acknowledging our dependence on God as the ultimate provider and sustainer of our lives. By setting aside time to rest and recharge, we relinquish our striving and striving, choosing instead to trust in God's promise to meet our needs and grant us the rest we so desperately need. Moreover, Sabbath rest fosters a deeper sense of intimacy with God as we intentionally carve out space in our busy lives to commune with Him. In the stillness of Sabbath, away from the distractions and demands of the world, we are invited to draw near to God in worship, prayer, and reflection. As we rest in His presence, we are reminded of His faithfulness throughout history and His unwavering commitment to care for His children. This intimate encounter with God cultivates a sense of peace and security, strengthening our trust in His goodness and provision even in the midst of life's uncertainties. Ultimately, Sabbath rest becomes a tangible expression of our trust in God's sovereignty, as we surrender our worries and burdens at His feet, confident that He will sustain us and lead us in paths of righteousness. Life Application Action Steps: Set Aside Time: Choose a day each week to intentionally rest and recharge. Create space for activities that bring you joy, whether it's spending time in nature, reading Scripture, or enjoying fellowship with loved ones. Unplug and Disconnect: In a world filled with constant distractions, make an effort to unplug from technology and social media during your Sabbath rest. Use this time to reconnect with God and those around you on a deeper level. Prioritize Worship: Make worship and reflection a central part of your Sabbath observance. Attend church services, engage in personal prayer and meditation, and express gratitude for God's blessings in your life. Reflection Questions: How can I incorporate Sabbath rest into my weekly routine, prioritizing both physical and spiritual renewal? What activities bring me true rest and rejuvenation, and how can I incorporate them into my Sabbath observance? How can I honor God's command to rest while still being mindful of the needs of others and opportunities for service? Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Sabbath rest, a time to pause and reflect on Your goodness and grace. Help us to prioritize rest in our busy lives, trusting in Your provision and guidance. Renew our spirits as we draw near to You in worship and reflection. May our Sabbath observance deepen our intimacy with You and strengthen our faith. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Have you ever felt like you were not gifted in certain areas, but struggled to identify your strengths? In a recent Women of Faith group coaching session led by Alita Reynolds, the topic of discovering and activating the charisma or giftings that God has placed in our lives was discussed. Alita emphasized the importance of recognizing and utilizing the unique gifts that God has given each of us. Reflection Questions: Have you ever felt inadequate or lacking in certain areas of your life? What are some things you have felt called to do but have not pursued due to self-doubt or fear? How can you shift your perspective to see your weaknesses as opportunities for God's strength to be displayed? In 2 Corinthians 12:9, we are reminded that God's grace empowers us in our weaknesses. His empowerment is optimized in situations beyond our natural ability. This means that we are called to rely on God's grace to accomplish the mission He has given us. Life Application Action Steps: Take a moment to reflect on the areas where you feel inadequate or lacking in giftings. Write them down and surrender them to God, asking for His grace to empower you. Make a list of things you feel called to do but have not pursued due to fear or self-doubt. Pray for courage and faith to step out in obedience. Identify at least one area where you feel God has gifted you and commit to using that gift for His glory. In Proverbs 9:11-12, we are reminded that wisdom will multiply our days and add years to our life. When we operate in God's wisdom and utilize the giftings He has given us, we experience increased effectiveness and fruitfulness in our lives. Let's Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for the unique giftings and charisma you have placed in each of our lives. Help us to recognize and activate these gifts for Your glory. Grant us the courage to step out in faith and obedience, trusting in Your grace to empower us. May we use our strengths to build Your kingdom and bring honor to Your name. In Jesus' name, Amen.

They were given infected blood products in trials without their knowledge, the BBC has found.

In Theaters NationwideApril 26, 2024 GET TICKETS NOW! Some prayers are "Please?" Some prayers are "Thank you!" In UNSUNG HERO, the Smallbone family comes together and learns to pray for what they need and give thanks for what they receive—now you can try this with your family, too. It's mom and dad's story of coming from Australia, to America. But the movie really tells the story of that knife's edge moment of everything can fall apart, or you can overcome.  Within the journey, there's redemption, there's hope and there's love. Just a really compelling story about a family that unites together the deepens in their faith. It's so powerful it needed to be seen in a movie. I think because mom and dad posed it to us as an adventure. It was that and they didn't seem scared. And so we weren't scared.  Migrating around the world and taking leaps of faith and taking risks, fighting for each other instead of against each other in these really dire desperate moments. And hopefully just give one small example of what it looks like to rise above together. Whatever your dream is. GET TICKETS NOW!

The former U.S. ambassador to Israel during the Trump administration asserted Monday that there is no pathway to statehood for Palestinians who supported Hamas’ Oct. 7 massacre, declaring that the only plan for the Jewish state is the one God had for it thousands of years ago.  #Israel #Iran #Jewishstate #twostatesolution #Bidenadministration

Bank of England interest rates have an impact on the mortgage, loan and savings rates for millions of people.

Use our calculator to find out how much the cost of living is going up in your household.

The football commentator pays tribute to a speech therapist who helped him talk again after surgery.

Have you ever found yourself sizing up someone else's journey, comparing it to your own, and feeling either superior or inferior as a result? It's a common struggle, but one that calls us to reflect on the grace we've received and extend it to others. Let's delve into how we can walk in grace towards those around us. Walking in grace offers a multitude of benefits that not only enrich our own lives but also positively impact the lives of those around us. When we choose to extend grace to others, we cultivate an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding, fostering deeper connections and relationships. Instead of dwelling on faults or shortcomings, grace allows us to see the inherent worth and dignity in each individual, regardless of their past or present circumstances. Moreover, embracing grace liberates us from the burden of judgment and resentment. As we release the need to compare our journeys with those of others, we experience a newfound sense of freedom and peace. Rather than being consumed by envy or superiority, we can appreciate the beauty of diversity and celebrate each person's unique path. In essence, walking in grace opens the door to compassion, humility, and reconciliation, transforming not only how we relate to others but also how we view ourselves. By embodying grace in our daily lives, we mirror the unconditional love and forgiveness that God extends to us. As we strive to emulate Christ's example, we become agents of healing and reconciliation in a world often plagued by division and discord. Moreover, as we sow seeds of grace, we reap a harvest of joy, fulfillment, and spiritual growth. Truly, there is immeasurable beauty and power in walking in grace, both for ourselves and for those whom we encounter along the way.   Bible Verses about Giving and Receiving Grace: Ephesians 4:32 (NIV) - "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Colossians 3:13 (NIV) - "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Matthew 7:1-2 (NIV) - "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."   Life Application Action Steps: Reflect on a recent moment when you found yourself judging someone else's journey. What triggered this judgment, and how can you respond with grace instead? Practice empathy by intentionally seeking to understand the experiences and challenges of others without passing judgment. Make a commitment to extend grace freely, just as you have received it from God.   Reflection Questions: How does the concept of grace challenge your tendency to judge others? In what areas of your life do you need to extend more grace to those around you? How can embracing grace transform your relationships and interactions with others?   Let's Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for the immeasurable grace you have bestowed upon us through your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to walk in that same grace towards others, recognizing that we are all on unique journeys. Teach us to love without judgment, to forgive as we have been forgiven, and to extend grace freely and generously. May our lives be a reflection of your love and mercy. In Jesus' name, Amen.

I believe we could all agree on this: When you became a follower of Jesus, it wasn't so that you could kick back and relax. Actually, becoming a follower is just the beginning for us!  You are part of God’s plan, and God wants to show His goodness through you. Here’s the thing: you didn’t have to work for your salvation.  It was a free gift from God. But now that you’ve got it, it’s time to share it enthusiastically with others.  And life events are going to require your effort, too; God’s not going to shield you from tough stuff because He wants to see you grow. So, when life gets rough, don’t be surprised! In fact, He wants you to step up every time life throws something your way, bringing all you’ve got to the task. Even so, you will triumph not by your own strength but by God working through you. Rise to the challenge! It’s an opportunity for God to shine through you! When times get tough, are your actions, thoughts, and feelings reflecting the change God continues to make in you? If you’re still reacting to adversity the way “the old you” would, then you probably aren’t living out the full life that God offers you. Let’s ditch the sin of complaining and embrace a spirit of strength and willingness to face whatever challenges come our way. I love how Psalm 18:29 says, “By my God I can leap over a wall.”  Because of God, we have the strength to get through any wall in our path.  In fact, we can view the wall as an opportunity. Our main goal? To let Jesus shine through us! That can only happen when our desires take a back seat, we quit complaining, and we become all about letting God work through us however He wants. Jesus never demanded anything of His Father, and we are not to make demands either.   Instead, we can be like broken bread and poured-out wine, nourishing others with God’s love and grace as it shines through us.   I am Wildly Cheering You!  🤍 Alita 🤍 

Victoria Atkins is challenged to name some health trusts meeting their targets to cut waiting lists.

Parenting is no easy feat, and sometimes we find ourselves raising difficult children...

Cannabis vapes are being sold containing the dangerous animal tranquiliser xylazine, experts say.

Payments to pensioners have risen by 8.5% following the government's "triple lock" pledge.

This world celebrates the self, self-help, self-love, and the pronouns "me," "mine," and "my," amidst the clamor of all these selfish ambitions and desires, there exists a quiet yet profound call from the heart of Jesus: "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me" (Matthew 16:24). But what does it truly mean to deny oneself and follow Jesus? At its core, denying oneself is about surrendering our own will, desires, and ambitions to align with God's will. It's a conscious decision to put aside our personal agendas and comforts in order to prioritize following Christ. Jesus didn't mince words when he spoke of this requirement for discipleship; it's not a suggestion but a fundamental aspect of what it means to follow Him. Yet, this call to self-denial isn't merely about emptying ourselves. It's about making room for God's transformative power to work within and through us. As we deny ourselves, empty ourselves, we create space for God to shine through us—to mold us into vessels of His grace, love, and truth. Daily self-denial is a practice—a continuous journey of surrendering our will to God's, of taking up our cross and following Jesus each day. It's not always easy; it requires humility, obedience, and a genuine desire to align with God's will. But the transformation that occurs when we deny ourselves and allow God to shine through us is profound. Walking in humility, seeking God's glory above personal recognition, and aligning our motives with His will—these are the keys to making God's voice louder in our lives. When we prioritize God's agenda over our own, we become more attuned to His leading, more sensitive to His voice, and more aligned with His purposes. In denying ourselves, we find true freedom—not in pursuing our own desires, but in surrendering them to the One who knows us intimately and loves us unconditionally. It's a paradoxical truth: in losing ourselves, we find ourselves in Christ. In embracing the path of self-denial and following Jesus wholeheartedly, you will find this freedom is unlike any other. It's a freedom that transcends the limitations of our own desires and ambitions, a freedom that comes from being unshackled from the burdens of self-centered living. When we release the grip of our own agendas and surrender to God's will, we discover a newfound liberty—a liberty to love sacrificially, to serve selflessly, and to live with purpose and meaning. This freedom isn't found in pursuing our own interests, but in aligning our lives with the One who offers true abundance and fulfillment. As we walk in obedience and humility, we experience the liberating truth that in denying ourselves, we find the fullness of life that Jesus promised to those who follow Him (John 10:10). So let us embrace this journey of self-denial with courage and conviction. Let us daily take up our cross and follow Jesus, knowing that in denying ourselves, we make room for God's transformative power to work within us. May we walk in humility, seeking God's glory above all else, and aligning our motives with His will. And may the transformation that occurs within us be a testament to the power of God's love and grace at work in our lives. Let’s Pray: Dear Lord, Thank you for the profound call to deny ourselves and follow you. Give us the strength and courage to surrender our will to yours each day. May we walk in humility, seeking your glory above all else, and aligning our motives with your will. Transform us from the inside out, Lord, and use us as vessels of your grace, love, and truth in the world. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Hey there!  Have you ever heard about the idea of having NO habits?  The phrase refers to when we start doing something regularly, like praying or reading the Bible, and it becomes so routine that we do it without even thinking.  You may be thinking to yourself, what do you mean NO habits?  All the gurus out there say we must have daily habits to maintain a disciplined life.   And, when it comes to having consistent and routine habits, I would agree! Here's the thing, though: getting stuck in the habit itself can be a problem. It could turn into a time when we focus more on checking off our prayer time than actually connecting with God. Instead, the goal and idea of “no habits” is to let these habits become a natural part of who we are, so much so that we don't even realize we're doing them.  It's about living in a way that reflects our desire to seek God and His love without even trying. Sometimes, we might think we're being holy by sticking to our routines, but in reality, we might miss out on something deeper.  What if our dedication to our routine is stronger than our dedication to follow as the Spirit leads us? It's like we're saying, "Sorry, God, I can't do that right now. It’s my time to pray.” I encourage you to ask the Holy Spirit to show you when you have stayed in a habit instead of doing what God wants you to do at that moment.  Ask yourself, “What habits have gotten in the way of me experiencing a deeper relationship with Jesus?” When we prioritize the habit over obedience, we’re missing the point of why we're praying (or reading the Bible, fasting, etc.) in the first place.  And if there's a behavior or habit in our lives that doesn’t bring us closer to God, well, that's an opportunity for growth. True love for God means our actions flow from our hearts as we are moved to be obedient to the Holy Spirit, not just from following a set schedule.  Let's not get too caught up in our habits. Instead, let’s focus on growing closer to God in every aspect of our lives.  I am Wildly Cheering You! 🤍 Alita 🤍  

In Theaters NationwideApril 26, 2024 GET TICKETS NOW! 🚨Family’s not in the way…they are the way! Join the adventure when #UnsungHeroMovie hits theaters beginning April 26—we’re making it a Family Day at the theaters! 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🎞️ SEE IT FIRST April 24th in select theaters. It's gonna be dangerous and scary. It's going to be so hard that you want to go back and giving up. It's not an option. We've got to fight our way forward.  Unsung Hero is about how family pulls together and supports one another.  It's also a story about God and how He just shows up so evidently, and just made a way for your family.  Families need a story that they can hang on to or something that can inspire them. This is really powerful. GET TICKETS NOW! SYNOPSIS:Based on a remarkable true story, Unsung Hero follows David Smallbone as he moves his family fromDown Under to the States, searching for a brighter future after his successful music company collapses.With nothing more than their seven children, suitcases, and their love of music, David (for KING +COUNTRY’s Joel Smallbone) and his pregnant wife Helen (Daisy Betts) set out to rebuild their lives.Helen’s faith stands against all odds and inspires her husband and children to hold onto theirs. With theirown dreams on hold, David and Helen begin to realize the musical prowess in their children, who wouldgo on to become two of the most successful acts in Inspirational Music history: five-time GRAMMYAward®-winning artists for KING + COUNTRY and Rebecca St. James. Rating: PG Official Site:https://unsunghero.movie/ StarringDaisy Betts, Joel Smallbone, Kirrilee Berger, Jonathan Jackson, Lucas Black,with Candace Cameron Bure, and Terry O’Quinn Directed byJoel Smallbone, Richard L. Ramsey Written byJoel Smallbone, Richard L. Ramsey Produced by:Joshua Walsh, Justin Tolley, Joel Smallbone, Luke Smallbone GET TICKETS NOW!

What help and options are available to people struggling with debt repayments?

Thousands were infected with HIV and hepatitis C, in the worst treatment disaster in NHS history.

Thousands were infected with HIV and hepatitis C, in the worst treatment disaster in NHS history.

Many countries have legalised assisted dying, assisted suicide or euthanasia, which are different.

Isolation is a common response to difficult times, but far too often we are unaware of the dangers of isolation...

UK renters have seen increases of 10% and two million are behind or struggling to pay.

The prescription drug has been linked to a number of deaths in the UK and around the world.

BBC News analysis reveals wide variation across England in waits for planned hospital treatment.

The government will introduce a new vaping tax on top of measures to stop children vaping.

People living with alopecia could have access to treatment on the NHS in Scotland for the first time.

A group of teenagers in Fife have been making a documentary about the impact of disposable vapes.

The PM says he tries to fast at the start of the week so he can indulge in his “weakness for sugary things” on other days.

The BBC's Kirsten Campbell outlines what can be expected during three weeks of evidence held in Edinburgh.

The BBC asked two junior doctors in England to show us their payslips and reveal their salaries.

Top stories, breaking news, live reporting, and follow news topics that match your interests

The appeal is clear - but should we be turning to appetite-suppressing injections?

An inquiry into the "worst treatment disaster in NHS history" hears its final evidence.

Families of some of those affected are giving evidence at a public inquiry into the treatment disaster.

A woman who lost both parents in the infected blood scandal says many victims still need justice.