thestream--2020-03-24--Faith Studios Release New (and Even Free) Entertainment for Families Stuck at Home

As more states and counties respond to the coronavirus pandemic , over 100 million Americans are being asked to shelter-in-place .
Families across the U.S. are facing a fresh question : How can kids and parents alike stay productive — and sane — during self-isolation ?
Help is on the way .
Leading faith-driven studios , most doubling as ministries , are stepping up to be a resource to families .
VidAngel ’ s special free trial has already been quickly snatched up by “ tens of thousands ” of families , the streaming service reports .
“ Working parents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kids at home and work from home , ” said VidAngel CEO Neal Harmon .
“ We hope free access [ to VidAngel ] will come as a welcome relief in the face of the stress of the pandemic.
” Meanwhile , Focus on the Family has made available a month-long trial of character-building children ’ s show Adventures in Odyssey .
Their app includes both audio dramas and animated video programs .
On a larger scale , the year ’ s biggest faith-based entertainment release has opted for a new way to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Eight years in the making , I Still Believe recounts the love story of Christian music artist Jeremy Camp and his college sweetheart Melissa .
Come Friday you ’ ll be able to see it at home .
The heart-tugger stars K.J .
Apa ( TV ’ s Riverdale ) as Camp and Britt Robertson ( Tomorrowland ) as his love interest .
Gary Sinise ( Apollo 13 ) and country star Shania Twain co-star as Camp ’ s parents .
Opening March 13 on over 3,000 screens , I Still Believe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ box office .
It slightly underperformed estimates , as nationwide self-isolation began that weekend .
“ Travel bans , empty grocery stores , and the worst box office weekend in 22 years , ” stated Ben Smallbone , editor on the film .
“ It just so happens that this was the weekend selected months ago to release our movie .
Is God in this ?
Absolutely.
” Help us champion truth , freedom , limited government and human dignity .
Support The Stream » Despite their hope , it was a blow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ theaters now closed , box office tracking has been suspended for the first time in decades .
“ As filmmakers , we are heartbroken that we can ’ t share I Still Believe on a big screen the way we intended , ” said directors Jon and Andrew Erwin in a statement .
“ We make movies because we love movies , and we stand firmly behind the nation ’ s theater chains .
But the safety of guests comes first.
” They opted to follow the route of other Hollywood films including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday , I Still Believe will premiere on premium video-on-demand services .
The inspirational film will be available for a $ 20 fee on Google Play , Apple TV , Amazon Prime , and Christian Cinema .
“ Having this premium video on demand option replaces being able to see the movie at theaters , ” stated the film website .
“ Think of this as a movie ticket for a 48-hour home-viewing window.
” Major streaming services have been reaping the rewards of self-isolation , with buzz about Netflix , Amazon Prime @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Smaller faith-based services have been quick to provide special deals during the crisis .
While VidAngel ’ s trial currently runs through March 30 , a source indicates other offers are in the works .
“ Our award-winning content is both entertaining and educational , ” said Harmon .
“ The VidAngel family [ is ] pitching in and doing whatever we can to help our communities weather this crisis.
” The streamer has recently become known for two hit series .
The Chosen retells the life of Christ , starting with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Dallas Jenkins , son of evangelical author Jerry Jenkins , the drama has won awards from Movieguide among others .
In addition , Dry Bar Comedy on VidAngel features top stand-up comics inciting laughs without risqué humor .
Other services are also rolling out free features .
Upstart kids-focused streamer Minno has introduced Church At Home .
Previewing Minno ’ s full content , it provides worship songs and animated stories on a weekly basis .
Program of the Year winner at National Religious Broadcasters Convention in February , Adventures in Odyssey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
All 900-plus audio episodes can be accessed from its mobile app along with over a dozen animated programs .
It ’ s free for the first month .
Each of these apps — VidAngel , Minno , and Adventures in Odyssey — are compatible with Google Chromecast , Apple TV , and other top devices .
This past week , congregations have adopted streaming as never before .
While only a quarter of U.S. churches offered live-streaming as of last fall , thousands more have ventured in per recent reports .
Having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to bridge the gap between Christian teaching and streaming content .
Their online ministry works through churches , who then provide access to congregants .
However , they are shifting their focus during this crisis .
“ Over the last several weeks , our team has been monitoring the # COVID19 outbreak and brainstorming how we can best serve the church , ” the ministry tweeted .
“ We want to support individuals who don ’ t have access to RightNow Media [ with ] a curated library of video resources.
” As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , faith-driven producers hope their programs can be a help .
For the Erwin Brothers , who co-produced I Still Believe with major Hollywood studio Lionsgate , it ’ s a test of believers ’ support for new models of film distribution .
“ [ This is ] a movie whose inspiring message of love , hope and faith is perfect for these uncertain times , ” said the co-directors .
“ We ’ re proud to have the opportunity to share [ it ] online .
”

As more states and counties respond to the coronavirus pandemic, over 100 million Americans are being asked to shelter-in-place. Families across the U.S. are facing a fresh question: How can kids and parents alike stay productive — and sane — during self-isolation?
Help is on the way. Leading faith-driven studios, most doubling as ministries, are stepping up to be a resource to families.
VidAngel’s special free trial has already been quickly snatched up by “tens of thousands” of families, the streaming service reports.
“The VidAngel family is pitching in and doing whatever we can to help our communities weather this crisis.” – Neal Harmon
“Working parents are strapped right now trying to juggle kids at home and work from home,” said VidAngel CEO Neal Harmon. “We hope free access [to VidAngel] will come as a welcome relief in the face of the stress of the pandemic.”
Meanwhile, Focus on the Family has made available a month-long trial of character-building children’s show Adventures in Odyssey. Their app includes both audio dramas and animated video programs.
On a larger scale, the year’s biggest faith-based entertainment release has opted for a new way to reach audiences with its message of hope.
Christian Romance Flick Hits Video-On-Demand
Eight years in the making, I Still Believe recounts the love story of Christian music artist Jeremy Camp and his college sweetheart Melissa. Come Friday you’ll be able to see it at home.
The heart-tugger stars K.J. Apa (TV’s Riverdale) as Camp and Britt Robertson (Tomorrowland) as his love interest. Gary Sinise (Apollo 13) and country star Shania Twain co-star as Camp’s parents.
Opening March 13 on over 3,000 screens, I Still Believe earned over $9 million at the box office. It slightly underperformed estimates, as nationwide self-isolation began that weekend.
“Travel bans, empty grocery stores, and the worst box office weekend in 22 years,” stated Ben Smallbone, editor on the film. “It just so happens that this was the weekend selected months ago to release our movie. Is God in this? Absolutely.”
Please Support The Stream : Equipping Christians to Think Clearly About the Political, Economic, and Moral Issues of Our Day.
Despite their hope, it was a blow to the big-budget film. With all theaters now closed, box office tracking has been suspended for the first time in decades.
“As filmmakers, we are heartbroken that we can’t share I Still Believe on a big screen the way we intended,” said directors Jon and Andrew Erwin in a statement. “We make movies because we love movies, and we stand firmly behind the nation’s theater chains. But the safety of guests comes first.”
They opted to follow the route of other Hollywood films including Onward and Birds of Prey. This Friday, I Still Believe will premiere on premium video-on-demand services. The inspirational film will be available for a $20 fee on Google Play, Apple TV, Amazon Prime, and Christian Cinema.
“Having this premium video on demand option replaces being able to see the movie at theaters,” stated the film website. “Think of this as a movie ticket for a 48-hour home-viewing window.”
Faith-Driven Streamers Extend Free Trials
Major streaming services have been reaping the rewards of self-isolation, with buzz about Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ at a peak.
Smaller faith-based services have been quick to provide special deals during the crisis. VidAngel’s trial currently runs through April 30.
“Our award-winning content is both entertaining and educational,” said Harmon. “The VidAngel family [is] pitching in and doing whatever we can to help our communities weather this crisis.”
The streamer has recently become known for two hit series. The Chosen retells the life of Christ, starting with his calling of the disciples.
Produced by Dallas Jenkins, son of evangelical author Jerry Jenkins, the drama has won awards from Movieguide among others.
In addition, Dry Bar Comedy on VidAngel features top stand-up comics inciting laughs without risqué humor.
Other services are also rolling out free features. Upstart kids-focused streamer Minno has introduced Church At Home. Previewing Minno’s full content, it provides worship songs and animated stories on a weekly basis.
Program of the Year winner at National Religious Broadcasters Convention in February, Adventures in Odyssey has entered its 32nd year of production. All 900-plus audio episodes can be accessed from its mobile app along with over a dozen animated programs. It’s free for the first month.
Each of these apps — VidAngel, Minno, and Adventures in Odyssey — are compatible with Google Chromecast, Apple TV, and other top devices.
Leaping Into Online Streaming
This past week, congregations have adopted streaming as never before. While only a quarter of U.S. churches offered live-streaming as of last fall, thousands more have ventured in per recent reports.
“Our team has been monitoring the #COVID19 outbreak and brainstorming how we can best serve the church.”
Having served churches for decades, RightNowMedia hopes to bridge the gap between Christian teaching and streaming content.
Their online ministry works through churches, who then provide access to congregants. However, they are shifting their focus during this crisis.
“Over the last several weeks, our team has been monitoring the #COVID19 outbreak and brainstorming how we can best serve the church,” the ministry tweeted. “We want to support individuals who don’t have access to RightNow Media [with] a curated library of video resources.”
As families navigate a wealth of in-home content, faith-driven producers hope their programs can be a help.
For the Erwin Brothers, who co-produced I Still Believe with major Hollywood studio Lionsgate, it’s a test of believers’ support for new models of film distribution.
“[This is] a movie whose inspiring message of love, hope and faith is perfect for these uncertain times,” said the co-directors. “We’re proud to have the opportunity to share [it] online.”
A graduate of the University of Colorado, Josh M. Shepherd covers culture, faith, and public policy issues for media outlets including The Stream and The Federalist. Find him on Twitter and follow The Stream @Streamdotorg.


thestream--2020-03-25--Sniping at the Nation’s Angels

Sniping at the Nation’s Angels

Americans are a generous , charitable people .
With our roots firmly planted in Judeo-Christian values , love for our neighbors has been one of our finest fruits .
Today , however , this fruit is endangered .
As society loses its ability to identify and appreciate real love , we are also losing our esteem for those who actively love their neighbors in tangible ways .
We are threatening their ability to continue their good works .
Our concept of love for our neighbor has been eroded .
There was once a general acceptance of “ tough love.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even when the truth hurts .
The kind that isn ’ t derailed by disagreements .
The kind that understands that a difference of opinion — even about something important — is fully consistent with love .
Today ’ s idea of love is less about truth and authenticity , and more about approval at any cost .
At the same time , our self-love has grown dramatically .
We ’ ve long been told that we need to love ourselves before we can love others .
To put ourselves first .
Of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all of the really great models of love the world has known ( Jesus Christ comes to mind ) .
But our culture ’ s messaging has been relentless and consistent : follow your heart , look out for number one .
We can see at least two results from these changes in our views on love .
Today ’ s Americans have a growing intolerance for anyone who disagrees with them .
And a growing sense of entitlement .
This gives us important insight into the battles over rights of conscience , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on private business owners , but also on charitable organizations .
One case study was reported in the most recent Faith and Justice magazine , a publication of the non-profit legal group , Alliance Defending Freedom .
It was a beautiful and inspiring article , for the most part .
It tells the story of Sherrie Laurie , Executive Director of “ Downtown Hope Center ” in Anchorage , Alaska .
After retiring from her career as a pilot , Sherrie began doing volunteer work at Downtown Soup Kitchen .
She later moved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the homeless while they enjoyed a hot shower .
As her desire to care for the needy grew , she eventually took a position on the charity ’ s board .
Then she became executive director .
Today the Center has an expanded mission .
It serves as an overnight shelter for homeless women .
Who would have guessed that for providing this service , these acts of love , the Center would face persecution ?
But that is exactly what happened .
The trouble started when Sherrie politely refused to allow a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shelter with the women .
Because these women are coming in from the street , many of them have been victims of abuse .
It is essential that the Center does all it can to ensure their safety .
Help us champion truth , freedom , limited government and human dignity .
Support The Stream » But after Sherrie turned this man away — a man who happened to identify as a woman , she received a letter from the Anchorage Equal Rights Commission .
It was investigating the man ’ s formal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discrimination.
” Thanks to the help of Alliance Defending Freedom , the charge against Downtown Hope Center was ultimately dropped .
But similar travesties are popping up all over the country .
The trend is likely to grow as special interest groups push for laws to preclude even private charities from making distinctions between males and females , or from ministering to their communities in accordance with their faith .
We see faith-based adoption agencies facing closure if they insist on placing children only in families with a mother and father .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with insurance coverage for abortions .
We see legislation targeting religious groups that seek to serve members in accordance with their doctrines .
The Tyranny of the Majority Why are such good , noble , private efforts taking so much fire ?
Because too many people today feel entitled to claim a moral consensus for their life choices .
They simply can not tolerate the idea that there are good , kind people out there who will not change their moral beliefs to suit the times .
So they seek to harness the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compliance with the newfangled orthodoxy .
This is not progress , my friends .
It is tyranny .
And it is exposed as such most clearly when it is aimed at the very best of people , doing the very best of things .
When those who do the faithful , tangible work of “ loving their neighbors ” become the targets of persecution , surely it ’ s time for a wake-up call .
Rita Dunaway is a constitutional attorney , the author of Restoring America ’ s Soul : Advancing Timeless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ co-host of the weekly radio program , “ Crossroads : Where Faith and Culture Meet .
”

Americans are a generous, charitable people. With our roots firmly planted in Judeo-Christian values, love for our neighbors has been one of our finest fruits.
Today, however, this fruit is endangered. As society loses its ability to identify and appreciate real love, we are also losing our esteem for those who actively love their neighbors in tangible ways. We are threatening their ability to continue their good works.
An Anemic Idea of “Love”
Our concept of love for our neighbor has been eroded. There was once a general acceptance of “tough love.” The kind that is gently honest, even when the truth hurts. The kind that isn’t derailed by disagreements. The kind that understands that a difference of opinion — even about something important — is fully consistent with love.
Today’s idea of love is less about truth and authenticity, and more about approval at any cost. At the same time, our self-love has grown dramatically.
Today’s idea of love is less about truth and authenticity, and more about approval at any cost.
We’ve long been told that we need to love ourselves before we can love others. To put ourselves first. Of course, this is totally inconsistent with all of the really great models of love the world has known (Jesus Christ comes to mind). But our culture’s messaging has been relentless and consistent: follow your heart, look out for number one.
We can see at least two results from these changes in our views on love. Today’s Americans have a growing intolerance for anyone who disagrees with them. And a growing sense of entitlement.
This gives us important insight into the battles over rights of conscience, which are now being waged not only on private business owners, but also on charitable organizations.
Charity Under Fire
One case study was reported in the most recent Faith and Justice magazine, a publication of the non-profit legal group, Alliance Defending Freedom. It was a beautiful and inspiring article, for the most part. It tells the story of Sherrie Laurie, Executive Director of “Downtown Hope Center” in Anchorage, Alaska.
After retiring from her career as a pilot, Sherrie began doing volunteer work at Downtown Soup Kitchen. She later moved from serving lunch to doing laundry for the homeless while they enjoyed a hot shower. As her desire to care for the needy grew, she eventually took a position on the charity’s board. Then she became executive director.
Today the Center has an expanded mission. It serves as an overnight shelter for homeless women. Who would have guessed that for providing this service, these acts of love, the Center would face persecution? But that is exactly what happened.
The trouble started when Sherrie politely refused to allow a man to spend the night in the shelter with the women. Because these women are coming in from the street, many of them have been victims of abuse. It is essential that the Center does all it can to ensure their safety.
Please Support The Stream : Equipping Christians to Think Clearly About the Political, Economic, and Moral Issues of Our Day.
But after Sherrie turned this man away — a man who happened to identify as a woman, she received a letter from the Anchorage Equal Rights Commission. It was investigating the man’s formal complaint of “sex and gender identity discrimination.”
Thanks to the help of Alliance Defending Freedom, the charge against Downtown Hope Center was ultimately dropped. But similar travesties are popping up all over the country. The trend is likely to grow as special interest groups push for laws to preclude even private charities from making distinctions between males and females, or from ministering to their communities in accordance with their faith.
We see faith-based adoption agencies facing closure if they insist on placing children only in families with a mother and father. We see churches being forced to provide employees with insurance coverage for abortions. We see legislation targeting religious groups that seek to serve members in accordance with their doctrines.
The Tyranny of the Majority
Why are such good, noble, private efforts taking so much fire? Because too many people today feel entitled to claim a moral consensus for their life choices. They simply cannot tolerate the idea that there are good, kind people out there who will not change their moral beliefs to suit the times. So they seek to harness the power of the state to coerce outward compliance with the newfangled orthodoxy.
This is not progress, my friends. It is tyranny. And it is exposed as such most clearly when it is aimed at the very best of people, doing the very best of things. When those who do the faithful, tangible work of “loving their neighbors” become the targets of persecution, surely it’s time for a wake-up call.
Rita Dunaway is a constitutional attorney, the author of Restoring America’s Soul: Advancing Timeless Conservative Principles in a Wayward Culture and co-host of the weekly radio program, “Crossroads: Where Faith and Culture Meet.”


thestream--2020-03-25--Keep Calm and Carry On

Keep Calm and Carry On

During the London bombings in 1940 , the British people rallied behind the slogan , “ Keep calm and carry on.
” That ’ s an excellent call for us as well .
With a viral pandemic , the stock market bucking like a bronco and the media hyping anything that enhances doom and gloom , it ’ s hard to concentrate on much else .
But those of us who put our faith in our Heavenly Father have special reason not to despair .
“ For God has not given us a spirit of fear , but of power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mind ” ( 2 Timothy 1:7 ) .
These are not just words but a way of life .
When you realize that God , not we , are in charge , it takes away unnecessary anxiety .
From beginning to end , Scripture repeatedly emphasizes God ’ s ownership of all things .
“ To the Lord your God belong the heavens , even the highest heavens , the earth and everything in it ” ( Deuteronomy 10:14 ) .
God is fully aware of what ’ s going on and is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At Timothy Plan , we take the long view , knowing that the only thing that lasts forever is God ’ s Word , “ which shall never pass away.
” We also believe that the Trump administration ’ s impressive , public/private full-scale partnership to fight the epidemic will limit its severity and duration and also mitigate the damage done to the economy .
In the next few weeks and perhaps even months , we will learn of more infections as more people are tested .
It will be important not to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by sensationalist media .
We don ’ t know when this will end , but it will end , and recovery will begin .
Help us champion truth , freedom , limited government and human dignity .
Support The Stream » “ People sometimes ask me how I can stay so calm when the markets are in flux or something else out there is scaring everybody , ” says Timothy Plan founder and CEO Art Ally .
“ It ’ s not that I ’ m particularly brave .
I just know Who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s not me .
If I do my part , He will do His part .
It ’ s not that complicated.
” As believers , we find calmness , peace and hope when we put our full trust in the Lord .
We can also take some comfort in history , where we see that bear markets eventually and inevitably recover , and that investors who stay the course are glad they did .
Down markets can last anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of years .
The bear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The S & P 500 was down by 50.9 % .
But the markets came roaring back as they always do .
Not Just Waiting It Out As we ride out the current crisis , we can do a few things to enhance mind , body and spirit .
Cancelling many of our usual activities can actually be beneficial to our spiritual health , by freeing-up more time to read and study God ’ s Word , to pray more diligently and to listen to Bible teaching .
It ’ s also a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ priorities in life — the things that consume our time , talents and treasure .
As for staying healthy , it ’ s helpful to watch updates from the CDC ’ s Coronavirus Task Force and to follow the practical tips for dealing with the situation .
We should take reasonable precautions to avoid exposure and prepare for any isolation periods that may arise .
We should eat well and exercise , and maintain good physical health .
Keep a Cool Head : Stock Markets Have Been Through Crises Before One thing we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ phones for bulletins or market levels many times during the day or especially before turning in at night .
It won ’ t change a thing except to induce anxiety .
It ’ s so much healthier to take the Apostle Paul ’ s advice on what to think about : John Newton , who wrote “ Amazing Grace , ” issued this piece of advice about trusting God : America and the stock market have been through many crises , and it ’ s those with cooler heads who do the best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with that in mind , let ’ s trust God , keep calm and carry on .
Robert Knight is a writer for Timothy Partners , Ltd .
He is a regular weekly columnist for The Washington Times , Townhall.com , OneNewsNow and others .
His latest book is A Nation Worth Fighting For : 10 Steps to Restore Freedom .
For more information on Timothy Plan , visit timothyplan.com or connect on Facebook , LinkedIn , Twitter , Instagram , Pinterest , Vimeo or YouTube .
View the media page for Timothy @ @ @

During the London bombings in 1940, the British people rallied behind the slogan, “Keep calm and carry on.” That’s an excellent call for us as well.
With a viral pandemic, the stock market bucking like a bronco and the media hyping anything that enhances doom and gloom, it’s hard to concentrate on much else.
But those of us who put our faith in our Heavenly Father have special reason not to despair. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7).
These are not just words but a way of life. When you realize that God, not we, are in charge, it takes away unnecessary anxiety. From beginning to end, Scripture repeatedly emphasizes God’s ownership of all things. “To the Lord your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it” (Deuteronomy 10:14).
God is Not Surprised
God is fully aware of what’s going on and is not surprised by any of it.
At Timothy Plan, we take the long view, knowing that the only thing that lasts forever is God’s Word, “which shall never pass away.”
We also believe that the Trump administration’s impressive, public/private full-scale partnership to fight the epidemic will limit its severity and duration and also mitigate the damage done to the economy.
In the next few weeks and perhaps even months, we will learn of more infections as more people are tested. It will be important not to give in to the panic mentality fostered by sensationalist media. We don’t know when this will end, but it will end, and recovery will begin.
Please Support The Stream : Equipping Christians to Think Clearly About the Political, Economic, and Moral Issues of Our Day.
“People sometimes ask me how I can stay so calm when the markets are in flux or something else out there is scaring everybody,” says Timothy Plan founder and CEO Art Ally. “It’s not that I’m particularly brave. I just know Who’s in charge. And it’s not me. If I do my part, He will do His part. It’s not that complicated.”
As believers, we find calmness, peace and hope when we put our full trust in the Lord.
We can also take some comfort in history, where we see that bear markets eventually and inevitably recover, and that investors who stay the course are glad they did.
Down markets can last anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of years. The bear market of 2007-2009 lasted 15 months. The S&P 500 was down by 50.9%. But the markets came roaring back as they always do.
Not Just Waiting It Out
As we ride out the current crisis, we can do a few things to enhance mind, body and spirit.
Cancelling many of our usual activities can actually be beneficial to our spiritual health, by freeing-up more time to read and study God’s Word, to pray more diligently and to listen to Bible teaching.
It’s also a great time to reflect on our current priorities in life — the things that consume our time, talents and treasure.
As for staying healthy, it’s helpful to watch updates from the CDC’s Coronavirus Task Force and to follow the practical tips for dealing with the situation.
We should take reasonable precautions to avoid exposure and prepare for any isolation periods that may arise. We should eat well and exercise, and maintain good physical health.
Keep a Cool Head: Stock Markets Have Been Through Crises Before
One thing we should not do is check our cell phones for bulletins or market levels many times during the day or especially before turning in at night. It won’t change a thing except to induce anxiety. It’s so much healthier to take the Apostle Paul’s advice on what to think about:
“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)
John Newton, who wrote “Amazing Grace,” issued this piece of advice about trusting God:
Let us suppose the thing we are most afraid of actually to happen. Can it come a moment sooner, or in any other way, than by His appointment? Is He not gracious, and faithful, to support us under the stroke? Is He not rich enough to give us something better than ever He will take away? Is not the light of His countenance better than life and all its most valued enjoyments?
America and the stock market have been through many crises, and it’s those with cooler heads who do the best in the long run.
So, with that in mind, let’s trust God, keep calm and carry on.
Robert Knight is a writer for Timothy Partners, Ltd. He is a regular weekly columnist for The Washington Times, Townhall.com, OneNewsNow and others. His latest book is A Nation Worth Fighting For: 10 Steps to Restore Freedom. For more information on Timothy Plan, visit timothyplan.com or connect on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Vimeo or YouTube. View the media page for Timothy Plan here.


thestream--2020-03-25--We Know the Real Enemy and It’s Not Any Virus

Despite these days of social distancing we can still deliver , through social media , an important message to almost everyone on the planet .
So let ’ s deliver the greatest message — the Gospel of Jesus Christ — truth in love and the power of the Holy Spirit .
The Enemy is Not a Virus The prince of the power of the air has become the prince of the power of the air waves of most national media — denying truth , ignoring that which is important , distorting the truth , attacking it , while promoting evil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The enemy we must be concerned about is not liberals , conservatives , other religious groups , progressives , radical Islam , Al-Qaeda , Hamas , ISIS .
It ’ s not even a deadly virus .
The real enemy is the deceiver , the father of lies , the great divider , the author of destruction and death .
It is the evil one who manipulates these groups and individuals — like puppets on a string , and fish on a hook or dragged in a net .
It is the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fear and anxiety — urging people to run to pharaoh , rather than relying on God .
Help us champion truth , freedom , limited government and human dignity .
Support The Stream » These enemies of God , His Word , and time-tested proven principles of freedom are totally controlled by this father of lies .
He is intent on destroying the kingdom purpose of God and all that the heavenly Father desires for those He gave His Son to redeem .
This is the enemy that we , as believers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and defeat — as we suit up faithfully in the armor of God , filled with His Holy Spirit , to arise and watch His enemies be scattered by the power of our Deliverer .
Jesus said He sends us as sheep in the midst of wolves .
But by no means is He sending us to the slaughter .
We go forth living in the shadow and shelter of the Almighty , with the Lord as our Shepherd — who will deliver us from evil , scatter the predators , and kill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us .
He said He is our Shepherd — leading us in green pastures of provision and beside still waters , calmed by His presence .
He promises to give us peace even in the midst of the storm .
He will be with us in every valley , including the valley of the shadow of death .
Storming the Gates of Hell … Even in a Storm You are sent by God with a mandate from Heaven , a charge from your Father and a great commission from Christ , to storm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free .
You are to give no more ground to the enemy of the transforming truth and freedom that God offers .
Jesus said the Kingdom of heaven is at hand , and you are to make a kingdom of God impact on this planet and on the realm of darkness and destruction .
These are not just words .
In this current crisis , we are seeing God ’ s family fan out to serve our communities in the midst of the pandemic ’ s destruction .
They are out of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needy neighbors .
They are sacrificing .
Indeed , you are to live as salt protecting and preserving the precious — and all life is precious .
You are to be light exposing evil , illuminating the way and revealing God ’ s best for all whom He loves and gave His Son to redeem .
We have not been redeemed , born from above , to get out of here and into Heaven .
We have been redeemed to bring the kingdom of Heaven and the glory of God here on earth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , before the phrase “ Thy will be done , ” is the key to God ’ s will being done !
“ Thy kingdom come.
” That ’ s the key !
That ’ s transforming truth .
His kingdom is here now in the life of every believer .
This power is revealed to and through every yielded vessel shaped by the master Potter as vessels of honor , filled to overflowing with His Spirit and power .
This is the Spirit that Jesus referenced when He said He must , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that another of the same kind — the paraclete , the Spirit of Jesus — may live in each one of us 24 hours a day , 365 days a year .
In this way , He can guide us to all truth .
And if we abide in Him , we will know the truth and the truth will set us free .
This is the Spirit He told the disciples to tarry for until they were endued with power from on high .
The Power of the Holy Spirit In a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an answer to His prayer in John 17 , and tarry in the supernatural unity He prayed for , they were then filled to overflowing with power from above .
The Spirit that had been resident in them became present in them — and even the Christ-denying , boastful but cowardly Simon Peter was so endued with power from on high that he became the keynote speaker at Pentecost .
Everyone who trusts Christ IS called by God to be the vessels through whom He flows His life , His love and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wants to send you out , every one of you , as His witnesses — ambassadors for Christ , overcomers and more than conquerors in His Name , setting captives free through the transforming power of the gospel you faithfully share .
Nothing you will ever do is more important than sharing the Gospel in the power of the Holy Spirit .
The believers in Acts , who were filled with the Holy Spirit , in mighty power and with great boldness proclaimed the gospel in other tongues — other languages .
Literally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jesus Christ with such great communication skill that the dialect , the accent , was exactly like those they were communicating with .
That power today enables us to talk to the young and the old , rich and poor , educated and uneducated , to the millennials , to the baby boomers , to every race , every kindred , every tribe , every nation .
And in this hour , that power enables us to talk over the fear and anxiety caused by the coronavirus pandemic .
Yes , this pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bigger than our God .
When we are filled with the Holy Spirit , we have no limits .
The stage is set for the next great awakening — I believe the greatest in history !
The Bible clearly says Jesus is coming for a bride adorned in His glory .
Now is the time for us to arise with the glory of the Lord upon us , totally committed to His kingdom purpose .
While the world fears COVID-19 , we proclaim Psalm 19 .
“ Let the words of my mouth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be acceptable to you , O LORD , my rock and redeemer.
” May every one of you say , “ I gladly lose my life in Your kingdom purpose and trust You to accomplish Your will through my yielded Spirit-filled life .
To You be the glory forever and ever and ever , amen !
” James Robison is The Stream ’ s founder and publisher .
He is co-founder of LIFE Outreach International and co-host of LIFE Today .
He ’ s the author of many books , including Indivisible ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Despite these days of social distancing we can still deliver, through social media, an important message to almost everyone on the planet. So let’s deliver the greatest message — the Gospel of Jesus Christ — truth in love and the power of the Holy Spirit.
The Enemy is Not a Virus
The prince of the power of the air has become the prince of the power of the air waves of most national media — denying truth, ignoring that which is important, distorting the truth, attacking it, while promoting evil and outright lies. While provoking fear.
The enemy we must be concerned about is not liberals, conservatives, other religious groups, progressives, radical Islam, Al-Qaeda, Hamas, ISIS. It’s not even a deadly virus. The real enemy is the deceiver, the father of lies, the great divider, the author of destruction and death. It is the evil one who manipulates these groups and individuals — like puppets on a string, and fish on a hook or dragged in a net. It is the evil one who stokes them to stir fear and anxiety — urging people to run to pharaoh, rather than relying on God.
Please Support The Stream : Equipping Christians to Think Clearly About the Political, Economic, and Moral Issues of Our Day.
These enemies of God, His Word, and time-tested proven principles of freedom are totally controlled by this father of lies. He is intent on destroying the kingdom purpose of God and all that the heavenly Father desires for those He gave His Son to redeem.
This is the enemy that we, as believers and witnesses, are sent to take on and defeat — as we suit up faithfully in the armor of God, filled with His Holy Spirit, to arise and watch His enemies be scattered by the power of our Deliverer. Jesus said He sends us as sheep in the midst of wolves. But by no means is He sending us to the slaughter. We go forth living in the shadow and shelter of the Almighty, with the Lord as our Shepherd — who will deliver us from evil, scatter the predators, and kill a bear and a lion to protect us.
He said He is our Shepherd — leading us in green pastures of provision and beside still waters, calmed by His presence. He promises to give us peace even in the midst of the storm. He will be with us in every valley, including the valley of the shadow of death.
Storming the Gates of Hell … Even in a Storm
You are sent by God with a mandate from Heaven, a charge from your Father and a great commission from Christ, to storm the gates of hell and set captives free. You are to give no more ground to the enemy of the transforming truth and freedom that God offers. Jesus said the Kingdom of heaven is at hand, and you are to make a kingdom of God impact on this planet and on the realm of darkness and destruction.
We have not been redeemed, born from above, to get out of here and into Heaven. We have been redeemed to bring the kingdom of Heaven and the glory of God here on earth right now.
These are not just words. In this current crisis, we are seeing God’s family fan out to serve our communities in the midst of the pandemic’s destruction. They are out of the church building and on the doorstep of needy neighbors. They are sacrificing.
Indeed, you are to live as salt protecting and preserving the precious — and all life is precious. You are to be light exposing evil, illuminating the way and revealing God’s best for all whom He loves and gave His Son to redeem. We have not been redeemed, born from above, to get out of here and into Heaven. We have been redeemed to bring the kingdom of Heaven and the glory of God here on earth right now.
In the model prayer, before the phrase “Thy will be done,” is the key to God’s will being done! “Thy kingdom come.” That’s the key! That’s transforming truth. His kingdom is here now in the life of every believer. This power is revealed to and through every yielded vessel shaped by the master Potter as vessels of honor, filled to overflowing with His Spirit and power.
This is the Spirit that Jesus referenced when He said He must, for our advantage, leave in order that another of the same kind — the paraclete, the Spirit of Jesus — may live in each one of us 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. In this way, He can guide us to all truth. And if we abide in Him, we will know the truth and the truth will set us free. This is the Spirit He told the disciples to tarry for until they were endued with power from on high.
The Power of the Holy Spirit
In a glimpse of what happens when believers become an answer to His prayer in John 17, and tarry in the supernatural unity He prayed for, they were then filled to overflowing with power from above. The Spirit that had been resident in them became present in them — and even the Christ-denying, boastful but cowardly Simon Peter was so endued with power from on high that he became the keynote speaker at Pentecost.
Everyone who trusts Christ IS called by God to be the vessels through whom He flows His life, His love and the transforming truth of the gospel.
Yes, this pandemic is global, but it is not bigger than our God. When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we have no limits.
God wants to send you out, every one of you, as His witnesses — ambassadors for Christ, overcomers and more than conquerors in His Name, setting captives free through the transforming power of the gospel you faithfully share.
Nothing you will ever do is more important than sharing the Gospel in the power of the Holy Spirit. The believers in Acts, who were filled with the Holy Spirit, in mighty power and with great boldness proclaimed the gospel in other tongues — other languages. Literally, they were communicating the truth of Jesus Christ with such great communication skill that the dialect, the accent, was exactly like those they were communicating with. That power today enables us to talk to the young and the old, rich and poor, educated and uneducated, to the millennials, to the baby boomers, to every race, every kindred, every tribe, every nation.
And in this hour, that power enables us to talk over the fear and anxiety caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Yes, this pandemic is global, but it is not bigger than our God. When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we have no limits.
The Next Great Awakening
The stage is set for the next great awakening — I believe the greatest in history! The Bible clearly says Jesus is coming for a bride adorned in His glory. Now is the time for us to arise with the glory of the Lord upon us, totally committed to His kingdom purpose.
While the world fears COVID-19, we proclaim Psalm 19. “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and redeemer.”
May every one of you say, “I gladly lose my life in Your kingdom purpose and trust You to accomplish Your will through my yielded Spirit-filled life. To You be the glory forever and ever and ever, amen!”
James Robison is The Stream’s founder and publisher. He is co-founder of LIFE Outreach International and co-host of LIFE Today. He’s the author of many books, including Indivisible (with Jay Richards) and Living Amazed.


thestream--2020-03-25--The Arguments, They Should Be A-Changin’

There are many sorrows of this time of coronavirus , and one of them is political .
On the first Tuesday we were really truly grappling with the pandemic as a country , one of our national leaders in defense of innocent human life lost his primary race .
Rep. Dan Lipinski of Illinois is pretty much the pro-life Democrat , at least in Washington , D.C. Lipinski is a man of conscience and courage .
And my first thought when news came in that he had lost was : We don ’ t deserve him .
There wasn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Lipinski ’ s loss , for obvious reasons , but I found the closing remarks of his campaign important .
“ There was one issue that loomed especially large in this campaign : the fact that I am pro-life , ” he said .
“ I was shunned by many of my colleagues and other Democratic Party members and operators because of my pro-life stance .
The pressure in the Democratic Party on the life issue has never been as great as it is now .
… I have always said that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and standing up for babies in the womb.
” As Lipinski testifies , the pressure to conform on abortion issues has gotten worse instead of better .
Help us champion truth , freedom , limited government and human dignity .
Support The Stream » He was clear in his beliefs , which spring from his Catholic faith : “ Life begins at conception .
Knowing this , I could never give up protecting the most vulnerable human beings in the world simply to win an election .
My faith teaches , and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serve everyone , especially the most vulnerable .
To stand in solidarity with the vulnerable is to become vulnerable .
But there is no higher calling for anyone.
” And aren ’ t we all vulnerable now ?
The worldwide pandemic puts everything in a new perspective — or at least it should .
You don ’ t have to agree with me , obviously , but can we take some of this time to reflect on some important subjects ?
What is life ?
What is its value ?
Why do we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are we sometimes thoughtlessly selfish ?
In his concession speech , Lipinski ran with the idea of a new reality : “ Right now , everyone in our country , and many other countries , are vulnerable in a way that we never imagined as we face the coronavirus pandemic .
We are a very polarized nation where people are often looking for ways to cause more division , but it is time for us to realize that we are all in this fight together .
This is a threat that can only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to and following guidance from health care experts and caring for the good of our neighbors … Now is the time for common sense and solidarity , and we can minimize the suffering from this pandemic.
” I find myself somewhat stunned about a lot of things these days , and among them is the fact that so many of us , regardless of our party affiliations , ideological loyalties or other convictions of a more enduring sort , are joined in common cause in defense of human life .
And I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Andrew Cuomo , a Democrat who not only expanded abortion in my home state , but also once told pro-life New Yorkers that we are unwelcome here .
In these days , though , he is rising to the occasion of protecting and defending human life .
This is exactly what people in government should do — it ’ s exactly , frankly , what we all should do .
And so I am grateful .
And even without Mass to attend , I find myself praying not only for healing and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that when we find ourselves on the other side of this , we might reconsider some of our debates , and find common cause on a whole lot more as people of good will .
Our recalcitrant back-and-forth over abortion should be retired .
Not after we have spent all these weeks and months defending innocent human life !
Can we rethink things a bit ?
Can we see our common humanity ?
Kathryn Jean Lopez is senior fellow at the National Review Institute , editor-at-large of National Review magazine and author of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mystics : Visionary Wisdom for Daily Living .
She is also chair of Cardinal Dolan ’ s pro-life commission in New York .
She can be contacted at klopez @ nationalreview.com .

There are many sorrows of this time of coronavirus, and one of them is political. On the first Tuesday we were really truly grappling with the pandemic as a country, one of our national leaders in defense of innocent human life lost his primary race. Rep. Dan Lipinski of Illinois is pretty much the pro-life Democrat, at least in Washington, D.C.
Lipinski is a man of conscience and courage. And my first thought when news came in that he had lost was: We don’t deserve him.
A Pro-Life Democrat Shunned
There wasn’t a lot of press time given to Lipinski’s loss, for obvious reasons, but I found the closing remarks of his campaign important. “There was one issue that loomed especially large in this campaign: the fact that I am pro-life,” he said.
“I was shunned by many of my colleagues and other Democratic Party members and operators because of my pro-life stance. The pressure in the Democratic Party on the life issue has never been as great as it is now. … I have always said that I would never give up being pro-life and standing up for babies in the womb.” As Lipinski testifies, the pressure to conform on abortion issues has gotten worse instead of better.
Please Support The Stream : Equipping Christians to Think Clearly About the Political, Economic, and Moral Issues of Our Day.
He was clear in his beliefs, which spring from his Catholic faith: “Life begins at conception. Knowing this, I could never give up protecting the most vulnerable human beings in the world simply to win an election. My faith teaches, and the Democratic Party preaches, that we should serve everyone, especially the most vulnerable. To stand in solidarity with the vulnerable is to become vulnerable. But there is no higher calling for anyone.”
A New Perspective
And aren’t we all vulnerable now? The worldwide pandemic puts everything in a new perspective — or at least it should. You don’t have to agree with me, obviously, but can we take some of this time to reflect on some important subjects? What is life? What is its value? Why do we make sacrifices for others, and why are we sometimes thoughtlessly selfish?
In his concession speech, Lipinski ran with the idea of a new reality: “Right now, everyone in our country, and many other countries, are vulnerable in a way that we never imagined as we face the coronavirus pandemic. We are a very polarized nation where people are often looking for ways to cause more division, but it is time for us to realize that we are all in this fight together. This is a threat that can only be defeated by all of us listening to and following guidance from health care experts and caring for the good of our neighbors … Now is the time for common sense and solidarity, and we can minimize the suffering from this pandemic.”
A Common Humanity
I find myself somewhat stunned about a lot of things these days, and among them is the fact that so many of us, regardless of our party affiliations, ideological loyalties or other convictions of a more enduring sort, are joined in common cause in defense of human life.
And I’ve been watching New York State Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat who not only expanded abortion in my home state, but also once told pro-life New Yorkers that we are unwelcome here. In these days, though, he is rising to the occasion of protecting and defending human life. This is exactly what people in government should do — it’s exactly, frankly, what we all should do. And so I am grateful. And even without Mass to attend, I find myself praying not only for healing and an end to this pandemic, but that when we find ourselves on the other side of this, we might reconsider some of our debates, and find common cause on a whole lot more as people of good will.
Our recalcitrant back-and-forth over abortion should be retired. Not after we have spent all these weeks and months defending innocent human life! Can we rethink things a bit? Can we see our common humanity?
Kathryn Jean Lopez is senior fellow at the National Review Institute, editor-at-large of National Review magazine and author of the new book A Year With the Mystics: Visionary Wisdom for Daily Living. She is also chair of Cardinal Dolan’s pro-life commission in New York. She can be contacted at [email protected].


thestream--2020-03-25--Military Photo of the Day: Slowing the Spread, Army Style

U.S. Army soldiers use a hand-washing station to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19 during an exercise at the Grafenwoehr @ @ @ @ @ March 19 , 2020 .
Thank you to these brave soldiers for serving our country @ @ @ @ @ Help us champion truth , freedom , limited government and human dignity .
Support The @ @

U.S. Army soldiers use a hand-washing station to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19 during an exercise at the Grafenwoehr Training Area in Germany on March 19, 2020.
Thank you to these brave soldiers for serving our country overseas. Stay safe!
Please Support The Stream : Equipping Christians to Think Clearly About the Political, Economic, and Moral Issues of Our Day.


thestream--2020-03-25--Is the Coronavirus ‘Nature’s Revenge’?

Is the Coronavirus ‘Nature’s Revenge’?

I ’ m one of the last people on earth ready to take Pope Francis ’ statements on faith .
If you follow me here , you ’ ll know that .
I ’ ve criticized his muddled , Modernist theology , his coziness with corruption , and his penchant for post-Christian leftist politics .
I ’ ve compared him with the worst Renaissance popes .
Unfavorably , since at least they commissioned great art .
Pope Francis gave us the crudely-carved Incan nature-goddess idol Pachamama at the Vatican , which a brave young Catholic ( now sick with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But one thing Francis said lately struck me as having a grain of truth .
Or maybe a seed .
Asked by a Spanish journalist via Skype whether the COVID-19 pandemic is nature ’ s way of taking “ revenge ” on humanity , the pontiff suggested that nature is calling for attention .
“ There ’ s a saying , which you have heard : ‘ God always forgives .
We sometimes forgive .
Nature never forgives , ’ ” the pope said .
“ Fires , earthquakes … nature is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take care of her.
” So is the virus “ nature ’ s revenge ” on man , because of our cruel neglect of the Earth ?
I don ’ t know about that .
But I do think it ’ s nature ’ s revenge on us for farming practices that are cruel to living animals .
The “ wet markets ” of China were the likely source of the last several pandemics that went on to ravage the world .
In those markets , live creatures of every variety are mixed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waiting for consumers to pick them so they can be killed on the spot .
Lots of blood splashing , pathogens mixing , bird germs meeting pig germs and cow germs … like Tinder , except for viruses .
Smithsonian Magazine warned us three years ago that China could be the “ ground zero ” for “ future pandemics ” thanks to its treatment of animals .
But it ’ s not just China .
I remember reading in the 1990s Sir James Goldsmith ’ s anti-globalist book , The Trap .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ farmers were using .
These included turning cows into cannibals .
That ’ s right .
A new industrial farming technique had farmers feeding cows ground up pieces of … cows , to save money on protein .
Including those cows ’ spinal columns and brains .
Goldsmith warned that cannibalism results in strange diseases , pointing to the brain illness called Kuru .
South Seas headhunters caught it from … eating brains .
Critics scoffed at Goldsmith as a crank , right up until British cows came down with Mad Cow Disease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caught from … eating brains .
A little of the old-fashioned horse sense that prevented farmers from doing this to their cows for countless millennia could have saved billions of pounds and hundreds of lives .
Our own factory farming practices here at home aren ’ t vastly better .
Because of our crony-capitalist corn subsidies , we have huge mountains of cheap corn , growing like pyramids .
To use it up , we feed it to cows , whom God never meant to eat it .
That makes them sick , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helping to build up antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria .
Likewise we cruelly abuse and overcrowd pigs , who are as emotionally intelligent as dogs , but genetically much closer to humans .
Which means that their diseases ( see “ swine flu ” ) are more likely to mutate into strains that are deadly to us .
Help us champion truth , freedom , limited government and human dignity .
Support The Stream » If we go on abusing antibiotics ( and animals ) to make such farming possible , we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the 20th century .
We ’ ll go back to the days when cutting yourself with gardening shears meant a significant chance of a hideous death from sepsis .
The world needs the Chinese government to reform its farming practices now , or face a massive economic boycott .
But of course , the penny-saving efforts of ruthless companies have sunk deep roots in China ’ s economy .
So “ Woke ” companies that lecture Americans on “ racism ” and “ social injustice ” send their products to be made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for their religious beliefs or dissent from totalitarianism .
Globalizing Democrats and Republicans alike cheerfully oversaw the outsourcing of huge sectors of our economy to a Communist slave state .
One that steals organs from dissidents and sells them to rich donors .
A government that forced the destruction of some 400 million unborn children through its One Child Policy .
Read Michael Walsh in The Epoch Times , one of the few media outlets not beholden to or scared of the Chinese Communist government : The coronavirus has also put the spotlight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s ( PRC ) outsized influence in the United States , including its penetration of U.S. colleges and universities to implant or suborn professors to steal research and technology , and agents masquerading as students who were actually officers in the People ’ s Liberation Army .
Dependence on China for , among other things , prescription drugs and medical devices , is now a thing of the past , especially after a Chinese threat to withhold life-saving pharmaceuticals .
And extensive Chinese investment in places such as northern Italy ( where the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , thanks to PRC control of the Italian textile industry ) is undergoing immediate reassessment .
Pretending that such a country was a fit member for the World Trade Organization , and its factories fit competitors to our own , was a tenet of “ mainstream ” orthodoxy all through the 1990s and 2000s .
Only a few “ cranks ” like Ross Perot and Pat Buchanan dared to dissent .
For their trouble , they got laughed at , by the same people panicking today over the impending collapse of our economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s revenge for our callous neglect of human dignity , too .
John Zmirak is a senior editor at The Stream , and author or co-author of ten books , including The Politically Incorrect Guide to Immigration and The Politically Incorrect Guide to Catholicism .

I’m one of the last people on earth ready to take Pope Francis’ statements on faith. If you follow me here, you’ll know that. I’ve criticized his muddled, Modernist theology, his coziness with corruption, and his penchant for post-Christian leftist politics. I’ve compared him with the worst Renaissance popes. Unfavorably, since at least they commissioned great art. Pope Francis gave us the crudely-carved Incan nature-goddess idol Pachamama at the Vatican, which a brave young Catholic (now sick with the virus!) threw in the Tiber.
But one thing Francis said lately struck me as having a grain of truth. Or maybe a seed.
Breitbart reports on Francis’ interview with a Spanish journalist:
Asked by a Spanish journalist via Skype whether the COVID-19 pandemic is nature’s way of taking “revenge” on humanity, the pontiff suggested that nature is calling for attention. “There’s a saying, which you have heard: ‘God always forgives. We sometimes forgive. Nature never forgives,’” the pope said. “Fires, earthquakes … nature is throwing a tantrum so that we will take care of her.”
So is the virus “nature’s revenge” on man, because of our cruel neglect of the Earth? I don’t know about that. But I do think it’s nature’s revenge on us for farming practices that are cruel to living animals.
Cruel Farming Produces Weird Diseases
The “wet markets” of China were the likely source of the last several pandemics that went on to ravage the world. In those markets, live creatures of every variety are mixed together, tied or chained up, waiting for consumers to pick them so they can be killed on the spot. Lots of blood splashing, pathogens mixing, bird germs meeting pig germs and cow germs … like Tinder, except for viruses. Smithsonian Magazine warned us three years ago that China could be the “ground zero” for “future pandemics” thanks to its treatment of animals.
But it’s not just China. I remember reading in the 1990s Sir James Goldsmith’s anti-globalist book, The Trap. He warned against the money-saving tricks some British farmers were using. These included turning cows into cannibals. That’s right. A new industrial farming technique had farmers feeding cows ground up pieces of … cows, to save money on protein. Including those cows’ spinal columns and brains. Goldsmith warned that cannibalism results in strange diseases, pointing to the brain illness called Kuru. South Seas headhunters caught it from … eating brains.
Smithsonian Magazine warned us three years ago that China could be the “ground zero” for “future pandemics” thanks to its treatment of animals.
Critics scoffed at Goldsmith as a crank, right up until British cows came down with Mad Cow Disease, which research showed they’d caught from … eating brains. A little of the old-fashioned horse sense that prevented farmers from doing this to their cows for countless millennia could have saved billions of pounds and hundreds of lives.
Squandering Our Antibiotics
Our own factory farming practices here at home aren’t vastly better. Because of our crony-capitalist corn subsidies, we have huge mountains of cheap corn, growing like pyramids. To use it up, we feed it to cows, whom God never meant to eat it. That makes them sick, so we dose them with antibiotics, helping to build up antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria. Likewise we cruelly abuse and overcrowd pigs, who are as emotionally intelligent as dogs, but genetically much closer to humans. Which means that their diseases (see “swine flu”) are more likely to mutate into strains that are deadly to us.
Please Support The Stream : Equipping Christians to Think Clearly About the Political, Economic, and Moral Issues of Our Day.
If we go on abusing antibiotics (and animals) to make such farming possible, we’ll squander the single greatest medical miracle of the 20th century. We’ll go back to the days when cutting yourself with gardening shears meant a significant chance of a hideous death from sepsis.
The Real Chinese Virus: An Inhuman Ideology
The world needs the Chinese government to reform its farming practices now, or face a massive economic boycott. But of course, the penny-saving efforts of ruthless companies have sunk deep roots in China’s economy. So “Woke” companies that lecture Americans on “racism” and “social injustice” send their products to be made by slave laborers in China, imprisoned for their religious beliefs or dissent from totalitarianism.
Globalizing Democrats and Republicans alike cheerfully oversaw the outsourcing of huge sectors of our economy to a Communist slave state. One that steals organs from dissidents and sells them to rich donors. A government that forced the destruction of some 400 million unborn children through its One Child Policy.
Time to Cancel Communist China
Read Michael Walsh in The Epoch Times, one of the few media outlets not beholden to or scared of the Chinese Communist government:
The coronavirus has also put the spotlight on the Peoples Republic of China’s (PRC) outsized influence in the United States, including its penetration of U.S. colleges and universities to implant or suborn professors to steal research and technology, and agents masquerading as students who were actually officers in the People’s Liberation Army. Dependence on China for, among other things, prescription drugs and medical devices, is now a thing of the past, especially after a Chinese threat to withhold life-saving pharmaceuticals. And extensive Chinese investment in places such as northern Italy (where the worst of the European outbreak has occurred, thanks to PRC control of the Italian textile industry) is undergoing immediate reassessment.
Pretending that such a country was a fit member for the World Trade Organization, and its factories fit competitors to our own, was a tenet of “mainstream” orthodoxy all through the 1990s and 2000s. Only a few “cranks” like Ross Perot and Pat Buchanan dared to dissent. For their trouble, they got laughed at, by the same people panicking today over the impending collapse of our economy.
Maybe this virus is God’s revenge for our callous neglect of human dignity, too.
John Zmirak is a senior editor at The Stream, and author or co-author of ten books, including The Politically Incorrect Guide to Immigration and The Politically Incorrect Guide to Catholicism.


thestream--2020-03-25--Senate Reaches Deal: Huckabee Weighs In

Senate Reaches Deal: Huckabee Weighs In

It took until after midnight , but the Senate finally agreed early this morning on an unprecedented $ 2 trillion ( ! )
economic rescue plan that ’ s been dubbed “ unemployment insurance on steroids.
” The bill includes direct payments to most Americans and support for unemployment funds so that no workers will lose their salaries during the shutdown , $ 367 billion to help keep small businesses afloat while their workers are stuck at home , and a $ 500 billion guaranteed , subsidized loan program for larger businesses and hospitals .
Chuck Schumer said Democrats were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if no Republicans objected , it could be sped through without a formal roll call vote .
The Senate will meet today for debate and ( many hope ) will quickly send it to the House for a hoped-for unanimous passage as-is .
Don ’ t count your chickens yet , though , because there could still be objections in the House .
Some Democrats made it obvious that they saw the bill as a big piñata that could be stuffed with leftist “ transforming America ” wish list items .
These range @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by mail ( i.e.
, the “ Voter Fraud Made Easy ” program ) to various diversity hiring and CO2 emission mandates on businesses , to money for Planned Parenthood abortion clinics .
As Bryan Preston at PJ Media put it in this terrific analysis , the Pelosi Democrats treated the coronavirus bill “ like it ’ s a genie that jumped out of a Christmas tree.
” Help us champion truth , freedom , limited government and human dignity .
Support The Stream » Luckily , when faced with a furious backlash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now about as popular as the skunk that ate the picnic lunch — and from even the most liberal Republicans in the Senate , Pelosi and the Dems backed down .
The sledgehammer fell when President Trump declared that he would not sign a bill filled with “ Green New Deal stuff.
” It ’ s a sign of admirable growth in his role as a wartime president that he showed enough dignity and restraint not to use the word I ’ m sure he was thinking of instead of “ stuff.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keep her notoriously headstrong members in line and the House could rush it through on unanimous consent , too .
However , that might be quashed by the threatened opposition of one non-Democratic member , notoriously headstrong Michigan Rep. Justin Amash .
His Trump Derangement Syndrome led him to quit the GOP and become an Independent .
I have a feeling this might be his last shot at playing fly-in-the-Jell-O-mold before the November election returns him to the private sector and the inevitable commentator deal with MSNBC or CNN .
Far From Ideal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeing this level of federal intervention and added debt , too .
However , we are facing an unprecedented emergency .
The bill is far from ideal , but as former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld put it , you go to war with the army you have , not the one you wish you had .
And if this is the equivalent of war , this the best weapon Trump is able to get out of this bitterly divided Congress .
Just be grateful that Trump had the backbone to refuse to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that leftist… “ stuff ” …out of it .
Mike Huckabee is the former governor of Arkansas and longtime conservative commentator on issues in culture and current events .
A New York Times best-selling author , he hosts the weekly talk show Huckabee on TBN .

It took until after midnight, but the Senate finally agreed early this morning on an unprecedented $2 trillion (!) economic rescue plan that’s been dubbed “unemployment insurance on steroids.”
The bill includes direct payments to most Americans and support for unemployment funds so that no workers will lose their salaries during the shutdown, $367 billion to help keep small businesses afloat while their workers are stuck at home, and a $500 billion guaranteed, subsidized loan program for larger businesses and hospitals.
Chuck Schumer said Democrats were ready to give unanimous consent so that if no Republicans objected, it could be sped through without a formal roll call vote. The Senate will meet today for debate and (many hope) will quickly send it to the House for a hoped-for unanimous passage as-is.
Will the House Squawk?
Don’t count your chickens yet, though, because there could still be objections in the House. Some Democrats made it obvious that they saw the bill as a big piñata that could be stuffed with leftist “transforming America” wish list items. These range from national same-day voter registration and voting by mail (i.e., the “Voter Fraud Made Easy” program) to various diversity hiring and CO2 emission mandates on businesses, to money for Planned Parenthood abortion clinics.
As Bryan Preston at PJ Media put it in this terrific analysis, the Pelosi Democrats treated the coronavirus bill “like it’s a genie that jumped out of a Christmas tree.”
Please Support The Stream : Equipping Christians to Think Clearly About the Political, Economic, and Moral Issues of Our Day.
Luckily, when faced with a furious backlash from the public — they’re now about as popular as the skunk that ate the picnic lunch — and from even the most liberal Republicans in the Senate, Pelosi and the Dems backed down. The sledgehammer fell when President Trump declared that he would not sign a bill filled with “Green New Deal stuff.” It’s a sign of admirable growth in his role as a wartime president that he showed enough dignity and restraint not to use the word I’m sure he was thinking of instead of “stuff.”
Now, the Speaker just has to keep her notoriously headstrong members in line and the House could rush it through on unanimous consent, too. However, that might be quashed by the threatened opposition of one non-Democratic member, notoriously headstrong Michigan Rep. Justin Amash. His Trump Derangement Syndrome led him to quit the GOP and become an Independent. I have a feeling this might be his last shot at playing fly-in-the-Jell-O-mold before the November election returns him to the private sector and the inevitable commentator deal with MSNBC or CNN.
Far From Ideal, But …
Personally, I hate seeing this level of federal intervention and added debt, too. However, we are facing an unprecedented emergency. The bill is far from ideal, but as former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld put it, you go to war with the army you have, not the one you wish you had. And if this is the equivalent of war, this the best weapon Trump is able to get out of this bitterly divided Congress. Just be grateful that Trump had the backbone to refuse to be blackmailed and to keep so much of that leftist … “stuff” … out of it.
Mike Huckabee is the former governor of Arkansas and longtime conservative commentator on issues in culture and current events. A New York Times best-selling author, he hosts the weekly talk show Huckabee on TBN.
Originally published at MikeHuckabee.com. Reprinted with permission.


thestream--2020-03-25--Now is Not the Time to Sneer at Americans Living Paycheck to Paycheck

“ It is not only low income and middle income earners who blow through their paychecks every month , ” Kristin Tate declares in The Hill .
Wealthy people do it too .
“ Our fiscal irresponsibility means that when an unexpected crisis like the one today hits , Americans are unable to sustain their own families , even for a short time period.
” The website titled her article , “ Coronavirus Reveals Financial Irresponsibility of Americans.
” Tate , a libertarian , doesn ’ t really mean “ our.
” She means other people .
And she kind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us grumble about the government giving $ 1,200 of our taxpayers ’ dollars to each person .
We saved , cut back , prioritized .
Why should those wasteful spenders be rewarded with our hard-earned money ?
It ’ s easy to criticize people who live paycheck to paycheck without any savings to get them through an unforeseeable tough time .
Tate castigates Americans without the means who buy high definition TVs and go out to eat frequently .
That ’ s fair .
A Millennial who doesn ’ t seem to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people face , she paints with too broad a brush .
She blames people who should not be blamed .
It ’ s Not Really All About You I used to be a bankruptcy law attorney .
Most people who file bankruptcy aren ’ t doing so because they greedily spent money on luxury items they couldn ’ t afford .
Overwhelming medical bills are the number one reason people file for bankruptcy .
66.5 % of bankruptcies in the U.S. were due to medical issues .
Is it their fault for getting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But not always .
Many people are predisposed to health problems .
They get sick no matter how healthy they eat or how much they work out .
People get lung cancer who never smoked a cigarette in their life .
Two great athletes died early of heart attacks from congenital conditions .
The runner Jim Fixx ( 51 ) and the basketball star Pete Maravich ( 40 ) didn ’ t even know they were in danger .
Help us champion truth , freedom , limited government and human dignity .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ people with huge debt .
You can have great insurance and still get hit with thousands of dollars out of pocket .
I have one of the most well-known health insurance plans in the country .
But when I needed my gallbladder removed a few years ago ( scheduled , not emergency room ) , I was stuck paying many thousands .
What about people who are overweight ?
Isn ’ t that always their fault ?
No .
Many people are obese because of reasons other than overeating .
I know plenty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work out harder than a lot of skinny people , yet it ’ s still a struggle for them to lose weight .
And what about all the people with serious disabilities ?
Blind , paraplegic , mentally handicapped , etc.
?
Are you going to tell a blind person they live paycheck to paycheck because they bought a high-definition TV ?
Bragging and gloating about how well you eat and how much you work out is not going to change the fact that you are one of the lucky ones .
Not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health .
Telling people they ’ re just lazy and need to be more like you is not going to fix many serious health conditions .
Some people are broke because they support an elderly or sick parent or another relative .
Some care for handicapped children .
This isn ’ t their fault .
They should be commended for caring for a loved one and not putting them on the government dole .
Then there are all the people who have taken a huge hit because of a significant other .
Ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of holding a job ?
Who has four kids ( but gets no child support or visitation help from their ex ) ?
Who all have significant health problems ?
It doesn ’ t matter how much you scrimp on buying things .
Unless you ’ re wealthy , as long as you have someone like that draining you , you will never be able to save , and you will end up hopelessly in debt .
Try to escape a spouse like that ?
Not so fast .
People like that aren @ @ @ @ @ @ @ joint debts after you split up , leaving you with all the debt .
If you share children and your ex gets primary custody , you could get slammed with overwhelming child support .
And good luck trying to revise child custody or child support .
It ’ s very difficult for a noncustodial parent to get those situations reversed , despite spending tens of thousands of dollars on attorneys .
I know a father who lived paycheck to paycheck due to paying his attorney because his ex kept taking him to court @ @ @ @ @ @ @ child support .
He tried to work extra hours to keep up with it all , but since he had poor health he was dead in six months .
And his case isn ’ t rare .
These types of situations affect a lot of parents , since almost a quarter of children in the U.S. live with single parents .
Sure , There Are Some People Who Are Financially Irresponsible Yes , there are people who spend beyond their means on luxury items they can ’ t afford .
And we need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saving and avoiding debt .
Schools need to teach children financial responsibility as a basic subject right along with reading , writing and arithmetic .
Children should be taught how credit cards and loans work .
They need to be told the importance of saving for bad times .
Instead , we fill their brains full of politically correct nonsense that accomplishes nothing but turning them into social justice warriors .
But now is not the time to be attacking people going through a crisis .
Because when you paint with a broad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lot of people who don ’ t deserve it .
People who deserve sympathy and even admiration .
We should be rallying together and helping each other .
So if you ’ re one of those people who has enough money to get by during the epidemic , why not pass along your $ 1,200 to someone who desperately needs it ?
Instead of complaining about it and pointing fingers , why not help out someone who hasn ’ t been handed the same deck of cards as you ?
If you are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bless someone who isn ’ t and is struggling financially during this epidemic ?
Follow Rachel on Twitter at Rach_IC .
Follow The Stream at streamdotorg .
Send tips to rachel.alexander @ stream.org .

“It is not only low income and middle income earners who blow through their paychecks every month,” Kristin Tate declares in The Hill. Wealthy people do it too. “Our fiscal irresponsibility means that when an unexpected crisis like the one today hits, Americans are unable to sustain their own families, even for a short time period.” The website titled her article, “Coronavirus Reveals Financial Irresponsibility of Americans.”
Tate, a libertarian, doesn’t really mean “our.” She means other people. And she kind of has a point. Many of us grumble about the government giving $1,200 of our taxpayers’ dollars to each person. We saved, cut back, prioritized. Why should those wasteful spenders be rewarded with our hard-earned money?
It’s easy to criticize people who live paycheck to paycheck without any savings to get them through an unforeseeable tough time. Tate castigates Americans without the means who buy high definition TVs and go out to eat frequently. That’s fair. A Millennial who doesn’t seem to have experienced or seen the real trials many people face, she paints with too broad a brush. She blames people who should not be blamed.
It’s Not Really All About You
I used to be a bankruptcy law attorney. Most people who file bankruptcy aren’t doing so because they greedily spent money on luxury items they couldn’t afford. Overwhelming medical bills are the number one reason people file for bankruptcy. 66.5% of bankruptcies in the U.S. were due to medical issues.
Is it their fault for getting sick and needing expensive treatment? Sometimes. But not always. Many people are predisposed to health problems. They get sick no matter how healthy they eat or how much they work out. People get lung cancer who never smoked a cigarette in their life. Two great athletes died early of heart attacks from congenital conditions. The runner Jim Fixx (51) and the basketball star Pete Maravich (40) didn’t even know they were in danger.
Please Support The Stream : Equipping Christians to Think Clearly About the Political, Economic, and Moral Issues of Our Day.
Insurance often leaves people with huge debt. You can have great insurance and still get hit with thousands of dollars out of pocket. I have one of the most well-known health insurance plans in the country. But when I needed my gallbladder removed a few years ago (scheduled, not emergency room), I was stuck paying many thousands.
What about people who are overweight? Isn’t that always their fault? No. Many people are obese because of reasons other than overeating. I know plenty of large people who eat better and work out harder than a lot of skinny people, yet it’s still a struggle for them to lose weight.
And what about all the people with serious disabilities? Blind, paraplegic, mentally handicapped, etc.? Are you going to tell a blind person they live paycheck to paycheck because they bought a high-definition TV?
Bragging and gloating about how well you eat and how much you work out is not going to change the fact that you are one of the lucky ones. Not everyone is predisposed like you to good health. Telling people they’re just lazy and need to be more like you is not going to fix many serious health conditions.
Other Reasons People Struggle
Some people are broke because they support an elderly or sick parent or another relative. Some care for handicapped children. This isn’t their fault. They should be commended for caring for a loved one and not putting them on the government dole.
Then there are all the people who have taken a huge hit because of a significant other. Ever been married to someone who was incapable of holding a job? Who has four kids (but gets no child support or visitation help from their ex)? Who all have significant health problems? It doesn’t matter how much you scrimp on buying things. Unless you’re wealthy, as long as you have someone like that draining you, you will never be able to save, and you will end up hopelessly in debt.
I know a father who lived paycheck to paycheck due to paying his attorney because his ex kept taking him to court to reduce his visitation and increase his child support.
Try to escape a spouse like that? Not so fast. People like that aren’t likely to make payments on joint debts after you split up, leaving you with all the debt. If you share children and your ex gets primary custody, you could get slammed with overwhelming child support. And good luck trying to revise child custody or child support. It’s very difficult for a noncustodial parent to get those situations reversed, despite spending tens of thousands of dollars on attorneys.
I know a father who lived paycheck to paycheck due to paying his attorney because his ex kept taking him to court to reduce his visitation and increase his child support. He tried to work extra hours to keep up with it all, but since he had poor health he was dead in six months. And his case isn’t rare. These types of situations affect a lot of parents, since almost a quarter of children in the U.S. live with single parents.
Sure, There Are Some People Who Are Financially Irresponsible
Yes, there are people who spend beyond their means on luxury items they can’t afford. And we need to do more to educate them about saving and avoiding debt. Schools need to teach children financial responsibility as a basic subject right along with reading, writing and arithmetic. Children should be taught how credit cards and loans work.
They need to be told the importance of saving for bad times. Instead, we fill their brains full of politically correct nonsense that accomplishes nothing but turning them into social justice warriors.
But now is not the time to be attacking people going through a crisis. Because when you paint with a broad brush like Tate, you cover a lot of people who don’t deserve it. People who deserve sympathy and even admiration. We should be rallying together and helping each other.
So if you’re one of those people who has enough money to get by during the epidemic, why not pass along your $1,200 to someone who desperately needs it? Instead of complaining about it and pointing fingers, why not help out someone who hasn’t been handed the same deck of cards as you? If you are blessed with great health, why not bless someone who isn’t and is struggling financially during this epidemic?
Follow Rachel on Twitter at Rach_IC. Follow The Stream at streamdotorg. Send tips to [email protected].


thestream--2020-03-25--How About Some Good News?

How About Some Good News?

It ’ s easy to focus on what is wrong right now , since a whole lot really is wrong .
First and foremost , people are dying at alarming rates , and the worst could still be ahead .
Yet God is not sitting idly on the sidelines , watching and hoping .
He is at work , as He always is , showing mercy and granting help .
So , allow me to give you some good news in the midst of the storm .
Last Wednesday night , March 18 , I met with 9 of our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One of them , around 70-years-old herself , asked for prayer for her husband .
( We ’ ll call her Miriam and him Bob . )
He is 73-years-old .
He had three previous co-morbidities , including having his respiratory system messed up because of being a cop in Manhattan on 9/11 .
And he had come down with COVID-19 .
This was serious business .
As Miriam described it , Bob “ felt pretty bad for a few days with chills , fever , muscle aches and basically no energy.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , praying for Miriam as well , as they lived in a part of New York that had become a stronghold of the virus .
Yet nothing changed immediately , and Miriam herself was experiencing some symptoms as well .
So , her pastor , an old friend of mine , prayed for her over the phone .
She describes what happened next : “ I felt something lift off my face and I felt better right away .
All Praise to the Lord Jesus !
” That was the first immediate answer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more to come .
Miriam wrote , “ The next day , my husband Bill was 100 % better .
We are rejoicing and are most grateful to Jesus for His mercy towards us .
We are also so grateful for you and the others who prayed for us !
” This is really good news .
Bob ’ s pre-existing conditions , coupled with his age , made his situation very precarious , but by the Lord , by His grace , made Him well .
Thank God !
Help us champion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ human dignity .
Support The Stream » Bob and Miriam ’ s children are in the medical field , working in hotspot areas , and so she wrote that “ we are not slackening the bow just yet .
However !
We are alive and well !
Because He Lives , we can face the future.
” So , the battle is far from over , but one major victory has been won .
Let us be thankful and encouraged .
Focusing on What God ’ s Doing There is also a good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of very good news .
Simply stated , bad things will always be here .
Really bad things .
Things like sickness and war and death .
There will be suffering on this planet until Jesus comes — lots of suffering .
And there will people we pray for who die .
But if we focus alone on the loss and the pain , we will quickly lose hope and become disheartened .
And rather than helping others , we will find ourselves stuck in a deep rut of despair .
Of what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alleviate our pain or the pain of others ?
Instead , while recognizing the urgent needs around us , we must focus on the Lord and what He is doing .
That will bring life and light and faith and hope .
That will lift us up , enabling us to lift others up as well .
Others need to hear good news as well .
I was reminded of this on March 24 when I sent out two tweets .
The first was sobering , meant to remind us of the scope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not to judge .
I tweeted , “ In the last few days in the States , a Pentecostal pastor died of COVID-19 , a cessationist pastor died of the virus , and an apostolic leader is in ICU with the virus .
It attacks and kills indiscriminately .
Let ’ s be wise , vigilant , and prayerful .
Intervene with mercy , Lord !
” As of this writing , this was retweeted 28 times and liked 205 times .
The same day , I tweeted out the testimony shared here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s some good news in the midst of the bad news .
The husband of one of our online students , in his 70s with pre-existing conditions , came down with COVID-19 , experiencing symptoms for days .
The day after receiving prayer , he is 100 % symptom-free and rejoicing .
Thank God !
” As of this writing , this was retweeted 93 times and liked 769 times .
The takeaway is obvious .
Good news is uplifting .
Good news is encouraging .
People want to share good news .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ good news gives health to the bones ” ( Proverbs 15:30 ) .
Yes , “ Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land ” ( Proverbs 25:25 ) .
So , let ’ s find some good news and let ’ s share it widely .
In a day like today , people really need to hear it .
As it is written in a very different context , “ How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feet be beautiful today .
Bring some good news to others .
Dr. Michael Brown ( www.askdrbrown.org ) is the host of the nationally syndicated Line of Fire radio program .
His latest book is Jezebel ’ s War With America : The Plot to Destroy Our Country and What We Can Do to Turn the Tide .
Connect with him on Facebook , Twitter or YouTube .

It’s easy to focus on what is wrong right now, since a whole lot really is wrong. First and foremost, people are dying at alarming rates, and the worst could still be ahead. Yet God is not sitting idly on the sidelines, watching and hoping. He is at work, as He always is, showing mercy and granting help. So, allow me to give you some good news in the midst of the storm.
Meet “Miriam and Bob”
Last Wednesday night, March 18, I met with 9 of our online ministry school students via Zoom. One of them, around 70-years-old herself, asked for prayer for her husband. (We’ll call her Miriam and him Bob.)
He is 73-years-old. He had three previous co-morbidities, including having his respiratory system messed up because of being a cop in Manhattan on 9/11. And he had come down with COVID-19. This was serious business.
As Miriam described it, Bob “felt pretty bad for a few days with chills, fever, muscle aches and basically no energy.”
So we prayed for him as group, praying for Miriam as well, as they lived in a part of New York that had become a stronghold of the virus.
Yet nothing changed immediately, and Miriam herself was experiencing some symptoms as well. So, her pastor, an old friend of mine, prayed for her over the phone.
She describes what happened next: “I felt something lift off my face and I felt better right away. All Praise to the Lord Jesus!”
That was the first immediate answer to prayer. But there was one more to come.
Miriam wrote, “The next day, my husband Bill was 100% better. We are rejoicing and are most grateful to Jesus for His mercy towards us. We are also so grateful for you and the others who prayed for us!”
This is really good news.
Bob’s pre-existing conditions, coupled with his age, made his situation very precarious, but by the Lord, by His grace, made Him well. Thank God!
Please Support The Stream : Equipping Christians to Think Clearly About the Political, Economic, and Moral Issues of Our Day.
Bob and Miriam’s children are in the medical field, working in hotspot areas, and so she wrote that “we are not slackening the bow just yet. However! We are alive and well! Because He Lives, we can face the future.”
So, the battle is far from over, but one major victory has been won. Let us be thankful and encouraged.
Focusing on What God’s Doing
There is also a good principle we can take from this piece of very good news. Simply stated, bad things will always be here. Really bad things. Things like sickness and war and death.
There will be suffering on this planet until Jesus comes — lots of suffering. And there will people we pray for who die.
But if we focus alone on the loss and the pain, we will quickly lose hope and become disheartened. And rather than helping others, we will find ourselves stuck in a deep rut of despair. Of what use is that? How does that alleviate our pain or the pain of others?
Instead, while recognizing the urgent needs around us, we must focus on the Lord and what He is doing. That will bring life and light and faith and hope. That will lift us up, enabling us to lift others up as well. Others need to hear good news as well.
“Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land” (Proverbs 25:25).
I was reminded of this on March 24 when I sent out two tweets. The first was sobering, meant to remind us of the scope of this deadly virus while urging us not to judge.
I tweeted, “In the last few days in the States, a Pentecostal pastor died of COVID-19, a cessationist pastor died of the virus, and an apostolic leader is in ICU with the virus. It attacks and kills indiscriminately. Let’s be wise, vigilant, and prayerful. Intervene with mercy, Lord!”
As of this writing, this was retweeted 28 times and liked 205 times.
The same day, I tweeted out the testimony shared here in this article: “Here’s some good news in the midst of the bad news. The husband of one of our online students, in his 70s with pre-existing conditions, came down with COVID-19, experiencing symptoms for days. The day after receiving prayer, he is 100% symptom-free and rejoicing. Thank God!”
As of this writing, this was retweeted 93 times and liked 769 times.
The Goodness of Good News
The takeaway is obvious. Good news is uplifting. Good news is encouraging. People want to share good news.
The Book of Proverbs even states that “good news gives health to the bones” (Proverbs 15:30). Yes, “Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land” (Proverbs 25:25).
So, let’s find some good news and let’s share it widely. In a day like today, people really need to hear it.
As it is written in a very different context, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news” (Isaiah 52:7).
Let your feet be beautiful today. Bring some good news to others.
Dr. Michael Brown (www.askdrbrown.org) is the host of the nationally syndicated Line of Fire radio program. His latest book is Jezebel’s War With America: The Plot to Destroy Our Country and What We Can Do to Turn the Tide. Connect with him on Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.