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by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent (Worthy News) – The U.S. has delivered advanced missile systems to Israel amid a wave of ballistic missile attacks by Houthi terrorists and escalating tensions with Iran, fueling growing fears of a looming military confrontation with Iran. The United States has bolstered Israel’s defenses with the recent deployment of advanced missile systems, including an additional Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery and two Patriot batteries, according to Israeli security sources and various media sources. According to a report by Saudi News Channel Al-Hadath, the U.S. has recently sent a THAAD battery and two Patriot systems to Israel, possibly marking the second THAAD deployment in the country. The Lockheed Martin THAAD system defends against short—to long-range ballistic missiles with a 100% test interception rate. It includes launchers, radar, command units, and support gear. On Friday, several Asian media outlets reported that U.S. Patriot missile batteries are being redeployed from South Korea to the Middle East. Washington and Seoul have reportedly agreed to a “monthslong” partial deployment of the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 system, marking the first known transfer of U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) assets to the Middle East. The U.S.-developed Patriot air defense system, operational since 1984, was designed to counter aircraft and ballistic missiles. It gained global attention during the 1991 Gulf War, though its effectiveness was later questioned. Since then, it has been upgraded significantly and is used by many nations worldwide. U.S. CENTCOM Commander Gen. Michael Kurilla recently met with IDF Chief Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir in Israel, reportedly coordinating potential action against Iran and preparing for possible retaliation from Tehran and its proxies in the Middle East. President Donald Trump announced last Thursday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will visit the U.S. this week. The visit comes amid ongoing fighting in Gaza, unresolved hostage situations, and rising tensions with Iran, as Washington considers possible military action—potentially with Israeli support—over Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The post US Delivers Advanced Missile Defense Systems to Israel Ahead of Possible Iranian Strike appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent (Worthy News) – Trump administration officials said Sunday that over 50 countries have reached out to negotiate after President Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs rattled markets, fueled recession fears, and disrupted global trade. Over the weekend, Trump posted on Truth Social, “WE WILL WIN. HANG TOUGH, it won’t be easy,” as his Cabinet and economic advisers took to the Sunday talk shows to defend the tariffs and minimize concerns over global fallout. In an interview on ABC’s “This Week,” White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett said Trump’s tariff strategy is already yielding results. “I got a report from the USTR last night that more than 50 countries have reached out to the president to begin a negotiation,” Hassett said. “They’re doing that because they understand that they bear a lot of the tariff. And so, I don’t think that you’re going to see a big effect on the consumer in the U.S… They’ve been dumping goods into the country in order to create jobs, say, in China.” On Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures,” White House Senior Counselor for Trade and Manufacturing Peter Navarro dismissed the idea that simply removing tariffs on the U.S. would be enough. “This is not a negotiation. This is a national emergency based on a trade deficit that’s gotten out of control because of cheating,” Navarro said when asked whether Vietnam could avoid U.S. tariffs by lifting its own. However, he added, “We’re always willing to listen. That’s what Donald Trump does best. But I want to just say to the world here, if you want to come and talk to us, don’t say you want to lower their tariffs and be done with it. It’s the non-tariff cheating. Stop manipulating your currency. Stop dumping stuff in. Europe, take your 19 percent VAT tax down to zero. Don’t put these fake agricultural standards to keep out our pork and our dairy and our chickens. And, Vietnam, don’t dump shrimp into our markets and put the good people of Louisiana on our coast out of work. This is what people have to understand. It’s the non-tariff cheating that matters the most.” As stock markets fell and fears of rising consumer prices and a deepening trade war grew, Trump urged Americans to stay strong in a Saturday post on Truth Social. “China has been hit much harder than the USA, not even close. They, and many other nations, have treated us unsustainably badly. We have been the dumb and helpless ‘whipping post,’ but not any longer,” he wrote. “We are bringing back jobs and businesses like never before. Already, more than FIVE TRILLION DOLLARS OF INVESTMENT, and rising fast! THIS IS AN ECONOMIC REVOLUTION, AND WE WILL WIN. HANG TOUGH, it won’t be easy, but the end result will be historic. We will, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!” The post Over 50 Countries Seek Tariff Talks With Trump Administration, Officials Say appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News ABUJA (Worthy News) – The death toll of recent attacks against mainly Christian farming communities in Nigeria’s north-central Plateau state has risen to over 60 people, Worthy News learned Sunday. In the latest incidents, armed Fulani herders struck Plateau villages amid land disputes and growing Islamic pressure on Christians in the region, officials said. As of Friday morning, Bokkos Local Government Area official Farmasum Fuddang said 48 bodies were recovered, revising the earlier reported toll of 10. “We released the statement about the killing of 10 people in [the villages of] Mangor Tamiso, Daffo, Manguna, Hurti, and Tadai on Wednesday morning,” the official told Nigerian media. “Since then, we have recovered [about] 40 more bodies. We even buried them around 7 p.m. [local time] on Thursday using torchlights. It was the community members who discovered the bodies of their loved ones,” Fuddang explained. The Red Cross said those killed were “mostly women and children.” Earlier, at least 11 people were killed in Ruwi village of the Bokkos Local Government Area on March 27, Worthy News reported. ARMED MILITANTS In comments shared with Worthy News, Ruwi resident Tajot Stephen Alexander recalled that “armed militants surprised us with their assault. We lost 11 valued lives, including a pregnant woman.” The Plateau chapter of the Gan Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria called the killings “barbaric.” However, it also said that Fulani herders “should be the ones complaining about land grabbing” by [Christian] farming communities. Yet critics say that Christians have been singled out by predominantly Muslim groups, including Fulani herders as well as Islamic militants and criminals known as “bandits.” The military said that troops, “alongside local vigilante groups,” had engaged with the attackers and “efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing criminals.” However, Christians suggested these actions have done little to end the attacks by Fulani herders and feared Islamic groups such as Boko Haram. Besides killing Christians, they also kidnapped believers, including women such as Maria, a Christian mother. LI would rather die trying to escape than stay here and become Muslim,” she said in remarks shared with Worthy News. IMPOSSIBLE CHOICE She recalled that when “Boko Haram militants” found her, they gave her an impossible choice: “deny Jesus or die.”Maria, who uses one name, said she chose Jesus Christ – then “scaled a fence in the darkness” as bullets flew past her, not knowing if she would see her children again. Brian Orme, CEO of the Global Christian Relief charity working in the area, told Worthy News that her words “reveal a deep and courageous faith.” He noted during a field trip that “Islamic extremist groups like Boko Haram are targeting our brothers and sisters with devastating violence.” He said, “They burned churches and entire Christian villages, forced believers to flee their homes [and] kidnapped Christian women and children.” Yet “We must be tried if we believe in Jesus,” he recalled Safiratu, another woman abducted by Boko Haram, as telling him after surviving captivity. “Even though he came to this world, he was persecuted. That’s a message for us that we may face difficulty, but we can stand firm in Christ,” the woman reportedly said. His group is currently raising funds for Christian women who are starting businesses to support their families, as well as training programs for young teachers, healthcare workers, and “Trauma survivors finding healing and sharing their faith.” Additionally, his group helps “churches being planted in areas of intense persecution.” Among the most devastating incidents was the December 2023 massacre in Plateau State, where nearly 300 Christians were killed in coordinated attacks during the Christmas season. MORE KILLINGS Earlier that same year, in April 2023, between 130 and 200 people were killed in Mangu, also in Plateau State. Similar incidents also occurred in other states, as Nigeria was the country with the most Christians killed and kidnapped in 2024, according to the latest report from advocacy group Open Doors. Some 3,100 Christians were killed, and 2,830 Christians were kidnapped in Nigeria in 2024, far more than other countries in the same year, according to Open Doors estimates. It has ranked Nigeria 7th on its annual World Watch List of 50 nations, where it says Christians face the most persecution for their faith. Despite the reported difficulties, Christianity is spreading in Nigeria from around 40 percent of the population in 2001 to nearly 50 percent today, according to Christian researchers. The population identifying as Christians has risen from about 60 million in 2000 to roughly 96 million in 2020, with projections pointing to over 155 million by 2050. “Let’s hold on to God and go to church. That is what will strengthen us,” Maria tells others after escaping her Islamic kidnappers. “With God, all things are possible.” (With additional reporting by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent.) The post Anti-Christian Violence Kills 60 In Nigeria’s Plateau State (Worthy News Investigation) appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Dan McCaleb and Morgan Sweeney | The Center Square (Worthy News) – The U.S. added 228,000 jobs in March, the U.S. Department of Labor reported Friday, nearly double what was forecast. Employment gains occurred in the health care, transportation, warehousing and retail trade industries, according to the Labor department. The overall gains come despite significant layoffs in the federal government under the Trump administration. President Donald Trump is touting the gains as byproducts of his administration’s policies and of the tariffs he has spoken of for months but revealed specifics of on Wednesday. “Great job numbers, far better than expected. It’s already working. Hang tough, we can’t lose!!!” the president wrote in all caps on Truth Social Friday morning. Trumpunveiled a series of reciprocal tariffs on countries that have for years been placing tariffs on U.S. imports. While the markets reacted negatively to the tariffs and many economists say they will increase costs for U.S. consumers, Trump says his tariff plan will help bring back manufacturing and other jobs to the country. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the numbers are evidence of Trump’s policies, citing a “sharp increase in transportation, construction, and warehousing employment. “GREAT NEWS! The economy is starting to roar with a strong 228,000 jobs added in the month of March — well ahead of the market’s expectation,” she wrote on Truth Social. “The President’s push to onshore jobs here in the United States is working. The Golden Age of America is on its way!” U.S. Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer said in a statement the job numbers demonstrate a “strong expansion that will only continue when jobs that were previously shipped overseas are brought back to the United States.” Reprinted with permission from The Center Square. The post U.S. Adds 228,000 Jobs in March, Surpassing Expectations appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

Friend, life awaits us! Philippians 3:13-14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. There are two kinds of birds that roam the desert: vultures and hummingbirds. The vulture thrives on a diet of rotting meat. He flies overhead searching for traces of leftover carcasses from slow-footed critters eaten by wild animals who've already had their fill. Hummingbirds, on the other hand, will sweep through the desert, passing over all those repulsive, dead animals and seek colorful patches of beautiful wild desert flowers. They will suckle the delicious juices of those sweet desert blossoms and be satisfied. How similar we are, at times, to these two birds. There are those among us who, perhaps unknowingly, cling to the past—our regrets, our failures, our sins. We feed on memories that drain our joy and diminish our hope. Like the vulture, we sustain ourselves on what should remain buried and left behind. Yet, we have another choice. Let us take wisdom from the hummingbird and move swiftly past the lifeless things of yesterday. Let us intentionally seek the sweet promises of new life in the Lord, focusing our hearts and minds on the abundant, vibrant future God has prepared for us. In choosing life, we find true satisfaction and renewed strength. Friend, let's sweep past that which is dead and focus on the sweet new life -- the exciting future that God holds for us as we continue seeking Him and moving forward in our relationship with Him! Your family in the Lord with much agape love, George, Baht Rivka, Elianna and Obadiah (George & Obi - Mansfield, Texas | Baht Rivka - Israel | Elianna - Married living in Missouri) Editor's Note: Feel free to share any of our content from Worthy, including Devotions, News articles, and more, on your social platforms. You have full permission to copy and repost anything we produce. Editor's Note: During this war, we have been live blogging throughout the day -- sometimes minute by minute on our Telegram channel. Be sure to check it out! Around the World Russia Hits Ukraine President’s Town; Scores Killed and Inured (Worthy News In-Depth) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s hometown plunged into mourning Saturday after at least 19 people reportedly died and scores were injured in Russian missile and drone strikes over the weekend. South Korea’s Top Court Fires Impeached President Thousands of protesters cheered in Seoul Friday as they watched a broadcast announcing that South Korea’s top court voted unanimously to dismiss the country’s impeached president, Yoon Suk Yeol. Israel-Palestinian Conflict US Delivers Advanced Missile Defense Systems to Israel Ahead of Possible Iranian Strike The U.S. has delivered advanced missile systems to Israel amid a wave of ballistic missile attacks by Houthi terrorists and escalating tensions with Iran, fueling growing fears of a looming military confrontation with Iran. Hamas Fires 10 Rockets Into Israel; Iran Puts Army On Full Alert Hamas fired 10 rockets into Israel late Sunday, officials said, prompting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to pledge “a strong response” and the continuation of “intensified” Israeli military operations in Gaza. Israel’s Netanyahu Says Strong Army Key To Peace And Survival Jewish Nation Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made clear Friday that a strong army backed by a strong economy was key to the survival of the Jewish nation and peace. Trump: ‘Israeli Premier Likely In US Next Week’ U.S. President Donald J. Trump said Thursday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may visit the United States next week. Inside the United States Over 50 Countries Seek Tariff Talks With Trump Administration, Officials Say Trump administration officials said Sunday that over 50 countries have reached out to negotiate after President Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs rattled markets, fueled recession fears, and disrupted global trade. U.S. Adds 228,000 Jobs in March, Surpassing Expectations The U.S. added 228,000 jobs in March, the U.S. Department of Labor reported Friday, nearly double what was forecast. US City In Shock Over Killing Of Priest A community was left in “a state of shock” Saturday as a Catholic priest died in the U.S. state of Kansas after being shot at his church’s rectory, church sources said. At Least 16 Dead as Storms Hit from Texas to Ohio Millions of Americans faced more hardships Saturday as a new round of torrential rain and flash flooding hit parts of the South and Midwest, where numerous people had already died. Stocks Lose Trillions As China Imposes Tariffs On US Goods More stock market investors ran for the exit Friday, further erasing trillions in stock value, after China announced 34 percent across-the-board tariffs on imports from the United States. Pentagon To Review Defense Secretary’s Usage Of Signal Chat App The Pentagon's acting inspector general announced Thursday that he would review U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's use of the Signal messaging application to convey potentially classified plans for a military strike against Houthi militants in Yemen. Christian News Anti-Christian Violence Kills 60 In Nigeria’s Plateau State (Worthy News Investigation) The death toll of recent attacks against mainly Christian farming communities in Nigeria’s north-central Plateau state has risen to over 60 people, Worthy News learned Sunday. Worthy Insights Psychology expert believes Israeli strategy is to make Hamas fear the people of Gaza Israeli clinical psychologist expert Dr. Ofer Grosbard believes that Israel is increasingly engaging in psychological warfare aimed at making Hamas members fear Gaza’s general population. Revival at Baylor University: ‘Things Happen When We Pray’ There's no doubt that a spiritual movement is taking place across college campuses. In almost every region of the country, young people are having their lives impacted by the love of Jesus Christ. This week, thousands of students at Baylor University gathered for 72 hours of continuous prayer to ask God for revival on their campus in Waco, Texas. Thousands gather in nation’s capital for ‘Hands Off!’ anti-Trump protest Thousands marched in Washington, D.C. for one of the planned "Hands Off!" rallies that were taking place on Saturday in cities across the country. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News ASHKELON/TEHRAN/JERUSALEM (Worthy News) – Hamas fired 10 rockets into Israel late Sunday, officials said, prompting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to pledge “a strong response” and the continuation of “intensified” Israeli military operations in Gaza. The attacks came while Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, a Hamas ally, put the Iranian military on full alert after U.S. President Donald J. Trump threatened to bomb Iran if diplomacy fails on the Islamic Republic’s nuclear program. Israeli police said it was operating in an area of the coastal city of Ashkelon where an impact had been reported. A man in his 30s sustained light wounds from rocket shrapnel following Hamas’s rocket barrage in Israel’s South, Israel’s emergency response service, Magen David Adom (MDA) said Sunday. There were also reports of other injuries. Worthy News obtained footage showing chaos in Ashkelon after the attack. Another video showed the impact of the strike, with at least one fireball seen in the city, with Israel’s Iron Dome defense system apparently hitting incoming rockets. Israeli sources said that after being briefed on the situation, Prime Minister Netanyahu, who was on his way to Washington, told Defense Minister Israel Katz to respond with force. Katz responded by saying: “I instructed the [Israel Defense Forces] IDF to carry out a powerful blow against Hamas. We will not accept rocket fire at Israel.” Shortly after his statement, the IDF said an air force jet “attacked the launcher” from where one or more rockets were detected. The Israeli strikes came despite the IDF admitting its soldiers made mistakes over the killing of 15 paramedics and emergency workers in southern Gaza last month. OPENING FIRE The convoy of Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) ambulances and a fire truck came under fire near Rafah on March 23, witnesses said. Israel initially claimed troops opened fire because the convoy approached “suspiciously” in the darkness without headlights or flashing lights. It said that the army had not previously coordinated or agreed upon the movement of the vehicles. However, mobile phone footage, filmed by one of the paramedics who was killed, showed the vehicles did have lights on as they answered a call to help wounded people. The video showed their emergency lights flashing. In a briefing to journalists, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said that soldiers had “mistakenly” identified the paramedics as a threat and that the incident was under “thorough investigation.” Israel says it wants to avoid civilian casualties but cautions that this is difficult to achieve amid ongoing urban warfare in the Gaza Strip. Hamas-ruled authorities claim more than 50,000 people were killed in Gaza since Israel launched its war against Hamas in October 2023. Israel said it responded to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack in southern Israel, which killed some 1,200 people while 251 persons were kidnapped. The post Hamas Fires 10 Rockets Into Israel; Iran Puts Army On Full Alert appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News KANSAS CITY, USA (Worthy News) – A community was left in “a state of shock” Saturday as a Catholic priest died in the U.S. state of Kansas after being shot at his church’s rectory, church sources said. A man from neighboring Oklahoma state was arrested in Thursday’s fatal shooting of Arul Carasala, 57, at a church rectory in Seneca in northeast Kansas, police confirmed. Officers called to the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca on Thursday afternoon and found the priest with gunshot wounds outside the rectory, the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office said. Carasala was taken by ambulance to a hospital, where he died, according to investigators. Sheriff’s deputies and officers with the Seneca Police Department later arrested Gary Hermesch of Tulsa, Oklahoma, on suspicion of first-degree murder, officials announced. County Attorney Brad Lippert said in a written statement that Hermesch, 66, was charged Friday and held in the Nemaha County Jail instead of a $1 million bond. The charging complaint says that Hermesch “intentionally and with premeditation” killed Carasala. There was no immediate known reaction from the suspect. “We’re all just still in a state of shock. I mean, this is small-town America. And Father Arul was such a beloved pastor in Seneca, Kansas. He’s been a pastor there for over 13 years,” said priest Brian Schieber, a Vicar General for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. GOOD SHEPHERD “A good shepherd knows his people by name, and Father Arul knew everybody. He, over these years, baptized so many people, did so many weddings, funerals, he was such a good confessor and present to people who were sick, had such pastoral wisdom, he is really beloved by everybody,” Schieber added in published remarks. He described the shooting as a “senseless act of violence.” Schieber told the Fox News Digital outlet, “We have no idea what the motive for this was.” However, he stressed, “You know, we’re really praying for the person that killed Father Arul as well. And thank you all for your prayers.” There has been a tradition within the Catholic Church of praying for an attacker. Soon after he was shot and injured on May 13, 1981, in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City, then Pope John Paul II asked pilgrims to “pray for my brother [gunman Mehmet Ali Ağca] … whom I have sincerely forgiven.” The pope met and forgave Ağca, who was surging a life sentence for the assassination. Ağca was pardoned by Italian President Carlo Azeglio Ciampi at the Pope’s request and deported to Turkey in June 2000. The post US City In Shock Over Killing Of Priest appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News DYERSBURG, USA (Worthy News) – Millions of Americans faced more hardships Saturday as a new round of torrential rain and flash flooding hit parts of the South and Midwest, where numerous people had already died. At least 16 weather-related deaths have been reported since the start of the storms, including 10 in Tennessee, heavily waterlogged by days of severe storms that also spawned deadly tornadoes. Forecasters warned that rivers in some places would continue to rise for days. Witnesses said the devastating storm system began lashing the region on Wednesday when tornadoes and strong winds toppled barns, houses, and power poles. Several people died in Tennessee, including a teenage girl whose modular home was destroyed by a tornado, officials said. Officials also linked a fire chief’s death in Missouri and a 9-year-old boy’s death in Kentucky to the storm. WATERWAYS TO CREST In many communities, the focus shifted immediately to the threat of flooding. With many waterways expected to crest at central flood stage over the coming days, residents of river towns in Arkansas, Missouri, and beyond were racing to fill up sandbags. Others rushed for safety, including in Dyersburg, Tennessee, where dozens arrived Saturday at a storm shelter near a public school. They came in the rain, clutching blankets, pillows, and other necessities. Among those sheltering was George Manns, 77, who said he was in his apartment when he heard a tornado warning and decided to head to the shelter. “I grabbed all my stuff and came here,” said Mann, who brought a folding chair, two bags of toiletries, laptops, iPads, and medications: “I don’t leave them in my apartment in case my apartment is destroyed. I have to make sure I have them with me.” Just days earlier, the city was hit by a tornado that reportedly caused millions of dollars in damage. The post At Least 16 Dead as Storms Hit from Texas to Ohio appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News KRYVYI RIH, UKRAINE (Worthy News) – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s hometown plunged into mourning Saturday after at least 19 people reportedly died and scores were injured in Russian missile and drone strikes over the weekend. Local authorities said the initial missile in the central city of Kryvyi Rih killed at least 18 people, including some nine children. At least 72 people were injured in Friday’s attack, the youngest a 3-month-old, according to authorities, adding that about half of them remained in hospital, with 17 in serious condition. “There can never be forgiveness for this,” said Oleksandr Vilkul, head of the city’s defense council. “Eternal memory to the victims.” Several sources said the strike damaged about 20 apartment buildings, more than 30 vehicles, an educational building, and a restaurant. A car was seen burning near the strike site. Speaking about his hometown, Kryvyi Rih, Zelenskyy noted on the social media platform Telegram that “the missile struck an area right next to residential buildings—hitting a playground and ordinary streets.” He blamed the daily strikes on Russia’s unwillingness to end the war: “Every missile, every drone strike proves Russia wants only war,” he said, urging Ukraine’s allies, including the United States, to increase pressure on Moscow and bolster Ukraine’s air defenses. ‘HIGH-PRECISION STRIKE’ The Russian Defense Ministry claimed that it had carried out “a high-precision missile strike” with a high explosive warhead on a restaurant where a meeting with Ukrainian unit commanders and Western instructors was taking place. The Russian military claimed that the strike killed 85 military personnel and foreign officers and destroyed 20 vehicles. The military’s claims could not be independently verified. The Ukrainian General Staff rejected the claims. A later drone strike on Kryvyi Rih killed one woman and wounded seven other people, officials said. Elsewhere, one person died Saturday in the Russian-occupied town of Horlivka in Ukraine’s Donetsk region due to shelling, Moscow-installed Governor Denis Pushilin said. Security officials also told Russian state news channels that they had destroyed 28 Ukrainian drones over the Donetsk region overnight, marking the first time that such long-range strikes had targeted the occupied territory. Russian forces launched 92 drones into Ukraine overnight, with 51 shot down by air defenses, the Ukrainian Air Force wrote on social media Saturday. It said 31 decoy drones also failed to reach their targets. But the missiles and drones that did hit their intended targets caused massive death and destruction, adding to fears in Kryvyi Rih. “I often can’t sleep at night because of the strikes. I took sedatives,” said Evelyn, who lives in the attacked city where she works as a pharmacist. “It was so scary.” NOT FLEEING UKRAINE Yet the 23-year-old told Worthy News she declines to flee her country as millions of others have. Instead, she wants to stay with her parents and her dog. “I recently walked with the dog in a park attacked by Russia,” she recalled. A young man said he is hiding at his home in Kryvyi Rih to avoid being called up for the army. “It’s dangerous now because men are being caught and sent to war by force. I hide at home almost all the time,” he said in remarks shared with Worthy News. “Life here is very dangerous. I hope this war will end soon,” he added about the ongoing armed conflict that is believed to have killed and injured more than a million people, many of them soldiers. As clashes were ongoing, President Zelenskyy on Saturday expressed disappointment in the U.S. embassy’s response to the Russian missile strike that killed 18 people in Kryvyi Rih. Zelenskyy, who has been cautious about openly criticizing Washington since a turbulent White House meeting with President Donald J. Trump in February, wrote on social media site X that several embassies in Kyiv had condemned Friday’s attack and singled out Russia for carrying it out. He noted that the message from the U.S. embassy did not refer to Russia in condemning the attack. “Unfortunately, the response from the U.S. Embassy is surprisingly disappointing – such a strong country, such a strong people, and yet such a weak reaction,” Zelenskyy wrote in English. “They are afraid to even say the word ‘Russian’ when speaking about the missile that murdered children.” Zekenskyy wrote on the day that he met the leaders of the British and French armed forces in Kyiv Saturday to discuss the potential deployment of a multinational peacekeeping force to Ukraine, despite the reluctance of the U.S. President Trump to provide security guarantees. BRITAIN BACKS FORCE Britain’s Ministry of Defense said the officials addressed the structure, size, and composition of any future “reassurance force,” while the chief of the defense staff, Admiral Antony Radakin, emphasized “that the U.K. would look to build on the formidable capabilities of the Ukrainian army and put them in the strongest possible position to deter Russian aggression.” Sources said the weekend discussions were in preparation for another meeting between defense ministers in Brussels and the Ukraine Defense Contact Group on Friday. Britain’s proposed 10,000 to 30,000 troops is considered a considerable effort for nations that shrank their militaries to a minimum after the Cold War but are now rearming. Trump, who has been pushing for a ceasefire in the war in Ukraine, temporarily paused military aid to Kyiv and has repeatedly said that the country will never join the NATO military alliance. However, Trump has recently shown impatience with Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying on March 30 that he is “very angry” at Putin about the lack of progress but plans to speak to him soon. Trump’s inner circle has reportedly advised him not to hold a phone call with Putin until the Kremlin agrees to a ceasefire in Ukraine. Presidents Trump and Putin held a phone call on March 18 amid peace talks in Saudi Arabia to end Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The post Russia Hits Ukraine President’s Town; Scores Killed and Inured (Worthy News In-Depth) appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News NEW YORK/BEIJING (Worthy News) – More stock market investors ran for the exit Friday, further erasing trillions in stock value, after China announced 34 percent across-the-board tariffs on imports from the United States. China’s Finance Ministry said it would launch tariffs on American goods on April 10, equal to those imposed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump on Chinese products. Later in the day, several sources said a deal to spin off the U.S. assets of social media platform TikTok was put on hold as Beijing indicated it would not approve the deal following President Trump’s tariffs announcement this week. Trump on Friday extended by 75 days a deadline for ByteDance to sell the popular short video application’s U.S. assets to a non-Chinese buyer. If not, Worthy News learned, TikTok faces a ban in the United States that was supposed to have taken effect in January under a 2024 law. Trump’s China rates are part of his worldwide tariff plan, which has rattled markets. The White House and its allied Fox News broadcasters suggested not looking to Wall Street but to the positive impact of Trump’s policies on “Main Street,” the average hardworking American. Yet that optimism wasn’t shared by everyone, with S&P 500 index companies erasing $5 trillion in stock market value since U.S. President Trump unveiled sweeping tariffs on Wednesday. NASDAQ WORRIES The technology-dominated Nasdaq exchange confirmed it was in a bear market, ending more than 20 percent below its record-high close, while oil prices and other commodities plunged. Similar turmoil occurred at other stock exchanges, including in London, where the FTSE 100 index of leading shares closed more than 7 percent lower than Monday—its worst week of trading since late February 2020, when anxiety about the COVID-19 pandemic was gripping the markets. Yet moments after the bell ended a shaky trading day, the White House sent a press release celebrating Trump’s “WEEK 11 WINS” and praising the president for unleashing “Economic Prosperity.” The email landed minutes after routed U.S. markets marked the first time the Dow Jones Industrial Average index shed 1,500 points two days in a row. “It was another highly successful week for the American people as President Donald J. Trump continues his relentless pursuit of strength, prosperity, and peace — and lays the foundation for America to be the global powerhouse for generations to come,” the White House said. The release highlighted the Trump administration’s immigration efforts, including a sharp decline in illegal border crossings into the U.S. and a series of arrests of alleged gang members. Despite a gloomy market outlook, it gave a rosy assessment of Trump’s tariffs announcement in the Rose Garden of the White House. TRUMP’S PLAN Trump also “implemented his bold plan for reciprocal trade as he seeks to reverse the decades of globalization that has decimated our industrial base,” the White House stressed. The White House also pointed to favorable manufacturing-related announcements from companies such as Nissan and General Motors. While a brutally battered stock market limped toward the finish line Friday afternoon, Trump delivered a defiant statement to his Truth Social media platform followers. “ONLY THE WEAK WILL FAIL!” Trump wrote in the post. Observers noted that the rallying cry struck a similar chord to Trump’s earlier all-caps declaration Friday morning that his policies will “NEVER CHANGE”—even as his tariff announcement sparked a massive sell-off. U.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, however, roasted Trump for visiting one of his Florida golf courses as stock markets plummeted due to the fallout from the tariffs. “While we’re here doing all of this, it’s my understanding that Donald Trump’s out at a golf course,” Schumer told reporters as he said he and other Democrats would force a vote on an amendment to rescind specific tariffs. CADDYING TODAY? “Now I don’t know if he’s playing today or if he’s caddying for somebody,” the New York lawmaker said. “I don’t know if anyone trusts him to caddy, but that’s what he’s up to.” However, President Trump apparently wanted to convey a “don’t panic” message to Americans, including those who own stocks. He said on Truth Social that investors were pouring large amounts of money into the U.S. and that this was a “great time to get rich.” “To the many investors coming into the United States and investing massive amounts of money, my policies will never change. This is a great time to get rich, richer than ever before!!!” In a later post, Trump said Friday’s stronger-than-forecast jobs report proved his policies were working. “Great job numbers, far better than expected. It’s already working. Hang tough, we can’t lose!!!” he said. Yet his words did little to prevent one of the worst market selloffs in years. Since January 17, the Friday before Inauguration Day, the U.S. stock market has seen $9.6 trillion in value erased, according to data from FactSet and Dow Jones Market Data. Of those losses, $5 trillion was erased on Thursday and Friday, the largest two-day loss on record. The post Stocks Lose Trillions As China Imposes Tariffs On US Goods appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News BUDAPEST (Worthy News) – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made clear Friday that a strong army backed by a strong economy was key to the survival of the Jewish nation and peace. Netanyahu spoke in Budapest, where he received an honorary degree at one of Central and Eastern Europe’s youngest but most influential universities in Hungary. “A strong army together with a strong economy will lead to peace,” Netanyahu said in a lecture at the National University of Public Service after being awarded the Civis Universitatis Honoris Causa title. He stressed that it had been essential for the survival of Jewish people to have their own state that could protect them. “If they want to destroy you, you need a strong army, which Israel has managed to create,” he told students. Netanyahu acknowledged that a strong army required a large amount of money. “Since defending Israel costs a lot, the Jewish state needed a strong economy,” he added. Netanyahu admitted that Israel had “an economy that built on a socialist basis” but later converted it into a “modern market-based capitalist economy.” Netanyahu noted it had generated “a dynamic [gross domestic product] GDP growth,” and the proportion of defense spending started decreasing in Israel’s budget as a result. COURAGE NEEDED Addressing students, the 75-year-old seasoned statesman said, “In addition to education and an image of the future, courage was also necessary for a successful future.” The university, visited by Netanyahu, was founded in 2012 under right-wing Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s government to educate future public administration officials, military personnel, and law enforcement officers. It also educates current public service officials and functions as a think tank to help formulate policies. Netanyahu came to the university on his second day in Hungary, where he was invited despite being sought by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged war crimes. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán called the ICC a “political court” and said his country “would withdraw” from the institution. Orbán stressed that Hungary won’t hand over Netanyahu to The Hague-based ICC, adding that the Israeli leader would be given extensive protection till Netanyahu’s departure on Sunday, April 6. However, some European leaders and rights activists said that as a founding member of the ICC, Hungary is obliged to arrest and hand over anyone subject to a warrant from the court. Hungary ratified the ICC’s founding document in 2001, but the law has not been promulgated. Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp of the Netherlands, which hosts the ICC, argued on Thursday that until its withdrawal from the court was complete, which he added takes about a year, “Hungary must still meet its duties.” That wasn’t likely to happen, and Netanyahu said Hungary was among Israel’s closest allies. MORE WARRANTS The ICC had also issued an arrest warrant against a Hamas leader, Mohammed Deif, whose death was confirmed after the warrant was issued. Prosecutors also sought to arrest Hamas leaders Ismail Haniyeh and Yahya Sinwar. Both were killed in Israeli strikes before the request was approved. The Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, killed 1,200 people and saw 251 taken hostage, according to Israeli tallies, with 59 still held in Gaza, including an Israeli-Hungarian citizen. The Israeli reprisals following that attack have killed more than 50,000 Palestinians, Hamas-controlled health authorities in Gaza claim, without differentiating between combatants and civilians. Hamas, designated a terrorist group by Israel and the West, condemned Hungary’s decision to leave the ICC. Yet Netanyahu praised Hungary’s move and added Friday that he expected to maintain a “close partnership” with the United States under President Donald J. Trump and with Hungary led by likeminded Prime Minister Orbán. Rector Gergely Deli said Netanyahu was “a prominent figure in world politics” and praised his leadership and “his unwavering dedication towards Israel’s security and welfare.” PRO-ISRAEL The rector also noted the Israeli leader’s “dedication to protecting Hungarian-Israeli citizens” and his contribution “to strengthening ties between Hungary and Israel.” He made clear that many Hungarians hold a strong pro-Israel sentiment. Stickers and posters commemorating the victims of the October 7 terror attack against Israel have been seen in Budapest. A Holocaust memorial on the bank of the River Danube just outside the Hungarian Parliament was adorned with yellow ribbons, signaling the support for the hostages held in Gaza. With up to 120,000 Jews, Hungary is home to Eastern Europe’s largest Jewish community outside Russia. The post Israel’s Netanyahu Says Strong Army Key To Peace And Survival Jewish Nation appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News SEOUL (Worthy News) – Thousands of protesters cheered in Seoul Friday as they watched a broadcast announcing that South Korea’s top court voted unanimously to dismiss the country’s impeached president, Yoon Suk Yeol. The move cleared the way for the key U.S. ally to elect a new leader following months of political turmoil that tested the Asian nation’s democratic credentials. In a ruling that millions of South Koreans watched on live television, the Constitutional Court’s eight justices endorsed the National Assembly’s decision to impeach Yoon for his “failed attempt” to place his country under martial law in December. With that ruling, Yoon, suspended from office since the parliamentary vote on December 14, was formally unseated. The unanimous verdict comes more than three months after the opposition-controlled National Assembly voted to impeach Yoon. South Korea must now hold a national election within two months to find a new president. Surveys show that Lee Jae-myung, leader of the leading liberal opposition Democratic Party, was the early favorite candidate to become the country’s next president. A massive crowd of anti-Yoon protesters gathering outside the Constitutional Court cheered and shook their fists when the decision was announced. Some were seen in tears as they hugged each other. One protest leader led the chant, “We won!” There were also cheers, applause, and sighs of relief among those watching at Seoul Station, the city’s central transit hub when people heard the court‘s ruling. The post South Korea’s Top Court Fires Impeached President appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News WASHINGTON (Worthy News) – The Pentagon’s acting inspector general announced Thursday that he would review U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s use of the Signal messaging application to convey potentially classified plans for a military strike against Houthi militants in Yemen. The pressure on Hegseth came on a tense day when, in a separate case, officials confirmed that U.S. President Donald J. Trump moved to fire several White House National Security Council officials. The review announced Thursday will examine other defense officials’ use of the publicly available encrypted Signal application, which cannot handle classified material and is not part of the Defense Department’s secure network. Hegseth had previously reacted angrily when asked to respond to The Atlantic magazine’s revelations of the recent Signal conversation. The review comes after national security adviser Mike Waltz mistakenly added journalist Jeffrey Goldberg of The Atlantic to a Signal group chat that included top officials discussing the March 15 operation, including Hegseth, Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. In a notification letter to Hegseth, Acting Inspector General Steven Stebbins said the review will assess “the extent to which the Secretary of Defense and other [Department of Defense] DoD personnel complied with DoD policies and procedures for using a commercial messaging application for official business.” Worthy News learned that the review will also examine whether officials complied with classification and federal records retention requirements. CLASSIFIED INFORMATION Signal, while encrypted, is not part of the Department of Defense’s secure communications network and cannot be used for classified information, officials said. Hegseth is said to have shared the exact timings for the military strike—details that, according to former officials, would typically be considered classified. In another security development, U.S. President Trump decided to dismiss several White House National Security Council officials after beingurged by internet personality Laura Loomer to purge staffers deemed “insufficiently committed” to his Make America Great Again agenda, several people familiar with the matter said Thursday. At least six White House National Security Council (NSC) officials were “fired or reassigned,” according to several sources with close knowledge about the situation. Critics see the shakeup at the NSC, which advises the president on the country’s most important security challenges, as Trump’s first significant purge since his inauguration as the 47th president in January. It comes at a volatile geopolitical moment, one day after the Trump administration slapped significant tariffs on almost every country in the world and as the administration struggles to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine while facing challenges in the Middle East and Asia. The post Pentagon To Review Defense Secretary’s Usage Of Signal Chat App appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News WASHINGTON/BUDAPEST (Worthy News) – U.S. President Donald J. Trump said Thursday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may visit the United States next week. The potential visit comes amid heightened regional tensions, as fighting in Gaza continues and dozens of hostages remain in captivity. Additionally, the U.S. has suggested it may bomb Iran, possibly backed by Israel, if the Islamic Republic continues its perceived efforts to obtain nuclear weapons. “I spoke to him today,” Trump said, referring to Netanyahu, “and I think he’s going to be coming to our country sometime in the not too distant future, maybe next week.” Trump made the announcement following talks with Netanyahu, who is currently visiting Hungary. Netanyahu’s visit to Hungary is his first to a European Union nation since the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for the Israeli leader’s arrest over alleged war crimes in Gaza. He has vehemently denied the charges. Hungary has said it won’t extradite Netanyahu to The Hague-based ICC. Unlike the United States, Hungary is an ICC member state and, as such, is technically obliged to hand over those mentioned in arrest warrants, including Netanyahu. However, Hungary announced Thursday that it would withdraw from the “political court” and guarantee Netanyahu’s security. The Israeli was to leave Hungary on Sunday. The post Trump: ‘Israeli Premier Likely In US Next Week’ appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News BUDAPEST (Worthy News) – As the Israeli prime minister visited the nation, Hungary announced Thursday that it would withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán called it a “political court” after it issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu on war crimes charges. Orbán said he asked the foreign me minister to immediately present Hungary’s withdrawal from the ICC to Parliament, despite protests from several European leaders and human rights activists. He welcomed the Israeli leader with full military honors in Budapest’s Castle District. The two close allies stood side by side as a military band played and an elaborate procession of soldiers on horseback, carrying swords and bayoneted rifles, marched by. “Great to meet with my friend, the Prime Minister of Hungary, Viktor Orbán,” Netanyahu said. “The friendship between Hungary and Israel is stronger than ever,” he added. “Hungary stood with Israel in Hamas’s murderous attack,” Netanyahu said, referring to the October 7, 2023, attack against the Jewish nation. “And today, Hungary stands with Israel in the attack of the International Court of Justice’s hypocrisy at The Hague,” he added. The International Court of Justice is a separate court currently hearing arguments surrounding accusations of “genocide” leveled at Israel, charges vehemently denied by Netanyahu and his government. Netanyahu also told reporters that Hungary supported and stood up for Israel “proudly and unstintingly” in the European Union and the United Nations while taking a “bold and principled step” regarding the ICC. IMPORTANT FOR DEMOCRACY “Thank you very much, Viktor, this is important not only to us but to all democracies,” the Israeli prime minister said at a news conference with his Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orbán. Speaking on the ICC that seeks his detention, Netanyahu added it was necessary to stand up to “this corrupt organization,” which “threatened democracy.” He added that the ICC directed its actions against Israel rather than its “tormentors.” Netanyahu noted that Hungary is the first ICC member state to leave the court and “walks out of this corruption and this rottenness.” He added, “I think it will be deeply appreciated not only in Israel but in many, many countries around the world.” Netanyahu also spoke about Hungary’s “very bold stance” against antisemitism, which had reared its head in Europe. “You do not allow it, you do not tolerate it, and you recognize that antisemitism today is masked by the guys of anti-Zionism,” he stressed. Netanyahu noted that at least some argue wrongly that being against the Jewish state did not make one antisemitic. “You can’t say, well, I’m not against Hungarians; I just don’t think there should be a Hungary. Without a Jewish state, there is no Jewish people.” He praised Hungary for treating the Jewish community of roughly 120,000 people in an “exemplary manner” by providing them security and the opportunity “to live a Jewish life in the best possible way.” ISRAELI FOOTBALL TEAM “Hungary also takes care today of Israel’s football [soccer] teams … and other sports, as well,” he said. “This is all a sign of a deep friendship, a deep alliance that has evolved,” Netanyahu added. Several international marches involving Israel were played in Hungary after other nations refused to host the Israeli team, citing security concerns. Netanyahu said Israel and Hungary were “fighting a similar battle” for the future of their common Judeo-Christian, Western civilization. He shared Orbán’s view that “this civilization was currently under assault by radical Islam” spearheaded by Iran as a “pulsating engine.” “We will smash the Iranian terror axis, which threatens not only us but Europe, [too],” Netanyahu said, adding that the Hungarian leader understood this was “a common battle for our values, our interests and our common security.” “We were attacked by Iran’s proxies in a murderous campaign by Hamas terrorists who raped our women, beheaded our men, burnt our babies, and took hostages,” the prime minister said. “We are committed to bringing back home all of them, including a hostage with Hungarian citizenship.” Netanyahu also said that many Israeli tourists liked visiting Hungary, and many Israeli businesspeople invested in the Central and Eastern European nations, adding that cooperation was firm in technology and defense and that there were many areas for future collaboration. MORE MILITARY COOPERATION Orbán said in separate remarks that he wants to intensify military cooperation with Israel further. He noticed 150 Israeli companies in Hungary, employing thousands of people in this nation of just over 9 million, adding that these were “valuable investments” in the high-tech and pharmaceutical sectors. The news conference was held as a small protest, with people shouting anti-Israel slogans and calling Netanyahu a “child murderer,” with at least one Palestinian flag visible. Yet, the Prime Minister, who previously banned pro-Gaza protests citing anti-terrorism legislation, noticed that “no Hamas flags are shown in Hungary. Worthy News established that the dozens of protesters seen in Budapest Thursday were outnumbered by police forces on a day that Hungary’s Counter Terrorism Centre (TEK) was involved in providing additional security for Netanyahu. Amid heavy security measures, Netanyahu made clear he shares Orbán’s view that “this civilization was currently under assault by radical Islam” spearheaded by Iran as a “pulsating engine.” “We will smash the Iranian terror axis, which threatens not only us but Europe, [too],” Netanyahu said, adding that the Hungarian leader understood this was “a common battle for our values, our interests and our common security.” IRAN’S PROXIES ATTACKED “We were attacked by Iran’s proxies in a murderous campaign by Hamas terrorists who raped our women, beheaded our men, burnt our babies, and took hostages,” the prime minister said. “We are committed to bringing back home all of them, including a hostage with Hungarian citizenship.” Netanyahu also said that many Israeli tourists liked visiting Hungary, and many Israeli businesspeople invested in the Central and Eastern European nations, adding that cooperation was strong in technology and defense and that there were many areas for future collaboration. Orbán said in separate remarks that he wants to intensify military cooperation with Israel further. Netanyahu also discussed these issues with President Tamás Sulyok, who has a more symbolic role in Hungary but is the commander in chief of the Hungarian army. Netanyahu said the developments underscore a revival of relations between Israel and Hungary, which for decades had been occupied by Russian forces following World War Two when some 600,000 Hungarian Jews were killed. In total, “A third of our people were murdered in the second world war in the Holocaust,” Netanyahu said, referring to the estimated 6 million Jews who were murdered by Nazi Germany and its allies. Like Hungary, “We had to overcome great odds to reestablish our sovereignty in our ancient homeland. And it was a question of time when these two histories would meet and begin the great alliance that has now developed,” Netanyahu noticed. The post Hungary To Withdraw From International Court; Netanyahu Visits Country appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

Friend, busy, busy, busy! Daniel 6:10 And when he had learned that the document was signed, Daniel went to his house. And his windows were open in his roof room toward Jerusalem; and he kneeled on his knees three times a day and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did before. Let us take a moment to reflect on the life of Daniel. He was far from an ordinary man simply trying to manage the routine challenges of daily life. Rather, Daniel served in some of the most powerful empires of his time—Babylon and Persia—holding positions of immense influence and authority. He was entrusted with the affairs of kings, oversaw critical aspects of government, and was actively engaged in matters that shaped the course of entire kingdoms. If anyone had a justifiable reason to say he was too busy to pray, indeed, it would have been Daniel. And yet, what do we find? Despite the immense pressure of his position and the constant demands on his time, Daniel made it a non-negotiable part of his life to set aside time to seek the Lord—three times a day. This was not casual or occasional; it was deliberate, disciplined, and deeply personal. This truth challenges me—and perhaps it challenges you as well. We often speak of how busy we are. But busy with what, exactly? Much of our time is consumed with tasks, responsibilities, and endless lists of things to do. We are pulled in many directions, often overwhelmed and hurried. But if Daniel, amidst all the weight of governing a vast empire, could pause to commune with God, what then is our excuse? Here is the sobering conclusion: if we find ourselves too busy to spend time with God, then we are likely doing more than He ever intended for us to carry. When our schedules are so full that our time with the Lord is the first thing to be neglected, it is a clear sign that our priorities have shifted out of alignment. Friend, let us take to heart Daniel's example and choose to make time for the Lord—not out of mere obligation but from a deep sense of necessity and devotion. There will always be work to do. The needs are urgent, the responsibilities heavy, and the opportunities many. But none of these should ever come before the most vital relationship we possess—the one we share with our Heavenly Father! Shabbat Shalom, and have a wonderful weekend in the Lord -- until Monday! Your family in the Lord with much agape love, George, Baht Rivka, Elianna and Obadiah (George & Obi - Mansfield, Texas | Baht Rivka - Israel | Elianna - Married living in Missouri) Editor's Note: Feel free to share any of our content from Worthy, including Devotions, News articles, and more, on your social platforms. You have full permission to copy and repost anything we produce. Editor's Note: During this war, we have been live blogging throughout the day -- sometimes minute by minute on our Telegram channel. Be sure to check it out! Around the World Hungary To Withdraw From International Court; Netanyahu Visits Country As the Israeli prime minister visited the nation, Hungary announced Thursday that it would withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. NATO Mourns 4 US Troops Killed In Lithuania The secretary general of the NATO military alliance on Thursday mourned four American soldiers who were killed during a military exercise in Lithuania. Israel-Palestinian Conflict ‘Hamas Out!’ Gaza Protests Grow as Terrorist Group Threatens Demonstrators Mass protests against Hamas continued in Gaza on Wednesday—following two days of demonstrations last week, marking the most significant unrest in 18 months—as the terror group tortured and killed two protesters, threatened a crackdown, and drew vows of revenge from the victims’ families. Israel Strikes Military Targets Across Syria in Bold Warning to Turkey Between Wednesday night and Thursday morning, the Israeli Air Force carried out widespread strikes across Syria, targeting military bases and facilities from the Assad regime era -- a move widely seen as a warning to Turkey. Inside the United States Trump, Republicans Shrug as Stocks Plummet After Tariffs President Donald Trump and some Republicans were quick to shrug off stock losses Thursday as the market responds to a jolt from Trump's reciprocal tariffs. Nearly 2 Trillion Erased In Stocks Within Minutes Over Trump Tariffs Roughly $1.7 trillion was erased from the S&P 500 Index of the 500 most influential companies at the start of trading at the New York Stock Exchange Thursday amid worries that President Donald J. Trump's sweeping new round of tariffs could plunge the economy, and much of the world, into a recession. Christian News 11 Killed in Night Attack on Christian Farming Community in Nigeria A night raid by suspected Fulani militants in Bokkos County, Nigeria, left 11 Christians dead, including a pregnant woman, her husband, and a 10-year-old girl. Pastor in China Sentenced to 5 Years in Jail A house church pastor was sentenced to five years in prison, according to a magazine covering religious liberty and human rights in China. Worthy Insights Undercover UK journalist exposes ‘BBC’ terror ties Israeli innovation envoy Fleur Hassan-Nahoum sits down with David Collier, a prominent U.K.-based investigative journalist, to expose one of the most shocking examples of media malpractice in recent memory. View the full article

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent (Worthy News) – Mass protests against Hamas continued in Gaza on Wednesday—following two days of demonstrations last week, marking the most significant unrest in 18 months—as the terror group tortured and killed two protesters, threatened a crackdown, and drew vows of revenge from the victims’ families. Footage circulating on social media showed crowds of hundreds—possibly thousands—gathering across Gaza, chanting slogans like “Hamas out, out, out,” and “Enough death.” Gaza-born American activist Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib shared several videos and photos on , writing: “New massive anti-Hamas demonstrations in northern Gaza are demanding an end to the war that the terror group started. They want Hamas to step down and ‘get out’ – Men, women, the elderly, children, and wounded folks came out, desperate to make their voices heard!” New massive anti-Hamas demonstrations in northern Gaza are demanding an end to the war that the terror group started. They want Hamas to step down and "get out" – Men, women, the elderly, children, and wounded folks came out, desperate to make their voices heard! pic.twitter.com/pqWZJixeym — Ahmed Fouad Alkhatib (@afalkhatib) April 2, 2025 The protests followed after a Gaza family openly admitted this week to killing a Hamas member after claiming he had fatally shot one of their relatives. Hamas operatives reportedly kidnapped, tortured, and executed 22-year-old Oday Nasser Al Rabay for participating in anti-Hamas protests in Gaza last week, Worthy News earlier reported. On Tuesday, the Abu Samra clan publicly executed a Hamas operative in revenge for the killing of a young family member, with footage of the act going viral. In response, Hamas issued a statement stating, “We will not allow any party to spread chaos in the Gaza Strip or take the law into their hands,” adding that it had begun measures to bring those involved to justice. On Wednesday, Palestinian sources reported that Hamas shot and killed a man from Gaza’s Shejaiya neighborhood during a crackdown on protesters. The victim, reportedly the son of a mukhtar (clan leader), sparked intense gunfire between his family and Hamas operatives. His relatives blamed Hamas for the killing and vowed revenge, declaring, “The blood of our son will not be in vain.” The protests reflect growing dissent against Hamas, fueled by despair over Israel’s aid cut-off and ongoing Israeli military strikes targeting Hamas in Gaza. While many Gazans are demanding an end to the war, they aren’t necessarily pro-Israel or openly rejecting Hamas’ ideology. למרות המקרים של הוצאה להורג של מפגינים בידי חמאס – בהפגנה בבית לאהיא: נשמעות קריאות "חמאס החוצה, החוצה" pic.twitter.com/CFbP2A0KXT — ספיר ליפקין | Sapir Lipkin | سابير ليبكين (@sapirlipkin) April 2, 2025 The post ‘Hamas Out!’ Gaza Protests Grow as Terrorist Group Threatens Demonstrators appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent (Worthy News) – Between Wednesday night and Thursday morning, the Israeli Air Force carried out widespread strikes across Syria, targeting military bases and facilities from the Assad regime era — a move widely seen as a warning to Turkey. Syria’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the near-total destruction of the Hama military airport and injuries to dozens of civilians and soldiers. Beyond targeting weapons, the strikes also served as a clear message to Turkey. “The IDF will continue to act to remove any threat to the citizens of the State of Israel,” the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated Wednesday night, following a series of powerful airstrikes across Syria. The strikes targeted key military sites, including the T4 airbase near Homs, the military airport in Hama, and various military installations around Damascus. Earlier in the week, Turkey’s military reportedly rushed to seize control of Syria’s Tiyas air base (T4) in an attempt to deter further Israeli strikes, Worthy News reported. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a blunt warning on Thursday to Syria’s leadership: “Do not allow hostile forces to enter Syria and jeopardize Israeli security interests, or you will pay a heavy price.” During an official visit to Paris, Israeli Foreign Minister Gidon Sa’ar criticized Turkey’s regional actions, saying, “They are doing everything to turn Syria into a Turkish protectorate. We opposed the Iranians when they tried to do this, and we oppose the Turkish attempt to do it now.” He added that Turkey is playing a negative role in Syria, Lebanon, and other countries in the region. On Sunday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reportedly called for the destruction of “Zionist Israel,” seen as code words for Jews and their nation. “We see what is happening in Palestine. May Allah destroy Zionist Israel in his holy name,” Erdogan was heard saying in comments monitored by Worthy News. The post Israel Strikes Military Targets Across Syria in Bold Warning to Turkey appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent (Worthy News) – A night raid by suspected Fulani militants in Bokkos County, Nigeria, left 11 Christians dead, including a pregnant woman, her husband, and a 10-year-old girl. Survivors recounted a sudden 45-minute attack by suspected Fulani militants as mourners gathered for an 87-year-old elder, leaving the community in shock and grief. Ruwi resident Tajot Stephen Alexander described the tragedy’s impact and the fear now gripping the village.“In the late evening, armed militants surprised us with their assault. We lost 11 valued lives, including a pregnant woman,” Alexander told International Christian Concern. Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang condemned the attack as a “barbaric act against innocent lives.” In a statement via his spokesman Bere Gyang, he offered condolences and vowed justice. “This brutal assault is not just an attack on individuals but on our shared humanity. We will work tirelessly to ensure those responsible are brought to justice,” he said, stressing the need for stronger security statewide. Over the past five years, Nigeria has faced a troubling wave of violence attributed to Fulani militants, with Christian communities often bearing the brunt of these attacks. The violence, rooted in long-standing herder-farmer tensions, has escalated into deadly assaults that have left thousands dead and deepened religious and ethnic divisions. Among the most devastating incidents was the December 2023 massacre in Plateau State, where nearly 300 Christians were killed in coordinated attacks during the Christmas season. Earlier that same year, in April 2023, between 130 and 200 people were killed in Mangu, also in Plateau State. In April 2024, another brutal attack left 10 Christians dead—among them a pregnant woman—during Easter gatherings. These tragic events are part of a grim pattern of targeted violence. Other major incidents include the June 2021 massacre of at least 40 people in Odugbeho, Benue State, and the 2018 attack on a church that killed 19 and left dozens of homes burned. Despite government efforts, the ongoing violence has exposed deep gaps in security and governance, leaving vulnerable communities calling for urgent action and protection. ​In the 2025 Open Doors World Watch List, Nigeria is ranked 7th among the countries where Christians face the most severe persecution. Despite intense persecution, the gospel continues to advance in Nigeria. Over the last twenty years, Christianity has grown steadily—from around 40% of the population in 2001 to nearly 50% today. In raw numbers, the Christian population has risen from an estimated 60 million in 2000 to about 96 million in 2020, with projections pointing to over 155 million by 2050. The post 11 Killed in Night Attack on Christian Farming Community in Nigeria appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent (Worthy News)—A house church pastor was sentenced to five years in prison, according to a magazine covering religious liberty and human rights in China. Pastor Wan Changchun, a well-known dissident and leader of Living Stone Reformed Church in Bengbu, Anhui, was arrested in 2023 along with several co-workers, as reported by Bitter Winter. In 2023, the charge against Pastor Wan was changed from “illegal business operations” to the more severe “fraud.” Although all finances at Living Stone Reformed Church are transparently managed and approved by members, authorities increasingly use the “fraud” charge to target churches outside the state-sanctioned Three-Self Church, claiming they are unauthorized to collect funds. On March 27, 2025, he was sentenced to five years in prison. Three co-workers received suspended sentences of two to two and a half years, while Pastor Wan remains behind bars. ​In 2017, China’s State Council revised the Regulations on Religious Affairs to tighten control over religious practices. The amendments required religious organizations to register with government authorities, restricted unauthorized religious activities, and promoted the alignment of religious beliefs with “core socialist values,” a process known as “Sinicization.” Additionally, the regulations prohibited the construction of large religious statues outside temples and church grounds and imposed stricter oversight on religious education and international religious exchanges. In 2018, Pastor Wan signed a statement opposing China’s restrictive 2017 Religious Affairs regulations, drafted by Pastor Wang Yi of Early Rain Covenant Church. That same year, authorities raided Wang’s church, detaining over 100 members. He was later charged with “inciting subversion” and “illegal business operations” and sentenced in 2019 to nine years in prison—one of the harshest punishments for a house church leader in recent years. The Chinese Communist Party views independent religion as a threat and harshly persecutes churches that operate outside state control, using state-approved churches to promote government propaganda. In the 2025 World Watch List by Open Doors, China is ranked 15th out of 50 for severe Christian persecution, up four spots from the previous year. This rise is due to stricter regulatory enforcement, resulting in the shutdown of unregistered churches and heightened scrutiny of official ones. Open Doors estimates there are about 96.7 million Christians in China. Since the People’s Republic of China was established in 1949, Christianity has seen explosive growth from 4 million Christians to an estimated 58 million Protestants and 9 million Catholics by 2010. Despite ongoing intense persecution and strict government controls, current estimates suggest that there are between 80 to 100 million Christians in China, including both officially registered members and those in unregistered house church communities. The post Pastor in China Sentenced to 5 Years in Jail appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News VILNIUS/BRUSSELS/BUDAPEST (Worthy News) – The secretary general of the NATO military alliance on Thursday mourned four American soldiers who were killed during a military exercise in Lithuania. Mark Rutte said, “Our thoughts are with their families, their friends, their colleagues – soldiers – and we have the deepest respect for their service. I also want to highlight the work being done by the U.S., Lithuania, but also Poland, and Estonia to work around the clock, basically, to do everything to make sure that they would be recovered. But again, we are very sad about their death.” He spoke while standing next to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. Rubio thanked Rutte for the “condolences at the four Americans who tragically lost their lives in an important training exercise.” He stressed that “We honor them, and it also reminds is that the United States is in NATO,” adding that global and domestic media had wrongfully suggested otherwise. However, Rubio stressed that the dangers in the world underscore that NATO member states, including the United States, must increase defense spending to 5 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). He spoke while elsewhere in Lithuania, political and religious leaders joined thousands of people on Thursday to bid farewell to the four Americans: The Baltic nation’s President Gitanas Nauseda and other dignitaries among those who stood in respect as hearses carried the bodies of the four young Americans to Vilnius airport before being flown to the United States for burial. TEARFUL ONLOOKERS The U.S. Army identified the soldiers as Staff Sergeant Troy S. Knutson-Collins, 28, of Battle Creek, Michigan; Staff Sergeant Jose Duenez Jr., 25, of Joliet, Illinois; Staff Sergeant Edvin F. Franco, 25, of Glendale, California; and Private First Class Dante D. Taitano, 21, of Dededo, Guam. Reporters noticed many onlookers at the solemn farewell ceremony at Cathedral Square in Vilnius, Lithuania, were in tears. President Nauseda said that the reaction of the population and the military to the disappearance of soldiers was rooted in Lithuania’s difficult history. Lithuania borders Russia and only gained independence from the Moscow-led Soviet Union in 1990. “For us, it is more than a duty; it is an emotion. We have experienced trials in our history, and therefore, we understand well what loss is, what death is, what honorable duty is,” Nauseda stressed in a speech to those gathered. Schoolchildren accompanied by teachers waved Lithuanian and U.S. flags to honor the soldiers who died in an accident along NATO’s eastern flank, a region that is on edge due to Russia’s invasion of nearby Ukraine. The soldiers, part of the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, were on a tactical training exercise when they and their vehicle went missing a week ago, the Army explained. Lithuanian, Polish, and U.S. soldiers and rescuers searched through the forests and swamps at the General Silvestras Zukauskas training ground in the town of Pabrade, 6 miles (10 kilometers) west of the border with Belarus. The M88 Hercules armored vehicle was pulled from a peat bog Monday, and the final body was recovered Tuesday. “I feel sorry for these young men,” said one mourner from the town of Pabrade as he watched the hearses make their way toward the airport. “I live nearby, and I know that swamp. Dangerous places for anyone who enters that area.” The post NATO Mourns 4 US Troops Killed In Lithuania appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Brett Rowland | The Center Square (Worthy News) – President Donald Trump and some Republicans were quick to shrug off stock losses Thursday as the market responds to a jolt from Trump’s reciprocal tariffs. U.S. markets plunged Thursday after Trump announced a 10% tariff on all countries that will take effect Saturday. Trump also put higher individualized reciprocal tariffs on the countries with which the United States has the largest trade deficits, including China, India and Vietnam, among others. All other countries will continue to be subject to the 10% tariff baseline, according to the White House. Sen. John Kennedy, R., La., compared it to whiskey. “Tariffs are like whiskey,” Kennedy said on Fox News. “A little whiskey under the right circumstances can be refreshing. Too much whiskey under the wrong circumstances and you end up drunk as a goat. We just don’t know right now. But we’ll know within the next six months. If it works, let’s take a dozen. If it doesn’t work, the president will have to recalibrate.” Kennedy said that Trump’s tariffs would set off months of dealmaking between Trump and other nations. “If you want a surefire investment, go book as many hotel rooms near the White House as you can – because every foreign trade representative is coming to America to negotiate a deal with Pres. Trump,” he wrote on X. Trump and the White House have previously said that they aren’t worried about Wall Street. “The President wants to ensure that all Americans make out well, particularly Main Street – that’s the focus of these tariffs,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Tuesday. “But as I’ve said repeatedly, just like they were in his first term, Wall Street will be just fine.” Vice President J.D. Vance said the goal was to stop losing American jobs. Previous trade policies reward companies for moving production to lower cost markets, he said. “We’re going to make it harder to ship American jobs overseas,” he said. “It’s a total shift in the way that we’ve done economic policy.” U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick called the tariffs an overhaul of world trade. “This is the reordering of fair trade,” he said. Trump said mid-morning that the “operation was over.” “The operation is over!” Trump wrote in all capital letters. “The patient lived, and is healing. The prognosis is that the patient will be far stronger, bigger, better, and more resilient than ever before.” Kelly Loeffler, the 28th Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, said stocks are a snapshot of time in the short-term. “This is President Donald J. Trump standing up for the American industry on a world stage,” she said. “The gravy train is over for the globalist elites who have profited on the backs of hardworking Americans.” Loeffler called the stock plunge a “short-term adjustment.” U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said tariffs will make goods more expensive for American families. “As I have always warned, tariffs are bad policy, and trade wars with our partners hurt working people most. Tariffs drive up the cost of goods and services. They are a tax on everyday working Americans,” he wrote on X. “Preserving the long-term prosperity of American industry and workers requires working with our allies, not against them. With so much at stake globally, the last thing we need is to pick fights with the very friends with whom we should be working with to protect against China’s predatory and unfair trade practices. That includes what we do on trade.” Reprinted with permission from The Center Square. The post Trump, Republicans Shrug as Stocks Plummet After Tariffs appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News NEW YORK/PARIS/BUDAPEST (Worthy News) – Roughly $1.7 trillion was erased from the S&P 500 Index of the 500 most influential companies at the start of trading at the New York Stock Exchange Thursday amid worries that President Donald J. Trump’s sweeping new round of tariffs could plunge the economy, and much of the world, into a recession. Financial news agency Bloomberg News reported that the damage was heaviest in companies whose supply chains depend most on overseas manufacturing. Apple Inc., which makes up most of its US-sold smartphones and other devices in China, was down about 8 percent after the opening. Lululemon Athletica Inc. and Nike Inc., among companies with manufacturing ties to Vietnam, were down around 10 percent. Walmart Inc. and Dollar Tree Inc., retailers whose stores are filled with products sourced outside of the U.S., were trading lower by about 2 percent and around percent, respectively. Yet long-term investors were expected to see opportunities in the plunging stock markets with shares of major companies trading much cheaper. Gold, mentioned often in Biblical times, has also been trading at record highs, as it is seen as a safe haven in times of crisis. However, for now, U.S. assets quickly emerged as the biggest losers after the tariffs announcement. The S&P 500 fell about 3 percent, and a dollar gauge slumped. The impact elsewhere was ‘muted’ in comparison: A broad gauge of Asian stocks fell 0.7 percent, the Stoxx Europe 600 key companies’ index slid 2.6 percent, while the euro currency rose about 2 percent against the U.S. dollar. Shortly after trillions were erased in stocks worldwide, France’s President Emmanuel Macron called President Donald J. Trump’s tariffs “brutal and unfounded” and even suggested suspending investments in the U.S. ADDRESSING MEETING Macron spoke at a hastily arranged meeting of business leaders, discussing how best to protect the French economy following Trump’s tariffs. He opened by saying that the U.S. president’s decision was “brutal and unfounded,” as he expressed concern about the tariffs’ “massive” impact on France, its overseas territories, and Europe more broadly. Macron, a key European Union leader, said an answer will need to be found to this move, the latest announcement in what appeared to rapidly escalate into a global trade war. Trump has vigorously defended his policies, saying that the United States had been “ripped off” by much of the world and that it was now introducing reciprocal tariffs on imported goods. He also wants to encourage companies to produce in the United States rather than overseas. However, Macron stressed he agrees with several European Union leaders that “nothing can be ruled out” in response to Trump’s move as “all instruments are on the table.” He argued, “We must do whatever is effective and most proportionate … but which also clearly shows we are determined to … not have these sectors fall victim to these tariffs.” SUSPENDING INVESTMENT Among available tools, Macon suggested a potential intervention in digital services “where the United States benefits enormously from Europe.” He also called for the suspension of new and recently announced French investments in the United States until tariffs announced by U.S. President Trump “are clarified.” Macron told the business leaders at the meeting that continuing with investments while being hit by tariffs would send the wrong message. France maintained its leading position as the fifth-largest investor in the United States, according to figures provided by the Embassy of France in Washington, D.C., In 2023, the French direct investment position in the U.S. reached $370 billion (6.9 percent of total foreign direct investment), up 1 percent in one year, explained data seen by Worthy News. The post Nearly 2 Trillion Erased In Stocks Within Minutes Over Trump Tariffs appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News NEW DELHI (Worthy News) – Pastor Praveen Pagadala, one of India’s most well-known Christian evangelists, has been found dead under alleged suspicious circumstances in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh, Worthy News learned Wednesday. He was 46. The body of the 46-year-old preacher was discovered March 25 in a roadside ditch, a day after he left on his motorbike to attend a Christian convention at Chagallu village near the city of Rajahmundry, said Christians familiar with the situation. While police classified the incident “as a road accident,” supporters of the late pastor claimed his death was a “premeditated, cold-blooded murder.” They suggested the pastor had been “martyred by religious extremists” due to his outspoken defense of Christianity in India, a mainly Hindu nation. The Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC), the influential Indian National Congress party’s regional representation, also expressed concern. APCC President Y S Sharmila alleged that pastor Pagadala’s death was a “meticulously planned murder” and not a road accident. Christians noticed that his motorbike was found on top of his dead body, and his face was mangled with bruises and blood. NO INJURY MARKS They argued that there were no other injury marks on the rest of his body. Even the motorbike, a powerful 350cc two-wheeler, did not have any tangible damages akin to a road accident, according to investigators. A distinctive shoe mark was reportedly discovered on the right chest of his shirt, suggesting he may have been kicked forcefully. Additionally, wood splinters were found near the site, accompanied by blood stains, raising further suspicion about the circumstances surrounding his death. Andhra Pradesh chief minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu, directed police “to conduct a detailed inquiry” into the death of pastor Pagadala, Worthy News established. The order came as nearly 100,000 people attended the funeral possession of Pagadala in Hyderabad, the capital of the neighboring Indian state of Telangana, where he had been preaching as well, according to Christian estimates. The advocacy group International Christian Concern wasn’t surprised by this massive outpouring of support for the late pastor and his family. “He was a great Christian scholar and the founder of “Sakshi Apologetics.” He held public debates on television with leaders of all major religions and always established Christianity as the truth with his strong research and study,” ICC explained. “He was also a kind-hearted person who was involved in extensive social work among orphans and the downtrodden. He also preached on Christian TV channels and spoke to many churches in the area.” STILL PRAISING GOD Pastor Praveen is survived by his wife and two young children. “I praise God for what he is or was,” said his wife, Jessica Praveen, in emotionally charged remarks seen by Worthy News. “I am very proud of the ministry he did. And now me, my family, and everybody here has to continue the ministry that he has shown us,” she said. In separate remarks, she spoke against revenge. “Let us forgive as Jesus forgives.” Yet his death highlighted concerns about the growing pressure on devoted Christians across India, Christian leaders suggested. “We cannot let the life of such a powerful voice in the Christian community end under a cloud of suspicion. The truth must come out,” Evangelist K.A. Paul told journalists. Pastor V. David Naveen, who joined a protest near the hospital where the late pastor’s body had been, said the death of a pastor “under mysterious circumstances is a blow to the image of communal harmony in the region.” Christians comprise roughly 2.3 percent of India’s predominantly Hindu population of 1.4 billion people, according to the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The post India’s Famed Evangelist Pagadala Found Dead appeared first on Worthy Christian News. View the full article

Friend, have a victor mentality! 1 John 5:4 For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world — our faith. In 2nd Samuel chapter 9, we read the story of King David and Mephibosheth. Mephibosheth was the son of Jonathan and the grandson of the first king of Israel, King Saul. After Jonathan's death, David went forth to show kindness to Saul's house. Mephibosheth had become lame at the young age of five -- he had lived his entire life as a cripple. When David calls him forth, Mephibosheth replies "What is thy servant, that thou shouldest look upon such a dead dog as I am?" His identity was completely based on his disability when in fact, he was the grandson of a king! He had forgotten his royal lineage and was wallowing in self-pity. Yet David looked beyond his disability and recognizing who he was, offered him a place at the King's table. How much time do we spend wallowing in our own self-pity, groaning about things with which we struggle daily...so much so that it becomes who we are! The enemy would love nothing more than to keep us focused on our disabilities so that we are distracted from the calling of God on our lives. He wants us to have a "victim mentality". But beloved, let us be reminded today: in Yeshua (Jesus), we are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, sons and daughters of the Most High. The King of Glory has not only redeemed us—He has invited us to dine at His table. We are not castaways; we are co-heirs with Christ! Friend, so let us rise with a victor’s mindset. Let us walk in the fullness of our calling, shake off the labels of the past, and take our rightful seat at the King’s table—confident in who we are in Him. Your family in the Lord with much agape love, George, Baht Rivka, Elianna and Obadiah (George & Obi - Mansfield, Texas | Baht Rivka - Israel | Elianna - Married living in Missouri) Editor's Note: Feel free to share any of our content from Worthy, including Devotions, News articles, and more, on your social platforms. You have full permission to copy and repost anything we produce. Editor's Note: During this war, we have been live blogging throughout the day -- sometimes minute by minute on our Telegram channel. Be sure to check it out! Around the World EU Central Bank Warns Of Global Chaos Ahead Of Trump Tariffs Announcement European Central Bank head Christine Lagarde warned Wednesday that U.S. President Donald Trump’s planned tariffs will have a negative impact worldwide, with the damage depending on how far they go, how long they last, and whether they lead to successful negotiations. B-2 Stealth Bomber Presence Grows at U.S. Base Within Range of Iran, Yemen At least six nuclear-capable B-2 Spirit stealth bombers have been seen at Camp Thunder Bay on Diego Garcia, a remote U.S. base in the Indian Ocean according to satellite imagery analyzed on Wednesday by the Associated Press. Russia Warns US Attack on Iranian Nuclear Sites Would Be ‘Catastrophic’ for Region Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister issued a strong warning to the United States, cautioning that any military strike on Iran's nuclear facilities would lead to "catastrophic" consequences for the entire region after President Donald Trump threatened the "bombing the likes they have never seen before." Israel-Palestinian Conflict Israel Expands Gaza Offensive to Crush Terror Networks and Secure Strategic Zones Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced Wednesday that Israel is expanding its Gaza operations after heavy overnight strikes, with troops set to clear terrorists and infrastructure and seize territory for expanded security zones. Inside the United States US President Trump Announces Tariffs Of Up To 49 Percent U.S. President Donald J. Trump announced Wednesday he would sign “a historic executive order instituting reciprocal tariffs on countries throughout the world” ranging from 10 percent to 49 percent. FBI Gagged Hunter Laptop Story as Facebook Suppressed It to Appease Biden Admin, Messages Reveal The FBI ordered agents to stop discussing Hunter Biden’s laptop just hours after one of its own inadvertently confirmed its authenticity to Twitter, internal messages show. Ahead of The Post’s 2020 reports, the FBI had warned tech giants of a potential Russian disinformation dump resembling the laptop contents. Once the story broke, Facebook execs weighed censorship strategies to align with the expected Biden-Harris administration, according to a congressional investigation. ‘No Constitutional Authority:’ Legal Experts Denounce Recent Injunctions Against Trump In response to multiple federal district judges temporarily halting President Donald Trump’s executive actions, Republicans are taking legislative steps to curtail or even eliminate the use of universal injunctions. Trump Proclaims “Liberation Day” for American Trade President Donald Trump has declared "Liberation Day" in America ahead of plans to announce reciprocal tariffs this afternoon. Christian News India’s Famed Evangelist Pagadala Found Dead Pastor Praveen Pagadala, one of India’s most well-known Christian evangelists, has been found dead under alleged suspicious circumstances in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh, Worthy News learned Wednesday. He was 46. Worthy Insights Pro-Life Lawyers Ask Supreme Court: Should Taxpayers Be Forced to Fund Planned Parenthood? Medicaid funding for Planned Parenthood could be on the chopping block. The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday in a case involving the abortion giant and the state of South Carolina. The question at hand: Does a state have the power to determine where Medicaid dollars can and cannot be used? Security forces report 80% drop in Ramadan terror attacks, after West Bank crackdown There was a significant decrease in terror attacks in the West Bank this Ramadan compared to last year, according to a joint statement released by IDF and Shin Bet on Wednesday. Hamas admits 72% of deaths are combat-aged men as it quietly reduces civilian death toll – report Hamas quietly removed the names of thousands of Palestinians it had previously alleged were killed during the Israel-Hamas war, Salo Aizenberg, from the US-based non-profit organisation Honest Reporting told The Telegraph on Wednesday after analyzing Hamas’s March 2025 casualty update. Anti-Christian incidents in Israel rose in 2024: Spitting on clergy, damage to church properties Incidents of anti-Christian bigotry in Israel increased in 2024, according to a recently released report. ‘Pray for Our Church’: Russia Bombs Church Building in Kyiv, Kills Worship Leader’s Family On Sunday morning, March 23rd, a Russian drone approached the Emmanuel Church compound in Kyiv. It exploded 20 meters from a modular home housing Alexandra, her husband, Oleksandr, and their five-year-old daughter, Nicole. View the full article