October 14, 2026

Viewing all things through the lens of the True and the beautiful!

The True

Say Less

“Say less!”

As the father of three—and soon to be four—teenagers, I am constantly either chuckling or bewildered and trying to decipher the meaning of conversations they have with friends, each other, or me. It has been a long time since I was a teen, so I admittedly find myself usually just wishing for plainer language (I know . . . typical dad response). But when I recently heard one of our teens excitedly respond to a friend, “Say less,” I have to admit it resonated with me!

Upon reflection, I like the phrase even more now than I did then, and for reasons both intended and unintended by the ones using it.

First, in a world where so much is contrarian (the knee-jerk response by many of us is to automatically take the other side of an issue whether we truly feel that way or not), it is refreshing to hear an enthusiastic embrace of another’s idea! In this sense, “say less” inspires me to be more intentional about looking for ways to affirm the ideas and desires of those around me rather than instinctively critique them.

It is one way to apply Proverbs 17:22: “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” This week, perhaps you and I can speak life and cheer by declining to be the contrarian and instead responding with good cheer!

Next, God has been continually asking me (probably because I am slow to consistently follow through) to relinquish my need for human vindication, affirmation, or agreement. God’s Word is clear I should be after only His approval, not man’s (Gal. 1:10; 1 Thes. 2:4), and yet I am so eager to state my case and argue my defense. His Word is clear I am to prefer humility and to decline to praise myself (Pr. 27:2, Mic. 6:8), but my inclination is still to make it known what I have done—you know, just in case nobody else does.

In this way, “say less” is a reminder that I don’t need to vindicate, self-affirm, or brag on myself, and that remains true even if nobody else does my vindicating or affirming for me.

Why? Because my reward—and yours, if we will indeed be content to allow it—is in heaven.

There is more I could say, but given the topic, let’s leave it there. Let’s say less!

U.S.

Public Execution

The Pentagon announced the execution of convicted mass shooter Nidal Hasan will be by firing squad and livestreamed on December 3, 2026. Hasan admitted in court to the 2009 shooting at Fort Hood military base that killed 13 people and injured 32. His execution is to be the first carried out by the U.S. military since the 1960s, and the announcement that it would be livestreamed came as a surprise to many. U.S. President Donald Trump said he is reviewing the plan, approves of the sentence, but will ultimately decide whether to allow it to be livestreamed.

Analysis and eternal perspective: There are many difficult components to this story. First, the 2009 killings at Hasan’s hands were an act of pure evil. His confession and lack of remorse in court demonstrate an ongoing allegiance to that evil. It is grievous beyond words to witness the consequences from one who has so thoroughly rejected the opportunity to turn from wrongdoing.

Next, the death penalty is divisive and controversial, no matter how devastating the crime. As we discussed last week, faithful and fervent Jesus followers come to a wide array of conclusions on the wisdom of the death penalty in general.

Finally, the prospect of a public (in this case, livestreamed) execution by firing squad adds a whole new dynamic. Proponents say it maximizes the deterrence that the death penalty provides, while opponents suggest it could serve as propaganda for future terrorists.

As a Jesus follower, you will need to make a personal decision about how to interact with this story. Scripture is clear that the oppressor should be met with justice (Is. 1:17). It is equally clear that God pursues the sinner even to the point of “pulling them out of the fire” (Jude 1:23). Finally, you and I are instructed to set our minds on those things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy” (Philip. 4:8).

As the courts review any possible appeals, and the government determines the appropriate method of administering the sentence, let’s you and I be fervent in applying the words of scripture as we determine where to set our eyes and apply our attention.

World

Diesel Deal

The U.S. and Russia have struck a deal that will reportedly involve Russia providing approximately 5 million tons of diesel for sale to the U.S. The deal was brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump and Russia President Vladimir Putin, and it comes amid soaring global fuel prices. It also represents a dramatic shift in U.S. policy, which has until now been narrowly focused on Russian sanctions aimed at cutting off Russia’s ability to fund its war against Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his disappointment over the deal, calling it a “weak decision . . . by strong partners.”

Analysis and eternal perspective: War is ugly and always presents difficult decisions. For the most part, the U.S. has worked to isolate Russia in its war against Ukraine, even as that has meant losing access to Russian energy (a loss further complicated by the U.S. war in Iran and the conflict over the Strait of Hormuz). This week’s apparent reversal, at least as it pertains to diesel, is a sign that other pressures are now competing with that strategy. With the midterm elections less than three weeks away, it is likely there will be additional measures taken to try to bring prices down.

Whether you agree or disagree with the priorities reflected in this deal for diesel, there are at least two overarching principles that remain true:

1) God’s vengeance is aimed at the oppressor (Ps. 99:8; Rom. 12:9, Rom. 13:8)

2) God’s blessings (including the energy from the Earth) are meant to fuel your good work to bring Him glory (2 Cor. 9:8)

Let’s remain in prayer for the Ukrainian people as they continue to be assailed by Putin’s army. Let’s also remain in a posture of gratitude for the abundance we have been bestowed.

World

Saudi Airports Attacked

King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia has been struck several times this week by missiles fired by Houthi rebels. King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Saudi Arabia was also struck, and the Iran-backed Houthis claimed responsibility for that attack, as well. Thirteen people are confirmed dead in the attacks, and more than 300 injured. U.S. President Donald Trump denounced the attacks and said he is “looking at” a response.

Analysis and eternal perspective: Iran has long waged war mostly through proxies like the Houthi rebels. While it is impossible to identify all the (sometimes competing) motives of the Iranian regime, it is likely that at least some in Iranian leadership are motivated by drawing the U.S. into another war front. We should be in prayer for U.S. leaders, as well as other world leaders, as they determine whether and how to respond to these provocations.

Also, it is easy to glance over the human toll in these ongoing skirmishes in the Middle East. We should not lose sight of the fact that 13 families lost loved ones, and another 300 have an injured family member. The human toll of war is heavy! As we pray for wisdom, let’s also share in the burden of grief.

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Ps. 147:3).

The Beautiful

Pumpkin Capital of the World

It’s pumpkin time! The town I grew up in is the self-proclaimed “pumpkin capital of the world.” In the fall, the smell of pumpkins processing is in the air, the pumpkin festival is held, pumpkin ice cream is served, and yes, the “punkin chunkin’” contests are held! My memories include running in the fun run, riding festival rides, and pondering why in the world anyone would ruin a Dairy Queen blizzard by putting pumpkin in it!

This week, as you break out the fall decorations, be sure to include some pumpkins, and remember that you are the pinnacle of God’s creation, fashioned by His hands, and destined to do good works for His glory!

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Eph. 2:10).