SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY FEBRUARY 2nd, 2025

President makes major change for former servicemen
President Trump has promised to reinstate over eight thousand U.S. soldiers. The soldiers were dismissed from various branches of the U.S. military for refusing to take the COVID-19 shot. The soldiers will also be reinstated with full back pay the president remarked during inauguration ceremonies on January 20th. Representatives in Congress have introduced the Americans ACT. The law would require the Pentagon to get approval from Congress before requiring additional COVID mandates. The law would also include compensation for soldiers dismissed and restoration of their ranks prior to being dismissed. Those who chose not to retune will receive an honorable discharge, GI bill and healthcare benefits. Supporters praised the president for the announcement, calling it the right thing to do.

Opening Prayer eliminated from city’s meeting after bizarre & controversial prayer opening
The Tulsa City Council has announced it will eliminate Opening Prayer after a controversial invocation. The city council made the announcement following an opening invocation by a pagan priestess. The woman was invited by a then council member to give the opening prayer in November of last year. The prayer included invoking a demonic spirit and calling on a goddess of equality and sacred rage. The invocation was later rebuked by several Christian council members who called the prayer offensive. The governor of Oklahoma says the invocation was an attempt by Satan to “establish a foothold in the Sooner State.” The Tulsa city council later voted 8-1 to end the opening invocation. The former council member or the woman who did the invocation have not commented on the controversy.

 Worldwide revival event calls Christians to prayer
The organizer for a worldwide event is encouraging Christians to participate in this upcoming event. Known as Gather25, the event is a call to repentance, prayer, and revival, for all Christians across the world.
The prayer event will start February 28th and conclude on March 1st. The global event will host Christians from every continent praying for 25 hours. Jennie Allen says the worldwide event to get the message of the Gospel out to every part of the Earth. Allen, who is part of the college revivals spreading across the U.S. is encouraging prayer for the event. Allen called prayer the foundation of planning the event which launches in just one month from now. She is encouraging Christians to participate by signing up to pray and live stream the event at gather25.com.

SNBC Health report: the health benefits of barley
Though it is not as popular as other grains here in the U.S., barley is a grain that possesses a number of nutrients. Barley is rich in fiber and healthy carbs. It contains eight micronutrients and supports bone health. Barley is gluten free and boosts the immune system. It also promotes a healthy metabolism. Nutritionists in studies that this grain can also assist in cholesterol control, regulating blood sugar and reducing inflammation. There are also studies that show it can assist in management of weight, digestive health and upper respiratory health.  Barley can be consumed in various ways including in salads, soups, and a substitute for rice.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JANUARY 26th, 2025

Donald Trumps inaugurated as the 47th President of the United States

The second inauguration of President Donald Trump rolled out on the world stage on January 20th with the pomp and circumstance that accompanies the swearing in of a new President. The inauguration was held inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda because of extremely cold temperatures in Washington, DC. Just hours after the ceremony, the president got right down to business, signing a flurry of executive actions. He signed orders to rescind 78 executive actions from former President Joe Biden, declared a national emergency at the US-Mexico border that ordered the securing of the southern border, a federal policy that defines male and female as the only two genders, full pardons for roughly 1,500 January 6 defendants, 23 pro-life demonstrators who were convicted for protesting at abortion clinics and 14 commutations for prisoners. He gave the social media platform TikTok 75 days to find a U.S.-based buyer before yielding to a federal ban, and many others among the reported 200 he will sign. Supporters say President Trump is making good on his promise to the American people to restore America’s standing in the world and to put America first. The president thanked God, citing three assassination attempts he survived, saying he knows God has a bigger purpose for him. He declared, "We will not forget our country, we will not forget our Constitution, and we will not forget our God." America is indeed one nation under God.

First three hostages released after ceasefire deal
Among several promises President Trump made to the American people during his second inauguration was a promise to secure the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza. Three of the hostages have been released after more than a year in captivity. Following Trump’s re-election, he quickly announced he would stand by Israel and demanded all hostages taken on October 7th of last year be released. The terrorist group Hamas, who had previously resisted all negotiations and continued attacks, finally returned to talks with Israel. The talks resulted in a ceasefire agreement with the first three hostages released hours later. Three women were the first to be released. The women were flown to a hospital in Israel, where they were examined before they were released and reunited with their families. In exchange for the release of hostages, 90 Palestinians will be released into Gaza. South Carolina Senator Lindsay Graham says that the U.S. must continue to support Israel’s efforts to rid Gaza of Hamas.

US House passes bill to protect female athletes
The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a bill to protect women and girls’ sports. In our SNBC update, the bill know as HR 28, will ban transgender athletes from participating in women’s sports, protecting sports for girls in grades K-12th and in women’s collegiate sports. It will now move to the majority Republican Senate where it is expected to pass. The law’s passing by the House, which will be an addition to Title IX, was warmly received by activists who have long noted the biological differences between women and men. Athletes who claim to be transgender have dominated women’s sports in the past few years. Critics believe the law is further marginalizing a small group of the U.S. population who should be allowed to play sports with the gender of their choice.

In our SNBC Health report: 6 Strategies to Improve Your Motivation

We all have struggled with a lack of motivation from time to time. For some, it may have lingered longer than we expected. Motivation can be intrinsic, meaning people engage in the activity because they enjoy it, or extrinsic, where there is a reward at the end of the task. But studies have shown that to stay motivated in the long run is intrinsic motivation that propels us toward the finish line. “When we feel that our goal is deeply meaningful to us, we’re more likely to achieve it,” says Avigail Lev, a clinical psychologist in San Francisco.

Here are some ways to help you stay motivated:

• Put down your phone. Having your smartphone near you makes you more likely to be distracted and pick it up.

• Make goals small and achievable. Your brain releases dopamine every time you experience a sense of achievement, so breaking down large tasks into workable measures helps you reach goals more easily.

• Think ahead. When you have the choice of going to the gym and working out or lying on the couch to watch a movie, think how you’ll feel after the two activities. You may feel more energized and happier after a good workout compared to feeling lethargic after time on the sofa.  

• Stick to a routine, unless otherwise directed by the Holy Spirit. According to Healthline, the sense of having accomplished daily tasks promotes well-being and a sense of purpose. Write down your routine and check off completed tasks as you go about your day. In other words, write the vision and make it plain. Accomplishing things on your list can inspire you to aim higher every day.

• Use the two-minute rule. Do small tasks that take two minutes or less right away, so they don’t pile up.

• Get moving. Instead of waiting for the motivation to exercise, just do it. Even a few squats or a quick walk at your lunch hour can do the trick.

My highest and most consistent level of motivation comes through praise and worship and through hearing the Word. It still amazes me how I’m infused with strength and determination as I focus on my Creator. As we stay connected to the Vine, God will always give us the intrinsic motivation we need.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JANUARY 19th, 2025

CEO of social media companies changes tune after Trump second election
The parent company of two social media platforms is now admitting to its part in censorship of followers. Meta, the parent group of Facebook and Instagram has admitted that users online were censored from displaying certain content. The admission is another chapter in what users, especially conservative and religious organizations called clear discrimination. Founder Mark Zuckerberg later admitted that the Biden administration applied pressure to him for users posts to be censored or have “Fact check” banners displayed on the post. Users complained saying accounts were frequently suspended or banned for content that was correct or simply not the opinion shared by the company itself. Zuckerberg also admitted the third-party company used to monitor content had biased against certain opinions and posts. Responses of the company’s admission and change of rules were mixed. Some praised Zuckerberg for finally admitting wrong and trying to make amends, while others believe the change is due to the current political climate and the new Trump administration being voted back into office in a landslide decision.

SNBC news (Breaking News)
the US House of Representatives has passed a bill protecting women's sports. Known as HR 28, the bill bans trans athletes that claim to identify as female from women's and girls’ sports. Supporters praised the bill's passing as a common sense move to protect biological women. SNBC news is also continuing to monitor news from Israel. According to a recent announcement Israel and the terrorist group Hamas have reached a ceasefire deal. That deal will include the release of hostages that should start the weekend following the deal. At this deal will also include a 6-week ceasefire between both parties. We will give you a full report on both stories next week.

Bible App reports users on the rise…again!

The popular Bible App YouVersion is reporting another rise in use. The Bible on the go app is reporting 18.2 million people engaging in the app and over 700 thousand installments of the app on phones in the New Year already. The parent company also reports a major increase in the Bible apps use in countries such as Ethiopia, Egypt, Turkey, and Pakistan. This growth is part of a continuing trend in the use of the Bible around the world. We continue to see signs of revival across the U.S., and the World leading to a resurgence in purchases of the Bible and use of digital platforms from users and believers hungry for God’s Word.

SNBC Health report: winter fruits and health benefits
For those of you who can stay traditional with food choices, nutritionists are encouraging consumers to try some fruits that you may not have tried before. The main objective according to experts is to try new things, while receiving the health benefits. Here is a list of few fruits to try and their health benefits this winter.

Kumquats- rich in fiber and vitamin C

Persimmons are rich vitamins, A, C, fiber, promote skin health, and the immune system.

Pomegranate is considered a winter fruit. This fruit is popular in the U.S. and is rich in folate, vitamin C and fiber. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Pomelo, also known as Chinese grapefruit, is rich in vitamin C.

Starfruit is rich in fiber, vitamin C and antioxidants.

Kiwi another popular fruit here in the U.S. is rich in fiber, vitamins K, E, C, potassium, and promotes immune system health.

Guava is a little fruit with a lot of health properties. This fruit is rich in several nutrients including Vitamins A, E, C, fiber, and potassium just to name a few. Most of these fruits are harvested mainly in the winter and can be found frequently in your local area.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY JANUARY 5th, 2025

Virginia State Congress wants abortion on state ballot
The state of Virginia’s Congress is inching closer to sending abortion to voters. 2024 saw several states bring the issue to a vote with citizens in each state voting for or against abortion being added to state constitutions. Legislators in Virginia say they want to “enshrine abortion rights into the state constitution”. One politician called the right to an abortion a private treatment choice, just like cancer treatment. The comments upset Republican delegates who have vowed to bring the vote to the people; one politician further added the new abortion laws being pushed in the state are for more extreme than any other state in the U.S. The process will take some time as the amendment must first pass the state congress twice before it is sent to voters for a decision.

 Jewish leader issues call to Christians
A Jewish leader is encouraging Christians to stand up more for the Jewish people in the new year. Jonathan Bernis, president and CEO of Jewish Voice Ministries International is asking Christians to support the Jewish people as part of a new campaign. Bernis says that rise in antisemitism is alarming and has continued since October 7th. The leader says prior to the attack on Israel antisemitism was on the rise. Since the attacks he says antisemitism has grown to 300%. The organization’s campaign Love Your Jewish Neighbor is designed to encourage Christians and supporters of the Jewish people to stand up and defend them during this time. Bernis says terrorists’ groups such has Hezbollah and Hamas have succeeded in their campaign to make Israel and the Jewish people look like the aggressors. Bernis is encouraging supporters to speak out and speak up if you see any offense against the Jewish people.

Israel and Hamas conflict continues in Middle East
Tensions continue to rise between Israel and the terrorist group Hamas. Israeli officials are demanding an accurate update on the remaining hostages. The demands are being made after several reports from former hostages detailing horrific treatment at the hands of their captors. Hamas is demanding a ceasefire before any details concerning the hostages is released, including possible negotiations for their return. Israel is continuing their vow to eliminate the terrorist group. The remaining hostages have been held in captivity of over a year. The U.S. has continued to be a strong ally of Israel during this conflict. President elect Donald Trump has vowed to stand with Israel, end the conflict and bring the remaining hostage’s home.

In our SNBC Health report: the importance of staying active as we age
Researchers are encouraging older adults to remain active as they age. According to research from the University of South Australia, staying active is key to brain health as we age. The study followed over 400 people over the age of 60. Subjects who focused on mentally stimulating activities such as prayer, listening to music, reading, and interacting socially were found to have more health benefits in their brains. Researchers believe this study will help with reducing the effects of cognitive impairment issues, such as dementia. Researchers suggest changing habits with simple 5-minute swaps will help improve cognitive health. The study also followed various factors around the subjects including lifestyle, health behaviors, and health history, which may also factor into cognitive health.

SNBC NEWS FOR LIFE SUNDAY DECEMBER 29th

Realtor accused for prejudice for Christian stance
A Virginia realtor has been found guilty of promoting hate speech by sharing his faith. Realtor and Pastor, Wilson Fauber was found guilty of a religious violation by the Virginia Association of Realtors. Fauber shared his faith in a social media post on his personal page, which was a repost of a comment made by Rev. Franklin Graham in 2015, the same year Fauber reposted the comments. In his post, he called homosexuality a sin. A complaint was later filed by two fellow realtors. The Association claims the comments were a violation of the expression of religious beliefs. However, the post was made prior to the association’s creation of this clause concerning religious comments and their violation of association rules. Fauber said he is allowed to keep his realtor’s license for now, calling the Virginia Association of Realtors “woke” and stating this ruling sets a dangerous precedent for other Christians. He is appealing the Association’s ruling.

SNBC NEWS UPDATE: Shooting at Christian school
SNBC NEWS is continuing to monitor the details of a shooting at a private Christian school in Madison, Wisconsin. According to various sources, the shooter, 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow, was enrolled at the school. Rupnow opened fire in a study hall killing one teacher, one student, and injuring six others. The suspect later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police are working with witnesses and the family of the shooter to determine the reason for the attack. In a press conference, they say one of the heroes was a second-grade teacher who called 911 after the first shots were fired. Please continue to keep the students, staff, and the city of Madison in your prayers at this time. SNBC News will update you as more information is released.

God Behind Bars reports more salvations and baptisms
Another praise report concerning revival. God Behind Bars is reporting another great harvest of souls. According to the ministry, 140 women received Christ as their Savior and were baptized at a prison in Colorado. This is the largest women’s prison in Colorado. The ministry also reported this was the first baptismal service ever allowed inside these prison walls. Women were reportedly shouting and openly weeping as they made the decision to be baptized. The youngest prisoner allowed to be baptized was just 16 years old. God Behind Bars started in 2009 and is dedicated to witnessing the Gospel of Jesus Christ to prisoners across the U.S.

In our SNBC Health report: What Did Your Great-Great-Great-Grandparents Eat?
The 1800s offers us a unique view into a different relationship people had with food — one where abundance was celebrated, meals were a source of joy, and the dinner table was the heart of family life. People maintained simpler, more intuitive connections with their meals. Their approach to food differs from our modern perspective. While we often grapple with complex dietary rules and restrictions, our ancestors focused on nourishment, celebration, and making the most of available ingredients. There is profound value in looking to the past and drawing from the wisdom of our ancestors to uncover how they cultivated healthy, balanced lives and sustained their communities across generations. In the 1800s, people ate three structured meals daily (breakfast, dinner, supper) without snacking or fasting, maintaining a simpler relationship with food than we have today. They consumed a high-carb diet, rich in saturated fats (probably because they were much more active that we are), with minimal polyunsaturated fats, as they didn't use vegetable oils or eat many nuts and seeds. A typical breakfast consisted of various meats, along with hominy, potatoes and eggs. Lunch, typically called dinner, consisted again of meats like pork, veal, quail and duck, including fish, as well as vegetables and soups, and was served mid-afternoon, while supper was typically on the lighter side with just a few menu items like fish variations and bread and butter. Examples of desserts were homemade rice cakes, sponge cakes and bread puddings, or hasty pudding. Tea or coffee were served at most meals. While we are not saying we should adopt all these habits today, gaining a perspective from the diets of our great-great-great-grandparents can be both liberating and grounding. In today’s world, where so many foods are scrutinized, this perspective can help alleviate unnecessary fear around eating. So instead of feeling overwhelmed, we can optimize our health by keeping it simple. Return to simpler food principles by cooking at home, buying quality ingredients within your means, staying active, and prioritizing peace and happiness over strict diets. And as in every aspect of our lives, as II Corinthians 13:11 says, “..Live in peace, and the God of love and peace shall be with you.”