The Weekly Telescope

Category: United States

  • Is America Losing Its Role as Democracy’s Champion?

    Is America Losing Its Role as Democracy’s Champion?

    For much of the past century, the United States has stood as the “leader of the free world”, championing democracy, human rights, and freedom for oppressed peoples. From its role in defeating fascism in World War II to its Cold War stand against communism, America positioned itself as the global defender of liberty. Through institutions like Voice of America (VOA) and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), it broadcast the values of democracy to nations suffering under authoritarian rule.

    But that era may now be ending. The recent defunding and dismantling of U.S.-funded media organizations, the withdrawal from international alliances, and America’s inward turn under the Trump administration signal a dramatic shift. The United States is no longer the unwavering beacon of freedom it once was. And perhaps, this decline is not merely political—but something that is coming from God.

    A Nation Turning Inward: The End of Global Leadership?

    A couple of recent decisions by the U.S. government reflect a profound change in direction:

    • The Shutdown of Voice of America and Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty – These organizations, which once brought truth to people in authoritarian regimes, are now silent due to government defunding. Without them, America no longer counters the propaganda of China, Russia, and Iran, allowing these regimes to expand their influence unchecked.
    • Retreat from Global Institutions – The Trump administration has distanced America from international organizations such as the United Nations Human Rights Council and the World Health Organization, abandoning its role in shaping global policy.

    Many are asking: Is the United States still the champion of democracy, or is it becoming another empire in decline?

    God’s Judgment on America? The Biblical Perspective

    Throughout history, God has used oppressive governments or governments that make bad choices as a form of punishment to wake up His people from spiritual complacency. When ancient Israel and Judah turned away from God—embracing corruption, injustice, and idolatry—He allowed them to have weak or oppressive leaders which eventually led them to fall into captivity under the Assyrians and Babylonians.

    Could it be that America is following the same path?

    • The removal of America’s global influence may be God’s way of humbling a nation that has turned its back on Him.
    • The rise of authoritarian regimes across the world may be a wake-up call for God’s people to realize that America’s perceived power is nothing if not from God.

    America, like ancient Israel, has been blessed beyond measure—yet it has corrupted those blessings with moral decay, materialism, and rebellion against God’s laws. The consequences are now unfolding before our eyes.

    The Rise of a New Global Leader

    As America retreats, its enemies are scrambling to fill-up the leadership vacuum it is leaving.  Ultimately, another world power is being prepared to take its place—a power that will not defend democracy or individual freedom, but will instead dominate the world through authoritarian rule.

    • China’s expanding influence in Africa, Latin America, and the South Pacific is growing unchecked.
    • Russia’s aggressive expansion in Ukraine and beyond is being met with weak resistance.
    • The European Union, long divided, may soon unite under a strong leader who will reshape the world order.

    The world is being repositioned for a new era—an era foretold in Bible prophecy, where a global empire will rise and ultimately bring about the downfall of the United States and its influence.

    Daniel 2 and Revelation 17 speak of a final world power that will dominate in the last days. This power is coming into place now. And when it fully emerges, it will not tolerate America’s dominance.

    A Time to Seek God

    This is not a time for bitter political rivalries or misguided nationalism. This is a time to seek God.

    America is being removed from its position of global leadership, just as past empires were before it. God is allowing this so that His people will wake up and turn to Him before it is too late. Let those who have ears to hear, heed the warning.

  • America’s Reliability Crisis: NATO and Global Security Shifts

    America’s Reliability Crisis: NATO and Global Security Shifts

    For decades, the United States has been the linchpin of global security, the backbone of NATO, the chief protector of the Pacific, and the ultimate deterrent against authoritarian expansionism. However, recent developments suggest that America’s role as the world’s guardian is eroding—an erosion driven not just by political decisions, but perhaps by a deeper spiritual message that the nation must heed.

    A Pattern of Unreliability in U.S. Commitments

    The Trump administration’s handling of intelligence sharing with Ukraine has sent shockwaves through allied nations. The sudden suspension of intelligence support to Ukraine, followed by its conditional resumption, has raised concerns about America’s commitment to its allies. While Ukraine’s struggle against Russian aggression continues, the erratic nature of U.S. policy has left NATO nations questioning whether they could face a similar fate.

    European nations, sensing the volatility of U.S. policy, are now exploring alternative security arrangements. The European Union is considering expanding its military intelligence capabilities and reducing its reliance on U.S. intelligence. Countries such as France and Germany are leading discussions on an independent European military force—an idea that was once dismissed as politically infeasible but is now gaining momentum.

    In the Pacific, America’s key allies—South Korea, Taiwan, and the Philippines—are also recalibrating their defense strategies. South Korea is bolstering regional partnerships, particularly with Japan, in anticipation of a less reliable American presence. Taiwan is actively seeking multilateral security cooperation beyond the U.S., participating in joint military exercises with the Philippines and Japan. Meanwhile, the Philippines is modernizing its military and diversifying its defense partnerships, engaging countries like Australia and Canada in military agreements.

    The Breakdown of America’s Global Leadership

    This growing shift away from American reliance signals the waning of U.S. global leadership. Allies who once placed unwavering trust in Washington now see the need to hedge their bets. For decades, the U.S. thrived on the strength of its alliances, but as these alliances weaken, so too does America’s influence in global affairs.

    Historically, great empires did not fall solely due to external threats but because of internal decay. America’s reluctance or inability to maintain stable commitments to its allies mirrors the decline of past world powers. The erosion of trust in U.S. leadership is not just a political problem—it is symptomatic of deeper issues plaguing the nation.

    A Spiritual Message to America

    From a biblical perspective, national greatness is not simply a product of military strength or economic prowess—it is tied to moral and spiritual standing. The United States has long claimed to be a nation under God, but its increasing political instability, social divisions, and unreliable leadership may be signs that it is drifting further from divine favor.

    The Bible warns that nations that forget God will face decline. The book of Proverbs states,

    “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34).

    When a nation abandons righteousness, its foundations begin to crumble, and its power wanes.

    Could it be that God is allowing America’s global dominance to wane as a wake-up call? The moral compass of the nation has shifted dramatically, embracing ideologies and practices that directly contradict biblical values. At the same time, political turmoil and international distrust are rising. The weakening of U.S. leadership should not just be seen as a strategic challenge but also as a spiritual warning.

    The Path to Restoration

    If America wishes to maintain its standing as a world power, it must look beyond military alliances and strategic policies. The key to lasting strength is not just in political or economic reforms but in a national return to godly principles.

    Leaders must recognize that power without righteousness is fleeting. The nation must prioritize integrity, justice, and moral leadership if it hopes to remain a stabilizing force in the world. This requires not only changes in governance but also a revival of spiritual commitment among its people.

    America’s allies are preparing for a world where the U.S. is no longer the primary protector. If this trend continues, the United States will find itself increasingly isolated, no longer at the helm of world affairs. This should be a sobering reality for American leaders, but also an opportunity—a moment to turn back to God, to seek His guidance, and to reestablish itself as a force for good in the world.

  • Canada’s Trade Pivot: Preparing for the Rise of a European Economic Giant

    Canada’s Trade Pivot: Preparing for the Rise of a European Economic Giant

    In recent years, Canada has been aggressively diversifying its trade relationships, seeking to reduce its economic reliance on the United States. This shift has been prompted by the increasingly unstable and protectionist trade policies emanating from Washington, which have left even long-standing allies questioning the reliability of the U.S. as a trade partner. Amid these uncertainties, Canada has been forging deeper economic ties with countries and entities beyond the U.S.—most notably, the European Union (EU). While this strategy might seem a prudent move in the short term, there are profound prophetic implications that could reshape the global economic landscape in the not-so-distant future. According to biblical prophecy, a powerful European economic empire will rise, eventually transforming these trade partnerships into instruments of subjugation for nations like Canada, Britain, and the United States.

    The EU: A Sleeping Economic Giant Awakens

    Canada’s recent push to strengthen its economic ties with the EU is evident in the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which has significantly boosted bilateral trade since its provisional implementation in 2017. Trade between Canada and the EU has seen robust growth, with Canadian exports to Europe rising sharply. However, this may only be the beginning of a much larger geopolitical shift.

    Prophetic Foundations: The Rise of a European Economic Powerhouse

    The Bible contains several passages that foretell the emergence of a powerful economic and political entity in Europe, often interpreted as a revived Roman Empire. This empire, described symbolically in prophetic books, is expected to dominate global trade and exert substantial influence over the nations, including those descended from ancient Israel, such as the United States, Britain, and Canada.

    Daniel 2 and Daniel 7 provide the foundational prophecies for understanding this future European superpower. In Daniel 2, King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream of a statue with different metal parts symbolizes successive world empires. The legs of iron and feet partly of iron and partly of clay represent the Roman Empire and its eventual revival in a divided form (Daniel 2:40-43). The ten toes signify a coalition of ten kings or nations.

    Similarly, Daniel 7:7-8, 23-24 describes a fourth beast, “dreadful and terrible, exceedingly strong,” with ten horns, symbolizing the same revived Roman Empire.

    Revelation 17 builds on Daniel’s vision, describing a beast with seven heads and ten horns. This beast is supported by a harlot, symbolizing a powerful religious influence allied with the political empire. The ten horns, representing ten kings, “receive authority for one hour as kings with the beast” (Revelation 17:12). This alliance suggests a temporary but powerful coalition that will dominate global trade and politics.

    Additionally, Revelation 18 depicts this future European superpower as an economic giant, a great commercial system symbolized by “Babylon the Great.” It describes a wealthy and influential trading empire whose goods are coveted by merchants worldwide (Revelation 18:11-13). The chapter highlights the immense economic power of this system and its impact on global commerce.

    Trading with the Beast: An Equal Partner Only for a Time

    In the initial stages of this emerging European superpower, Canada will likely benefit from what seems to be a mutually respectful and lucrative trade partnership. Canada’s rich resources—energy, minerals, and agricultural products—will be of great interest to the EU, and both sides will capitalize on these exchanges. This period will offer Canada an opportunity to secure new markets and hedge against U.S. trade uncertainties.

    However, biblical prophecy warns that this phase will be temporary. The Scriptures foretell that this resurrected Roman Empire, symbolically referred to as the Beast, will not remain content with equal partnerships for long. As its power grows, it will subjugate nations, including Canada, Britain, and even the United States. What begins as a promising trade relationship will gradually shift into a scenario where Canada and its allies find themselves economically and politically subdued. Trade agreements will be replaced with mandates, and sovereignty will be compromised.

    The Time of Jacob’s Trouble

    The Bible also speaks of a future period known as the “time of Jacob’s trouble,” a time of great distress and calamity for the modern descendants of ancient Israel, including the United States, Britain, and other English-speaking nations such as Canada.

    Jeremiah 30:4-7 explicitly describes this period:

     “Now these are the words that the Lord spoke concerning Israel and Judah. For thus says the Lord: ‘We have heard a voice of trembling, of fear, and not of peace. Ask now, and see, whether a man is ever in labor with child? So why do I see every man with his hands on his loins like a woman in labor, and all faces turned pale? Alas! For that day is great, so that none is like it; and it is the time of Jacob’s trouble, but he shall be saved out of it.’”

    Hosea 5:5 and Hosea 7:11 also warn of Ephraim (symbolic of Britain and its commonwealth nations, including Canada) seeking alliances with foreign powers, leading to downfall. Canada’s pursuit of new trade relationships is a rational response to current uncertainties, yet it is essential to recognize the broader prophetic context. The rise of a powerful European economic empire is not a distant possibility—it is an imminent reality foretold in biblical prophecy. For Canada, the path forward may offer short-term gains but also significant long-term risks. Understanding these prophetic truths can help us view today’s headlines with clarity and prepare for the dramatic changes that lie ahead.

  • The Intensifying Trade War Between the U.S. and Canada: A Sign of the Times?

    The Intensifying Trade War Between the U.S. and Canada: A Sign of the Times?

    For decades, the United States and Canada have enjoyed one of the most stable trade relationships in the world. As two of the largest economies in North America, their trade has been a cornerstone of economic prosperity, with goods and services flowing relatively freely across their borders. However, recent developments have shattered this harmony, plunging both nations into a trade war that is escalating by the day. This ongoing conflict is not merely an economic dispute—it is a reflection of deeper national and spiritual crises.

    U.S. Imposes High Tariffs Against Canada

    The latest trade war between the U.S. and Canada erupted when the U.S. administration imposed a sweeping 25% tariff on most Canadian imports, citing national security concerns and unfair trade practices. This move has particularly affected industries such as steel, aluminum, energy, and agriculture. The Trump administration justified these tariffs under the premise that Canada was taking advantage of U.S. trade policies and that new restrictions were necessary to protect American jobs and manufacturing.

    However, these tariffs have had an unintended consequence: they have driven up costs for American businesses that rely on Canadian materials and have inflamed tensions between two historically close allies. Many U.S. industries, including the automotive sector, have already begun feeling the strain, and consumer prices are expected to rise as a result.

    Canada Strikes Back

    Unwilling to back down, Canada responded with retaliatory tariffs of 25% on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods, targeting industries that would hit American exporters the hardest. These tariffs include agricultural products such as dairy, pork, and wheat, as well as manufactured goods and consumer products.

    Canadian officials have called these measures a necessary defense against what they view as unjustified American economic aggression. However, these retaliatory actions have only fueled tensions, making it increasingly likely that the trade war will spiral out of control.

    A Trade War That Could Intensify

    The escalation of tariffs and countermeasures has set both nations on a dangerous economic path. If neither side relents, this trade war could intensify further, leading to:

    • Higher prices for consumers in both countries, as businesses pass on increased costs.
    • Job losses in industries affected by declining exports, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing.
    • Disruptions to supply chains, as companies look for alternative sources of materials and goods.
    • A weakened North American economy, with investment and economic growth slowing due to uncertainty and instability.
    • Geopolitical consequences, as Canada turns to other trade partners, potentially strengthening ties with the European Union and China while reducing economic dependence on the U.S.

    The Spiritual Perspective: God’s Judgment on the Nations

    The economic consequences of this trade war are significant, but there is a deeper, spiritual dimension to what is unfolding. When a nation sins against God, He allows it to have bad leaders or leaders who make bad decisions.

    Throughout the Bible, God has used poor leadership decisions and internal conflict as a form of judgment against nations that turn away from Him. The Bible repeatedly warns that when people forsake God’s commandments, He removes wise leadership and allows rulers to make choices that bring suffering upon the nation.

    Isaiah 3:1-4 warns that God removes strong and capable leaders when a nation rebels against Him, replacing them with weak and ineffective rulers.

    The intensifying trade war between the U.S. and Canada is not merely the result of poor economic policy—it is part of God’s judgment on nations that have abandoned His ways. Both the U.S. and Canada have increasingly embraced moral and spiritual decay, rejecting God’s laws and embracing secularism, materialism, and moral relativism. As a result, God has allowed leaders to make decisions that bring economic distress and division.

    A Nation Divided Against Itself

    Another form of divine judgment is internal division among a nation’s own people. The Bible speaks of times when God allowed the tribes of Israel to be at odds with each other as punishment for their disobedience.

    • Isaiah 9:21 says, “Manasseh devours Ephraim, and Ephraim devours Manasseh; together they are against Judah.” This passage describes infighting among the tribes of Israel, a symbol of how a nation that turns away from God becomes fractured.
    • Zechariah 11:14 states, “Then I cut in two my other staff, Bonds, that I might break the brotherhood between Judah and Israel.” When a people refuse to follow God, He allows them to be divided.

    The conflict between the U.S. and Canada—two nations historically linked by common heritage, trade, and culture—mirrors the divisions God allowed among the tribes of Israel. It is a modern example of how sin leads to internal strife and external consequences.

    A Warning from God

    What is happening between the U.S. and Canada is not just a political or economic event—it is part of God’s judgment. Nations that abandon righteousness and embrace sin will suffer the consequences, not only through poor leadership but also through economic hardship and internal divisions.

    As this trade war escalates, it serves as a sobering reminder that national prosperity is tied to obedience to God’s laws. If the U.S. and Canada truly want economic stability and peace, they must first return to God, repent of their sins, and seek His guidance in governance and policy.

    Until then, we can expect further economic turmoil, divisions among nations, and worsening leadership—not just between the U.S. and Canada, but throughout the world. This is not just an economic battle; it is a spiritual reckoning.

  • Europe’s March to Military Dominance: The Path to a Unified Superpower

    Europe’s March to Military Dominance: The Path to a Unified Superpower

    For decades, European security has been anchored in the transatlantic alliance with the United States through NATO. However, shifting geopolitical realities—Russia’s continued aggression, the growing uncertainty of U.S. commitment to Europe, and the increasing calls for strategic autonomy—have compelled European Union (EU) nations to take matters into their own hands. The result is a dramatic transformation of Europe’s military capabilities, with nations working together to forge an independent defense structure outside of NATO.

    While the process is still in its early stages, the momentum is undeniable. What we are witnessing is the slow but steady rise of a militarily unified Europe—one that, in time, will surpass all nations in power and might. Remarkably, this aligns with an ancient biblical prophecy that foretells the emergence of a final world superpower, a militaristic empire so dominant that no nation—not even the United States—will be able to challenge it.

    The Blueprint for European Military Autonomy

    The EU is rapidly expanding its military cooperation through a series of frameworks designed to reduce its reliance on the U.S. and NATO. Some of the most significant initiatives include:

    1. The Strategic Compass for Security and Defence

    Adopted in 2022, the Strategic Compass is a roadmap to strengthen the EU’s military capabilities, with a goal of creating a fully operational EU Rapid Deployment Capacity by 2030. This will allow Europe to swiftly mobilize 5,000 troops for crisis response without relying on NATO.

    2. Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO)

    PESCO is a legally binding framework that enables EU members to cooperate on military projects, including joint weapons development, intelligence sharing, and coordinated rapid response forces.

    3. The European Intervention Initiative (EI2)

    Spearheaded by France, EI2 is an elite military coalition that enhances Europe’s ability to conduct military operations independently of NATO, preparing for potential conflicts outside the EU’s borders.

    4. The Main Ground Combat System (MGCS)

    France and Germany are leading this project to develop the next-generation battle tank, replacing older models and providing European forces with superior land warfare capabilities.

    5. Military Mobility (“Military Schengen”)

    To ensure rapid deployment of forces, the EU is working on a military mobility project that removes logistical and bureaucratic barriers, making it easier for troops and equipment to move across European borders.

    6. The European Defence Fund (EDF)

    With a growing budget, the EDF is financing advanced defense research and weapons development to rival the military technology of the U.S., China, and Russia.

    The Road to European Military Superiority

    At present, Europe is still dependent on U.S. support, particularly in intelligence, nuclear deterrence, and strategic airlift capabilities. However, history has shown that necessity drives innovation. The war in Ukraine has forced European leaders to rethink their reliance on NATO and to fast-track their own military build-up.

    As European defense spending rises, and as these military initiatives become fully operational, the EU will eventually achieve self-sufficiency. What once seemed unthinkable—a Europe capable of waging war independently of the U.S.—is now becoming a reality. This military unification is not just a political shift; it is a prophecy in motion.

    Prophecy Foretells the Rise of a European Superpower

    The Bible prophesies the emergence of a final world empire—described as “the Beast” in the book of Revelation—a powerful, militaristic union that no nation will dare oppose.

    “Who is like the Beast? Who is able to make war with him?” (Revelation 13:4)

    This prophecy describes a world-dominating power, led by a strong ruler, that will command absolute military supremacy. Historically, many have understood this prophecy to point toward a revived European empire, one that will rise after a period of political and military consolidation.

    Though today’s EU is still fragmented in its military structures, the building blocks of a unified European army are already being laid. As economic, political, and military pressures increase, these disparate elements will eventually merge into a powerful, centralized force.

    A Future Where Europe Stands Unchallenged

    For now, Europe still requires U.S. support to counter Russian aggression. But this will not always be the case. Over time, the EU’s defense initiatives will evolve into a fully integrated war machine—one that surpasses Russia, China, and even the United States.

    The world is watching as history unfolds. What seems like a slow and bureaucratic process today will, in due time, lead to a new global reality—one where Europe, not America, dictates the terms of world security. And when that day comes, no nation will dare to challenge it.