August 8, 2023 • 15 mins
This is PrayNews, your beacon of hope in the stormy seas of current events. Sign up to receive PrayNews in your inbox every weekday: https://www.praynews.com/
Today’s Good News at a Glance:
- The US falls short of expectations in the World Cup, but there’s hope for the underdogs!
- North Korea’s crypto heists have been fueling their nuclear programs.
- College football is going crazy.
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Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
For where your treasure is there, your heart will be
also Matthew six twenty one. Dear Lord, guide our hearts
towards the treasures that truly matter, love, kindness, faith, and
service to others. Help us to recognize the fleeting nature
of worldly possessions and desires, and to prioritize the eternal
values of your kingdom. Teach us to invest our time, energy,
(00:22):
and resources in building relationships, growing in our faith, and
serving those in need. Let our hearts be anchored in
the things of you, finding joy and purpose in your presence.
Help us to continually align your hearts with your will
and purpose. Speak to us, guide our hearts in the
mighty name of Jesus. We pray. Amen. Welcome to pray
(00:45):
news where hope is our only bias. Today's news at
a glance, the US falls short of expectations in the
World Cup, but there's hope for the underdogs. North Korea's
cryptoheists have been fueling their nuclear programs, and college football
is going going crazy right now. This is a big
day of news for sports fans out there. Sports are,
in many ways a reflection of life, teamwork, dedication, mutual goals.
(01:08):
With all these things. We make each other better and
that's how it is with the Body of Christ. And
we pray that we hear at pray news help you
to navigate life. If you've been blessed by this take
on the news, consider writing a review. We'd love to
hear from you. Here's actually a review from Homage five
point thirteen. Finally a news podcast that gives us the
news in a factual manner and also have the Lord
(01:30):
centered in it as well. Thank you, I support this well.
Thanks for the review. We are grateful for your support,
and pray this news continues to leave you informed and transformed.
Our first story of today is an update on the
World Cup in the world of sports, where the thrill
of victory in the agony of defeat, dance and delicateango.
The US women's soccer team came out guns of blazing,
(01:52):
hoping to nab a third trophy. But this World Cup
season in Melbourne, Australia, were witness to a plot twist
that fu saw coming. The once indomitable US team, known
for their prowess and panache, faced an early exit from
the Women's World Cup. The US team's departure from the
tournament was akin to a Shakespearean tragedy, complete with dramatic
(02:13):
tension and unexpected turns. A scoreless draw with Sweden led
to a nail biting penalty shootout, and alas, the Americans
found themselves on the wrong side of the scoreboard, but
just within millimeters. This marked the earliest exit ever for
the four time tournament champions. Oh how the Mighty have
faced just a small hiccup In the nineteen ninety nine
(02:35):
World Cup. The women's team faced a very similar game
but had a very different outcome. Today's World Cup and
the US team seemed to tad off kilter. They seemed
off base and not their usual selves. With just one
win against Vietnam and draws against the Netherlands and Portugal,
their journey felt more like a roller coaster than a
(02:55):
victory march. While the champs have fallen were tipping our
hats to the under teams like Jamaica, Columbia and Morocco
have shown that the world of women's soccer is no
longer just a one horse race. As defender Crystal Dunn
aptly put it, the growth of the game globally is evident,
and the US team's challenges are actually a testament to
(03:16):
the game's evolution. The league is no longer as top
heavy as it once was. For the sport, that's a
good thing, but this year for the US, who were
on top, it's not as much of a good thing.
With the Tokyo Olympics bronze medal and now this World
Cup outcome, whispers about Vladko Adanomsky's future with the team
are making the rounds. Adanowski has had a commendable run,
(03:37):
but the recent results have left fans pondering the road ahead.
The US team's youth movement, spearheaded by Adanomski, brought fresh
faces to the World Cup. Players like Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman,
and the young Alyssa Thompson showcased their potential, yet the
absence of clear veterans made it an uphill battle for them.
Social media, that ever buzzing beehive, was abuzz with reactions.
(04:01):
Megan Rappano's penalty miss and the subsequent laughter became a
hot topic. Rappino, the iconic star of the twenty nineteen
World Cup, announced that this would be her final World
Cup appearance. As she tearfully reflected on her journey, one
couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia. Here's to
four years from now, when the young US team is
going to vibrantly take the stage once again. We'll be
(04:23):
cheering for them, and we'll also be cheering for some
of these underdogs, like Jamaica. They have wonderful stories and
we can't wait to see what happens. In the grand
tapestry of life. Sports teach us valuable lessons about perseverance, humility,
and grace, and other values like teamwork and lifting each
other up in hard times. The Bible reminds us in
Proverbs twenty four for though the righteous fall seven times,
(04:47):
they rise again. The US women's soccer team, with its
legacy and talent, will undoubtedly rise again, stronger and more determined.
As we reflect on their journey, let's celebrate the spirit
of competition, the joy of the game, and the lessons
learned both on and off the field. After all, it's
not just about winning, it's about playing with heart, embracing challenges,
and growing in faith in character. That is how sports,
(05:08):
in many ways reflect life. So here's to the US
women's soccer team. May your future be as bright as
your legacy is rich. So now let's lift all of this.
In prayer, Lord, we thank you for the spirit of competition,
the joy of the game, and the lessons we learn
from victories and defeats. We pray for the US women's
soccer team that they may find strength and experience and
grow in perseverance and come back stronger for their next journey.
(05:32):
We also pray for the remaining teams. Would you keep
them safe and continually humble even in their victories. May
their future shine bright, and may they continue to inspire
many with their passion and their determination. In Jesus' name, Amen,
Our next story is about North Korea and cryptoheists. North
Korea's alleged use of stolen cryptocurrency to fund its nuclear
(05:55):
program have sent shockwaves through the international community. Three Democratic Senators,
Sabeth Warren, Tim Kaine, and Chris Van Holan, have voiced
their concerns about North Korea's increasing reliance on stolen cryptocurrency.
Their letter to the Biden administration seeks clarity on the
steps to counteract this alarming trend. The senators emphasize the
urgency of the situation, noting that North Korea has systematically
(06:18):
built its expertise in digital assets over the past few years.
The Senator's concerns are not unfounded. North Korean hackers have
pilfered over three billion dollars in crypto related thefts since
twenty eighteen. These funds now contribute to approximately half of
North Korea's ballistic missile program. These cryptoheists have allowed North
(06:40):
Korea to amass wealth despite sanctions that are placed upon
them from the rest of the world. The cryptocnundrum continues
to abound here see The rapid rise in cryptocurrencies has
presented both opportunities and challenges. While cryptocurrency offers financial inclusion
and innovation, their decentralized nature can be exploited for nefarious purposes.
(07:02):
The North Korea's alleged crypto heists underscore that very dilemma.
And Newberger, the Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and
Emerging Technology, revealed that about half of North Korea's foreign
currency funding its missile program is sourced from its cyber operations.
This is a significant jump from previous estimates. Furthermore, North
(07:24):
Korea's shadow it workforce, operating globally including countries like Russia
and China, has been linked to the regime's cybercrime operations
while engaging in routine technology tasks. This workforce is believed
to be intricately connected to North Korea cyber heists. Senator Warren,
recognizing the gravity of the situation, has reintroduced by partisan
(07:44):
legislation aimed at mitigating the national security risks associated with
digital assets. This is something that both Democrats and Republicans
can get behind. The proposed legislation seeks to bring a
larger segment of the cryptocurrency market under regulations does designed
to thwart money laundering, terrorist financing, and other illicit activities.
(08:05):
The legislation also proposes enhanced requirements for crypto wallet providers, miners,
and other network participants. Additionally, it calls for the implementation
of a rule proposed in twenty twenty that mandates banks
and crypto platforms to gather more information about the crypto
transactions with unhosted wallets. This will make it much easier
(08:25):
to find some nefarious actors like North Korean agents. From
a Christian standpoint, the situation underscores the age old struggle
between good and evil, where advancements meant for the betterment
of humanity can be misused for destructive purposes. A prime
example of this is actually the Tree of knowledge of
good and evil in the Garden of Eden. Remember Genesis
(08:45):
one through three. The Bible doesn't describe the tree as
the tree of evil. Rather, we are told that the
tree offered knowledge of good and evil. It is the
tree of knowledge, knowledge of good and evil. Each and
every day we are faced with choices. We are faced
with the knowledge to make the right choice or the
evil choice, and because of our fallen nature, we skew
(09:07):
towards evil if left unchecked. With each new innovation and
technological high the possibility for evil abouance. The discovery of fire,
for example, provided humanity with the choice to either warm
their huts or burn down an enemy village. Innovations and
nuclear power gave us the ability to power entire cities,
but also destroy entire cities. Do you see how this works?
(09:31):
With each new innovation, With each new invention, with each
new technological exploit, we have an opportunity to choose the
right path or the wrong path, the path of good
or the path for evil. The situation with North Korea
as a stark reminder that while technology can be a
force for good, it requires vigilant oversight and ethical considerations
to ensure it is not misused. This story also causes
(09:54):
us to pause and contemplate our potential for evil. Let's
pray for our leaders as they navigate this complex geopolitical space.
Let's also pray for our hearts that we would choose
good every day, inspired by the spirit and informed by
the world. So, with all that being said, let's pray Lord.
In a world filled with technological advances, we recognize the
(10:16):
potential for both good and harm. We pray for wisdom
and discernment for our leaders as they navigate these challenges.
Strengthen our resolve to always choose the path of righteousness,
and guide us to use our resources and innovations and
expertise for the betterment of all and for your kingdom.
Bless us, Lord, as we navigate this life in Jesus' name. Amen.
(10:37):
Buckle up everyone for this last story, because college football
is doing a game of musical chairs. If you're a
college football fan, this is the story for you. If
you're a fan of television controversy and business deals, this
is also a story for you. If you're just a
fan of absurdity, this is definitely the story for you.
In short, here's what's happening in college football at the moment.
The Big Ten is turning into the Big eighteen, the
(11:00):
Big Twelve is growing into the Big sixteen, and the
Pac twelve is slimming down to the Pack four. Confused,
You're not alone. The Pac twelve football conference in college football,
once a bastion of athletic prowess holding some of the
world's most talented teams, is now looking more like the
last kid picked in dodgeball. Oregon and Washington are headed
to the Big Ten. Meanwhile, Arizona, Arizona State, and Utah
(11:24):
have decided to try their luck with the Big Twelve.
This leaves the Pac twelve with a mere four members,
and one has to wonder if they're now considering a
name change to the Pack few. Meanwhile, the SEC is
picking up two big time programs from the Big twelve
starting next year in Oklahoma and Texas. In case you're
getting lost, what's essentially happening is that college football is
(11:45):
broken up into conferences that have a certain amount of
teams that play one another and ultimately vie for a championship.
Now a lot of these teams are moving conferences. They're
going from one set of teams to another set of teams. Now,
if you're skytching your head wondering why all of this
is happening, look no further than your remote control for
the answers. Television, the great influencer of our age, seems
(12:08):
to be the puppet master behind these moves. The Big
Ten and SEC, for example, with their Scrooge McDuck sized
vaults of TV money, have been luring schools away from
the PAC twelve like kids to an ice cream truck.
The numbers are staggering. The SEC's deal with Disney is
worth a whopping three billion dollars over ten years. The
Big Ten, not to be outdone, secured a deal that
(12:31):
would make them up to seven point five billion over
seven years with Fox, CBS, and NBC. Meanwhile, the PAC
twelve's potential deal with Apple TV seems like pocket change
in comparison. That's why the PAC twelve is losing all
of these college programs. These colleges, who want to make
more money off of AD revenue and TV deals are
(12:52):
moving to all of these conferences that have more views.
TV money has reshaped the landscape of college football with
its rise in popularity, but its decline and filling stadiums.
These colleges are pivoting to an entertainment centered approach. Many
are lamenting that this is the end of regional pride
in college sports, while others cheer that they get to
(13:14):
see the best teams play each other. Time will tell
how good of an advancement this is. Now, how do
we find some sort of Christian angle here? How do
we reflect on this as believers? Well, we're not going
to comment on whether this is unethical here, or this
isn't right, or we should uphold these traditions. What we
are going to talk about is Matthew six, verse twenty one.
Where your treasure is there, your heart will be Also,
(13:37):
what we value most in life informs our decisions. For
these college football giants, it's clear that their treasure is
veering away from nostalgia regional pride in the students and
running more towards revenue. They have people they need to employ,
programs to remote in a bottom line to worry about.
So we're going to withhold judgment for now. Let's instead
look inWORD, where does our treasure lie? What directs our decisions?
(13:59):
As beliefs? What we value most will dictate our decisions
and Jesus encourages us in Matthew six not to trust
the corruptible and temporary treasures of this world. Rather, we
should store for ourselves treasures in heaven, which are eternal, incorruptible.
Money and power are the treasures of our age. But
Jesus calls us to hunt for a different type of wealth, love, compassion, prayer, righteousness, obedience,
(14:22):
and mercy. When Christ is our ultimate treasure, our actions
will reflect his character. That is when the world around
us starts to look a little more like heaven. So,
with all this being said, let's pray for our own hearts.
Let's pray that in a world driven by hunger for
wealth and power, that our hearts would treasure Christ. So
(14:43):
Heavenly Father, and a world driven by wealth and power,
guide our hearts to treasure what truly lasts. May we
always prioritize love, compassion, and righteousness over fleeting gains. If
there are any idols that we have erected in our
own hearts, would you topple them, replace them on the
throne of our our hearts, Your kingdom, your truth, your word.
(15:03):
Teach us to seek eternal riches and reflect Christ's character
in all our endeavors in Jesus' name. Amen. Thank you
for joining us today on Pray News. It is our
aim to be informed and transformed. We pray today that
you would proceed with hope, love, and determination to be
a force for good. If you've enjoyed this take on
the news, consider writing this review and share your experience.
(15:24):
We'll then share those reviews here on the podcast. You
can sign up for our newsletter at preynews dot com,
and there you'll find all the sources to our reporting.
And be sure to download the pray dot com app
to enrich your walk with the Lord, to make prayer priority,
and experience the Bible in cinematic and dramatic ways.
For where your treasure is there, your heart will be
also Matthew six twenty one. Dear Lord, guide our hearts
towards the treasures that truly matter, love, kindness, faith, and
service to others. Help us to recognize the fleeting nature
of worldly possessions and desires, and to prioritize the eternal
values of your kingdom. Teach us to invest our time, energy,
(00:22):
and resources in building relationships, growing in our faith, and
serving those in need. Let our hearts be anchored in
the things of you, finding joy and purpose in your presence.
Help us to continually align your hearts with your will
and purpose. Speak to us, guide our hearts in the
mighty name of Jesus. We pray. Amen. Welcome to pray
(00:45):
news where hope is our only bias. Today's news at
a glance, the US falls short of expectations in the
World Cup, but there's hope for the underdogs. North Korea's
cryptoheists have been fueling their nuclear programs, and college football
is going going crazy right now. This is a big
day of news for sports fans out there. Sports are,
in many ways a reflection of life, teamwork, dedication, mutual goals.
(01:08):
With all these things. We make each other better and
that's how it is with the Body of Christ. And
we pray that we hear at pray news help you
to navigate life. If you've been blessed by this take
on the news, consider writing a review. We'd love to
hear from you. Here's actually a review from Homage five
point thirteen. Finally a news podcast that gives us the
news in a factual manner and also have the Lord
(01:30):
centered in it as well. Thank you, I support this well.
Thanks for the review. We are grateful for your support,
and pray this news continues to leave you informed and transformed.
Our first story of today is an update on the
World Cup in the world of sports, where the thrill
of victory in the agony of defeat, dance and delicateango.
The US women's soccer team came out guns of blazing,
(01:52):
hoping to nab a third trophy. But this World Cup
season in Melbourne, Australia, were witness to a plot twist
that fu saw coming. The once indomitable US team, known
for their prowess and panache, faced an early exit from
the Women's World Cup. The US team's departure from the
tournament was akin to a Shakespearean tragedy, complete with dramatic
(02:13):
tension and unexpected turns. A scoreless draw with Sweden led
to a nail biting penalty shootout, and alas, the Americans
found themselves on the wrong side of the scoreboard, but
just within millimeters. This marked the earliest exit ever for
the four time tournament champions. Oh how the Mighty have
faced just a small hiccup In the nineteen ninety nine
(02:35):
World Cup. The women's team faced a very similar game
but had a very different outcome. Today's World Cup and
the US team seemed to tad off kilter. They seemed
off base and not their usual selves. With just one
win against Vietnam and draws against the Netherlands and Portugal,
their journey felt more like a roller coaster than a
(02:55):
victory march. While the champs have fallen were tipping our
hats to the under teams like Jamaica, Columbia and Morocco
have shown that the world of women's soccer is no
longer just a one horse race. As defender Crystal Dunn
aptly put it, the growth of the game globally is evident,
and the US team's challenges are actually a testament to
(03:16):
the game's evolution. The league is no longer as top
heavy as it once was. For the sport, that's a
good thing, but this year for the US, who were
on top, it's not as much of a good thing.
With the Tokyo Olympics bronze medal and now this World
Cup outcome, whispers about Vladko Adanomsky's future with the team
are making the rounds. Adanowski has had a commendable run,
(03:37):
but the recent results have left fans pondering the road ahead.
The US team's youth movement, spearheaded by Adanomski, brought fresh
faces to the World Cup. Players like Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman,
and the young Alyssa Thompson showcased their potential, yet the
absence of clear veterans made it an uphill battle for them.
Social media, that ever buzzing beehive, was abuzz with reactions.
(04:01):
Megan Rappano's penalty miss and the subsequent laughter became a
hot topic. Rappino, the iconic star of the twenty nineteen
World Cup, announced that this would be her final World
Cup appearance. As she tearfully reflected on her journey, one
couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia. Here's to
four years from now, when the young US team is
going to vibrantly take the stage once again. We'll be
(04:23):
cheering for them, and we'll also be cheering for some
of these underdogs, like Jamaica. They have wonderful stories and
we can't wait to see what happens. In the grand
tapestry of life. Sports teach us valuable lessons about perseverance, humility,
and grace, and other values like teamwork and lifting each
other up in hard times. The Bible reminds us in
Proverbs twenty four for though the righteous fall seven times,
(04:47):
they rise again. The US women's soccer team, with its
legacy and talent, will undoubtedly rise again, stronger and more determined.
As we reflect on their journey, let's celebrate the spirit
of competition, the joy of the game, and the lessons
learned both on and off the field. After all, it's
not just about winning, it's about playing with heart, embracing challenges,
and growing in faith in character. That is how sports,
(05:08):
in many ways reflect life. So here's to the US
women's soccer team. May your future be as bright as
your legacy is rich. So now let's lift all of this.
In prayer, Lord, we thank you for the spirit of competition,
the joy of the game, and the lessons we learn
from victories and defeats. We pray for the US women's
soccer team that they may find strength and experience and
grow in perseverance and come back stronger for their next journey.
(05:32):
We also pray for the remaining teams. Would you keep
them safe and continually humble even in their victories. May
their future shine bright, and may they continue to inspire
many with their passion and their determination. In Jesus' name, Amen,
Our next story is about North Korea and cryptoheists. North
Korea's alleged use of stolen cryptocurrency to fund its nuclear
(05:55):
program have sent shockwaves through the international community. Three Democratic Senators,
Sabeth Warren, Tim Kaine, and Chris Van Holan, have voiced
their concerns about North Korea's increasing reliance on stolen cryptocurrency.
Their letter to the Biden administration seeks clarity on the
steps to counteract this alarming trend. The senators emphasize the
urgency of the situation, noting that North Korea has systematically
(06:18):
built its expertise in digital assets over the past few years.
The Senator's concerns are not unfounded. North Korean hackers have
pilfered over three billion dollars in crypto related thefts since
twenty eighteen. These funds now contribute to approximately half of
North Korea's ballistic missile program. These cryptoheists have allowed North
(06:40):
Korea to amass wealth despite sanctions that are placed upon
them from the rest of the world. The cryptocnundrum continues
to abound here see The rapid rise in cryptocurrencies has
presented both opportunities and challenges. While cryptocurrency offers financial inclusion
and innovation, their decentralized nature can be exploited for nefarious purposes.
(07:02):
The North Korea's alleged crypto heists underscore that very dilemma.
And Newberger, the Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and
Emerging Technology, revealed that about half of North Korea's foreign
currency funding its missile program is sourced from its cyber operations.
This is a significant jump from previous estimates. Furthermore, North
(07:24):
Korea's shadow it workforce, operating globally including countries like Russia
and China, has been linked to the regime's cybercrime operations
while engaging in routine technology tasks. This workforce is believed
to be intricately connected to North Korea cyber heists. Senator Warren,
recognizing the gravity of the situation, has reintroduced by partisan
(07:44):
legislation aimed at mitigating the national security risks associated with
digital assets. This is something that both Democrats and Republicans
can get behind. The proposed legislation seeks to bring a
larger segment of the cryptocurrency market under regulations does designed
to thwart money laundering, terrorist financing, and other illicit activities.
(08:05):
The legislation also proposes enhanced requirements for crypto wallet providers, miners,
and other network participants. Additionally, it calls for the implementation
of a rule proposed in twenty twenty that mandates banks
and crypto platforms to gather more information about the crypto
transactions with unhosted wallets. This will make it much easier
(08:25):
to find some nefarious actors like North Korean agents. From
a Christian standpoint, the situation underscores the age old struggle
between good and evil, where advancements meant for the betterment
of humanity can be misused for destructive purposes. A prime
example of this is actually the Tree of knowledge of
good and evil in the Garden of Eden. Remember Genesis
(08:45):
one through three. The Bible doesn't describe the tree as
the tree of evil. Rather, we are told that the
tree offered knowledge of good and evil. It is the
tree of knowledge, knowledge of good and evil. Each and
every day we are faced with choices. We are faced
with the knowledge to make the right choice or the
evil choice, and because of our fallen nature, we skew
(09:07):
towards evil if left unchecked. With each new innovation and
technological high the possibility for evil abouance. The discovery of fire,
for example, provided humanity with the choice to either warm
their huts or burn down an enemy village. Innovations and
nuclear power gave us the ability to power entire cities,
but also destroy entire cities. Do you see how this works?
(09:31):
With each new innovation, With each new invention, with each
new technological exploit, we have an opportunity to choose the
right path or the wrong path, the path of good
or the path for evil. The situation with North Korea
as a stark reminder that while technology can be a
force for good, it requires vigilant oversight and ethical considerations
to ensure it is not misused. This story also causes
(09:54):
us to pause and contemplate our potential for evil. Let's
pray for our leaders as they navigate this complex geopolitical space.
Let's also pray for our hearts that we would choose
good every day, inspired by the spirit and informed by
the world. So, with all that being said, let's pray Lord.
In a world filled with technological advances, we recognize the
(10:16):
potential for both good and harm. We pray for wisdom
and discernment for our leaders as they navigate these challenges.
Strengthen our resolve to always choose the path of righteousness,
and guide us to use our resources and innovations and
expertise for the betterment of all and for your kingdom.
Bless us, Lord, as we navigate this life in Jesus' name. Amen.
(10:37):
Buckle up everyone for this last story, because college football
is doing a game of musical chairs. If you're a
college football fan, this is the story for you. If
you're a fan of television controversy and business deals, this
is also a story for you. If you're just a
fan of absurdity, this is definitely the story for you.
In short, here's what's happening in college football at the moment.
The Big Ten is turning into the Big eighteen, the
(11:00):
Big Twelve is growing into the Big sixteen, and the
Pac twelve is slimming down to the Pack four. Confused,
You're not alone. The Pac twelve football conference in college football,
once a bastion of athletic prowess holding some of the
world's most talented teams, is now looking more like the
last kid picked in dodgeball. Oregon and Washington are headed
to the Big Ten. Meanwhile, Arizona, Arizona State, and Utah
(11:24):
have decided to try their luck with the Big Twelve.
This leaves the Pac twelve with a mere four members,
and one has to wonder if they're now considering a
name change to the Pack few. Meanwhile, the SEC is
picking up two big time programs from the Big twelve
starting next year in Oklahoma and Texas. In case you're
getting lost, what's essentially happening is that college football is
(11:45):
broken up into conferences that have a certain amount of
teams that play one another and ultimately vie for a championship.
Now a lot of these teams are moving conferences. They're
going from one set of teams to another set of teams. Now,
if you're skytching your head wondering why all of this
is happening, look no further than your remote control for
the answers. Television, the great influencer of our age, seems
(12:08):
to be the puppet master behind these moves. The Big
Ten and SEC, for example, with their Scrooge McDuck sized
vaults of TV money, have been luring schools away from
the PAC twelve like kids to an ice cream truck.
The numbers are staggering. The SEC's deal with Disney is
worth a whopping three billion dollars over ten years. The
Big Ten, not to be outdone, secured a deal that
(12:31):
would make them up to seven point five billion over
seven years with Fox, CBS, and NBC. Meanwhile, the PAC
twelve's potential deal with Apple TV seems like pocket change
in comparison. That's why the PAC twelve is losing all
of these college programs. These colleges, who want to make
more money off of AD revenue and TV deals are
(12:52):
moving to all of these conferences that have more views.
TV money has reshaped the landscape of college football with
its rise in popularity, but its decline and filling stadiums.
These colleges are pivoting to an entertainment centered approach. Many
are lamenting that this is the end of regional pride
in college sports, while others cheer that they get to
(13:14):
see the best teams play each other. Time will tell
how good of an advancement this is. Now, how do
we find some sort of Christian angle here? How do
we reflect on this as believers? Well, we're not going
to comment on whether this is unethical here, or this
isn't right, or we should uphold these traditions. What we
are going to talk about is Matthew six, verse twenty one.
Where your treasure is there, your heart will be Also,
(13:37):
what we value most in life informs our decisions. For
these college football giants, it's clear that their treasure is
veering away from nostalgia regional pride in the students and
running more towards revenue. They have people they need to employ,
programs to remote in a bottom line to worry about.
So we're going to withhold judgment for now. Let's instead
look inWORD, where does our treasure lie? What directs our decisions?
(13:59):
As beliefs? What we value most will dictate our decisions
and Jesus encourages us in Matthew six not to trust
the corruptible and temporary treasures of this world. Rather, we
should store for ourselves treasures in heaven, which are eternal, incorruptible.
Money and power are the treasures of our age. But
Jesus calls us to hunt for a different type of wealth, love, compassion, prayer, righteousness, obedience,
(14:22):
and mercy. When Christ is our ultimate treasure, our actions
will reflect his character. That is when the world around
us starts to look a little more like heaven. So,
with all this being said, let's pray for our own hearts.
Let's pray that in a world driven by hunger for
wealth and power, that our hearts would treasure Christ. So
(14:43):
Heavenly Father, and a world driven by wealth and power,
guide our hearts to treasure what truly lasts. May we
always prioritize love, compassion, and righteousness over fleeting gains. If
there are any idols that we have erected in our
own hearts, would you topple them, replace them on the
throne of our our hearts, Your kingdom, your truth, your word.
(15:03):
Teach us to seek eternal riches and reflect Christ's character
in all our endeavors in Jesus' name. Amen. Thank you
for joining us today on Pray News. It is our
aim to be informed and transformed. We pray today that
you would proceed with hope, love, and determination to be
a force for good. If you've enjoyed this take on
the news, consider writing this review and share your experience.
(15:24):
We'll then share those reviews here on the podcast. You
can sign up for our newsletter at preynews dot com,
and there you'll find all the sources to our reporting.
And be sure to download the pray dot com app
to enrich your walk with the Lord, to make prayer priority,
and experience the Bible in cinematic and dramatic ways.
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