torah – Page 49 – Rooted & Raised

Countdown to Convergence: How Agenda 2030, Today’s Headlines, and God’s Word Align

From climate to conflict, from migration to artificial intelligence, the cry for global solutions is rising louder every year. Leaders argue that national governments can no longer face today’s crises alone — that what the world needs is a stronger, united authority.

Headlines read: “UN Pushes Global Pact for Peace and Security” or “Nations Call for Stronger Global Governance.” These may sound like noble causes. But beneath the banner of peace lies a trajectory Scripture warned us about: a final empire, global in scope, promising safety while preparing control.

Agenda 2030’s Peace Framework

Agenda 2030 begins with a declaration:

“We are determined to foster peaceful, just and inclusive societies…” (Preamble, UN 2015)

And in Goal 16: “Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.”

The words are appealing — peace, inclusivity, justice. Yet history reminds us that such language often becomes the cover for concentration of power. When the world demands peace at any cost, it soon trades liberty for control.

Current Events in Motion

The United Nations continues to debate a “global crisis response authority” to manage pandemics, climate disasters, and wars.
International treaties are being drafted on climate regulation, migration, and artificial intelligence.
Regional blocs — like the European Union, African Union, and ASEAN — consolidate power across nations, creating templates for larger unions.
Politicians increasingly use the phrase “global citizenship” — signaling a shift from allegiance to nations toward allegiance to the world.

Piece by piece, the framework for a single governing authority is being assembled.

Prophecy Foretold This

Paul warned in 1 Thessalonians 5:3 (c. AD 51, NKJV):
“For when they say, ‘Peace and safety!’ then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.”

Daniel saw in his vision that “The fourth beast shall be a fourth kingdom on earth, which shall be different from all other kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth.” (Daniel 7:23, c. 530 BC, NKJV)

And John wrote: “And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation.” (Revelation 13:7, c. AD 95, NKJV)

The Bible shows us that peace will be the pretext for global authority, and that this authority will ultimately be given to the Beast.

Why This Matters

A central governing body is not just about cooperation — it is about control.

“Peace and security” can justify surveillance and censorship.
“Unity” can justify silencing dissent and removing national independence.
“Global crisis response” can justify mandatory compliance in every sphere of life.

Once tied to digital ID and CBDCs, global governance will have the tools not just to suggest compliance, but to enforce it.

God’s Pattern of Deliverance

The Bible shows God’s consistent pattern:

At Babel, humanity united in rebellion, but God scattered them (Genesis 11, c. 2000 BC).
In the days of the Judges, when Israel cried out under oppression, God raised deliverers (Judges 2–3, c. 1400–1200 BC).
In the end, Christ Himself will shatter the final empire: “The God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed.” (Daniel 2:44, NKJV).

The systems of man rise and fall. The Kingdom of Christ alone stands forever.

A Call to Watchfulness

Believers must not be swept away by promises of global peace and unity. Jesus is the Prince of Peace, and only His reign can bring true safety.

Our role is to watch, to discern, and to proclaim the truth. As ambassadors of Christ, we remind the world that there is no lasting peace apart from Him.

Sources & References

Scripture

Genesis 11, c. 2000 BC
Judges 2–3, c. 1400–1200 BC
Daniel 2:44; 7:23, c. 530 BC
1 Thessalonians 5:3, c. AD 51
Revelation 13:7; 19, c. AD 95

Agenda 2030

Preamble: peace and inclusivity
Goal 16: Peaceful societies
Transforming Our World: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (United Nations, 2015)

Current Events

UN Governance / Peace Push — Current Developments

The UN plans to cut about 25% of its global peacekeeping force (13,000–14,000 personnel), citing financial strains and reduced funding, particularly from the U.S. AP News+1
Amid these cuts, the UN is preparing to surge humanitarian aid into Gaza following a new ceasefire agreement, pushing for increased resources to support displaced populations and infrastructure rebuilding. PassBlue
At the UN Peacekeeping Ministerial 2025 (May 13-14, 2025), member states met to pledge support, discuss reform, and promote new models for peace operations in light of changing conflict dynamics. United Nations Peacekeeping
In the 80th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 2025), the theme is “Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights.” Consilium+2Brookings+2
The International Coalition for the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) issued a “Call to Action” urging the UNGA to recommit to multilateral governance, protection of rights, and sustained peace efforts. Global Centre for R2P
Within the UN’s 11th Emergency Special Session, Resolution ES-11/7 (“Advancing a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine”) was adopted on 24 February 2025. It affirms UN Charter principles and calls for peaceful means to resolve the Ukraine conflict. Wikipedia
A companion Resolution ES-11/8, titled “The Path to Peace,” was also passed, reinforcing calls for negotiation, ceasefire, and lasting settlement in Ukraine. Wikipedia
The 8th Informal Joint Retreat of the AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) and EU PSC recently convened, focusing on peace support operations, hybrid threats (cyber, disinformation, AI), maritime security, and complementarity of African/EU efforts. amaniafrica-et.org
The 17th BRICS Summit (2025) emphasized reform of global governance architecture, peace & security, and cooperation among Global South nations. Wikipedia
Analysts point to ten core challenges facing the UN in 2025–2026: funding, governance legitimacy, institutional reform, conflict prevention, climate-security, multilateral coordination, enforcement of international law, rising great power tensions, and integration of new technologies. Crisis Group

Peace / Security Summits & Conferences — Recent & Upcoming

Sharm el-Sheikh Gaza Peace Summit: Egypt will host a high-level summit (co-chaired by U.S. President Trump) with over 20 world leaders to solidify a ceasefire and peace agreement in Gaza. Reuters+2The Guardian+2
- UN Secretary-General Guterres confirmed his attendance. The Times of Israel+1
- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will attend, emphasizing international cooperation for transitional governance and humanitarian support. Reuters
United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial 2025 — covered above in governance section — acts as a summit for peace operations reform and pledges. United Nations Peacekeeping
2025 London Summit on Ukraine (March 2, 2025): Held in London, this summit gathered key stakeholders to propose a peace plan, reinforce Ukraine’s sovereignty, and commit resources. Wikipedia
NATO Summit The Hague 2025 (June 24–25, 2025): Though a defense alliance meeting, it plays into peace & security architecture. Leaders committed to stronger collective defense, supporting Ukraine, and higher defense spending. Wikipedia
61st Munich Security Conference (MSC 2025) (Feb 14–16, 2025): A strategic forum for global security, crisis management, and diplomatic dialogues across multilateral actors. Wikipedia

Devotions, Family Devotionals

👩‍👧 Family Devotional — Day 24

October 26, 2025October 19, 2025 Rooted & Raised

“Chosen for a Purpose”

📖 “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain…”
—John 15:16a (NKJV)

Have you ever reminded your children:
“You are part of this family—on purpose and for a reason”?

Jesus says something similar to those who follow Him:
“I chose you.”
Not by accident. Not as a backup plan. But with intention—and for a purpose.

Every member of the family—mother and child—has been chosen to live in a way that brings lasting fruit.

That means love that lasts. Kindness that goes deep.
Truth that doesn’t change.
And obedience that flows from knowing we are loved.

This is the kind of home that glorifies God: not one that’s perfect, but one that remembers, “We’ve been chosen.”

Family Reflection:

What does it mean to our family that Jesus chose us?
How can we bear fruit that lasts—in our words, choices, and attitudes?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for choosing us and giving our family purpose. Help us live in a way that produces lasting fruit—together and for Your glory. Amen.

Devotions, Teen Devotions

😎 Teen Devotional — Day 24

October 26, 2025October 19, 2025 Rooted & Raised

“Chosen on Purpose”

📖 “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit…”
—John 15:16a (NKJV)

Ever felt left out? Overlooked? Like you didn’t belong?

Jesus sees you differently.
He says, “I chose you.”
Not by accident. Not because He had to. But because He wanted to.

And He didn’t just choose you to exist—He chose you to bear fruit. That means living a life that reflects Him:

Speaking truth when lies are easier
Showing love when it’s inconvenient
Standing for God when others fall away

You’re not just along for the ride. You’ve been appointed—on purpose—for a purpose.

Challenge:

What kind of “fruit” is your life producing right now?
How can you step into the purpose Jesus chose you for?

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for choosing me when I felt unseen. Remind me I have purpose in You. Help me live in a way that bears real fruit for Your glory. Amen.

Children's Devotionals, Devotions

🧒 Children’s Devotional — Day 24

October 26, 2025October 19, 2025 Rooted & Raised

“Jesus Chose You!”

📖 “You did not choose Me, but I chose you…”
—John 15:16a (NKJV)

Have you ever been chosen to be on a team or picked for something special?

It feels really good, doesn’t it?

Jesus says something amazing: “I chose you.”
He didn’t forget about you. He didn’t wait for you to be perfect.
He picked you because He loves you and wants you to be close to Him.

He also wants your life to grow something good—like kindness, love, and truth. That’s called fruit!

You’re not just a kid. You’re someone Jesus chose.
And He wants to grow beautiful things in your heart.

Think About It:

How does it make you feel to know that Jesus chose you?
What kind of “fruit” do you want to grow in your life?

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for choosing me! Help me grow good things in my heart that make You happy. I want to follow You every day. Amen.

Devotions, Women's Devotionals

👩‍🦰 Women’s Devotional — Day 24

October 26, 2025October 19, 2025 Rooted & Raised

“You Did Not Choose Me”

📖 “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain…”
—John 15:16a (NKJV)

You didn’t stumble into faith.
You weren’t overlooked or randomly invited.
You were chosen—by the Son of God.

And not just chosen to believe, but appointed to bear fruit—lasting, eternal fruit.

In a world that constantly questions your worth, Jesus gives you a calling:
Walk with Me. Abide in Me. Reflect Me.

This isn’t about striving—it’s about surrender.
Jesus picked you for a purpose.
He intends to make your life fruitful—not flashy, not fake, but full of the kind of fruit that brings glory to the Father.

Even your unseen faithfulness matters.
Even the small steps of obedience count.
Because He chose you.

Reflection Questions:

Do you see your life as chosen and appointed by Jesus?
What kind of fruit is being cultivated in your daily walk?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for choosing me. Help me walk in the purpose You’ve given, bearing fruit that glorifies You. Keep me rooted in You today. Amen.

Devotions, Family Devotionals

👩‍👧 Family Devotional — Day 23

October 25, 2025October 19, 2025 Rooted & Raised

“A Friend of Jesus”

📖 “You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.”
—John 15:14 (NKJV)

What does it mean to be a friend of Jesus?

He tells us: it means we listen to His voice and obey His Word.

That’s not something only pastors or teachers do. It’s something for every family member—young and old.

As a family, we’re invited to walk with Jesus, not just learn about Him. And friendship with Jesus grows stronger through simple obedience—together.

When your family makes choices that honor Him—how you speak, forgive, serve, and love—you’re living as His friends.

What an honor. What a relationship.

Family Reflection:

What’s one command of Jesus we can practice better as a family?
How can we remind each other that we’re walking with Him daily?

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for calling our family to be Your friends. Help us obey You not out of fear, but because we love You. Teach us to walk with You every day. Amen.

Children's Devotionals, Devotions

🧒 Children’s Devotional — Day 23

October 25, 2025October 19, 2025 Rooted & Raised

“Jesus Wants to Be Your Friend”

📖 “You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.”
—John 15:14 (NKJV)

Do you have a best friend?

Jesus wants to be your very best friend—one you can talk to, trust, and follow every day.

But Jesus says something important:
“If you obey Me, then you’re truly My friend.”

That means when we listen to what Jesus teaches us in the Bible—like being kind, telling the truth, and loving others—we show that we really care about Him.

Obeying Jesus isn’t just about rules. It’s about loving Him back.

You’re never too young to be a true friend of Jesus.

Think About It:

What is one thing Jesus asks us to do in the Bible?
How can you show Him you’re His friend today?

Prayer:
Jesus, I want to be Your friend. Help me listen to You and obey what You say in the Bible. I love You. Amen.

Devotions, Women's Devotionals

👩‍🦰 Women’s Devotional — Day 23

October 25, 2025October 19, 2025 Rooted & Raised

“You Are My Friends”

📖 “You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.”
—John 15:14 (NKJV)

The thought is almost too intimate to imagine:
Jesus calls you His friend.

Not just His servant. Not merely His follower. But His friend—if you walk in obedience to His Word.

That’s not a burdensome demand. It’s a loving invitation.
Because obedience flows out of love—not fear, not religion, not performance. Just love.

When you live in surrendered obedience, you don’t lose yourself—you find Him. You experience fellowship, peace, and joy that can’t be shaken.

Jesus doesn’t call everyone His friend—but those who abide and obey? He draws near to them in the sweetest intimacy.

He laid down His life for you. Will you walk with Him in obedience today?

Reflection Questions:

In what ways have you treated Jesus more like a distant king than a personal friend?
What is one area where you can walk in loving obedience today?

Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for calling me Your friend. Help me walk in Your Word—not to earn Your love, but because I already have it. Draw me closer as I obey. Amen.

Devotions, Teen Devotions

😎 Teen Devotional — Day 23

October 25, 2025October 19, 2025 Rooted & Raised

“Friends with Jesus?”

📖 “You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.”
—John 15:14 (NKJV)

It’s easy to call someone your friend—but real friendship takes loyalty, trust, and time.

Jesus isn’t looking for fake followers or surface-level “likes.”
He wants authentic friendship—the kind that’s shown through obedience.

That may sound intense, but it’s actually freeing.

Obedience doesn’t mean perfection. It means relationship.
You read His Word because you care what He says.
You follow Him because you trust Him.
You obey—not to earn His love, but because you already have it.

He chose you. He calls you friend.

Challenge:

Be honest: Are you acting more like a fan of Jesus or a real friend?
What’s one command He’s given that you need to start obeying?

Prayer:
Jesus, I want to be more than a fan—I want to be Your friend. Teach me to follow You with a real heart of obedience. Help me care about what matters to You. Amen.

Convergence, The Last Days

CBDCs & The Cashless Economy

October 24, 2025October 19, 2025 Rooted & Raised

Countdown to Convergence: How Agenda 2030, Today’s Headlines, and God’s Word Align

The way we use money is being transformed before our eyes — not by accident, but by design. Central banks around the world are moving rapidly toward CBDCs (Central Bank Digital Currencies), digital money issued and controlled directly by governments.

Headlines now read: “Federal Reserve Explores Digital Dollar” and “IMF Pushes for Cross-Border CBDC Integration.” While these developments are often marketed as tools for inclusion, safety, or convenience, Scripture shows us where they ultimately lead: the complete control of buying and selling.

Agenda 2030’s Economic Vision

Agenda 2030 declares goals such as:

Goal 8: “Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth…”
Goal 9: “Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization…”

On the surface, these sound admirable. But in practice, “inclusive” economies often mean programmable economies. Once physical cash is eliminated, every transaction will be digital — and subject to oversight, approval, and restriction.

Current Events in Motion

Over 100 nations are exploring or piloting CBDCs. China has already rolled out its “digital yuan.” Europe is testing the “Digital Euro.” The United States is laying groundwork through systems like FedNow.
Banks are closing physical branches, accelerating the shift to online-only banking.
Inflation, supply chain strain, and financial instability are being used as pressure points to justify a “new system.”

This is not a temporary trend. It is the infrastructure of a cashless world.

Prophecy Foretold This

Nearly 2,000 years ago, John wrote:

“…and that no one may buy or sell except one who has the mark or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.” (Revelation 13:17, c. AD 95, NKJV)

This passage has long seemed mysterious. But now, in an age of programmable digital currency, it is entirely possible.

Scripture also paints the futility of wealth in the last days:

“They will throw their silver into the streets, and their gold will be like refuse.” (Ezekiel 7:19, c. 590 BC, NKJV)
“Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver are corroded… You have heaped up treasure in the last days.” (James 5:1–3, c. AD 45, NKJV)

What the world trusts in will collapse. But what God has spoken will endure.

Why This Matters

CBDCs are more than money. They are programmable control:

Transactions can be restricted (for certain goods or services).
Money can be frozen (for non-compliance).
Currency can even be set to expire (forcing spending instead of saving).

This means no privacy, no independence, no freedom apart from the system. Once combined with digital ID and AI speech regulation, the complete Revelation 13 framework is in place.

God’s Pattern of Provision

But here is the hope: God has never abandoned His people to the systems of men.

In the wilderness, Israel received manna each day (Exodus 16, c. 1445 BC).
The widow of Zarephath saw her flour and oil miraculously sustained (1 Kings 17, c. 870 BC).
Jesus fed thousands with five loaves and two fish (John 6, c. AD 80).

When the world’s economy collapses, God’s economy still holds. Our provision is not bound by the Beast system, but by the hand of Almighty God.

A Call to Watchfulness

Jesus taught us: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth… but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:19–21, c. AD 60, NKJV)

We prepare wisely and live carefully, but our ultimate trust is not in money, gold, or digital credits. It is in Christ. We watch with expectancy, not with fear.