Panama, Power, and Providence: God’s Grace in a Shifting World

In a geopolitical moment few saw coming, the Trump administration just pulled off a stunning, bloodless win in one of the most contested regions on earth: the Panama Canal. At the end of a historically victorious day, it’s impossible to give anyone the glory but God.

Today’s newly signed agreement gives U.S. warships prioritized passage, renews joint military cooperation with Panama, and pushes back hard on Chinese encroachment. At the center was Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who delivered one of the clearest statements of resolve we’ve heard in years: “China didn’t build the canal, they don’t own the canal, and they’re not going to weaponize the canal.” (Reuters)

But it didn’t start today. On inauguration day, when President Trump declared he would “take back the Panama Canal,” critics exploded. They mocked it as reckless saber-rattling—tone-deaf, dangerous, outdated. They didn’t understand the strategy. They couldn’t see the endgame. But now, with Panama more aligned with the U.S. than it has been in decades, and with Chinese influence shrinking, it’s clear: that move wasn’t bluster. It was precision. And the payoff is undeniable.

What’s more, we’re seeing an international team emerge with clarity and force: Trump, Rubio, and Hegseth—each in position, each advancing truth and national interest with conviction. Rubio has long warned about the canal’s vulnerability. Hegseth just negotiated the most delicate military alignment in the hemisphere. And Trump, the one everyone underestimated, continues to stay ten steps ahead.

Today also saw a massive stock market rebound following the very tariff moves experts claimed would crater the economy. And a federal court victory cleared the way for the rapid deportation of cartel-linked migrants—another battle won in the fight against lawlessness at the border.

Three victories. One day. And not one of them came through conventional wisdom—nor the power of mere men.

“The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; He frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the Lord stands forever” (Psalm 33:10–11).

And I have to say this personally: every time I see or hear Pete Hegseth exalt the name of Jesus in public, I’m reminded that God still raises up men who fear Him. And his public professions of faith aren’t for show—they’re heartfelt and real. And in this hour, that matters.

This isn’t mere political strategy—it’s evidence of the all-powerful God at work for the sake of the lost. God is exposing corruption, disrupting lawlessness, and using flawed men to reveal the darkness behind global systems. He’s shining light in the highest places of government, and at the same time, He is laying bare the perversions rotting our culture from within.

This is the Lord’s space of grace—a window for the Church to repent, wake up, and prepare. Not to celebrate nationalism. Not to idolize political leaders. But to recognize the sovereign hand of a holy God giving us one last chance to get it right before the true storm breaks.

“He changes times and seasons; He removes kings and sets up kings…” (Daniel 2:21).

God is shaking the nations. But His real aim is still the same: to shake His people awake.

Don’t miss it.