#ourCOG Daily Brief [December 5, 2025]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for December 5, 2025.

Globally, in Japan, the new Prime Minister’s dedication to ‘work, work, work’ is surprisingly sparking a national debate about the dangers of overwork, a country that even has its own term for ‘death from overworking.’ Meanwhile, in Pakistan, an unexpected source of national pride has emerged: the retro video game Tekken. Despite many Pakistanis being unable to afford modern consoles, a vibrant arcade culture has fostered some of the world’s strongest Tekken players. On the geopolitical front, as U.S. and Russian negotiators meet and European leaders push for a peace deal, Ukrainians are watching warily, affirming their resolve for compromise but absolutely no capitulation regarding their future.

Turning our attention to recent video content, we’ve seen powerful messages including “Shaking & Spiritual Awakening” and “Speaking in the Holy Spirit,” both featuring Jonathan Vorce in #shorts exploring #holyspirit and #jesus. Additionally, Pastor Jason Garner recently delved into “Kingdom Culture III | Kingdom Keys,” referencing Matthew 16:13-19.

In Faith News, we’re seeing updates such as Smith being honored with the Spirit of Azusa Award, while an increasing number of Americans are embracing ‘Animal Gifting’ this Christmas. There’s also news about a foundation announcing a new partnership to support military families in need, and Church of God Publications celebrating a milestone with the release of the 75th Anniversary Edition of the “Red Back Hymnal.”

For our prophecy news update, recent discussions explore whether communism is subtly advancing and challenge us to consider our commitment to freedom. On the international front, we’re following developments as Witkoff is set to meet Umerov in Florida, hot on the heels of Witkoff and Kushner’s significant meeting with President Putin in Moscow, where President Trump expressed belief that Putin desires an end to the Ukraine war. Domestically, there’s concern over a dramatic 1,153% increase in assaults against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers over the past 11 months, with growing obstruction from citizens. Finally, recent reports from the Trump FDA claim COVID shots ‘killed’ at least 10 children, prompting promises for new vaccine safeguards, alongside a fascinating note about a mysterious interstellar object reportedly pulsing.

And finally, in Jewish history, this day, December 6th, takes us back to 1060, when Béla I was crowned King of Hungary. Interestingly, just a year later, he shifted the market day from Sunday to Saturday, a move some historians believe was an early attempt to sideline Jews from commercial activity, especially given the anti-Jewish decrees by his successors. We also look to 1185 and the passing of Alfonso I the Conqueror, King of Portugal. His successful secession of Portugal from Spain, after bitter fighting, indirectly played a role in Jewish history by delaying the Spanish monarchs’ efforts to expel the Moors from the Iberian Peninsula, while also offering a haven in Portugal.