#ourCOG Daily Brief [February 27, 2026]

Good evening, and welcome to #ourCOG Daily Brief for February 27, 2026.

In U.S. news today, former President Bill Clinton’s legacy faces further scrutiny as he testifies on the Epstein scandal, potentially diminishing his image among younger Democrats. Meanwhile, President Trump is actively attempting to exert more control over elections through tightened rules and demands for voter rolls, sparking court battles ahead of the fall midterms. The political landscape in Texas is heating up with a vibrant Democratic Senate primary, showcasing two contrasting candidates injecting new energy into the party. On the foreign policy front, President Trump is weighing a strike on Iran, prompting some lawmakers to call for a Congressional vote on a war powers resolution, despite Trump’s stated desire for a diplomatic solution. Domestically, wealthy universities, including Yale and MIT, are bracing for steep endowment tax hikes in fiscal year 2026 by cutting PhD programs and libraries. Internationally, relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan have escalated into what Pakistan’s defense minister calls “open war.” The British monarchy is under a harsh glare due to the investigation into former Prince Andrew, though the institution’s evolution is already underway. Lastly, courageous students at multiple Iranian universities are protesting despite lethal suppression, demanding an end to the regime’s crimes.

For those interested in spiritual enrichment, our latest video offerings include “The Purpose of John’s Gospel: Believe and Have Life,” an insightful teaching on “This One Action Can Break ANY Demonic Influence” from Perry Stone’s Episode 1325, and Jentezen Franklin’s powerful message on “Short Prayers That Will Change Your Life | The Power of Short Prayers.”

Turning to FaithNews, upcoming events include a Church Planting Intensive set for March 11-13. We’re also following a church’s emergency appeal to resume worship services. In publishing news, “‘The Bible Recap'” has soared into the Top 100 on Apple Podcasts, and a multi-million dollar gift is launching a new era for SMCH.

In prophecy news, tensions between the U.S. and Iran are again on the rise after their latest talks ended without results, leading the U.S. to warn embassy staff to leave Israel promptly. This comes as a striking convergence of events — a blood moon, planetary parade, and solar eclipse — are set to occur around Purim, coinciding with President Trump’s deadline for Iran to reach a nuclear deal. Looking back, Ukraine’s allies called for a “full, unconditional ceasefire” from Russia on the four-year anniversary of Moscow’s invasion, and concerns continue about “rogue federal judges” attempting to exert control over the executive branch.

Finally, in Jewish history, we look back at some significant events on February 28th. In 628 AD, Persian Shah Khosrau II, who conquered Jerusalem in 614, passed away. Later, in 1255, Bishop Richard of Worms transferred the Jewish community’s annual tax payment to the local cathedral. The year 1261 saw the passing of Henry III, the Duke of Brabant, who had previously expressed his desire for the expulsion and destruction of Jews in his territory. And in 1276, Bishop Pierre III Rostaing guaranteed protection to the Jews of Carpentras, France, in exchange for a tax.

That’s your #ourCOG Daily Brief for February 27, 2026. Good night.