10 Things You Should Know Before Bed Tonight (Without the Drama or Doom)

Friday evening, February 13, 2026 : Your calm briefing before you turn in for the night.

Before you close your eyes tonight, here's what happened today: without the spin, without the panic. Just the facts, a biblical lens, and a peaceful way forward. Because you don't need more noise. You need truth, hope, and a good night's rest.

1. Inflation Cools Again: A Small Sign of Economic Hope

What Happened: The latest consumer price index (CPI) data released this week shows inflation continuing its downward trend, dropping to its lowest level in nearly three years. Everyday costs: from groceries to gas: are stabilizing, offering a glimpse of economic breathing room for millions of families. The Federal Reserve indicated cautious optimism but remains watchful. (Source: USA Today, Reuters)

Why It Matters: For households stretched thin by years of rising prices, this is welcome news. It's not a full recovery, but it's a step toward stability: a chance to catch your breath and plan ahead without constant financial whiplash.

Biblical Lens: Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, "The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty." Economic shifts, up or down, call us back to stewardship, gratitude, and trust in God's provision. Whether inflation rises or falls, our security rests not in markets but in the faithfulness of the One who owns it all.

Christian Response: Thank God for this reprieve. Pray for wisdom for policymakers and for families still struggling. If you have margin, consider sharing with someone who doesn't.

2. Trump Administration Withdraws Federal Officers from Minnesota

What Happened: Federal immigration enforcement officers were withdrawn from Minnesota this week, signaling what some analysts describe as a "softer touch" on immigration policy in certain regions. The move follows pressure from local officials and community advocates seeking more collaborative, grace-centered approaches to immigration enforcement. (Source: AP, Politico)

Why It Matters: Immigration remains one of the most polarizing issues in America. This shift suggests a potential recalibration: not abandoning enforcement, but exploring pathways that balance law, compassion, and local input.

Biblical Lens: Leviticus 19:34 says, "The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt." Justice and mercy aren't opposites: they're dance partners. God calls us to uphold order and extend dignity. Both matter.

Christian Response: Pray for wisdom in immigration policy: for leaders to act justly and love mercy (Micah 6:8). Avoid tribal rhetoric. Ask God how you can serve the immigrant and the citizen with equal dignity.

3. Community Searches for Missing Woman Nancy Guthrie

What Happened: Nancy Guthrie, a 62-year-old woman from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been missing for over a week. Her family and local authorities are asking for the public's help in locating her. Community members have organized search efforts and are holding vigils. (Source: Local authorities, AP)

Why It Matters: Behind every headline is a family in agony. Nancy is someone's mother, sister, friend. This isn't just a story: it's a crisis unfolding in real time for people who love her.

Biblical Lens: Luke 15 tells the story of a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to search for one. God cares deeply about the lost: and so should we. Every person matters. Every search matters.

Christian Response: Pray for Nancy's safe return. Pray for her family's peace and strength. If you're local, consider joining the search or supporting volunteers. Sometimes the most Christian thing we can do is show up.

4. Senate Panel Backs New FBI Director Nominee

What Happened: The Senate Judiciary Committee signaled strong bipartisan support for the president's nominee to lead the FBI, suggesting a smooth confirmation process ahead. The nominee has pledged to restore public trust, focus on violent crime, and depoliticize the agency. (Source: Politico, Reuters)

Why It Matters: Trust in federal law enforcement has eroded in recent years. A stable, credible FBI director could help rebuild confidence: if the agency can stay focused on its mission and resist political pressures from all sides.

Biblical Lens: Romans 13:1-4 speaks to the God-ordained role of governing authorities to "bear the sword" and promote justice. Leaders in law enforcement carry a sacred responsibility: to protect the vulnerable and punish wrongdoing. We should pray for them to do so with integrity.

Christian Response: Pray for the incoming FBI director: for wisdom, courage, and a commitment to justice over politics. Pray for agents in the field doing dangerous work every day.

5. DOJ Tensions Rise Over Mayor Adams Case

What Happened: Multiple prosecutors in the Southern District of New York (SDNY) have resigned following internal tensions over the decision to drop federal charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Critics allege political interference; others argue the case lacked sufficient evidence. The resignations have sparked debates about prosecutorial independence. (Source: Politico, USA Today)

Why It Matters: When prosecutors walk away, it raises questions about justice, power, and whether the system is functioning as it should. Whether you believe Adams is guilty or innocent, the integrity of the process matters.

Biblical Lens: Proverbs 17:15 warns, "Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent: the Lord detests them both." Justice demands both truth and fairness. When either is compromised, trust collapses.

Christian Response: Pray for truth to prevail. Pray for prosecutors to act with courage and integrity, free from political pressure. Resist the urge to pick teams based on partisan loyalty: seek justice, period.

6. Coast Guard Faces Shutdown Threat Amid Budget Stalemate

What Happened: The U.S. Coast Guard warned this week that a prolonged government funding stalemate could force shutdowns of key operations, affecting search-and-rescue missions, drug interdiction, and port security. Thousands of service members could face delayed paychecks. (Source: Reuters, AP)

Why It Matters: Political gridlock has real-world consequences. Behind every stalled budget are real people: Coast Guard members and their families: who serve regardless of whether Congress can agree on a funding bill.

Biblical Lens: James 2:15-16 asks, "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?" Words without action are empty. So is policy without care for those it impacts.

Christian Response: Pray for swift resolution in Congress. Pray for Coast Guard families facing financial strain. If you know a service member, reach out. Sometimes a meal or an encouraging word makes all the difference.

7. NYC Mayoral Candidate Proposes Wealth Tax

What Happened: New York City Council Member Zohran Mamdani, a candidate for mayor, unveiled a proposal to implement a city wealth tax targeting high earners to fund housing, education, and transit improvements. The plan has drawn both praise and criticism, reigniting debates over taxation and economic fairness. (Source: Politico, USA Today)

Why It Matters: How we fund community needs: and who pays: remains one of the most divisive questions in politics. Mamdani's proposal forces a conversation about stewardship, equity, and the role of government.

Biblical Lens: Luke 12:48 says, "From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded." Wealth isn't inherently wrong: but it carries responsibility. At the same time, Proverbs 22:16 warns against unjust gain. Both generosity and fairness matter.

Christian Response: Pray for wisdom in fiscal policy: for leaders to balance compassion with sustainability. Ask God how you can contribute to the flourishing of your city, whether through taxes, volunteerism, or advocacy.

8. IRS Data Breach Raises Privacy Concerns for Immigrants

What Happened: Reports surfaced this week that sensitive IRS data: including information on undocumented immigrants who file taxes: may have been accessed without authorization. Advocacy groups are calling for investigations and stronger privacy protections. (Source: Reuters, AP)

Why It Matters: When personal data is compromised, trust is shattered: especially for vulnerable populations already living in fear. Privacy isn't just a legal issue; it's a dignity issue.

Biblical Lens: Psalm 82:3-4 commands, "Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked." Protecting data is one way we protect people.

Christian Response: Pray for accountability and reform. Pray for immigrants living in fear. Ask God how you can advocate for the dignity and protection of the vulnerable in your community.

Before You Sleep

That's the news. No spin. No shouting. Just the truth, a biblical lens, and a call to respond with prayer, discernment, and love.

You don't have to carry the weight of the world tonight. That's God's job. Yours is to rest, trust, and wake up tomorrow ready to love your neighbor well.

Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341.

For more calm, Christ-centered updates as the week unfolds, follow along at LayneMcDonald.com.

Sleep well. The Prince of Peace is still on the throne.