Read Time: 4 min 45 sec

Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. 

Previously a Danish colony, it formally became part of the Kingdom of Denmark after WWII. Referendums in 1979 and 2009 handed Greenland control over most of its internal affairs (courts, policing, official language), while Denmark kept responsibility for foreign policy, international representation, and defense.

Think: Greenland runs the house, Denmark holds the deed.

Why does the U.S. want Greenland?
Location, location, location. 

Greenland sits between North America and Europe at the mouth of the North Atlantic, anchoring a strategic military and trade corridor known as the GIUK gap (Greenland-Iceland-United Kingdom). Plus, Greenland is rich in rare-earth minerals used in everything from iPhones to fighter jets—markets China currently dominates. Plus plus, as the Arctic ice melts, new trade routes are opening that could shave thousands of miles off current shipping journeys.

Why now?
This isn’t a new crush.

The U.S. has been eyeing Greenland since 1867, shortly after snagging Alaska. In 1946, President Truman made the U.S.’s first offer of $100M to buy Greenland, but Denmark held their (literal) ground. 

And Uncle Sam isn’t the only one—eight countries have Arctic claims, and global superpowers (including Russia and China) are racing to get their hands on the region.

Could the U.S. actually buy Greenland?
Theoretically, yes. Practically… it seems extremely unlikely.

Modern international law treats land as belonging to a people, not just the government that rules it, so it’ll be more difficult than when the U.S. simply cut a check for Alaska or Louisiana. Uncle Sam would need a green light from Greenlanders (who have said “naamik”), Denmark (which has said “nej”), ⅔ of the U.S. Senate (to pass a treaty), and a majority of U.S. Congress (to approve funding).

Still, there could be options aside from Greenland becoming a territory that could give U.S. more access to its minerals and geography. Catch up on President Trump’s conversations about that prospect here.

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ETERNAL PERSPECTIVE
No matter what earthly kingdom (or country) we belong to, our ultimate citizenship is in God’s heavenly Kingdom, which does not change. Let us live with unshakeable confidence in light of this truth.

“Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly wait for a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform the body of our humble condition into the likeness of his glorious body, by the power that enables him to subject everything to himself. So then, my dearly loved and longed for brothers and sisters, my joy and crown, in this manner stand firm in the Lord, dear friends.” 
Philippians 3:20-4:1 (CSB) (read full passage)

Want to hear more about Greenland, its relationship with Denmark, and what the U.S. has to do with it? Listen to today’s episode of the TPO Explains podcast! 

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How We’re Anchoring Our Year
In Scripture, with the help of She Reads Truth*

The new year is in full swing… and if you’re still nailing down the habit of consistent time in God’s Word, you’re not alone.

Our friends at She Reads Truth have created a simple, intentional resource with a framework that makes daily Bible reading feel more doable and less overwhelming, even in the busiest seasons.

An Invitation to God’s Word is a free, one-week digital study designed to help you start the year anchored in Scripture. Over seven days, you’ll explore five key principles for reading and studying the Bible. 

It’s a simple (and beautiful) way to begin. Download it for free today!

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Persecuted believers

Gracious Father, we remember those around the world who fear for their lives every time they gather for worship. Give them courage and endurance to press on through fear and anxiety, confident that the prize of worshiping You among Your people is worth any risk. Protect them from any who would harm them—may their enemies become brothers and sisters, turning to Christ, or may they be cut off, never to threaten your people again. Provide for the needs of the persecuted and their families and bring justice.

In a world that’s often hostile and scary, we trust that You are at work for our good, leading us along a narrow path to a home free from trouble and turmoil. May the peace of that kingdom rule in our hearts as we wait. Amen.