WE NEED TO TAKE ACTION AND PRAY!
Israel's high level official shook his head in disbelief as he shared inside knowledge of how the United States came to vetoing a Palestinian inspired resolution condemning Israel at a session of the United Nation's Security Council.
In the days before Friday's session, Israel's Prime Minister called the Prime Ministers of Germany and Britain and the President of France to urge them not to support the Palestinian initiative. During this time Israeli officials began consulting with the Obama Administration. No one seriously considered the possibility that the Obama Administration would be a problem. This feeling was enforced when President Obama on Thursday morning called Palestinian President Abbas to try and convince him to pull the Security Council resolution off the table.
Obama's hour long call, in which Obama used numerous forms of bribery, failed to move Abbas. Instead of fortifying Obama's opposition to the resolution, Abbas' rejection flipped the President. The Administration suddenly flipped into high gear in support of the Resolution. Early on Friday, Secretary of State Clinton taped a TV interview in which she joined the Palestinian cry that all Israeli settlements are illegal.
Clinton was not just voicing her opinion but the opinion of the Obama Administration that they were prepared to back the central contentions of the Palestinian Authority even if it meant supporting the Security Council Resolution.Israel was surprised and shaken by the Obama Administration's stance.
It quickly became clear that Israel could not convince Obama to cast a veto on its own. As the Administration's support for the resolution hardened, Israel turned to its allies in Congress. Democrats Chuck Schumer and Congressman Steny Hoyer took the lead. In the end they got the United States to veto but the veto came with strong verbal support for the Palestinians by United Nations Permanent Representative Susan Rice. Israeli officials confirm that without active support from Congress the Obama Administration would have sided with the rest of the world against Israel. The Congressmen involved in this lobbying effort were taken aback by anti-Israel animus at the highest levels of the Obama Administration.
One veteran of this battle, a strong advocate of Israel doing what it had to do to appease the Obama Administration, said the struggle to get a veto convinced him that "Opposition to Israel runs very deep in the Obama White House. During the last two years Israel has given Obama what he asked for but that is not seen as being enough. It is incredible that we had to engage in all out war to get the Administration to do what it should have done naturally -- veto an outrageous United Nations Security Council Resolution that endangers the State of Israel."
I am encouraging all of you to not just pray about this administration but to put feet to your prayers. We need to contact our representatives in congress and let our voices be heard in support of Israel. You can email me for how to contact your representatives.
LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD!
portions taken from One Jerusalem newsletter
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Turmoil in Middle East - The winds are blowing
"For long time Israel has been without the true God, without a teaching priest, and without law; but when in their trouble they turned to the LORD God of Israel, and sought Him, He was found by them. And in those times there was no peace to the one who went out, nor to the one who came in, but great turmoil was on all the inhabitants of the lands. So nation was destroyed by nation, and city by city, for God troubled them with every adversity. But you, be strong and do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded!" (II Chronicles 15:3-7).
"The LORD has broken the staff of the wicked, the scepter of the rulers. He who struck the people in wrath with a continual stroke, he who ruled the nations in anger is persecuted and no one hinders." (Isaiah 14:5-6)
"By awesome deeds in righteousness You will answer us, O God of our salvation, You who are the confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of the far-off seas.You who still the noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the peoples." (Psalm 65:5-7)
It has been a tumultuous week throughout the Middle East. Following Tunisia and Egypt's lead, there have been massive demonstrations against regimes in Bahrain, Yemen, Morocco, and Iran. In Libya, as of this writing, there are reports of as many as 200 civilians killed by strong-man Moammar Ghadhafi's military. Even Saudi Arabia, assumed to be in no imminent danger of a democratic takeover, what with its vast oil resources, powerful religious system and popular king-even that enormous monarchy is said to nevertheless be "feeling increasingly isolated and concerned with what is going on around it.and [after the fall of Mubarak, with whom it had been counted an ally] that the United States may no longer be a reliable backer." ("Unrest Encircles Saudis, Stoking Sense of Unease":The New York Times (Internet), 19 Feb 2011.)
And Iran has chosen this time to send two warships, a frigate and a supply ship, through the Suez Canal into the Mediterranean. This is the first transit of the canal by an Iranian military vessel since the 1979 revolution. Prime Minister Netanyahu said today that "Israel takes a grave view of this Iranian step.We can see what an unstable region we live in, an area in which Iran is trying to take advantage of the situation that has arisen and broaden its influence by transferring two warships via the Suez Canal." It is not known what the freight of the cargo ship may be. The two are expected to dock in a Syrian port. Of course, some are saying that two ships can do little harm. But Israel sees their making their way into the Mediterranean theatre as a provocation. Israel has already thwarted a number of craft sent from Iran, covertly smuggling arms to Hamas operatives in Gaza. What is the real meaning/motive behind this act? What might it be a beginning of?
Meanwhile, the United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution put forward by the Palestinian Authority on Friday which condemned Israeli communities beyond the 1949 Armistice ("Green") Line as "illegal" and demanded an immediate halt to all settlement building. It is the first time since Mr Obama took office that the US has used its veto power, although in ordering this, the President made it clear that he is opposed to Israeli building in the territories. He had reportedly spoken for 50 minutes on Thursday with Palestinian President Abbas, attempting to persuade him to withdraw the resolution, or revise it, calling Israeli settlements "illegitimate" rather than "illegal"--but to no avail. The US acted alone in the veto-the other 14 members voted in favour. Were it to have been passed the bill would effectively have delegitimized the existence of not only isolated settlements in Judea and Samaria but vast areas in Jerusalem, including the Temple Mount and Old City, the modern city's suburbs, and large blocks such as Maale Adumim and Ariel presently home to tens of thousands of Israelis. In fact, any Israeli presence in any of the territory taken from Jordan after she chose to attack Israel during the 1967 War, would be pronounced "illegal". In response to the American veto, the PA plans to call an emergency session of the UN General Assembly to condemn Israel, and some leaders have called for a "Day of Rage" amongst their people later this week.
Lastly, an article in Israel's HaAretz last Thursday noted the increasing international isolation the Israeli Prime Minister appears to be facing because of doubts in the nations regarding his seriousness in moving the peace process forward. It points towards his travel schedule abroad, noting that during his first year in office he took 13 trips abroad to nine countries, then eight trips to six countries during his second year. When he takes a trip to Bulgaria and the Czech Republic (two countries in the EU which rarely criticize Israel) in early April, he will not have left the country in five months except for a short trip to Egypt in January. Major countries in the EU have not been on his itinerary in some time, and several others (Jordan, India, China) have made it clear that they are not interested in his visiting ("Netanyahu faces international isolation as peace process stalls": Haaretz.com, 17/02/11) . It is becoming an increasingly lonely place Prime Minister Netanyahu finds himself in as a result of the choices he has made-choices seen as courageous by some, as weak and impertinent by others.
PLEASE PRAY:
*Looking for insight and counsel to our God "who changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. He reveals deep and secret things; He knows what lies in darkness and Light dwells with Him" (Daniel 2:21-22).
For believers in these nations to be protected, to be granted prophetic insight about their lands,so as to be ready to move courageously and decisively how and when the Lord directs. There are reports from those who, with the deposition of their present leaders, strongly sense that there is a window of time opening for the Gospel, which must be taken advantage of now!
*That "He who watches over Israel and neither slumbers nor sleeps" will take account of the Iranian vessels proudly making their way towards Syria.Warships of a nation whose leaders have called for the destruction of the "Zionist Entity" (Israel). That any plots of the enemy for evil alliances or attacks set against His Covenant Land will be exposed.
*That God will strengthen and encourage Benjamin Netanyahu.That he will be guided by the eye of Israel's God. That he like Asa (see first Scripture above) will "be strengthened and not let his hands be weak"-that God would send a prophetic message of encouragement to him as He did in II Chronicles 15. The Prime Minister will hear and believe that "The LORD is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, he will be found by you"
*That President Obama will listen to godly counsel regarding the decision he just made.that he will not be influenced by threats of "alienation" himself for having taken a stand on Israel's behalf. That he will not undo what he has done with his words.
That in the "revolutionary" winds blowing with increasing intensity in the Middle East, there will be those in each of these countries who will have spiritual discernment (the Hebrew word for spirit ruach is exactly the same as that for wind) between winds of righteousness and those of lawlessness-that they will not to be swept into revolution for its own sake (which amounts to mere lawlessness), but will feel, see and stand against plots of the forces of Darkness which are roaring in the wings. Pray for an igniting of the Fear of the Lord and a Hope-inspired Passion for His Redemptive purposes for their respective nations.
portions taken from Israel Prayer List
"The LORD has broken the staff of the wicked, the scepter of the rulers. He who struck the people in wrath with a continual stroke, he who ruled the nations in anger is persecuted and no one hinders." (Isaiah 14:5-6)
"By awesome deeds in righteousness You will answer us, O God of our salvation, You who are the confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of the far-off seas.You who still the noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the peoples." (Psalm 65:5-7)
It has been a tumultuous week throughout the Middle East. Following Tunisia and Egypt's lead, there have been massive demonstrations against regimes in Bahrain, Yemen, Morocco, and Iran. In Libya, as of this writing, there are reports of as many as 200 civilians killed by strong-man Moammar Ghadhafi's military. Even Saudi Arabia, assumed to be in no imminent danger of a democratic takeover, what with its vast oil resources, powerful religious system and popular king-even that enormous monarchy is said to nevertheless be "feeling increasingly isolated and concerned with what is going on around it.and [after the fall of Mubarak, with whom it had been counted an ally] that the United States may no longer be a reliable backer." ("Unrest Encircles Saudis, Stoking Sense of Unease":The New York Times (Internet), 19 Feb 2011.)
And Iran has chosen this time to send two warships, a frigate and a supply ship, through the Suez Canal into the Mediterranean. This is the first transit of the canal by an Iranian military vessel since the 1979 revolution. Prime Minister Netanyahu said today that "Israel takes a grave view of this Iranian step.We can see what an unstable region we live in, an area in which Iran is trying to take advantage of the situation that has arisen and broaden its influence by transferring two warships via the Suez Canal." It is not known what the freight of the cargo ship may be. The two are expected to dock in a Syrian port. Of course, some are saying that two ships can do little harm. But Israel sees their making their way into the Mediterranean theatre as a provocation. Israel has already thwarted a number of craft sent from Iran, covertly smuggling arms to Hamas operatives in Gaza. What is the real meaning/motive behind this act? What might it be a beginning of?
Meanwhile, the United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution put forward by the Palestinian Authority on Friday which condemned Israeli communities beyond the 1949 Armistice ("Green") Line as "illegal" and demanded an immediate halt to all settlement building. It is the first time since Mr Obama took office that the US has used its veto power, although in ordering this, the President made it clear that he is opposed to Israeli building in the territories. He had reportedly spoken for 50 minutes on Thursday with Palestinian President Abbas, attempting to persuade him to withdraw the resolution, or revise it, calling Israeli settlements "illegitimate" rather than "illegal"--but to no avail. The US acted alone in the veto-the other 14 members voted in favour. Were it to have been passed the bill would effectively have delegitimized the existence of not only isolated settlements in Judea and Samaria but vast areas in Jerusalem, including the Temple Mount and Old City, the modern city's suburbs, and large blocks such as Maale Adumim and Ariel presently home to tens of thousands of Israelis. In fact, any Israeli presence in any of the territory taken from Jordan after she chose to attack Israel during the 1967 War, would be pronounced "illegal". In response to the American veto, the PA plans to call an emergency session of the UN General Assembly to condemn Israel, and some leaders have called for a "Day of Rage" amongst their people later this week.
Lastly, an article in Israel's HaAretz last Thursday noted the increasing international isolation the Israeli Prime Minister appears to be facing because of doubts in the nations regarding his seriousness in moving the peace process forward. It points towards his travel schedule abroad, noting that during his first year in office he took 13 trips abroad to nine countries, then eight trips to six countries during his second year. When he takes a trip to Bulgaria and the Czech Republic (two countries in the EU which rarely criticize Israel) in early April, he will not have left the country in five months except for a short trip to Egypt in January. Major countries in the EU have not been on his itinerary in some time, and several others (Jordan, India, China) have made it clear that they are not interested in his visiting ("Netanyahu faces international isolation as peace process stalls": Haaretz.com, 17/02/11) . It is becoming an increasingly lonely place Prime Minister Netanyahu finds himself in as a result of the choices he has made-choices seen as courageous by some, as weak and impertinent by others.
PLEASE PRAY:
*Looking for insight and counsel to our God "who changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. He reveals deep and secret things; He knows what lies in darkness and Light dwells with Him" (Daniel 2:21-22).
For believers in these nations to be protected, to be granted prophetic insight about their lands,so as to be ready to move courageously and decisively how and when the Lord directs. There are reports from those who, with the deposition of their present leaders, strongly sense that there is a window of time opening for the Gospel, which must be taken advantage of now!
*That "He who watches over Israel and neither slumbers nor sleeps" will take account of the Iranian vessels proudly making their way towards Syria.Warships of a nation whose leaders have called for the destruction of the "Zionist Entity" (Israel). That any plots of the enemy for evil alliances or attacks set against His Covenant Land will be exposed.
*That God will strengthen and encourage Benjamin Netanyahu.That he will be guided by the eye of Israel's God. That he like Asa (see first Scripture above) will "be strengthened and not let his hands be weak"-that God would send a prophetic message of encouragement to him as He did in II Chronicles 15. The Prime Minister will hear and believe that "The LORD is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, he will be found by you"
*That President Obama will listen to godly counsel regarding the decision he just made.that he will not be influenced by threats of "alienation" himself for having taken a stand on Israel's behalf. That he will not undo what he has done with his words.
That in the "revolutionary" winds blowing with increasing intensity in the Middle East, there will be those in each of these countries who will have spiritual discernment (the Hebrew word for spirit ruach is exactly the same as that for wind) between winds of righteousness and those of lawlessness-that they will not to be swept into revolution for its own sake (which amounts to mere lawlessness), but will feel, see and stand against plots of the forces of Darkness which are roaring in the wings. Pray for an igniting of the Fear of the Lord and a Hope-inspired Passion for His Redemptive purposes for their respective nations.
portions taken from Israel Prayer List
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
God is Faithful
God has established His chosen one to lead the armies of Israel on earth.
Received this February 14.
A NEW "SON OF MY RIGHT HAND" (Hebrew: Benjamin) OVER ISRAEL'S ARMIES.
Today the Israeli Defense Forces received its 20th Chief of Staff, Lt-Gen Benjamin ("Benny") Gantz. Among other military positions, Gen. Gantz has been Commander of the elite Shaldag Unit in the Air Force, Commander of the Paratrooper Brigade, Commander of the Israeli Northern Command, and he was Israel's military attaché in the United States from 2005-2009. The selection process to bring about a replacement of the retiring General Gabi Ashkenazi, has been a long and stormy one, involving much ill feeling between Israel's Defense Minister and several military leaders. But today, Israel's armies have a new and respected leader at their helm. Regarding Gantz' appointment, Prime Minister Netanyahu said, ""Maj. Gen. Benny Gantz is an outstanding officer and an experienced commander.His experience is vast both in terms of operation and organization. He is endowed with all of the qualities needed to be a wonderful commander for the Israel Defense Forces." Addressing the General, he continued, "You are receiving the baton of command, and possess all of the attributes needed to be successful in the position.You must find your own special path, combining quiet determination, calmness and a pleasant approach to maintain the continuity and stability that are of so important in such a time of instability."
In I Samuel 17:45, David declares that he comes before Goliath "in the name of YHVH of Armies, Elohei Ma'archot Yisrael-God of the Arraying of Israel".
We believe that the LORD of Hosts has a "positioning" for every soldier in Israel's army-both in the physical and spiritual sense.
PLEASE PRAY: For Gen. Gantz, that the oversight with which he has been entrusted will be conducted in wisdom, integrity, courage and compassion. That he would humble himself and seek, hear and walk in the counsels of the God of great generals of the past, such as Joshua or Benaiah (I Kings 1:36-37).not following the tragic example of Joab, who, though a mighty warrior, followed the dictates of his flesh and "shed the blood of war in peacetime." (I Kings 2:5-6).
Portions taken from Israel Prayer List Update.
Received this February 14.
A NEW "SON OF MY RIGHT HAND" (Hebrew: Benjamin) OVER ISRAEL'S ARMIES.
Today the Israeli Defense Forces received its 20th Chief of Staff, Lt-Gen Benjamin ("Benny") Gantz. Among other military positions, Gen. Gantz has been Commander of the elite Shaldag Unit in the Air Force, Commander of the Paratrooper Brigade, Commander of the Israeli Northern Command, and he was Israel's military attaché in the United States from 2005-2009. The selection process to bring about a replacement of the retiring General Gabi Ashkenazi, has been a long and stormy one, involving much ill feeling between Israel's Defense Minister and several military leaders. But today, Israel's armies have a new and respected leader at their helm. Regarding Gantz' appointment, Prime Minister Netanyahu said, ""Maj. Gen. Benny Gantz is an outstanding officer and an experienced commander.His experience is vast both in terms of operation and organization. He is endowed with all of the qualities needed to be a wonderful commander for the Israel Defense Forces." Addressing the General, he continued, "You are receiving the baton of command, and possess all of the attributes needed to be successful in the position.You must find your own special path, combining quiet determination, calmness and a pleasant approach to maintain the continuity and stability that are of so important in such a time of instability."
In I Samuel 17:45, David declares that he comes before Goliath "in the name of YHVH of Armies, Elohei Ma'archot Yisrael-God of the Arraying of Israel".
We believe that the LORD of Hosts has a "positioning" for every soldier in Israel's army-both in the physical and spiritual sense.
PLEASE PRAY: For Gen. Gantz, that the oversight with which he has been entrusted will be conducted in wisdom, integrity, courage and compassion. That he would humble himself and seek, hear and walk in the counsels of the God of great generals of the past, such as Joshua or Benaiah (I Kings 1:36-37).not following the tragic example of Joab, who, though a mighty warrior, followed the dictates of his flesh and "shed the blood of war in peacetime." (I Kings 2:5-6).
Portions taken from Israel Prayer List Update.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Prayer in the Midst of the Shaking
We need to be concerned about the current situation in Egypt
Today high-level military leaders met without their Commander in Chief, and issued a communiqué saying that they had stepped in "to safeguard the country" and that "all of the demands" of the anti-government demonstrators (presumably including Mr. Mubarak's ouster) would be met "today". Meanwhile, the square was again filled throughout the day with tens of thousands demanding that the President go, and chanting "Allahu Akbar!-Allah is Great!" The demonstrators represent many streams swept together in the winds of protest against a host of perceived repressions and hardships attributed to the present regime. As of this time, there is certainly no orderly, representative council evident behind this "revolution", intent on bringing into existence a government similar to what many westerners think of when they think of "democracy" or of a "representative republic". Who will finally come out on top?
In Israel there is a strong, uneasy hearkening back to the 1979 revolution in Iran. At that time, an indecisive US administration chose to suddenly become lukewarm in its support for another potentate whom it had supported as a firm and trusted ally for years. As the Shah's position crumbled, the Carter administration allowed itself to be influenced that Mehdi Barzagan, the Ayatolla Khomaini's choice for prime minister, would have more influence with extremist forces than the Shah's appointment for the office; and high-level diplomats suggested that Khomaini might indeed himself be a not so immoderate influence in the region. Within eighteen months, when he no longer needed him, Khomeini dumped Barzagan, replacing him with a new leader and a radical government which more reflected his ideals for the Islamic revolution. Today there are many in the west who are calling for Mohamed ElBaradei, a former head of the International Islamic Energy Agency-and supported by the Muslim Brotherhood-as a moderate choice to replace Mubarak as an interim president. Others, however have pointed out that ElBaradie, having lived outside of Egypt for many years, has no popular support, and could, like Barzagan, be easily toppled by the Brotherhood after having served their purposes.
This week members of the U.S. Congress warned of the dangers of the Muslim Brotherhood's participation in any new Egyptian government, and took issue with the Obama administration for suggesting that the Islamic group might warrant some such role. Although the Brotherhood has in the last few days avowed itself to have no desire of taking control of the government, nor of advocating a religious regime, its true behind-the-scenes goals may be better expressed in a sermon given last September by the organization's supreme guide Muhammad Badi, "[Muslims] need to understand that the improvement and change that the Muslim nation seeks can only be attained through jihad and sacrifice and by raising a jihadi generation that pursues death, just as the enemies pursue life." And an article in the 01 Feb 2011 Jerusalem Post by Yaakov Lappin entitled, "Muslim Brotherhood: 'Prepare Egyptians for war with Israel'", reported Muhammad Ghannem, a leader of the Brotherhood in Egypt as telling an Iranian news network that he would like to see the Egyptian people prepare for war against Israel, that the Suez Canal should be closed immediately, and the flow of gas from Egypt to Israel stopped "in order to bring about the downfall of the Mubarak regime." (It is Mubarak who has been behind the export of natural gas from Egypt to Israel. Interestingly, the flow was temporarily stopped this week when one of the pipelines was sabotaged. The recent discovery of huge natural gas reserves off the Israeli coast begins, for Israel, to appear an incredibly timely blessing indeed!).
Please Pray:
Isaiah 19, especially verses 2-3 and 19-25 express God's sovereign love and purposes for Egypt "his people".including her relationship with Israel "His inheritance". In Ezekiel 29:3 the LORD speaks of a "great monster" which was ruling in pride over Egypt, claiming the very Nile itself as its own creation and property (This monster represented either the literal Pharaoh or, more likely, a great demonic presence which empowered him.). The Hebrew word used here for "great monster" is tanin (translated elsewhere as 'dragon'). The first thing to realize when tanin is used is that it was first mentioned in Genesis 1:21 as "created by God". And when Moses' rod was cast down by Aaron before Pharaoh (Exodus 7:9-10), it became a tanin instead of a snake (nakhash) as it had become before the burning bush in Exodus 4:3; 7:5. And when the magicians were able also to devise their own tanin's, the one manifest from the Rod of God (Ex 4:20) devoured all of those devised by their occult means! (Exodus 7:12).
LET US PRAY THAT THE SOVEREIGN ROD OF GOD WOULD BE HELD OVER EGYPT-THAT THE EVIL WORKINGS SET AGAINST GODLY GOVERNANCE IN EGYPT WOULD BE DEVOURED BY DIVINE AND HOLY POWER. HOWEVER THINGS MAY SEEM TO FALL IN THE SHORT-TERM, PRAY FOR THE BODY OF MESSIAH IN ISRAEL TO BEGIN MOVING IN SIGNS AND WONDERS AS DID MOSES AND AARON. WE BELIEVE THAT SINCE THESE BELIEVING LEADERS HAVE CHOSEN TO HONOUR ISRAEL IN THE FACE OF HATRED ALL ROUND THEM, THE POWER AND DELIVERANCE GIVEN TO ISRAEL WHILE SHE WAS IN EGYPT SHALL BE THEIRS. PRAY THAT THE BODY IN ISRAEL AND EGYPT STAND STRONG IN LOVE AND COURAGE AND INTERCESSION FOR EACH OTHER ON BEHALF OF THEIR GOD'S PURPOSES IN THEIR NATIONS IN THE SEASON AHEAD!
Portions taken from the Israel Prayer Update
Today high-level military leaders met without their Commander in Chief, and issued a communiqué saying that they had stepped in "to safeguard the country" and that "all of the demands" of the anti-government demonstrators (presumably including Mr. Mubarak's ouster) would be met "today". Meanwhile, the square was again filled throughout the day with tens of thousands demanding that the President go, and chanting "Allahu Akbar!-Allah is Great!" The demonstrators represent many streams swept together in the winds of protest against a host of perceived repressions and hardships attributed to the present regime. As of this time, there is certainly no orderly, representative council evident behind this "revolution", intent on bringing into existence a government similar to what many westerners think of when they think of "democracy" or of a "representative republic". Who will finally come out on top?
In Israel there is a strong, uneasy hearkening back to the 1979 revolution in Iran. At that time, an indecisive US administration chose to suddenly become lukewarm in its support for another potentate whom it had supported as a firm and trusted ally for years. As the Shah's position crumbled, the Carter administration allowed itself to be influenced that Mehdi Barzagan, the Ayatolla Khomaini's choice for prime minister, would have more influence with extremist forces than the Shah's appointment for the office; and high-level diplomats suggested that Khomaini might indeed himself be a not so immoderate influence in the region. Within eighteen months, when he no longer needed him, Khomeini dumped Barzagan, replacing him with a new leader and a radical government which more reflected his ideals for the Islamic revolution. Today there are many in the west who are calling for Mohamed ElBaradei, a former head of the International Islamic Energy Agency-and supported by the Muslim Brotherhood-as a moderate choice to replace Mubarak as an interim president. Others, however have pointed out that ElBaradie, having lived outside of Egypt for many years, has no popular support, and could, like Barzagan, be easily toppled by the Brotherhood after having served their purposes.
This week members of the U.S. Congress warned of the dangers of the Muslim Brotherhood's participation in any new Egyptian government, and took issue with the Obama administration for suggesting that the Islamic group might warrant some such role. Although the Brotherhood has in the last few days avowed itself to have no desire of taking control of the government, nor of advocating a religious regime, its true behind-the-scenes goals may be better expressed in a sermon given last September by the organization's supreme guide Muhammad Badi, "[Muslims] need to understand that the improvement and change that the Muslim nation seeks can only be attained through jihad and sacrifice and by raising a jihadi generation that pursues death, just as the enemies pursue life." And an article in the 01 Feb 2011 Jerusalem Post by Yaakov Lappin entitled, "Muslim Brotherhood: 'Prepare Egyptians for war with Israel'", reported Muhammad Ghannem, a leader of the Brotherhood in Egypt as telling an Iranian news network that he would like to see the Egyptian people prepare for war against Israel, that the Suez Canal should be closed immediately, and the flow of gas from Egypt to Israel stopped "in order to bring about the downfall of the Mubarak regime." (It is Mubarak who has been behind the export of natural gas from Egypt to Israel. Interestingly, the flow was temporarily stopped this week when one of the pipelines was sabotaged. The recent discovery of huge natural gas reserves off the Israeli coast begins, for Israel, to appear an incredibly timely blessing indeed!).
Please Pray:
Isaiah 19, especially verses 2-3 and 19-25 express God's sovereign love and purposes for Egypt "his people".including her relationship with Israel "His inheritance". In Ezekiel 29:3 the LORD speaks of a "great monster" which was ruling in pride over Egypt, claiming the very Nile itself as its own creation and property (This monster represented either the literal Pharaoh or, more likely, a great demonic presence which empowered him.). The Hebrew word used here for "great monster" is tanin (translated elsewhere as 'dragon'). The first thing to realize when tanin is used is that it was first mentioned in Genesis 1:21 as "created by God". And when Moses' rod was cast down by Aaron before Pharaoh (Exodus 7:9-10), it became a tanin instead of a snake (nakhash) as it had become before the burning bush in Exodus 4:3; 7:5. And when the magicians were able also to devise their own tanin's, the one manifest from the Rod of God (Ex 4:20) devoured all of those devised by their occult means! (Exodus 7:12).
LET US PRAY THAT THE SOVEREIGN ROD OF GOD WOULD BE HELD OVER EGYPT-THAT THE EVIL WORKINGS SET AGAINST GODLY GOVERNANCE IN EGYPT WOULD BE DEVOURED BY DIVINE AND HOLY POWER. HOWEVER THINGS MAY SEEM TO FALL IN THE SHORT-TERM, PRAY FOR THE BODY OF MESSIAH IN ISRAEL TO BEGIN MOVING IN SIGNS AND WONDERS AS DID MOSES AND AARON. WE BELIEVE THAT SINCE THESE BELIEVING LEADERS HAVE CHOSEN TO HONOUR ISRAEL IN THE FACE OF HATRED ALL ROUND THEM, THE POWER AND DELIVERANCE GIVEN TO ISRAEL WHILE SHE WAS IN EGYPT SHALL BE THEIRS. PRAY THAT THE BODY IN ISRAEL AND EGYPT STAND STRONG IN LOVE AND COURAGE AND INTERCESSION FOR EACH OTHER ON BEHALF OF THEIR GOD'S PURPOSES IN THEIR NATIONS IN THE SEASON AHEAD!
Portions taken from the Israel Prayer Update
Monday, February 7, 2011
Is Iran Really A Threat?
Due to all the talk about Iran and the Islamic Republic's agenda, I am posting a video for all of you to watch. This is the full film of "Iranium." Watch this and allow God to show you how to pray for this very serious situation. It is 1 hour long:
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Defense Forces in Israel
Last year Minister of Defense Barak announced a successor to the important position of Chief of General Staff over Israel's military forces. His name is Major General Yoav Galant. This choice was also made with the threat of Iran in mind as Galant is known to be a very tough and capable commander and Israel is right now facing the most severe challenge to its existence since its founding in 1948. Galant was due to be sworn in as Chief of General Staff on February 14. However, Attorney-General Yehuda Weinstein that he can not defend the appointment of Maj. Gen Galant as the next IDF Chief of General Staff due to legal complaints against Galant in the Supreme Court. Maj. General Yair Naveh has been appointed to temporarily take Galant's place for 60 days following February 14 until a new successor has been chosen. In other words,at the moment Israel only has a temporary leader over its armed forces. This is a very dangerous situation and certainly needs our prayers.
God is in Control
Psalm 46 commands us in the midst of upheavals and uncertainties to be still and know that God is in control.
The whole earth melts when the Lord utters His voice. He is fully capable of defending His people. Yet, He has commanded us to pray day and night without ceasing for His will to be done.
If We Have Ever Needed to Pray for Israel It is NOW!
With the powerful Scripture from Psalm 46 in mind let us pray and intercede for Israel. Here are a couple of prayers from the Jewish Prayer Book that we can agree on:
“Our Father in Heaven, Rock and Redeemer of Israel, bless the State of Israel, the first manifestation of the approach of our redemption. Shield it with Your lovingkindness, envelop it in Your peace, and bestow Your light and truth upon its leaders, ministers, and advisors, and grace them with Your good counsel.
“Strengthen the hands of those who defend our holy land, grant them deliverance, and adorn them in a mantle of victory. Ordain peace in the land and grant its inhabitants eternal happiness. Lead them, swiftly and upright, to Your city Zion and to Jerusalem, the abode of Your Name, as is written in the Torah of Your servant Moses: “Even if your outcasts are at the ends of the world, from there the Lord your God will gather you, from there He will fetch you. And the Lord your God will bring you to the land that your fathers possessed, and you shall possess it; and He will make you more prosperous and more numerous than your fathers.”
“Draw our hearts together to revere and venerate Your name and to observe all the precepts of Your Torah, and send us quickly the Messiah son of David, agent of Your vindication, to redeem those who await Your deliverance. Manifest yourself in the splendor of Your boldness before the eyes of all inhabitants of Your world, and may everyone endowed with a soul affirm that the Lord, God of Israel, is king and his dominion is absolute. Amen forevermore.
“May He who blessed our forefathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, bless the soldiers of the Israel Defence Forces, who stand watch over our land and the cities of our Lord, from the Lebanese border to the desert of Egypt and from the great sea to the verge of the wilderness, on land, in the air, and at sea.
“May God strike down before them our enemies who rise against us. May the Holy One save and spare our soldiers from all forms of woe and distress, of affliction and illness, and may He invest their every action with blessing and success. May he vanquish by their means those who hate us, and may He adorn them with a crown of deliverance and a mantle of victory. Thus may the verse be fulfilled: "For it is the Lord your God who marches with you to do battle for you against your enemy, to bring you victory. Now let us respond. Amen"
Prayer points:
• Pray that when nations roar and kingdoms fall, God will strengthen his people and remove all fear, especially among the leaders!
"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts.” (Ps 46:1-6)
• Pray that God will protect and watch over Israel and all its borders!
“There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides across the heavens to help you and on the clouds in his majesty. The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He will drive out your enemies before you, saying, ‘Destroy them!’ So Israel will live in safety; Jacob will dwell secure in a land of grain and new wine, where the heavens drop dew. Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword. Your enemies will cower before you, and you will tread on their heights." (Deut 33:26-29)
• Pray especially that God will give wisdom to the leadership in Israel regarding this present crisis in the Middle East!
“Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. …He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” (Dan 2:20-21)
• Pray that God will place the right person as the next Chief of General Staff over the Israeli Defense Forces!
"No one from the east or the west or from the desert can exalt themselves. It is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another.." (Ps 75:6-7)
• Pray that God will glorify his name by delivering Israel from Iran's death threats!
"‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.’ The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress." (Ps 46:1-6,10-11)
• Pray that God will pour out his Spirit of grace and supplication on Israel!
"O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you." (Isa 30:19)
Taken from Elijah Prayer Army newsletter
God is in Control
Psalm 46 commands us in the midst of upheavals and uncertainties to be still and know that God is in control.
The whole earth melts when the Lord utters His voice. He is fully capable of defending His people. Yet, He has commanded us to pray day and night without ceasing for His will to be done.
If We Have Ever Needed to Pray for Israel It is NOW!
With the powerful Scripture from Psalm 46 in mind let us pray and intercede for Israel. Here are a couple of prayers from the Jewish Prayer Book that we can agree on:
“Our Father in Heaven, Rock and Redeemer of Israel, bless the State of Israel, the first manifestation of the approach of our redemption. Shield it with Your lovingkindness, envelop it in Your peace, and bestow Your light and truth upon its leaders, ministers, and advisors, and grace them with Your good counsel.
“Strengthen the hands of those who defend our holy land, grant them deliverance, and adorn them in a mantle of victory. Ordain peace in the land and grant its inhabitants eternal happiness. Lead them, swiftly and upright, to Your city Zion and to Jerusalem, the abode of Your Name, as is written in the Torah of Your servant Moses: “Even if your outcasts are at the ends of the world, from there the Lord your God will gather you, from there He will fetch you. And the Lord your God will bring you to the land that your fathers possessed, and you shall possess it; and He will make you more prosperous and more numerous than your fathers.”
“Draw our hearts together to revere and venerate Your name and to observe all the precepts of Your Torah, and send us quickly the Messiah son of David, agent of Your vindication, to redeem those who await Your deliverance. Manifest yourself in the splendor of Your boldness before the eyes of all inhabitants of Your world, and may everyone endowed with a soul affirm that the Lord, God of Israel, is king and his dominion is absolute. Amen forevermore.
“May He who blessed our forefathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, bless the soldiers of the Israel Defence Forces, who stand watch over our land and the cities of our Lord, from the Lebanese border to the desert of Egypt and from the great sea to the verge of the wilderness, on land, in the air, and at sea.
“May God strike down before them our enemies who rise against us. May the Holy One save and spare our soldiers from all forms of woe and distress, of affliction and illness, and may He invest their every action with blessing and success. May he vanquish by their means those who hate us, and may He adorn them with a crown of deliverance and a mantle of victory. Thus may the verse be fulfilled: "For it is the Lord your God who marches with you to do battle for you against your enemy, to bring you victory. Now let us respond. Amen"
Prayer points:
• Pray that when nations roar and kingdoms fall, God will strengthen his people and remove all fear, especially among the leaders!
"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts.” (Ps 46:1-6)
• Pray that God will protect and watch over Israel and all its borders!
“There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, who rides across the heavens to help you and on the clouds in his majesty. The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He will drive out your enemies before you, saying, ‘Destroy them!’ So Israel will live in safety; Jacob will dwell secure in a land of grain and new wine, where the heavens drop dew. Blessed are you, Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword. Your enemies will cower before you, and you will tread on their heights." (Deut 33:26-29)
• Pray especially that God will give wisdom to the leadership in Israel regarding this present crisis in the Middle East!
“Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. …He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” (Dan 2:20-21)
• Pray that God will place the right person as the next Chief of General Staff over the Israeli Defense Forces!
"No one from the east or the west or from the desert can exalt themselves. It is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another.." (Ps 75:6-7)
• Pray that God will glorify his name by delivering Israel from Iran's death threats!
"‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.’ The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress." (Ps 46:1-6,10-11)
• Pray that God will pour out his Spirit of grace and supplication on Israel!
"O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you." (Isa 30:19)
Taken from Elijah Prayer Army newsletter
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Israel and America
Urgent prayer for our government here in America.
President Obama has indicated that he will not veto a Palestinian Arab motion in the UN this week which condemns Israel for its settlements on Palestinian occupied land in the West Bank and Jerusalem, thus allowing it to pass.
If this Anti-Israeli motion is passed, President Obama will be the first president to allow this condemnation to go through the Security Council of the UN. The effect of this censure would make all Israeli communities illegal as well as large portions of Eastern Jerusalem. By failing to block such a motion, the US is throwing itself in league with hostile Arab nations which are seeking to undermine Israel's legitimacy as a nation. President Obama is thus signaling his approval of setting the 1967 armistice lines as official borders for Israel, thus forcing this nation to accept this mandated division.
This refusal on President Obama's part will send the US-Israel relations into crisis.
Prayer Points
Ezekiel 35-36: It talks about God's hand against those who come against His land and His people. Pray for a melting of President Obama's heart in this situation. We as a nation need to stand in solidarity with Israel and the Jewish people. They have legitimacy as a nation because the LORD GOD validates them. We need to stand with God's heart in this day and hour.
Isaiah 62:6-7: We as watchmen on the walls for Israel, need to go before the throne of grace and not be silent day or night. In the midst of these voices of deception, we must speak the truth. When evil is in front of us, we must do our part on our knees and stop it.
God, we come before You and repent as a nation for not fully standing with Israel. Help us to see the errors of our current actions. Raise up righteous voices to speak Your truth. We cry for MERCY, LORD.
Portions taken from Israel Prayer List
President Obama has indicated that he will not veto a Palestinian Arab motion in the UN this week which condemns Israel for its settlements on Palestinian occupied land in the West Bank and Jerusalem, thus allowing it to pass.
If this Anti-Israeli motion is passed, President Obama will be the first president to allow this condemnation to go through the Security Council of the UN. The effect of this censure would make all Israeli communities illegal as well as large portions of Eastern Jerusalem. By failing to block such a motion, the US is throwing itself in league with hostile Arab nations which are seeking to undermine Israel's legitimacy as a nation. President Obama is thus signaling his approval of setting the 1967 armistice lines as official borders for Israel, thus forcing this nation to accept this mandated division.
This refusal on President Obama's part will send the US-Israel relations into crisis.
Prayer Points
Ezekiel 35-36: It talks about God's hand against those who come against His land and His people. Pray for a melting of President Obama's heart in this situation. We as a nation need to stand in solidarity with Israel and the Jewish people. They have legitimacy as a nation because the LORD GOD validates them. We need to stand with God's heart in this day and hour.
Isaiah 62:6-7: We as watchmen on the walls for Israel, need to go before the throne of grace and not be silent day or night. In the midst of these voices of deception, we must speak the truth. When evil is in front of us, we must do our part on our knees and stop it.
God, we come before You and repent as a nation for not fully standing with Israel. Help us to see the errors of our current actions. Raise up righteous voices to speak Your truth. We cry for MERCY, LORD.
Portions taken from Israel Prayer List
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