Thursday, July 31, 2008

On Capitol Hill This Week - July 28 - August 1, 2008

In This Issue

·
On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XV, No. 21
·
News From and About Israel
·
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net

On Capitol Hill This Week - July 28 - August 1, 2008


"He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things." (Ephesians 4:10)


On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XV, No. 21

CONGRESS DEBATES OFFSHORE DRILLING BILL
CONGRESS PASSES HOUSING RESCUE BILL; BUSH EXPECTED TO SIGN
TWO BILLS IN THE HOUSE INTERFERE WITH PARENTS' RIGHTS
PRESIDENT BUSH SIGNS "PARENTS' DAY" PROCLAMATION
NEW BUSH PRO-LIFE INITIATIVE PROTECTS HEALTH CARE WORKERS
CONGRESS URGED TO PASS FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS
CONGRESS HEATEDLY DEBATES HOMOSEXUALS IN MILITARY
SENATOR OBAMA'S GLOBAL TAX MAY COME UP FOR VOTE IN SENATE
US GENERAL WARNS RUSSIA ON NUCLEAR BOMBERS IN CUBA
IRAN ENDS COOPERATION WITH UN NUCLEAR ARMS PROBE


1. CONGRESS DEBATES OFFSHORE DRILLING BILL - Washington Post

Why not have a vote on offshore drilling? There's a serious debate to be had over whether Congress should lift the ban on drilling in the Outer Continental Shelf that has been in place since 1981. Unfortunately, you won't be hearing it in the House of Representatives - certainly, you won't find lawmakers voting on it - anytime soon. When they took the majority, House Democrats proclaimed that "bills should generally come to the floor under a procedure that allows open, full and fair debate consisting of a full amendment process that grants the Minority the right to offer its alternatives." Why not on drilling? If drilling opponents really have the better of this argument, why are they so worried about letting it come to a vote?" (From the New York Times)

House Democrats failed Thursday in their efforts to force the Bush administration to tap the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to lower gasoline prices as Republicans stuck to their demands for a vote on an expansion of offshore drilling. Republicans held together to stall the measure, which Representative John A. Boehner of Ohio, the Republican leader, and others ridiculed as shortsighted because it would do nothing to increase the production of oil. The lighter crude, which can be more easily refined, would be replaced in the reserve with a heavier crude. "We need to do something to increase supply other than take it out of our savings account," said Representative Lynn A. Westmoreland, Republican of Georgia.

· Continue to pray for a breakthrough in these stonewalling tactics, so that a bill to allow offshore drilling, requested by President Bush, WILL go through Congress, even before they recess in August. Pray for a miracle!

· " . . . is anything too difficult for Me?" (Jer. 32:27)


2. CONGRESS PASSES HOUSING RESCUE BILL; BUSH EXPECTED TO SIGN

Congress approved mortgage relief for 400,000 struggling homeowners Saturday as part of an election-year housing plan that also aims to calm jittery financial markets and bolster the sagging economy. President Bush said he would sign it promptly, despite reservations. The measure, regarded as the most significant housing legislation in decades, lets homeowners who cannot afford their payments refinance into more affordable government- backed loans rather than losing their homes. It offers a temporary financial lifeline to troubled mortgage companies Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac - pillars of the home loan market whose losses have sparked investor fears - and tightens controls over the two government-sponsored businesses. What began as a showdown between the White House and the Democratic-led Congress over how far the government should go in rescuing homeowners evolved into a bipartisan effort that could be the last such compromise before Bush leaves office in January. In a rare Saturday session, the Senate voted 72-13 to send the bill to the president; the House passed it Wednesday. (Associated Press)

· Offer cautious praise for the passage of this bill, and the bipartisan agreement that brought its success. Continue in prayer over all matters related to our financial institutions, so that greed and corruption can be exposed and removed. Pray, too, for the families who have been caught in the middle of the housing crisis, asking God to make a way for their own needs to be met.

· "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." (Matthew 21:22)


3. TWO BILLS IN THE HOUSE INTERFERE WITH PARENTS' RIGHTS

The U.S. House of Representatives is scheduled to debate two bills that could give the federal government unprecedented control over the way parents raise their children - even providing funds for state workers to come into homes and screen babies for emotional and developmental problems. The Pre-K Act (HR 3289) and the Education Begins at Home Act (HR 2343) are two bills geared toward military and families who fall below state poverty lines. The Pre-K Act, or HR 3289 provides funds for state- approved education. Government workers would reach mothers and fathers in the hospital after a baby has been delivered to promote Pre-K programs. While parents may choose to be involved in preschool programs, Pediatrician Karen Effrem said. The Pre-K Act poses concerns about government trumping parents' rights. "Once they are involved, they don't have any say over curriculum," she said.

"There's plenty of evidence of preschool curriculum that deals with issues that have nothing to do with a child's academic development - like gender, gender identity, careers, environmentalism, multiculturalism, feminism and all of that - things that don't amount to a hill of beans as far as a child learning how to read.This is an expansion of the federal government into education when there really is no constitutional provision for it to do so." HR 3289 is sponsored by Rep. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, and cosponsored by 116 Democrats; it is estimated to cost $500 million for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2013.A second bill, the Education Begins at Home Act (HR 2343) is sponsored by Rep. Danny Davis, D-Ill., and cosponsored by 55 Democrats and 11 Republicans.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that implementing the Education Begins at Home Act would cost taxpayers $190 million for state home visiting plus "such sums as may be necessary" for in- hospital parent education. While the bill may appear to be well-intentioned, Dr. Effrem told WND government provisions in HR 2343 to evaluate children for developmental problems go too far. Effrem said it does not specify whether parents are allowed to decline evaluations, drugs or treatment for their children once they are diagnosed with developmental or medical conditions. (World Net Daily)

· Who's going to do the evaluating, and according to whose very subjective standards? If you "opt-out" your child from homosexual or Islamic indoctrination, and the "examiner" doesn't like that, or disagrees with your "fundamentalist Christian" dogma and considers it harmful to your child, what happens? This is another incredibly dangerous over reach of government - and there is nothing remotely Constitutional about this proposed legislation. Pray that this legislation become "radioactive" and that everyone of both parties drop it like a hot potato. "God, protect our children!!! and open the eyes of our legislators!" (Mark Williamson, Federal Intercessors)

· "This far you may come and no farther; here is where your proud waves halt." (Job 38:10)

4. PRESIDENT BUSH SIGNS "PARENTS' DAY" PROCLAMATION

Observed on Sunday, July 27, 2008The following is a proclamation by President Bush: Parents teach their children timeless values to help them make the most of life's opportunities and overcome its challenges. On Parents' Day, we pay tribute to the parents who provide their children with guidance, support, and unconditional love and who help make our country a better place. Mothers and fathers are a source of stability and great comfort in society, and they have a vital obligation to love and care for their children. Through patient instruction and a loving example, they instill in children the principles that make our Nation strong and ensure that children have the skills to lead lives of character and integrity. As a child's primary teachers, parents are responsible for their child's education, and their efforts will contribute to a more hopeful future for our country. Parents can help shape our Nation by encouraging young people to make the right choices, become responsible citizens, and achieve their dreams.

My Administration remains dedicated to promoting Federal, State, and faith-based and community programs to assist American families and support healthy marriages and responsible parenting. We are committed to helping parents and schools enable the next generation of Americans to realize their full potential.On Parents' Day, we honor mothers and fathers and thank them for their many years of patience and selflessness. We take this opportunity also to recognize parents of adopted children and foster parents, who generously provide children with a loving family to call their own. We also recognize the parents who serve in our Armed Forces and the parents of the brave men and women wearing our Nation's uniform. The members of our Armed Forces are defending our freedom with dignity and honor, and America is grateful for the sacrifices that they and their families make in the name of duty.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States and consistent with Public Law 103- 362, as amended, do hereby proclaim Sunday, July 27, 2008, as Parents' Day. I call upon citizens, private organizations, and governmental bodies at all levels to engage in activities and educational efforts that recognize, support, and honor parents, and I encourage American sons and daughters to convey their love, respect, and appreciation to their parents. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fourth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty- third.

GEORGE W. BUSH

· Praise the Lord that He has given us a President (or, in Biblical terms, a "king") who honors the role of parents in the training of our children. Pray that any laws passed by Congress that would impact the roles of parents be in alignment with this decree, and with the responsibilities that our LORD has given parents, as seen in His Word. Amen.

· " . . . in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (I Thess. 5:18)


5. NEW BUSH PRO-LIFE INITIATIVE PROTECTS HEALTH CARE WORKERS

President Bush is pushing for Health and Human Services regulations that would allow health care workers to refuse to participate in the taking of a human life. A proposed HHS document that safeguards health care workers who refuse to perform "any of the various procedures - including the prescription, dispensing and administration of any drug or the performance of any procedure or any other action - that results in the termination of the life of a human being in utero between conception and natural birth, whether before or after implantation." As of now nurses, pharmacists and others who receive federal funds must participate in practices despicable to them. Senator Hillary Clinton and other radicals are up in arms, insisting that even doctors should be forced to perform abortions regardless of their beliefs. (Source: Religious Freedom Coalition)

· Thank the LORD that our Executive Branch is pro- life!! Come against any moves to counteract this initiative, and pray for its successful implementation.

· "They band together against the righteous and condemn the innocent to death. But the LORD has become my fortress, and my God the rock in whom I take refuge." (Psalm 94:21,22)


6. CONGRESS URGED TO PASS FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS

Free Trade Agreements Now Pending With Colombia, South Korea and PanamaHouse Republicans and Commerce Secretary Gutierrez joined the Consumer Electronics Association this morning at the Washington stop of the "America Wins with Trade'" tour that will hit 28 states and the Democratic and GOP conventions. CEA President Gary Shapiro said the tour was to promote the stalled free trade agreements with Panama, Colombia and South Korea. "There is no excuse to not pass these agreements," Gutierrez said, while adding that China, Canada, the European Union and Mexico were all negotiating their own trade agreements. House Ways and Means ranking member Jim McCrery of Louisiana warned that Congress is "going to be stuck in the mud" until it renews presidential trade negotiating authority. (Congress Daily)

· If a country like China has a free trade agreement with the USA, certainly Colombia, Panama, and South Korea should enjoy the same. Colombia recently showed itself more than a friend by freeing the hostages of drug cartels. Why is Congress stalling - just to be difficult to President Bush? Please pray the Congress will do that which is right and not be led by any vindictive motives.

· "A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth friends." (Proverbs 16:28)


7. CONGRESS HEATEDLY DEBATES HOMOSEXUALS IN MILITARY

Opponents of the "don't ask, don't tell" policy on homosexuals in the military denounced it as cruel and unpatriotic at Wednesday's hearing. Supporters insisted it was needed to maintain military morale and raised the prospect of a rise of HIV infection among service members if gays are allowed to serve openly. The heated exchanges came as Congress held its first hearing on "don't ask, don't tell" since its enactment 15 years ago. Although legislation has been introduced to overturn the ban, the hearing wasn't an attempt to advance the bill, something supporters say can only happen if Democratic Sen. Barack Obama is elected president. Republican Sen. John McCain supports "don't ask, don't tell." Instead, "our purpose today is to begin a long-overdue review . . . and to start a conversation about the real- life impact on our service members, their families and the operational readiness of our military," said Rep. Susan Davis, D-Calif., chair of the House Armed Services personnel subcommittee. While there was plenty of conversation, consensus proved elusive and tempers flared as each side insisted on the moral soundness of their views. Among the most arresting debates Wednesday came when Rep. Patrick Murphy, D-Pa., a first-term congressman and the only Iraq war veteran in Congress, accused a witness of implying that U.S. service members weren't professional enough to handle serving with homosexuals.

"You're saying you don't trust our military professionals to serve openly with people who might be different. I think that's an insult," " Murphy said angrily to Elaine Donnelly, president of the Center for Military Readiness, a nonprofit that says it promotes certain military personnel policies. Donnelly denied that, insisting that "forced cohabitation" and resulting "sexual tension . . . will hurt discipline and morale." The top Republican on the committee, Rep. John McHugh (R-NY) didn't stake out a position, but said that judgment on "don't ask, don't tell" must "ultimately rest on matters of military readiness, morale, good order and discipline." Pentagon officials weren't invited to testify after committee members concluded they wouldn't say anything other than that they'd follow the law. (AP)

· Thank you for your intercession, already offered over this hearing last week. (See OCAP; 7/21/08; Item #7) Please continue to pray God's law into the laws of this nation, including the military. Ask the Lord to confront those who think that God's laws about homosexuality can be breached with impunity. America needs repentance, not more abominations . . . Pray that those standing for righteousness will be strengthened in their fight.

· "I exhort therefore that ...supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings,and for all in authority: that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." (1 Timothy 2:1,2)


8. SENATOR OBAMA'S GLOBAL TAX MAY COME UP FOR VOTE IN SENATE

"The Global Poverty Act of 2007" (S.2433) is coming up for a Senate vote . . . according the office of Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison. Once Harry Reid and the Democratic leadership put it on the calendar, we could have as little as a week to prepare for the vote." (Lee Cary, The American Thinker) If Cary is right, Senator Barack Hussein Obama's only major legislative accomplishment as a United States Senator -- which according to some conservative leaders is potentially an $845 billion United Nations give away of your hard- earned tax dollars -- could be coming up for a stealth vote any day now!Is it really possible that our federal legislators are planning to pass Barack Hussein Obama's Global Poverty Act while they think we aren't looking? Here's what conservative activist Phyllis Schlafly said: "Rumors have been circulating around Capitol Hill that a few activist groups have renewed their surge and have begun lobbying full force for a bill introduced by presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama (D-IL). The bill has already passed out of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee without any public hearings, and it also passed the House earlier this year. It is important to note that both of these votes were 'voice votes,' which was a deliberate strategy of the congressional majority so that no record would be kept of those who voted in favor of this problematic bill."

· This threat of a new tax is very real; President Bush has fought a global UN tax for several years. Please support him in this effort, faxing, emailing, and phoning the White House and your Congressmen and Senators that you want Americans to have no part in any global tax - not now, not ever. Pray that the Lord guide your words and that He stop such a tax before it can be brought to the floor of the Senate for a vote.

· "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him." (Colossians 3:17)


9. US GENERAL WARNS RUSSIA ON NUCLEAR BOMBERS IN CUBA

"If they [Russia] did, I think we should stand strong and indicate that is something that crosses a threshold, crosses a red line for the United States of America," said General Norton Schwartz, nominated to be the air force's chief of staff, referring to a Russian news report that said its military is thinking of flying long-range bombers to Cuba on a regular basis. Unclear from the report was whether Russia would use Cuba as a permanent basing of nuclear bombers, or just use of the island as a refueling stop. In his confirmation hearing to become the Air Force's chief of staff, Schwartz was asked what he would recommend if Russia were to base nuclear capable bombers in Cuba.

"I would certainly offer the best military advice that we engage the Russians not to pursue that approach," he said. The newspaper Iszvestia on Monday cited an unnamed senior Russian air force official in Moscow as saying that Russia may start regular flights by long- range bombers to Cuba in response to US plans to install a missile defense system in eastern Europe. A White House spokeswoman declined to comment on the Russian report because there had been no "official response from the Russian government."

Conducting long-range bomber patrol to Cuba would signal a reawakening of military cooperation by former Cold War allies Moscow and Havana, and recall the 1962 missile crisis that brought Washington and Moscow to the brink of war. Over the past year, Russia already has revived long-range strategic bomber patrols in the Pacific and north Atlantic. The Russian moves come amid rising tensions over the US missile defense plans, and warnings by Moscow that it will be forced to counter them militarily. Until now, US officials have shrugged off the stepped up Russian military activity, while insisting that a radar in the Czech Republic and 10 missile interceptors it plans to install in Poland pose no threat to Russia.

"We seek strategic cooperation with the Russians. We want to work with them on preventing missiles from rogue nations like Iran from threatening our friends and allies," said Dana Perino, White House Press Secretary. (Agence France-Presse)

· The bear is awakening, wanting to become the strongest world power, aligning itself with such rogue powers as Iran and Syria. Pray that all this Russian growling is just that: growling. However, also ask the Lord to keep reminding American leaders not to put their trust in Russia but in Him. Not one treaty nor agreement can stand unless the Lord establishes it.

· "For Thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy." (Psalm 61:3)


10. IRAN ENDS COOPERATION WITH UN NUCLEAR ARMS PROBE

Iran signaled Thursday that it will no longer cooperate with U.N. experts probing for signs of clandestine nuclear weapons work, confirming the investigation is at a dead end a year after it began. The announcement from Iranian Vice President Gholam Reza Aghazadeh compounded skepticism about denting Tehran's nuclear defiance, just five days after Tehran stonewalled demands from six world powers that it halt activities capable of producing the fissile core of warheads. Besides demanding a suspension of uranium enrichment, the six powers have been pressing Tehran to cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency's probe. Iran is obligated as a signer of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty not to develop nuclear arms.

The Tehran regime insists it halted such work and is now only trying to produce fuel for nuclear reactors to generate electricity. Last April, Ahmadinejad said Iran had begun installing 6,000 centrifuges at Natanz. His reported comments to university professors in Iran Saturday provided the first public assertion that Iran has reached that goal. The announcement is another act of defiance in the face of demands by the United States and other world powers for Iran to halt its enrichment work, which Washington and its allies fear Iran is intent on using to develop weapons. Ahmadinejad said those nations - the U.S., Britain, France, Russia, China and Germany - have tempered their demands, asking Iran not to freeze enrichment but rather not to expand its current program beyond 6,000 centrifuges, state-run radio reported.

"Today, they have consented that the existing 5,000 or 6,000 centrifuges not be increased and that operation of this number of centrifuges is not a problem," Ahmadinejad said. Meanwhile, on Monday Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice accused Iran of not being serious at the Geneva talks. She warned that all six nations were serious about a two-week deadline for Iran to agree to freeze suspect activities and start negotiations or else be hit with a fourth set of U.N. penalties. (Associated Press)

· Ahmadinejad is not a man to be trusted; his promises hold no value, and his sense of cooperation seems to be supplanted by arrogance. Pray that this man be removed from his position of power over the Iranian citizens. Why should the world accept any semblance of truth as existing in his words? Ask the Lord to show the free world how to deal with this man and his desires for nuclear power - probably to hold the world in his grip through nuclear fear. Keep praying for the citizens of Iran, who live at the mercy of this man and his mullahs.

· "Everyone that is proud in heart is an abomination to the Lord; though hand join in hand, he shalt not be unpunished." (Proverbs 16:5)

News From and About Israel

BARACK OBAMA'S WHIRLWIND VISIT
OBAMA OPEN TO DIVIDING JERUSALEM
FORMER U.S. AMBASSADOR TO JERUSALEM IS OBAMA'S MIDDLE EAST ADVISOR
ISRAEL WILL NOT RULE OUT ACTION AGAINST IRAN'S NUCLEAR AMBITIONS
A HUGE WEEK FOR ALIYAH IN ISRAEL
ISRAEL'S MESSIANIC JEWS: SOME CALL IT A MIRACLE


1. BARACK OBAMA'S WHIRLWIND VISITUS

Presidential hopeful Barack Obama sprinted through Israel and the Palestinian Territories July 23. On Tuesday afternoon while he was still in Amman, Jordan, he condemned the Jerusalem terror attack. He started Wednesday at a breakfast meeting with Israel Defense Minister Ehud Barak. Later he met with Opposition leader Benjamin Netanyahu, and then Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni.He laid a wreath at Yad Vashem, the Holocaust War Museum, and then had an affable time with Israel's veteran statesman and President Shimon Peres. In Ramallah he told Palestinian Chairman Mahmoud Abbas [Abu Mazen], he would work seriously to boost the peace process. He said he would like to see "concrete steps" taken by both Israel and the Palestinians. In Sderot he warned, "A nuclear Iran would pose a grave threat and the world must prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon."On Wednesday night his whistlestop Wednesday wound up with meeting Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert. "Today I had a series of productive discussions with many of Israel's key leaders about how to address the broad range of threats that Israel faces, and the broad threats that all of us face." Obama flew to Germany Thursday. (By Ron Ross, BFP Israel Mosaic Radio, July 23, 2008)

Additional note from CHPP: Senator Obama also visited the Western Wall on Wednesday morning, arriving at 5:08 a.m. and leaving at 5:20 a.m. The media were in place at the time, and a handful of supporters greeted him with signs as he approached this most holy site. While there, Obama placed a prayer in the wall, which has now been reported in the mainstream press.

· Pray for the US Presidential elections. Pray that US voters will seek wisdom and guidance for this most serious decision.

· "But the LORD said to Samuel, 'Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.'" (1 Samuel 16:7)


2. OBAMA OPEN TO DIVIDING JERUSALEM

Assures Palestinians his declaration to Jewish group was "misunderstanding"During a meeting [in the Palestinian Arab town of Ramallah] today, Sen. Barack Obama assured the Palestinians he supports a "negotiated settlement" that may grant the Palestinian Authority control over sections of Jerusalem. "He assured us there was a misunderstanding when he said in [June] he supports the Israelis' rights to hold on to Jerusalem. He told us he corrected this right away and that he supports a negotiated settlement that will give the Palestinians territory," said the PA official. Obama delivered a speech in June to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee in which he stated if he is elected president, "Jerusalem would remain the capital of Israel and it must remain undivided." The presidential candidate said that he would work to ensure more "freedom of movement" for Palestinians in the West Bank.

Freedom of movement usually refers to Israel removing anti-terror roadblocks and checkpoints that have been directly credited with stopping suicide bombers from entering central Israel. Palestinians complain the Obama also criticized "Israeli measures that create facts on the ground that may affect a future Palestinian state." (WorldNetDaily 7/23/08)

· Intercede for spiritual statesmen and for adherence to biblical revelation and principles in the formulation and execution of foreign policy, especially toward Israel and Jerusalem. Intercede for the revelation of Jesus as Messiah in the Middle East and for "the peace of Jerusalem." (Ps 122) Intercede for our national leaders - that every decision, action or plan to pressure Israel to give up land or evacuate its people from any territory would be frustrated and abandoned. May God raise up leaders in the U.S. and Israel who would support His end-time purposes for the Jewish people. (Reported by: Intercessors for America]

· "I will also gather all nations, And bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat; And I will enter into judgment with them there On account of My people, My heritage Israel, Whom they have scattered among the nations; They have also divided up My land." (Joel 3:2)


3. FORMER U.S. AMBASSADOR TO JERUSALEM IS OBAMA'S MIDDLE EAST ADVISOR

Mideast pointman blasted by Israeli leaders as "hostile" to Jewish state Jerusalem must be included in any negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, stressed Sen. Barack Obama's Middle East adviser Daniel Kurtzer. "It will be impossible to make progress on serious peace talks without putting the future of Jerusalem on the table," Kurtzer said at a conference in May organized by the Jewish People Policy Planning Institute or JPPPI. Kurtzer, a former U.S. ambassador to Israel, has long been recognized by Israeli leaders, including prime ministers, as biased against Israel and is notorious for urging extreme concessions from the Jewish state. He was appointed as a primary Obama adviser on the Middle East earlier this year. (WorldNetDaily 5/13/08) [Reported by: Intercessors for America]

· As the junior senator from the State of Illinois prepares to officially run as the Democratic candidate for the office of the President of the United States, pray that he not go ahead of God's plans for him in the choices he is making now. When -- and if -- the time comes that Senator Barack Hussein Obama must begin assembling a team of advisors, pray that he be given the mind of Christ in all he does, and especially in all matters related to Israel.

· There is no wisdom and no understanding And no counsel against the LORD. (Proverbs 21:30)


4. ISRAEL WILL NOT RULE OUT ACTION AGAINST IRAN'S NUCLEAR AMBITIONS

Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Gabi Ashkenazi, on his first official visit to Washington, warned July 24 that Israel would not rule out any course of action regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions. "We are all united in the view that Iran needs to be prevented from obtaining a nuclear weapon," he declared adding that all options remain on the table. Ashkenazi's visit comes less than a month after the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Michael G. Mullen, conducted a two day visit in Israel to discuss regional threats. While Ashkenazi is visiting, Operation Brimstone, a massive naval exercise off the US coast is currently underway with 15,000 naval personnel from the United States, France, Brazil, and the United Kingdom flexing their war fighting capabilities.

The large exercise comes barely a month after the Israeli Air Force conducted a large scale exercise in the Mediterranean-a reported rehearsal for a military strike on Iran. Iran meanwhile is likely to begin receiving the advanced Russian-made S-300 anti- aircraft systems by the end of the year, to fend off strikes against its nuclear facilities.

Iran has warned that it would target Israel and 32 US bases in the region should the country come under attack and has declared it will ignore all pressures to halt its uranium enrichment program. (Bridges for Peace)

· Pray that Israel will not be left to face their Goliath alone. Pray in the meantime that they will prepare to protect the nation and its people regardless of the situation they face.

· "Moreover David said, 'The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.' And Saul said to David, 'Go, and the LORD be with you!'" (1 Samuel 17:37).


5. A HUGE WEEK FOR ALIYAH IN ISRAEL

This has been a great week for aliyah as over 200 new olim have returned from North America, almost 100 from South Africa and better than 400 from France. - Hallelujah! More Lord!! (Intercessors for Israel)

· "Fear not: for I am with you: I will bring your seed from the east, and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, give up; and to the south, keep not back. Bring My sons from far, and My daughters from the ends of the earth, even every one that is called by My name - for I have created him for My glory, I have formed him; yes, I have made him." (Isaiah 43:5-7)

6. ISRAEL'S MESSIANIC JEWS: SOME CALL IT A MIRACLE

In Israel, a resurgence in the number of Jews who believe in Jesus is getting a lot of attention. Many leaders say it's the strongest growth since the time of Jesus and that the Messianic movement could be on the brink of a great revival. "This is the first time where we've seen Israeli society in general being so open to consider who Yeshua is," said Messianic leader Asher Intrater.

"This is a real miracle, and there's beginning to be grace and favor with us in the land." Although Jesus and the early disciples were Jewish, for nearly 2,000 years the gospel has been viewed as a religion mainly for Gentiles. Even the name Jesus or Yeshua has been a forbidden word among many Jews. But in the last few years, Messianic leaders in Israel say something important is happening. "I believe with all my heart, after we have come back to the land, we are seeing the Lord, the Holy Spirit, is removing the veil from the eyes of the Jews and more and more Jews are realizing," Tel Aviv pastor Avi Mizrachi said.Although nobody knows for sure how many Messianic Jews live in Israel, it's believed there are about 120 congregations now and 10,000-15,000 Jewish believers in Jesus. That may not sound like many given Israel's nearly six million Jews, but it's a far cry from 10 years ago when there were only about 3,500 Jewish believers and 80 congregations. Read m ore. (CBN News; Excerpt)

· "Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped." (Isaiah 35:5)

Praise Him!!!

This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

JEALOUS (Kahnah) "Do not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God." (Exodus 34:14)

Father,Help me to discipline my eyes and my whole being to desire no other gods but You. I desire to worship the Creator, not the creature. There is no other name but Yours, Jealous God.
(Taken from: Intimate Moments with the Hebrew Names of God, by Barri Cae Malin and Shmuel Wolkenfeld; Bridge-Logos Publishers; Gainesville, FL, 32614. ISBN: 0-88270-801-5)

Friday, July 25, 2008

CHPP Daily Brief July 25, 2008

In This Issue
·
The Daily Brief
·
The Middle East in Focus
·
Iran in the News
·
Pray for the Persecuted Church
· "Honor Killings" in America

Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net

The Daily Brief Friday, July 25, 2008

"For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace." (I Corin. 14:33)

SPECIAL NOTICE:
The Daily Brief will not be published all next week: Tuesday, July 29 - Friday, August 1, 2008. We will resume publication of this bulletin on Tuesday, August 5.

Our other publication, "On Capitol Hill This Week," (the "OCAP") will be published this Monday, July 28. After that, both the Senate and the House will go into its summer recess period, so the "OCAP" will also go into recess until Congress returns in September.


The Daily Brief

1. Paulson Directs Push To Support Fannie, Freddie - The Wall Street Journal

Congress has moved quickly to address the perilous state of mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac for one big reason: the shuttle diplomacy of Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson. "I think that his explanations and justifications for the actions that he's proposed went a long way, at least with me, and I think with many others up here, to help lay the predicate for why this step needs to be taken," said Sen. Mike Crapo (R., Idaho), a member of the Senate Banking Committee. The plan, which has been wrapped up with a broader housing bill, would temporarily allow the Treasury to extend an unspecified credit line to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. It would also allow the government to buy equity in either company. Mr. Paulson says Treasury has no intention of using the authority, which is designed primarily to help calm markets.

· Lord, we commit our finances to You. Teach us how to live free from the burden of debt. Bring restoration and give guidance to increase finances. Lead us with wisdom in planning for the future.

· "And seek not ye what ye shall eat or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Luke 12:29_31)

2. House Passes Bipartisan Housing Legislation - Washington Post

The White House announced that Bush would sign the measure, Washington's most ambitious response to a housing crisis that has pushed more than 1.5 million families into foreclosure and shattered investors' confidence in some of the nation's largest financial institutions. Although Bush continues to oppose a provision that offers $3.9 billion to communities devastated by foreclosures, he rescinded a veto threat after Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson Jr. persuaded him that the overall measure was urgently needed to stabilize the housing and credit markets, said White House press secretary Dana Perino. "This is not the time for a prolonged veto fight, although we're confident that the president would prevail in one," Perino told reporters. "But with Congress scheduled to leave soon for yet another recess, the risk of not having a bill until the middle of September is not a risk worth taking in the current environment."

· Lord, bring us to a place of wisdom and discernment. Open our eyes to see clearly the consequences of our decsions. Remove greed and corruption from our financial institutions.

· "A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels. " (Prov. 1:5)

3. Commerce Secretary Announces Successes Of Free Trade Agreements - Bureau of National AffairsU.S. free trade agreements with 14 trading partners have resulted in swinging a trade deficit in manufactured goods to a trade surplus with those countries, Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez announced July 23. The U.S. trade balance in manufactured goods improved with all its FTA partners year-to-date through May 2008 . . when compared to the same period in 2007, Commerce said in a fact sheet. Prior to the implementation of the U.S.-Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR), the United States had a trade deficit of $1.2 billion in manufactured goods with five out of the six CAFTA-DR countries (Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Honduras, Guatemala). In 2007, after implementation, the U.S. trade balance in manufactured goods improved markedly to a $2.8 billion surplus."These figures show that our FTAs are succeeding and that Americans benefit from open markets," Gutierrez said.

· Thank You, Lord for this good report. We ask blessings over our ability to trade our products. Bring profit to our labor and balance our trade to a healthy market.

· "And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it." ( Ps. 90:17)

4. Oil Survey Says Arctic Has Riches - The New York Times

U.S. Geological Survey Reports That As Much As 30 Billion Barrels Of Oil Could Be Found Off The Alaskan CoastThe Arctic may contain as much as a fifth of the world's yet to-be-discovered oil and natural gas reserves, the United States Geological Survey said Wednesday as it unveiled the largest-ever survey of petroleum resources north of the Arctic Circle. "For a variety of reasons, the possibility of oil and gas exploration in the Arctic has become much less hypothetical than it once was," Donald L. Gautier, the chief geologist for the survey, said during a news conference Wednesday. A third of the yet-to- be discovered oil, or about 30 billion barrels, is off the coast of Alaska.

· Lord, we praise You for this abundant resource. Help us to be good stewards of Your blessings. Forgive us for being a wasteful people. The earth is Yours and all that is in it. Help us to use these blessing wisely.

· "Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his protion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God." ( Eccl. 5:19)

5. Pentagon Considering Ways To Speed Additional Forces To Afghanistan - USA Today

Pentagon press secretary Geoff Morrell said officials were studying ways to speed more forces to Afghanistan. The planners' recommendations will be sent to Defense Secretary Robert Gates in "the next few days," the official said. "Commanders want to take advantage of this fighting season and would like more troops to do so," Morrell said. "The window of opportunity is closing quickly." Pentagon leaders, such as Adm. Michael Mullen, chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, have said they want to send three brigades of troops to Afghanistan. Two would be fighting brigades and one would be for training.

· Father, we seek Your face to bless our military. Give wisdom and power to accomplish victory over those who oppose freedom. May this window of opportunity be met with power to gain victory in every mission.

· "He ruleth by his power for ever; his eyes behold the nations: let not the rebellious exalt themselves." (Ps.66:7)

The Middle East in Focus
The Middle East in Focus This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE: "My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of My lips." (Psalm 89:34)


1. Israel seeks input on U.S. Iran report - Ha'aretz

The United States is preparing a new intelligence report on Iran's nuclear program, which is to be published in November. The Americans now believe Iran is trying to produce a nuclear weapon, says an Israeli government source, contrary to their recent intelligence assessment that Iran had halted its military nuclear effort in 2003.

2. All options against Iran must be prepared: Israel army chief - AFP

The Israeli army chief of staff has said in Washington that all options must be prepared to counter Iran's controversial nuclear program, in remarks relayed on Thursday.

3. Israeli intelligence: Iran will wait for Bush exit - World Tribune

The Israeli intelligence community has reported its conclusion that Iran has decided to maintain restraint until the departure of U.S. President George Bush and that its allies hope for the election of Sen. Barack Obama.

4. Israel's Debate Over an Iran Strike - Time

Despite President Bush's insistence that the military option remains "on the table" for dealing with Iran's nuclear program, Israeli officials have recognized that a U.S. air strike on Iranian nuclear sites is increasingly unlikely in the waning days of the Bush Administration.

5. Obama to PM: Talks with Iran necessary to legitimize action - Ha'aretz

Near the close of his visit to Israel on Wednesday, Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama met with Prime Minister Ehud Olmert. A major topic of their long conversation was Obama's declared willingness to engage in direct dialogue with Tehran.

Iran in the News

For all the headlines below, we thank God for the promise of His Word: ". . . thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror; for it shall not come near thee." (Isaiah 54:14)

1. Iran ends cooperation with IAEA probe - Jerusalem Post

Iran on Thursday signaled it would no longer cooperate with International Atomic Energy Agency experts investigating for signs of nuclear weapons programs, confirming that the probe - launched a year ago with great expectations - was at a dead end.

Pray for the Persecuted Church
Prayers for the Persecuted Church This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE: "Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me." (Psalm 32:1)


1. Eritrea: Christian Woman in Prison Dies of Malaria - Worthy News

Imprisoned and tortured for her Christian faith since December, 37-year-old Azib Simon died of malaria in Eritrea's Wi'a Military Training Center last week.

2. Belarus Fined Christian For Bible Study Group - Worthy News

A Christian in Belarus has been fined the equivalent of nine months minimum wage salary for attempting to organise an informal Bible study and discussion group, Christian rights investigators said Wednesday, July 23.

3. Iran: Tortured Christian Flees - Worthy News

Days after his release from a month of interrogations and severe torture under secret police custody, Iranian Christian Mohsen Namvar has fled across the border into Turkey with his family.

4. China House Church Leader "Homeless" After Meeting US Congress Delegation - Worthy News

One of China's most respected house church leaders remained homeless Sunday, July 20, with his wife after authorities expelled them from their home in the Chinese capital Beijing for meeting an American Congressional delegation, officials and a rights group said.

"Honor Killings" in America

Growing Number of Honor Killings By Muslims In U.S. Justified As Cultural Not Religious
Another attempted honor killing by a Muslim against a female Muslim teen has taken place--this time in upstate New York. Prosecutors say that 22 year old Waheed Allah Mohammed tried to stab to death his 19 year old sister, Fauzia on May 8th in front of their family home. Mohammed appeared in court July 18th on charges of attempted second degree murder and first degree assault. Court documents say that Mohammed wanted to kill his sister because she was going to clubs, was wearing immodest clothing, was a "bad Muslim girl," and had disgraced her family.
This is the second such honor killing case in upstate New York.

Four years ago Ismail Peltek stabbed and beat his wife to death because she had been sexually assaulted by a relative. He also tried to kill his two daughters because the one also had been assaulted by the relative and the other was "sullied" by a medical exam. Peltek was allowed to plead not guilty by reason of mental disease and is being held in a psychiatric center. These cases join what seems to be a growing number of attempted and successful "Honor Killings" conducted by Muslims in the United States. Most certainly, Americans and American courts would think these men are crazy, but it doesn't excuse this violent custom against women.

Whether it is Georgia or Dallas or New York, the story is always the same. A Muslim woman faces death because she either wanted to embrace American culture or she was the victim of sexual abuse--quite often assaulted by another Muslim. And the story in the news media is always the same. The reporters make careful note that honor killing is not an Islamic law, but rather a "cultural" occurrence originating in some Muslim countries. In the New York case, reporters quoted a retired Muslim professor saying that there is nothing in Islam that talks about honor killing, but that it has been practiced culturally in Islamic countries for over 1,000 years.

Whether it is practiced in Islamic countries or not, it is part of Islam because it is an accepted practice and the only ones doing it in America are Muslims. In fact, according to the United Nations Population Fund, some 5,000 women are killed each year in Muslim countries for allegedly disgracing their families--many are rape victims or rejected arranged marriages. Quite often the Koran is quoted before these women are tortured and killed. If these people truly worshiped the God of Abraham, they would follow his principles established in Leviticus 19:18, "Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself: I am the Lord."

Bill Wilson
Word of Life Ministry www.dailyjot.com

Thursday, July 24, 2008

CHPP Daily Brief July 24, 2008

In This Issue
·
The Daily Brief
·
The Middle East in Focus
·
3rd Circuit Court: Not Protecting our Kids
·
One Year Ago . . .
· More on that Birth Certificate . . .
· Lou Engle Conference Call Tonight


Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net


The Daily Brief Thursday, July 24, 2008

"For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace ." (I Corin. 14:33)


The Daily Brief


1. Obama says he would not hesitate to overrule American commanders - Intenational Herald tribune

Senator Barack Obama said Tuesday, that there was "no doubt security has improved in Iraq," but that he would not hesitate to overrule American commanders, and redirect forces to fight what he called "a perilous and urgent" battle against terrorism in Afghanistan. "My job as a candidate for president, and a potential commander in chief, extends beyond Iraq," Obama told reporters in Jordan after finishing a three-day tour of Iraq and Afghanistan.

· Lord, we pray that the decision-making process of both candidates be rooted in You rather than their own opinions. We bind the mind that tosses to and fro over the issues, and pray for true faith, Godly wisdom and keen insight.

·"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him." (James 1:5)


2. Rice To Press North Korean Envoy On Nukes - Washington Times and White House Morning Update

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, held talks with Asian officials here Wednesday , before meeting North Korea's top diplomat in what will be the Bush administration's highest-level contact with the Stalinist State in four years. Amid promising developments in the international effort to get the North to abandon nuclear weapons, Rice is hoping to gauge the North's commitment to the process when she sees North Korean Foreign Minister Pak Ui Chun on the sidelines of an Asian security forum in Singapore.Pyongyang has been given a four-page draft document detailing what the United States says it must do to prove it has told the truth about its past atomic programs, a key element in the six-nation de-nuclearization initiative. 'It will give some indication of the amount of effort the North Koreans have put into the completing this verification protocol,' chief U.S. negotiator Christopher Hill said Tuesday. The draft calls for intrusive inspections of North Korean nuclear facilities, soil sampling and interviews with key scientists."

· Great are You Lord, and greatly to be praised! Thank You for keeping many foreign governments from launching their nuclear missiles against us. Please give Ms. Rice and Mr. Hill the stirring to ask You for wisdom as they continue nuclear disarmament talks with North Korea. May they find favor and know that You are the sole reason for their success. For Your glory we pray. Amen.

· "The Lord is righteous; He has cut in pieces the cords of the wicked." (Psalm 129: 4 NKJV)


3. Existing Home Sales Tumble 2.6% - AP

Sales of existing homes fell more sharply than expected in June, as the housing industry continued to be bruised by the worst slump in more than two decades.

· Father, again we plead for mercy for the people of America whose homes have fallen in value, and incomes no longer cover the soaring prices of goods. They tell us that the "recovery" will take until next year now, so Father in Jesus' Mighty Name we pray for Your sustaining power.

·"In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God; He heard my voice out of His temple, and my cry came before Him, even into His ears." (Psalm 18:6)


4. Fake Businesses Certified as Eligible for Government Contracts - CNSNews.com

Government investigators created four bogus companies and within weeks, each of the fictional businesses was able to obtain certification from the Small Business Administration, as vendors qualified to obtain federal contracts under the Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) program, the Government Accountability Office reported on July 17.

· Lord, thank You that these poor administrative practices were revealed. We pray that You will seal up the causes, and that legitimate businesses be the ones granted fair access to government contracts.

· "Justice and judgment are the habitation of Thy throne; mercy and truth shall go before Thy face." (Psalm 89:14)


5 . Germany Confident Ireland Will Approve EU Treaty - UPI

EU rotating president and German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier, says he's optimistic Ireland will find "a way forward" after a no vote to ratify the Treaty of Lisbon. Irish voters defeated a June 12 referendum to approve the package of EU governance changes. Ireland is the only EU country to put the treaty to a public referendum, analysts say, because the Irish feared giving the European Union more power over its foreign policy and domestic economy. All 27 EU countries need to approve the treaty before it can take effect.The "Treaty of Lisbon," also known as the Reform Treaty, is designed to streamline the workings of the European Union (EU) with amendments to the "Treaty on European Union,"(TEU, Maastricht) and the "Treaty Establishing the European Community" (TEC, Rome), the latter being renamed "Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union" (TFEU.) The stated aim of the Lisbon Treaty is "to complete the process started by the Treaty of Amsterdam and by the Treaty of Nice with a view to enhancing the efficiency and democratic legitimacy of the EU, and to improving the coherence of its action."

· Dear God, You have taught us that we need to have spiritual discernment when dealing with news concerning Rome. Perhaps You have given the Irish this same discernment in their "no vote" to ratify the Lisbon Treaty. May the European Union be a governmental body dedicated to You, and may You protect and use Ireland to bring this about. In Your gracious Name we pray. Amen.

· "Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain." (Psalm 127: 1 NKJV)


6. International Olympic Committee Bans Iraq from Beijing Games

The International Olympic Committee confirmed its decision to ban Iraq from taking part in the Beijing Olympics because of the government's interference with sports by disbanding the country's National Olympic Committee, Reuters reported.

· Lord, what a sad time for the handful of Iraqi athletes who trained to go to the Olympics! Father we ask that You will visit the leadership of Iraq and bring change to their hearts, and move over the athletes to comfort them. May the government of Iraq stabilize to a true democracy that understands Your ways.

· "As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is tried; He is a buckler to all those that trust in Him." (Psalm 18:30)


7. Iran to Get New Russian Air Defenses by '09 -Israel - Reuters

Iran is set to receive an advanced Russian-made anti-aircraft system by year-end, that could help fend off any preemptive strikes against its nuclear facilities, senior Israeli defense sources said on Wednesday.

· Lord, we pray that according to Your word, You will intervene in the plans of Iran against Israel or the United States. We pray that any shipment of arms will not be completed before the nuclear facilities are destroyed.

· "And it shall come to pass at the same time, when Gog comes against the land of Israel, says the Lord God, that My fury shall show in My face." (Ezekiel 28:18 NKJV)

The Middle East in Focus
The Middle East in Focus This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE: "My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of My lips." (Psalm 89:34)


1. 'We must prepare for every Iran option' - Jerusalem Post

While US Democratic presidential contender Barack Obama told Israel during his visit to the country that he would do "everything in his power" to stop Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, IDF Chief of General Staff Lt.-Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi seemed to receive the same message from senior American officials during his visit to the Washington, D.C.


2.Obama tells Haaretz: Two states for two peoples - Ha'aretz

If elected, Barack Obama has no intention of wasting time on consolidating an "Obama peace plan." He would rather dive in and promote the peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians on the basis of existing American initiatives, associates of the U.S. presidential hopeful said Wednesday during his visit to Israel.

3. Obama visits Sderot, warns of nuclear - Ynet News

Israel should not negotiate with Hamas so long as the Islamist group poses a threat to Israeli citizens, US Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama said on Wednesday during his visit to the town of Sderot.

4.Obama pledges to coordinate Iran policy with Israel - Ha'aretz

Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama pledged to Prime Minister Ehud Olmert Wednesday that if elected, he will coordinate his policy on Iran with Israel.

3rd Circuit Court: Not Protecting our Kids

In the last week, the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals has become a graveyard of decency regulations. First the judges sided with CBS over the fines imposed after Janet Jackson's "wardrobe malfunction." Then, yesterday, the court struck down the Child Online Protection Act (COPA), which tightly regulates Internet content to ensure that kids aren't exposed to inappropriate material. The justices ruled that the Clinton-era law was unconstitutional censorship. Under COPA, adult websites are ordered to "verify visitors' ages."
Those caught posting images or content that's unsuitable for children without some form of "age verification" face up to six months in jail.

Although the battle to maintain some sense of online decency without violating the First Amendment has made its way to the Supreme Court twice before, it looks as if COPA is bound for return trip. The Internet continues to be a playground for sexual predators, yet the courts insist on stripping the government of any authority to regulate it. The Justice Department and the government at large have a substantial interest in protecting our children from exploitation. Laws are already in place so that minors can't legally purchase pornographic magazines in convenience stores. Why shouldn't the same protections hold true on the Internet? (Family Research Council)

One Year Ago . . .
Focus on Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA)

A year ago this week, Senator Barack Obama (D-Ill.) told a Planned Parenthood audience that the first thing he would do as President is sign into law the mislabeled Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA). As a new Insight paper from Vice President of Government Affairs Tom McClusky shows, if FOCA were to become law it would overturn hundreds of state laws that have put limits on abortion. Planned Parenthood, NARAL and other pro-abortion groups agree with Tom's assessment. The ACLU proclaims, "This [FOCA] bill prohibits such restrictions as parental notification and consent, as well as the requirement that all abortions be performed in a hospital, spousal consent, waiting periods."

Recent polls show that most Americans agree there should be more restrictions on abortion and that tax dollars should not go to the life-ending procedure. However, the passage of FOCA would guarantee that more taxpayer dollars pay for abortions. Its sponsors, including Senators Obama, Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) and Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.), argue that they want to make abortion rarer. However, when FOCA-like legislation was passed in Maryland that state saw its abortion rate skyrocket, just as the national abortion rate was dropping. Passage of FOCA would be a big payoff to the abortion industry at the deadly cost of citizens' rights. (Family Research Council)

More on that Birth Certificate . . .
Don't Allow Websites To Establish Truth - Demand Obama Prove His Citizenship

A good part of what The Daily Jot tries to do is to teach thinking and discernment from a Biblical world view. From time to time there are issues that arise that arouse great passion in people. The birth certificate fabrication of Democratic presidential candidate B. Hussein Obama is one such issue. There have been many people who have written in with thanks and encouragement that this story is being brought to the forefront. Others, however, have passed the story along to their friends and family only to be berated, scoffed at, and ridiculed. The premise is that if the dot- com's--snopes or fact or fiction--say its false, then it must be false.

People, learn to think on your own. All the reasons that these web sites give for debunking the story are the very reasons people like myself and other truth seekers want validation of the Obama birth certificate. People say that it doesn't matter that Obama's mother wasn't a legitimate citizen at the time of his birth; others say that it doesn't matter that the "unnamed forensic expert" was threatened; others say that the entire story is a hoax because Obama was born in Hawaii and, therefore, he is a natural born citizen of the United States and is eligible to run for president.

Think, people, think. If a man running for president knows the Constitutional requirement to become president is natural born citizenship, yet he allows his campaign to release and post a fabricated birth certificate, he is trying to hide something. Now this might be just an oversight by the Obama campaign in the mix of a myriad of events that occur daily in campaigns. But I don't think so. If the requirement for me to hold office is to have natural born citizenship, why wouldn't I readily provide proof of that if someone asked? That's just one part of the equation. The real crux of the matter is where Obama was actually born. If he has to fabricate a Hawaiian birth certificate, can he prove where he was born?

America has never had a presidential candidate whose origin was so mysterious. There are those who say he was actually born in Kenya. There are those who say he was born in Canada. There are those who claim one island in Hawaii. There are those who claim another island in Hawaii. Bottom line, what is wrong with requiring validation of Obama's citizenship?--its required by the Constitution. Proverbs 12:17 says, "He that speaks the truth shows forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit." Someone who intentionally would provide the public a fabrication about his birth would deceive about other things. Think, people, think. Demand truth so there is not a shadow of deceit over your land.

Bill Wilson
Word of Life Ministry www.dailyjot.com

Lou Engle Conference Call Tonight
Join Lou Engle for a Live Conference Call on July 24th - Information Below

As the persistent, lazy heat and the commotion of summer marches on, our nation finds itself in the midst of a great spiritual battle. Rarely seen in the media and not frequently seen by the eye of flesh, deep below the surface a battle wages over the destiny of our nation. As you read this, ungodly and immoral legislation giving license to homosexual marriage literally rests in the hands of a few judges in the Supreme Court of California. Daily the unborn of our nation are being sacrificed to the "God of convenience." Currently our nation stands in the midst of a whirlwind of confusion over what issues are political and which ones are moral. Truly our nation stands at a pivotal threshold-the hour in which we stand is urgent.

As waves of darkness break against our shores, a concurrent move of the Holy Spirit today is breaking forth from the heart of America. Men and women of different races and backgrounds are joining together to cry out in the place of prayer and fasting for an inbreaking of God's mercy in our nation. In grassroots prayer meetings across America, the Holy Spirit is falling on hungry hearts, igniting wholehearted love for God and releasing the groans of Spirit-infused intercession. God is not through with America.

In less than one month men and women, young and old, from across the nation will gather together on the Mall in Washington, DC to cry out to our merciful God for another great spiritual awakening in our nation. Coming from the most obscure parts of our country, busloads of people will be flocking to our nation's capital and for a prayer meeting! People are booking entire airplanes-not to attend a great sporting event or to see a celebrity rock star-but to join the body of Christ in a corporate bowing of the heart in repentance. Truly, God is doing something in this hour that is beyond our good ideas or ministry plans.

Today, even as you read this, across the nation local radio stations, nationally known news agencies and respected newspapers are filled with a new sound. Piercing through the political jargon of talking heads, God has miraculously opened up massive doors in the media for TheCall to trumpet this new sound in interviews with Fox News, the 700 Club, The Christian Post and the Washington Times.

We encourage you to stay connected in a practical level with the movement that God is miraculously raising up. You can do this by: Joining a live conference call with Lou Engle and Steven Strang on Thursday, July 24 at 8 p.m eastern time. To get instructions for joining the conference call by phone or live audio web-stream, sign up at
http://www.connect2leaders.com/engle. Register for TheCall DC online at www.TheCall.com (this helps us logistically) Continue to spread the word. Forward this email to 10 of your friends.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

CHPP Daily Brief July 23, 2008

In This Issue
·
The Daily Brief
·
The Middle East in Focus
·
Iran in the News
·
Conservatives Fight UNFPA
· Senator Reid: "Judges Aren't a Big Issue"
· The Obama Birth Certificate Cover Up


Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net

The Daily Brief Wednesday, July 23, 2008

"For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace ." (I Corin. 14:33)


The Daily Brief

1. Hurricane Dolly Makes Landfall in Texas, Downgraded to Category 1 Storm - Fox News

Hurricane Dolly slammed into the South Texas coast Wednesday, with punishing rain and winds of 100 mph, blowing down signs, damaging an apartment complex, and knocking out power to thousands before weakening over land. Local officials' greatest fear - that the levees holding back the Rio Grande would fail and cause massive flooding - eased when Dolly meandered 35 miles north of the U.S.- Mexico border just before coming ashore on South Padre Island as a Category 2 storm. About two hours later, Dolly's winds slowed to 95 mph, and the storm was downgraded to a Category 1.

· Thank You, God, for calming Your winds for Your glory. May many come to know You as their Savior for the miracle You allowed in Texas today.

· "Praise God in His sanctuary; Praise Him in His mighty firmament! Praise Him for His mighty acts; Praise Him according to His excellent greatness!" (Psalm 150: 1-2 NKJV)

2. Finally, End In Sight For California Wildfires - USA Today

Officials reported progress Tuesday with California's remaining 33 blazes -- down from more than 2,000 in the past month -- although fire danger, causing some evacuation orders, remained high in some rural areas.Wildfires burning since June 21 have scorched 1,528 square miles (3,958 square kilometers) across the state and destroyed 122 homes.

· Thank You, God, for answering our prayers. May California thank You, too, for sparing them from further harm. May many be brought to salvation due to the miracle of Your quenching California's flames.

· "Praise Him with loud cymbals; Praise Him with clashing cymbals! Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!" (Psalm 150: 5-6 NKJV)

3. Treasury's Paulson Lifts Dollar From Lows - Financial Times

U.S. Treasury Secretary Paulson's proposed economic recovery plan is credited with strengthening the U.S. dollar. Wednesday, the dollar rallied from close to a record low against the euro on Tuesday, after Paulson moved to calm fears over the health of the U.S. financial system. However, the greenback recovered after Mr. Paulson predicted U.S. lawmakers would pass a bill this week to shore up Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac--the state-sponsored mortgage providers-- even though analysts say it might have as much as a $25 billion price tag.

· Thank You, Lord, for giving Treasury Secretary Paulson wisdom on how to begin the long journey back to monetary health for our U.S. dollar. May he seek Your Face as he helps America re-establish the dollar as the international currency of choice. May America thank You, too. In Your Name we pray. Amen.

· "'Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' says the Lord of hosts." (Zechariah 4: 6b NKJV)

4. Poll Finds "More Than Two-Thirds Of Americans Support Expanding Drilling" For Oil - Wall Street Journal

Oil prices have fallen since President Bush announced his support for more drilling, and polls these days are shifting overwhelmingly in favor of it. More than two-thirds of Americans support expanding drilling along the coasts, and 59% approve of drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, according to a Reuters-Zogby poll.

· Only You, God, could bring hearts to change in America to use the energy resources that You have given us. Please spare us from our enemies and their oil. Please dry up their natural resources if they do not turn to You and spare Israel. And, may You grant Israel and her allies all of the oil that they need. May many be saved because of Your divinely given oil. For Your glory we pray these things. Amen.

· "I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places, that you may know that I, the Lord, Who call you by your name, am the God of Israel. I am the Lord, and there is no other; there is no God besides Me. I will gird you, though you have not known Me, that they may know from the rising of the sun to its setting that there is none besides Me." (Isaiah 45: 3, 5-6 NKJV)

5. U.S. General Warns Russia On Nuclear Bombers In Cuba - AFP and Washington Post

Russia would cross "a red line for the United States of America" if it were to base nuclear capable bombers in Cuba, a top US air force officer warned on Tuesday. "If they did, I think we should stand strong and indicate that is something that crosses a threshold, crosses a red line for the United States of America," said General Norton Schwartz, nominated to be the Air Force's chief of staff.Russian bombers capable of carrying nuclear weapons could be deployed to Cuba in response to U.S. plans to install a missile defense system in Eastern Europe (Poland), a Russian newspaper reported Monday, citing an unnamed senior Russian air force official.

· Dear Abba. Please free Russia and Cuba from Communism and America from its indifference to You. May the United States again rely upon You for its security and in turn, praise You for this help. We pray that the Russian nuclear bombers will not be able to fly to Cuba, and that our military leaders will stand in total amazement at Your divine intervention. For Your total glory we pray. Amen.

· "Look to Me and be saved, all you ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other." (Isaiah 45: 22 NKJV)

6. United States And Poland Holding Talks On Missile Defense System - Associated Press and the White House Morning Update

Polish and U.S. officials are holding talks on Warsaw's demands for defense aid in exchange for placing part of an American missile defense system in Poland. U.S. Embassy spokesman Andrew Schilling says four so-called working groups are expected on Wednesday to wrap up their two-month study of Polish demands for U.S. help in upgrading Poland's armed forces. The U.S. wants to place 10 interceptor missiles in northern Poland and a radar base in the neighboring Czech Republic, saying the defense system is needed to protect Europe and the U.S. from possible future attacks from Iran."

· Thank You Lord, for protecting the U.S. and Europe from military aggression from Iran and Israel's other enemies. We ask for continued wisdom for those involved with the planning and construction of this missile defense system in Poland. May they seek Your Face in this strategic matter. May this glorify You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.

· "Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." (Romans 8: 26 NKJV)

7. Russia Increases Weapon Sales To Chavez-- Chavez Claims Alliance With Russia Will Protect Venezuela - Fox News and Washington Times

Russia is showing its irritation with U.S. missile intervention with Poland, by selling more weapons to Venezuela's Hugo Chavez. Chavez is on a shopping spree for military hardware from Moscow, and energy deals--his third visit to Moscow since 2006, when he purchased $3 billion in Russian weapons systems.Chavez called for a strategic alliance with Russia to protect his country from the United States. He is in Russia to broker a number of deals involving weapons purchases, oil exploration and possibly the creation of a joint financial institution. Venezuela's state-run oil company Petroleos de Venezuela SA signed separate deals with three Russian energy companies - Gazprom, Lukoil and TNK-BP - during the first day of Chavez's visit.

· Heavenly Father, please allow America to continue its promise to build a missile base in Poland despite Russia and Venezuela's plans to intimidate and stop its construction. May the world realize that You are its only hope for peace and prosperity. May Mr. Putin and Chavez and their countries be saved for Your Son's glory. In Your Name we pray. Amen.

· "If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us alive, when their wrath was kindled against us. Blessed be the Lord, who has not given us as prey to their teeth. Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth." (Psalm 124: 2-3, 6 and 8 NKJV)

The Middle East in Focus
The Middle East in Focus This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE: "My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of My lips." (Psalm 89:34)


1. Obama Calls for Lasting Peace in Israel, Warns of Iranian Threat - Fox News

Barack Obama said Wednesday, that he brings an "unshakable commitment" to Israel's security, but called on the nation to make peace with the Palestinians and warned of the "grave threat" posed by a nuclear Iran.

2. Government defeated in 3 no confidence votes - Ynet News

The Knesset passed three votes of no confidence in the government on Monday. The victory attained by the opposition was only symbolic, as a majority of 61 Knesset members is required in order to dissolve the Knesset.

3. Hezbollah chief to UN: Ready to swap more prisoners with Israel - Ha'aretz

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Tuesday released details of a letter he received from Hassan Nasrallah, in which the Hezbollah leader expressed willingness to carry out further prisoner swaps with Israel and outlined his group's conditions for future deals.

4. 18 injured in Jerusalem bulldozer attack - Ynet News

Three weeks after the previous Jerusalem bulldozer attack, another tractor driver went on a rampage on the capital's King David Street on Tuesday afternoon.

5. Settler grandpa saves the day - Ynet News

Yaakov Asael, a resident of the Susiya settlement in southern Mount Hebron is Tuesday's hero. Asael shot and killed the terrorist who carried out the bulldozer attack in Jerusalem earlier in the day.

Iran in the News
For all the headlines below, we thank God for the promise of His Word: ". . . thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror; for it shall not come near thee." (Isaiah 54:14)


1. Iran vows no nuclear concessions - BBC

Iran will not "retreat one iota" in its nuclear activities, its president says, in his first reaction to a new call for Tehran to end uranium enrichment.

2. Ex-Advisers Warn Against Threatening to Attack Iran - Washington Post

The Bush administration should stop talking about a military attack as an option if negotiations do not immediately halt Iran's uranium reprocessing program, two former national security advisers said yesterday.

3. McCain: US will not allow second Holocaust by Iran - Ynet News

American presidential candidate John McCain told Israel's Channel 2 News station that stiffer sanctions might stop Iran's threats against Israel. In the interview broadcast Monday, the Republican candidate said that in any event, the US would not allow Iran to try to destroy Israel.

4. Obama in Israel: Iran's nuclear program problem for entire world - Ynet News

Iran's nuclear program poses a problem for all of humanity, US Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama said Wednesday as he began a visit to Jerusalem.


Conservatives Fight UNFPA


The House and Senate are providing a frightening glimpse of things to come if a pro-abortion President and congressional majority are elected this November. With Sen. Sam Brownback (R-Kans.) casting the only dissenting vote, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved a Foreign Operations bill that would boost so-called "family planning" funding by 13 percent, raising the 2009 total to a whopping $520 million. Among the programs boosted by the hike is the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), which would receive $45 million to support forced abortion and sterilizations. Under the Senate's bill, the Mexico City policy, which bans U.S. funds from subsidizing groups that "promote or perform" abortion, would die. Although the House version wouldn't overturn the Mexico City policy, it raises the Senate's pledge by $15 million, providing $60 million for the UNFPA.

Before both chambers schedule their floor votes, we encourage you to contact your leaders and ask them to respect the longstanding policy that bars American funds from taking innocent unborn lives via overseas aid. (Family Research Council)

· Today, we offer special prayer for Senator Sam Brownback, the only one who opposed this wicked bill. Ask our God to visit Senator Brownback with a fresh portion of His joy, and the oil of His spirit, that his hands would indeed be strengthened as he works to turn the battle at the gate. Amen.

· " In that day the LORD Almighty will be a glorious crown, a beautiful wreath for the remnant of his people. He will be a spirit of justice to him who sits in judgment, a source of strength to those who turn back the battle at the gate." (Isaiah 28:5,6)

Senator Reid: "Judges Aren't a Big Issue"

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) had the nerve to stand on the Senate floor and declare that no one cares about judicial confirmations. "I'm telling you, Madam President, I can't ever remember going home and somebody saying, 'Could you guys [confirm] some more judges? Frankly, judge[s] [aren't] a big issue." This runs counter to what Senator Reid said after the Supreme Court upheld the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act. The majority leader was quick to comment, "I would only say that this isn't the only decision that a lot of us wish that Alito weren't there and O'Connor were there." His counterpart on the House side, Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), had an even higher opinion of judges in 2005 after the Supreme Court Kelo ruling on land rights. Her reply to the controversial decision was that when judges handed down a ruling it "was almost as if God has spoken."

Of any issue we face today, judges are the ones who are literally making policy-often by overruling a complacent legislature. If Senator Reid doesn't think judges matter, then perhaps he can explain why he's been so insistent on holding so many of President Bush's nominees hostage. Last week marked the one-year anniversary of Robert Conrad's nomination. Meanwhile, Mr. Peter Keisler has been waiting for more than 750 days to be treated fairly by the Democrats in Congress. A president's lasting legacy is marked by the judicial nominations he makes, and Senator Reid is making his own legacy one of obstruction. (Family Research Council)

The Obama Birth Certificate Cover Up
The Anatomy of a Crime of Passion:The Obama Birth Certificate Cover Up


Many people are wondering why reports of Democratic presidential nominee B. Hussein Obama's birth certificate being fabricated are debunked, even mocked, by snopes.com and truthorfiction.com. These sites pose the question, "Does anybody really believe that Obama's citizenship would have been overlooked?" The basis of both website's debunking of the Obama story is that he has become a lawyer, a state senator and now a U.S. senator, and in doing so, someone, somewhere along the way would have brought up the birth certificate issue. This is simply not the case.

It would be rare that anyone going to college or running for office would have to produce an official original of their birth certificate. The State Department even suggests several ways to verify citizenship other than a birth certificate. But this is the presidency.The issue here must be clarified. According to the extensive investigation by the Israeli Insider, which included journalists from Atlas Shrugs and the National Review, when asked for a legitimate copy of Obama's birth certificate, Obama provided a fabrication. Even the spokesman for the Hawaii Department of Health, Janice Okubo, admitted that the Obama fabrication lacks the seal to authenticate it . . . after she said that it appeared to be valid.

According to Israeli Insider, Obama claimed in writing to have a valid certificate of live birth. "In the first chapter of his book Dreams From My Father, describing his origins, he wrote about finding a local Hawaiian newspaper article about his Kenyan father: 'I discovered this article, folded away among my birth certificate and old vaccination forms, when I was in high school.'" So if Obama has an original birth certificate, why then does he continue to provide a fake? Why not just come clean and release the original? What is being hidden from the public?

The Constitution says that Obama must be a natural born citizen in order to become president. It is a requirement. Obama must provide legitimate proof of where he was born and to whom he was born. And now, since he has tried to scam America with a fabrication, if and when he does provide an "original", that document must undergo tremendous scrutiny. Americans should demand it, but don't expect the mainstream media to help. Obama's campaign has admitted in a recent email, "The media is in love with Barack Obama. If it wasn't so serious, it would be funny." Jeremiah 9:5 speaks of treacherous men, saying, "And they will deceive every one his neighbor, and will not speak the truth." For your life, for your country, demand the truth.

Bill Wilson
Word of Life Ministry www.dailyjot.com