In This Issue· The Daily Brief
· The Middle East in Focus
· The First 100 Days
· Ogden Gnashing
· Obama's Mandate: Use It or Lose It
· Power Still Out in Kentucky
· MAJOR Problem in Stimulus Bill
· The Daily Jot
· Good News Corner
Greetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
The Daily Brief Wednesday, February 4, 2009
"The eternal God is a dwelling place, And underneath are the everlasting arms." (Deut. 33:27)
1. 5,000 Rejected Minn. Senate Ballots Get Another Look - Fox News
Panel allows Republican Coleman to bring evidence to trial that as many as 4,800 absentee ballots were wrongly rejected and should now be counted. The judges in Minnesota's Senate election trial threw Republican Norm Coleman a lifeline on Tuesday, opening the door to adding nearly 5,000 rejected absentee ballots to a race that Democrat Al Franken leads by just 225 votes.Coleman's attorneys had said the absentees were the centerpiece of his court challenge, and they cheered the ruling. "This is a victory for thousands of Minnesotans whose rejected absentee ballots will now be properly reviewed in this election," Coleman attorney Ben Ginsberg said in a prepared statement. (Read more)
· Pray for God to intervene and bring about an ACCURATE recount. Franken is only leading by 200+ votes -- perhaps another example of fraud. God knows who truly won. We need God to "overrule" this attempted theft of an election, and set the record straight.
· " Thou shalt not steal." (Exodus 20:15)
2. California court to hear gay marriage case March 5 - AFP
California's Supreme Court has confirmed that it will hear oral arguments next month in lawsuits seeking to annul last year's referendum that banned same-sex marriage.
· Father, let the righteous be filled and the unrighteous be found wanting. Pray that the Supreme Court of California will "bow the knee" to God's decree of His institution, marriage; being that of one man and one woman, once and for all. Could God ever do wrong? Pray that those in opposition to God's purpose of creation will wake up.
· "Surely you wouldn't do that! Should not the Judge of all the earth do what is right?" (Genesis 18:25)
3. US-Mexico border fence almost complete - AP
The fence along the U.S.-Mexico border is mostly finished. Customs and Border Protection spokesman Lloyd Easterling says that 601 miles of the project had been completed as of a week ago.
· Give praise to God that our borders are being protected more and more successfully from drug traffic, terror, and the like. Pray for those getting the work of securing our borders done. Continue to thank the Most High for legislation to keep our borders: north, south, east, and west, safe. Also, that every American will understand the importance of this issue.
· "I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, But now my eye sees You." (Job 42:5)
4. Obama to Issue Executive Pay Limits - ABC News
The Obama administration plans to limit pay to $500,000 a year for executives of government-assisted financial institutions in a new get-tough approach to bankers and Wall Street, a senior administration official said Tuesday.
· Please pray that these salary caps, restrictions on so-called "golden parachutes, and tougher transparency laws would be the first of many strategies to bring our economic weather to a place of calm, decisive dealing. Ask The Father to give grace to our leaders to walk in His plan for our economy and no other. May we learn the gravity of our ways and the lessons that come with them.
· "I know that You can do everything, And that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You." (Job 42:2)
5. Obama Pursues Russia Deal to Reduce Nuke Stockpiles - Fox News
President Obama will convene the most ambitious arms reduction talks with Russia for a generation, aiming to slash each country's stockpile of nuclear weapons by 80 percent.
· No "chink" in our shield of defense is acceptable. These "talks" must be bathed in prayer for the safety of the American people and the wisdom needed to work toward this end. Please pray for our leaders, that their ambitions would not exceed godly judiciousness. Lord, please allow President Obama to move only in a direction of extreme caution and consideration, being mindful of the safety and the interests of our country.
· Until the time that His word came to pass, The word of the Lord tested him. (Psalm 105:19)
6. Iran Satellite an 'Acute Concern' - AP
Iran's first satellite could be global threat as Tehran works toward long-range missile program, Pentagon says.
· Father, we know that You have told us in Your Word that "No weapon formed against you will harm you!" And so we pray that Your strategy to subvert and destabilize any and all evil plans will be made clearly known to those in charge of handling such threats. Raise up men that will fearlessly challenge threats from any nation.
· And all the rulers of the provinces, and the lieutenants, and the deputies, and officers of the king, helped the Jews; because the fear of Mordecai fell upon them. (Esther 9:3)
7. Qaddafi, as New African Union Head, Will Seek Single State - New York Times
President Muammar el-Qaddafi of Libya was named chairman of the African Union on Monday, wresting control of a body he helped found and has long wanted to remake in his pan-African image. His installation as the new head of the 53-member body resembled more of a coronation than a democratic transfer of power. Colonel Qaddafi was dressed in flowing gold robes and surrounded by traditional African leaders who hailed him as the "king of kings." Colonel Qaddafi is an ardent supporter of a long-held dream of transforming Africa, a collection of post- colonial fragments divided by borders that were drawn arbitrarily by Western powers, into a vast, unified state that could play a powerful role in global affairs. He has repeatedly proposed immediate unity and the establishment of a single currency, army and passport for the entire continent. He pledged Monday to bring up the issue for a vote at the African Union's next summit meeting, in July. (Read
more) · Praise God -- there is only ONE "King of Kings" and "Lord of Lords" and it is NOT Muammar Qaddafi! HIS NAME IS JESUS CHRIST. Offer praise the men's hearts are yearning to know a king; and pray that all who would be drawn to this false king, would find their way to the TRUE - the one who "sets captives free."
· As you pray, ask the Lord to cover the people of Africa with His mantle of protection from tyranny. In time, there will come a "new world order" under an anti- christ system; but that time is not now. PRAY!
· "I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. Out of his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. "He will rule them with an iron scepter."[a] He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS." (Rev. 19:11-16)
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: "The house of the wicked shall be overthrown . .." (Proverbs 14:11a)
1. BREAKING NEWS: Medium Range Rocket Hits Israel - Worthy News
Israel's military said a foreign produced medium-range rocket fired from Gaza landed in the southern Israeli city of Ashkelon Tuesday, February 3, a day after the militant group Hamas asked Iran to help it to "liberate" Jerusalem and all Palestinians.
2. Hamas willing to tie Shalit to truce - Ynet News
2. Hamas willing to tie Shalit to truce - Ynet News
Hamas is prepared to discuss a ceasefire deal that would include kidnapped soldier Gilad Shalit, Hamas leader Salah Bardawil told the Palestinian Maan News Agency Tuesday. He also said Israel had agreed to allow 75% of previously prohibited goods into Gaza in exchange for his release.
3. U.S. mulls sending first envoy to Syria since deterioration of ties - Ha'aretz
3. U.S. mulls sending first envoy to Syria since deterioration of ties - Ha'aretz
The Obama administration is considering announcing the appointment of a new ambassador to Syria soon, the first since the U.S. lowered the status of its Damascus envoy four years ago.
4. Bibi vows to topple Hamas if elected - Jerusalem Post
4. Bibi vows to topple Hamas if elected - Jerusalem Post
Likud leader Binyamin Netanyahu on Tuesday promised that a government under his leadership would topple the Hamas regime in the Gaza Strip.
5. U.S.-allied Arab states take Abbas' side in row with Hamas - Ha'aretz
5. U.S.-allied Arab states take Abbas' side in row with Hamas - Ha'aretz
Foreign ministers of U.S.-allied Arab states meeting in Abu Dhabi yesterday said they were seeking to consolidate Arab support for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in his row with Islamist group Hamas.
The First 100 Days
The First 100 Days: DAY 16
"The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases." (Proverbs 21:1)
1. President Obama to Soften 'Buy American' Plan After EU Trade Threat - Fox News
The European Union warned the U.S. yesterday against plunging the world into depression by adopting a planned "Buy American" policy, intensifying fears of a trade war, the Times of London reported.
2. Obama Getting Heat for Turning Up the Oval Office Thermostat - Fox News
2. Obama Getting Heat for Turning Up the Oval Office Thermostat - Fox News
President Obama is facing criticism for keeping his office warm enough to "grow orchids" in -- after he called on Americans to protect the environment and turn down their thermostats.
3. Democrat: Obama Team 'Encouraged' Defiance of Pelosi on Stimulus - Fox News
3. Democrat: Obama Team 'Encouraged' Defiance of Pelosi on Stimulus - Fox News
A conservative Democrat who voted against the House stimulus package says President Obama quietly encouraged him to oppose the "messy bill." (Read more)
4. With Obama in White House, North Korea Steps Up Big Talk - Washington Post
4. With Obama in White House, North Korea Steps Up Big Talk - Washington Post
Stinging insults, sudden cancellations of military agreements and dark warnings of "unavoidable" war are spilling out of North Korea almost daily. On Tuesday, news media reports here and in Japan said North Korea is preparing to test-launch a long-range missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead.
Ogden Gnashing
Ogden Gnashing
President Obama is on his 15th day in office and his fourth nomination controversy. While the nation is distracted by a trio of tax scandals, other high-profile candidates are squeaking by unnoticed. One nominee at the Justice Department, David Ogden, nominee for Deputy Attorney General, stands out. Our research uncovered a lot of troubling details about Ogden--not the least of which is his long history of extreme anti- family views.
On the issue of life, he has fought for taxpayer funding of abortion, for jailing peaceful protestors, against notifying parents whose minor children are seeking abortions, and against informing women of the emotional risks of abortion. He's been an outspoken proponent of specials rights for homosexuals, the repeal of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," and unfettered access to pornography--even in public libraries.
President Obama is considering Ogden for a top post in an agency created to enforce the same laws that he built a profitable career opposing. Join us in sounding the alarm over his appointment. Ogden's committee hearing is Thursday, so please contact your senators today to oppose his confirmation. To read more on Mr. Ogden's dangerous positions, visit Change Watch at
Obama's Mandate: Use It or Lose It
The U.S. may be divided on the subject of abortion but not on funding it. Despite President Obama's incredible popularity, the honeymoon is already over on social issues. Gallup has found widespread opposition to the President's decision to repeal the Mexico City policy. Only 35 percent of those surveyed said they agreed with the decision to allow taxpayer funding for overseas groups who promote abortion.
Americans aren't the only ones disturbed by the shift. Countries across Latin America have lashed out at the new White House for contaminating their laws with anti-life policies. Congresswoman Martha Lorena de Casco of Honduras said she felt "sorrow" that one of the President's first acts was to threaten her country's pro-life law. Representatives from Argentina, El Salvador, and other countries echoed de Casco encouraging Americans to follow their example and respect the right to life in national law. As I've said before, President Obama's election was the result of an economic mandate, not a social one. The further he deviates from that mandate, the more likely he is to lose it. (Family Research Council; 2/3/09)
Power Still Out in Kentucky
Power Still Out in Kentucky; ArkansasPrayers Offered for Citizens in Peril
Dear Praying Friends,
Our hearts go out to those who are suffering from the devastation that the ice storm brought last week. May the Lord continue to comfort and strengthen you as He meets your needs. Living in western KY and without power at this time, our family and KY NDP Task Force is thankful for those organizations that are bringing aid to our state.
We're especially thankful for Gov. Beshear and his quick response in getting aid for those in need and for the KY National Guard, Salvation Army, 700 Club Operation Blessing, Baptist organizations, community organizations and others teaming up together to help those affected get through the largest natural disaster in Kentucky's history.
Please continue to pray for:
We're especially thankful for Gov. Beshear and his quick response in getting aid for those in need and for the KY National Guard, Salvation Army, 700 Club Operation Blessing, Baptist organizations, community organizations and others teaming up together to help those affected get through the largest natural disaster in Kentucky's history.
Please continue to pray for:
· those without water, power, telephone service
· safety of workers in the fields repairing electric poles and installing new ones · patience for those who have been told it will take up to a month to get power
· broken water lines · cold temps. tonight and wind (many limbs are still falling)
· for National Guard as they go from house to house checking on people · for all organizations bringing aid to those affected communities · safety for those using kerosene heaters and generators. ( some have died from carbon monoxide poisoning)
· Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16) Wait and hope for and expect the Lord, be brave and of good courage, and let your heart be stout and enduring, Yes, wait and hope for and expect the Lord. (Psalms 27:14 Amp )
Thank you precious saints for your prayers and all you do to unite Kentucky in prayer! Our strength and hope is in HIM!. "May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord, even as we put our hope in you." (Ps. 33:22) (National Day of Prayer Task Force)
MAJOR Problem in Stimulus Bill
Controversial Religious Language in Stimulus Bill is an "Attack on People of Faith"
U.S. Senator Jim DeMint tells The Brody File that a newly discovered controversial provision in President Obama's stimulus plan is, "an attack on people of faith". Senator DeMint's office is concerned about an item published by the conservative Business and Media Institute. They report the following regarding the stimulus bill:
Both versions of the bill, the House version (H.R. 1) that passed on Jan. 28 by a 244-188 margin, without a single Republican vote, and the Senate version (S. 336), which will probably be voted on in the next few days - include language that would "prohibit" modernization, renovation, or repair of facilities: used for sectarian instruction, religious worship, or a school or department of divinity; or in which a substantial portion of the functions of the facilities are subsumed in a religious mission.See the actual language in the bill here.
The Brody File contacted the Senator and he gave us the following response:"Democrats are looking for every opportunity to purge faith and prayer from the public square. This will empower the ACLU with ambiguous laws that create liability for schools, universities, and student organizations. This is an attack on people of faith and I don't think Americans will stand for it." - Senator Jim DeMint (R-South Carolina)
DeMint's spokesman Wesley Denton says, "This is an ACLU stimulus, because any school that gets funds to upgrade a student center or building where Bible studies or religious meetings may be held will be slapped with a lawsuit. This bill declares a war on prayer at college campuses in this country. Students have constitutional right to use public facilities regardless of their religious views, and President Obama needs to step in to ask Sen. Reid and Speaker Pelosi to stop this attack on students of faith." (Read m ore.)
· TAKE ACTION: Call your the offices of both of the senators in your own state, and demand that this language be stripped from this bill.
· "Your people will volunteer freely in the day of Your power . . ." (Psalm 110:3 NAS)
The Daily Jot
Cabinet Level Tax Evaders Indicate Continued Culture of Political Corruption in Washington
The White House has been set on its heels after two nominations for high level positions withdrew their names from consideration because of tax problems. The problem, it seems, is that these well respected members of society failed to comply with tax laws. Earlier, the now confirmed Treasury Secretary's confirmation was up in the air, albeit briefly, because he had failed to pay his taxes. The tax problem doesn't seem to be a problem to those who are in power. Many senators involved with the confirmation process defended all three of these nominees, saying that America should look past these small indiscretions because the country is in need of qualified people to serve in this time of crisis.
Former Democratic Senator Tom Daschle, who was nominated for Secretary of Health and Human Services and tagged by the White House to be the man in charge of "reforming"- translated, "nationalizing"-the US healthcare system, was caught having not paid some $128,000 in taxes along with over $11,000 in interest payments to the IRS. Nancy Killefer, the White House nominee to serve as Chief Performance Officer and Deputy Director of the Office of Management and Budget, withdrew her name after it was revealed that she had a nearly thousand dollar tax lien on her house for not paying unemployment taxes for her kid's nannies.
The Senate confirmed, after a good amount of debate, the nomination of Timothy Geithner as Treasury Secretary. Geithner is the man who will oversee the Internal Revenue Service. He also admitted his disregard for the American tax laws by not paying some $34,000 in back taxes until he was up for the nomination. Jesus Christ said in Matthew 22:21, "Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God, the things that are God's." Reasonable men agree that some level of taxation is needed in America. There is much debate, however, about whether it is Constitutional to levy income taxes. But if the common man dare fail to pay his federal income taxes, he will have the full wrath of government upon him.
The IRS is one of the only government arms that can seize property and personal liberty without due process. Yet these men and women who would govern Americans appear to believe they are above the laws that require their income taxes be paid. This, at a time when the leaders of this nation are asking Americans to bear the tax burden of nearly two trillion dollars to bail out their campaign contributors for bad business decisions and corruption. Perhaps we all should take a cue from Daschle, Killefer and Geithner and test the Constitutionality of income taxes come April 15. Our Founding Fathers did so to the most powerful government on earth-over less than a penny tax on tea.
Bill Wilson
Word of Life Ministry
Good News Corner
After Super Bowl, They Remain Champions
Two champions were crowned Sunday night in Tampa. The Pittsburgh Steelers became the most successful team of the Super Bowl era, winning their record sixth title with a last-minute, come-from-behind 27-23 win over the Arizona Cardinals. But faith-filled players from both teams emerged as champions regardless of Sunday's outcome, stating that their eternal perspective remains as strong as ever.
"My faith is everything," a devastated Arizona quarterback Kurt Warner said in a quiet post-game interview room. "I'm just so proud of these guys on the team and what we accomplished together.We had a chance to win the world championship and we were two minutes away," Warner said.
Pittsburgh defensive end Travis Kirschke, who had shared his faith during Tuesday's media day, said the last-second win may have tested his nerves, but not his perspective. "I never stopped believing," he said late Sunday, walking the confetti-strewn field with his wife and son. "Our God can do big things and I'm grateful for this chance."
Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, the youngest coach ever to win a Super Bowl, described himself as "the most blessed coach to work with this staff and these players . . . to see what these guys are willing to do for one another.
"Steelers' tight end Health Miller said he was grateful for the win in order to have a larger platform to share his faith in the future. "I think God has really blessed this team," Miller said. "We've been together all year long and really have some solid guys. I'm glad He gets the glory." (Baptist Press)
