In This Issue• The Daily Brief
• The Middle East in Focus
• The First 100 Days
• Proposition 8 in CA Court Tomorrow
• Playing Hardball with Mainstream America
• Red Envelopes
• 40 Days of Destruction
• Good News Corner
Greetings!
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The Daily Brief - Wednesday, March 4, 2009
"The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light." ( Romans 13:12)
The Daily Brief
1. McCain, Ryan Push for Line-Item Veto - Newsmax.com
Upset by "frivolous" government spending on pet projects, a group of US lawmakers announced Tuesday they would introduce a bill to give President Barack Obama line-item veto power over budgets. Democratic Senator Russ Feingold, Republican Senator John McCain, and Republican Representative Paul Ryan were to unveil the proposed legislation on Wednesday, their offices said.
Currently, a US president can only veto an entire spending bill. Under the new measure, the president could "single out egregious earmarks in bills that arrive on his desk for signature and send these specific items back to Congress for expedited votes on whether to rescind, or cancel, funding for these provisions," the lawmakers said.
Even if passed by the Senate and House of Representatives, the bill could face a challenge before the US Supreme Court, which struck down a more sweeping measure in 1998 on grounds it took away too much of the US Congress's authority over spending under the US Constitution.
• Father, with Your help, desperately needed new measures can come into play to keep thoughtless spending down and leaders accountable for the US dollar. Pray that the Lord will give this and other creative options to those in our government. Intercede that every jot and tittle of any spending bill is addressed with high and godly standards. Lord, we ask that You impress upon our leaders the same sound judgment with which our country was birthed. Pray that the blood of our forefathers will not be spilt in vain because of laziness and greed.
• Lest there be any fornicator or profane person like Esau, who for one morsel of food sold his birthright. For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought it diligently with tears. (Hebrews 12:16-17)
2. Obama to Repeal Bush Abortion Regulation - FOXNews.com
The regulation, instituted in the last days of the Bush administration, strengthened job protections for doctors and nurses who refuse to provide a medial service because of moral qualms. President Obama intends to repeal a Bush administration rule that has become a flash point in the debate over a doctor's right not to perform abortions. The regulation, instituted in the last days of the Bush administration, strengthened job protections for doctors and nurses who refuse to provide a medical service because of moral qualms.
A Health and Human Services official said Friday the administration will publish notice of its plans early next week, opening a 30-day comment period for advocates on both sides, medical groups and the public. But Republicans are already voicing strong opposition. "I will do nothing against my conscience in the practice of medicine ever regardless of what any law is at any time, " Sen. Tom Coburn told FOX News. "And I can tell you that there are a lot of physicians that feel exactly that same way across the country."
• Father, we praise you that, just in the days of Daniel, godly men and women still refuse to abort their consciences to accommodate evil in any form or fashion. Pray that this abuse of human life will be cursed to it's root and that every vestige of this darkness will no longer be allowed to prevail in this land.
• Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us, for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree", that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. (Galatians 3:13-14)
3. Clinton: Palestinian state 'inescapable' - Worthy News
Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton promised Tuesday to work with the incoming Israeli government, but delivered a clear message that could put her at odds with the country's next leader: Movement toward the establishment of a Palestinian state is "inescapable." At the same time, Clinton said she would not dictate orders to Israel, saying the Jewish state would determine its interests. She also pledged "unrelenting" support for Israel's security.
Prime minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu opposes Palestinian statehood and has been critical of peace talks. But after meeting Clinton in Jerusalem, he said the two had "found a common language."
• Pray that Hillary Clinton will keep her word to never dictate orders to Israel and to support the safely of Israel. A man or a woman is to let their "yes" be "yes" and their "no" be "no" if they are to have any integrity. Pray that the urge to establish a Palestinian state will be diffused by her own words. Ask God to continue His perfect plan for Israel as we lift her up in prayer.
• Then I will remember My covenant with Jacob, and My covenant with Isaac, and My covenant with Abraham I will remember; I will remember the land. (Leviticus 26:42)
4. Global new deal 'possible' in months - Associated Press
Prime Minister Gordon Brown raised the prospect of a global "new deal" to fix the finance industry within months, setting the stage for April's G-20 economic summit with President Barack Obama. Brown, taking a welcome break from political problems back home, claimed his prize as the first European leader to meet Obama in the Oval Office, and won a statement from the US leader that US-Britain ties were unbreakable. Obama agreed the world needed to work collectively to head off future financial crises, but did not give a specific, public endorsement of Brown's calls for a sweeping new global regulatory framework.
• Pray that any and all "deals" concerning the United States of America would be confined to the "framework" of God's Word, and that skillful and godly wisdom will be shaped supernaturally into the hearts of our leaders. Father, let our nation be pleasing in your sight and teach us again to declare and decree Your Truth and nothing else over this country.
• Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, The people He has chosen as His own inheritance. (Psalm 33:12)
5. Recession Makes US Teens More Aware Of Others' Needs, Study Shows - Worthy News Staff
The United States' worst economic crisis in generations has made teens more willing to help others facing difficulties, according to a study of a Christian relief group, monitored by Worthy News, Tuesday, March 3.
"Though many U.S. adults consider today's teens to be selfish and lazy, nearly seven out of ten parents say the current economic climate has made their teens "more aware of the needs of others", said World Vision.
The survey, conducted by researcher Harris Interactive, also investigated parents' perceptions of their teenagers during the current recession. It found that more than half of parents say their teens support charities actively.
• Father, we know that tough times can produce the best or the worst in us. We thank You for this study which shows that the youth of our nation have the heart and the compassion that You intended for them to demonstrate. Give God praise for this generation to be able to live out the values that promote a loving and peaceful society in which they can grow up in Christ and flourish in life.
• Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity. (1Timothy 4:12)
The Middle East in Focus
This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:
"I will praise You, O LORD, with my whole heart. I will show forth all Your marvelous works. I will be glad and rejoice in You. I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High. When my enemies are turned back, they shall fall and perish at Your presence. For You have maintained my right and my cause.." (Psalms 9:1-4)
1. Clinton: Palestinian state 'inescapable' - USA Today
Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton promised Tuesday to work with the incoming Israeli government, but delivered a clear message that could put her at odds with the country's next leader: Movement toward the establishment of a Palestinian state is "inescapable."
2. Israel has already forfeited Jerusalem - WND
Sections of Jerusalem have essentially been forfeited on the ground to the Palestinian Authority, while Jews, including local landowners, are barred from entering parts of Israel's capital, a WND investigation has found.
3. Report: Russia to deliver armored vehicles to PA - Ynet News
Russia's foreign minister reportedly says Moscow will soon deliver 50 armored vehicles to the Palestinian Authority.
4. Netanyahu gives Labor 1 week deadline - Jerusalem Post
Likud chairman Binyamin Netanyahu has given Labor leader Ehud Barak until next week to persuade his party's MKs to join the next coalition before he gives up on them and finalizes a narrow government of right-wing parties, Netanyahu's associates said Tuesday.
5. Likud, Nat'l Union: Public voted for a change in direction - Ynet News
As part of Thursday morning's coalition negotiations, the leading Likud party met with representatives from Habayit Hayehudi (Jewish Home) and the National Union, two parties that, according to Likud Faction Leader MK Gideon Sa'ar, had formerly been part of "the hard nucleus of the opposition." Sa'ar said that a move toward a right-leaning coalition reflected the wishes of the voters.
The First 100 Days
The First 100 Days: DAY 44
"The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases." (Proverbs 21:1)
1. British Prime Minister: 'Economic Hurricane' Extends Beyond U.S.
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown said Wednesday an "economic hurricane" has swept the world and U.S. leaders shouldn't view the crisis as limited to America's borders.
In a formal address to a Joint Meeting of Congress, Brown said that U.S.-European relations were at an all-time high and that the two nations must seize on the opportunity to bring about change. He warned that protectionism ultimately makes every nation vulnerable because "a bad bank anywhere is a threat to good banks everywhere."
2. Obama Taps Florida's Fugate for FEMA Director
WASHINGTON -- President Obama says he plans to name Florida's state emergency director to lead the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
3. Feds Unveil Foreclosure Prevention Program
WASHINGTON -- The Obama administration kicked off a new program Wednesday that's designed to help up to 9 million borrowers stay in their homes through refinanced mortgages or loans that are modified to lower monthly payments.
4.Treasury Secretary Defends Tax Hikes on Wealthy
President Obama's Treasury secretary is defending proposed tax increases on the wealthy, saying they are necessary to limit future budget deficits.
Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner noted that tax increases on couples making more than $250,000 per year would not take effect until 2011.
5. Gibbs Takes Off Gloves to Challenge Reporters, Hosts Who Cross Obama
Jim Cramer. Rush Limbaugh. Rick Santelli.
What do they all have in common? Most likely, none of them is getting invited to the White House Christmas party.
All three media personalities have been singled out by President Obama's press shop in the course of less than two weeks. White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, in doing so, has shown an unusual willingness to spar with cable and radio hosts who take shots at his boss.
(All articles from Fox News)
Proposition 8 in CA Court Tomorrow
The Activist Court v. The People of California
In what could be the most important case for marriage in American history, the California Supreme Court will convene tomorrow to hear oral arguments in the suit to overturn Proposition 8. The same seven justices who imposed same-sex "marriage" on the state last May will now rule on whether their judgment should once again substitute for that of 6,358,610 Californians who voted to protect man- woman marriage on November 4. After the court hears from both sides, the justices will have 90 days to issue their final ruling. We pray that their decision will honor America's longest traditions--marriage and constitutional democracy. Please join us in praying for Ken Starr who will be defending traditional marriage before the Supreme Court, that the Lord will give him wisdom and that the justices' eyes would be open to the truth.
Please join us in praying for Ken Starr who will be defending traditional marriage before the Supreme Court, that the Lord will give him wisdom and that the justices' eyes would be open to the truth. (Family Research Council)
• "I guide you in wisdom, and lead you along straight paths." (Proverbs 4:11)
Playing Hardball with Mainstream America
What do you call an American citizen who objects to one of President Obama's most radical nominees? "Verbal terrorists," according to "Hardball's" Chris Matthews. The MSNBC host, who last night addressed the controversy surrounding Kathleen Sebelius, took a gratuitous swipe at the pro- life community for opposing the Governor's radical positions. "Is she going to get through the anti- abortion people?" Matthews asked. "Yes. I think she's going to do that. I mean, verbal terrorism? Yeah, she'll get through that."
Give me a break! Educating Americans on Sebelius's record isn't "terrorism," it's activism, no, it's realism! As a candidate for one of the most influential posts in Obama's Cabinet, Sebelius's public positions matter-- particularly if they're as far outside the mainstream as hers have proven to be. Before Sebelius is confirmed, Americans deserve to know where she stands. They should know that the Kansas governor supports late- term abortions, filthy, roach-infested abortion clinics, government as the final authority on children's health, the killing of innocent abortion survivors, and socialized medicine. Despite what Chris Matthews believes, standing up for the defenseless and the vulnerable is what public officials are supposed to do. This is just an attempt to shift the focus off the extremism of Sebelius' record. Join us in keeping this brand of extremism out of the Department of Health and Human Services. Contact your senators today and urge them to vote "no" on Sebelius. (Family Research Council)
Red Envelopes
Red Envelopes Represent Abortion Deaths
SUMMARY: 'Maybe it will change the heart of the president.'
What began as one box of red envelopes has become somewhat of a cultural phenomenon.
Christ Otto has been involved in the pro-life movement for nearly 20 years. As the pro-abortion Barack Obama took office, Otto was rightly concerned and rightly praying about the situation. "I believe God gave me an interesting idea," he says.
Enter the box of red envelopes.
Otto, 37, wants Obama to receive hundreds, thousands, millions, of empty red envelopes, symbolizing the moral outrage of abortion. "I wish we could send 50 million red envelopes, one for every child who died before having a chance to live," he says. "Maybe it will change the heart of the president."
Otto says it's a small act that could make a big statement. "People are not going to get into an argument," he says. "They're not going to stand in front of an abortion clinic. But they are going to buy an envelope and cast this vote for life."
The plan is simple:
On March 31, mail an empty red envelope to: President Barack Obama The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W. Washington, D.C. 20500
On the outside of the envelope, write:
"This envelope represents one child who died in abortion. It is empty because that life was unable to offer anything to the world. Responsibility begins with conception."
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit the Red Envelope Web site. Also, check out the dozens of Facebook groups devoted to the cause. Just type "Red envelope" into the search box.
• Pray for the success of this project, according to the perfect will of God. Next Tuesday (March 10) marks the halfway point of the 100-day window of this new administration: Day 50. May Obama's heart turn NOW towards the Cross . . . where the Savior's Blood was shed for the forgiveness of all of our sins. Amen.
• "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." (I Timothy 2:1-4)
• "Your people will volunteer freely in the day of Your power." (Psalms 110:3 NAS)
40 Days of Destruction
In the 50 days following the stock market peak of 381.17 on September 4th, 1929, the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 151.10 points or 39.6% by October 29, 1929, commonly known as the "Great Crash." When terrorists attacked New York and Washington, DC on September 11, 2001 the Dow lost 7.1% of its value and trading was suspended at 8920.70. The Dow reopened on September 17th, 2001 to precipitous losses and by September 21st had lost 14.3% and some $1.2 trillion in value-the largest one week drop in history. Some 40 days later, the market recovered most of its losses, down only 6.9% from September 11 at 8297.87.
On January 20, 2009 the Dow closed at 8729.63. Forty days later, the Dow closed at 6763.29, and the market has lost ground steadily since. In other words, the new Administration and Congress has enacted policies that will cost taxpayers over $1.2 trillion -more than the cost of the stock market decline after the 9/11 terrorist attacks-and the market has responded with losses greater than that of the terrorist attacks and nearing the levels of the "Great Crash." Since the current band of politicians took control, the stock market has lost more than 23% of its value. The current Administration and Congress in just 40 days of promoting socialist tax and spend policies has nearly destroyed the American economy.
They have accomplished in 40 days what not even Islamic terrorists could do in eight years. Homes are being repossessed; cars are being repossessed; jobs are being lost; lives are being destroyed because the immediate force of destructive policies is being realized. Yes, the previous Administration played a terrible role in setting up the destruction, but America's worst enemies could not have done a better job than Congress and the White House in destroying the nation in 40 days. Congress and the White House have declared war on you. And until you fight back, your pursuit of life, liberty and happiness will be pillaged by a government of tyranny that is out of control.
This nation is suffering because it has turned away from the Lord, and has lost its moral bearing and discernment. Our first step in this fight is to restore our national identity and relationship with the Lord. It is not the Lord's will that you be held captive to the evils of this world. Jesus told his disciples that they would do even greater things than He did. Jesus said in Luke 4:18, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He Has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord." And so, too, we should do these things.
Bill Wilson
Word of Life Ministry
www.dailyjot.com
Good News Corner
American Minute with Bill Federer - March 4
Until 1937, MARCH 4th was Inauguration Day.
Each President acknowledged faith upon assuming office, for example, President John Adams in 1797 gave:
"Veneration for the religion of a people who profess and call themselves Christians . . . to consider a decent respect for Christianity among the best recommendations for the public service."
In 1809, President James Madison referred to the:
"Guidance of that Almighty Being."
President John Quincy Adams stated in 1825:
"'Except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh in vain.'"
In 1841, President William Harrison said:
"I deem the present occasion sufficiently important . . . in expressing to my fellow citizens a profound reverence for the Christian religion."
President Franklin Pierce, in 1853, stated:
"There is no national security but in the nation's humble, acknowledged dependence upon God."
President James Buchanan, 1857, said:
"Cultivate peace . . .with all nations...in a spirit of Christian benevolence."
In 1861, President Abraham Lincoln wrote:
"Intelligence, patriotism, Christianity, and a firm reliance on Him who has never yet forsaken this favored land, are still competent to adjust in the best way all our present difficulty."
