In This Issue• On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVII, No. 21
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Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
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On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVII, Number 21a
August 2 - 6, 2010
August 2 - 6, 2010
* * DOMESTIC ISSUES * *
"Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone
according to what he has done." (Rev. 22:12)
1. SENATE TO VOTE ON ELENA KAGAN NOMINATION THIS WEEK
2. VICTORY FOR FREE SPEECH! SENATE REJECTS DISCLOSE ACT!
3. THREE BILLS INTRODUCED IN HOUSE TO END OBAMACARE/ABORTION FUNDING
4. SENATE COMMITTEE ABOLISHES MEXICO CITY POLICY
5. REPUBLICANS BLOCK SMALL BUSINESS BILL
6. ETHICS COMMITTEE DETAILS CHARGES AGAINST RANGEL
7. FEDERAL JUDGE BLOCKS KEY PROVISIONS IN ARIZONA IMMIGRATION LAW
8. HOUSE MEMBERS FORM TENTH AMENDMENT TASK FORCE
9. ONE NATION UNDER GOD WINS AGAIN
10. BILL OFFERED TO DEAL WITH A LAME-DUCK CONGRESS
11. HOUSE ADJOURNED; SENATE HAS ONE WEEK TO GO
1. SENATE TO VOTE ON ELENA KAGAN NOMINATION THIS WEEK
Harry Reid To Rush Kagan Vote At Any Moment
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is planning to force a vote on Elena Kagan's confirmation for a lifetime appointment on the U.S. Supreme Court in a matter of days. According to The Hill: "Democratic leaders plan to open debate on the Kagan nomination late Tuesday or Wednesday, which would allow just three days of debate - or possibly less, if senators hope to leave on Thursday night, as they typically do."
So . . . why is Harry Reid trying to rush Kagan's confirmation through the Senate? Senator Jeff Sessions told The Hill that Reid's rush tactic "may be an attempt to compact the nomination so the American people aren't as able to be attuned to what's occurring. The nominee isn't particularly popular with the American people. So maybe they want to force it through. It's not good."
In fact, some moderate Democrat Senators may already be wavering. Senator Sessions recently told Jason Mattera with Human Events that "a number of Democrats" are "uneasy" about the Kagan nomination and that some of them can be picked off. (Center for Individual Freedom)
More news about Elena Kagan:
1. Democrats Plan Vote on Pro-Abortion Elena Kagan Next Week, May Limit Debate
(LifeNews.com) Read more here.
2. Pro-Abortion Elena Kagan Called "Dangerous" as Fourth Republican Backs Her
(LifeNews.com) Read more here.
3. Kagan Promoted Shariah Law at Harvard
(Town Hall) Read more here.
TAKE ACTION:
You and other concerned Americans have the means to STOP the confirmation of Elena Kagan to the Supreme Court . . . but we must act quickly. Given Reid's plan to ram her confirmation through the Senate, there is literally no time to lose.
If you have not done so yet, please be sure to click here and join our online campaign to "Say NO to Kagan", and then be sure to pass it on to others you know and encourage them to do the same.
Let your voice be heard today! (Christian Coalition of America)
- Pray against all aspects of the Senate vote to confirm Ms. Elena Kagan for the Supreme Court. Mr. Reid may be cleverly fulfilling Obama's plans for the "changed" America, but he seems to have lost his soul, not knowing the Lord at all. Shame on the four Republicans who are planning to confirm Kagan. Especially, what is wrong with Senator Lindsey Graham? This man from South Carolina needs our prayers, for he professes to be a committed Christian. Ask the Lord to put strategies into the minds of those opposing this confirmation so that the plans of Mr. Reid and the left are thwarted thoroughly. A new nominee must be proposed, one who represents the values of the American people and the Bible.
- "Before the Lord, for He comes, for He comes to judge the earth; He shall judge the world with righteousness; and the people with His truth." (Psalm 96:1,3)
2. VICTORY FOR FREE SPEECH! SENATE REJECTS DISCLOSE ACT!
Tuesday afternoon, an interesting victory was won by the Republican Party in the United States Senate. All of the Republicans stuck together -- including the 3 left-wing to moderate New England Republicans -- providing a victory for the GOP and First Amendment rights for all Americans. Christian Coalition of America (CCA) [and other groups] have been working for weeks trying to defeat this disaster of a bill, which actually passed the United States House of Representatives.
By a margin of one vote in the Senate, the onerous legislation called the "Disclose Act" introduced by the Democrats to help their union boss cronies and to censor the free speech rights of their opponents, was defeated. The major immediate problem was, the Supreme Court would not have been able to strike down this clearly unconstitutional bill in time for the November elections during which the Democrats hoped to hold down the great losses they will now undoubtedly suffer. Most analysts believe the House of Representatives will revert back to the Republicans after 4 disastrous years of Democrat control under San Francisco Democrat Nancy Pelosi . . . (Christian Coalition of America) Read more
- "Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD." (Psalm 150:6)
3. THREE BILLS INTRODUCED IN HOUSE TO END OBAMACARE/ABORTION FUNDING
Before they adjourned on Friday, different members of Congress introduced three bills with essentially the same goal: to block funding of Obamacare -- in part or in whole.
To block federal funding of abortion:
On Thursday, July 29th Congressmen Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Dan Lipinski (D-IL) introduced H.R. 5939, the "No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act." So far there are 155 bipartisan cosponsors including 18 Democrats and 139 Republicans. The bill is in response to the Obama Administration trying to sneak taxpayer funded abortions into the new state "high risk" pools.
To defund Obamacare entirely:
a. In response to the flawed and massive Healthcare Bills signed into law on March 23, 2010, U.S. Rep. Tom Graves (R-GA) today introduced his first bill in Congress, H.R 5882, legislation that deauthorizes funding to carry out the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Healthcare and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010. Congressman Graves' legislation leads the charge to stop Congress from using taxpayer dollars to fund government healthcare. The legislation also works in tandem with efforts already underway to repeal and replace Obamacare.
b. HR4500: The Freedom From Rationed Health Care Act
Congressman Thaddeus McCotter has introduced this bill to DEFUND & REPEAL Obamacare. He has read all 2800 pages of the health care bill and the heart of Obamacare is : Rationing & Denying Care/ 32 million new patients added to the system/ 46% fewer providers/159 new agencies created between the doctor and the patient; Obamacare is NOT about more available, more affordable, more quality...etc. etc... If passed, HR 4500 will defund the rationing board and the enforcement board.
- Please pray for the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth, to instruct, supply, and strengthen those who are leading the charge to stop the government funding of abortion and the implementation of Obamacare, in its entirety. Offer praise for the leaders who have come forth on this issue. Intercede that patient's rights will never be placed in the hands of government leaders or agencies. Ask that all leaders be willing and open to restoring our government as the Lord leads.
- "And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them. According to all that I show you . . ." (Exodus 25:8-9a)
4. SENATE COMMITTEE ABOLISHES MEXICO CITY POLICY
Would allow funding of agencies promoting abortion overseas
While the House was busy introducing a bill to ban abortion funding, one Senate committee was passing a bill to permanently expand it. Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.), a big proponent of the State Department's team of family planning" globe trotters, slipped an amendment into the foreign appropriations bill that would make overseas abortion funding a steady fixture of U.S. spending. Under his language, the Mexico City Policy -- which blocks our government from giving financial aid to any overseas group that promotes abortion -- would be completely abolished. (Back in January, Obama signed an executive order allowing this funding to flow temporarily.)
Of course, this isn't the first time New Jersey 's Senator has tried this stunt. Last year, he snuck in a similar amendment, only to watch it die on the Senate floor. This time, Sen. Lautenberg's proposal was voted out of the Appropriations Committee (18-12) along with the rest of the bill.
Unfortunately for pro-lifers, there is plenty more to be concerned about in the overall legislation. Not only does it make abortion a permanent U.S. export, but it also funnels millions more taxpayer dollars to groups like the U.N. Population Fund, which has a history of endorsing barbaric laws like China's one-child policy.
On top of the $55 million to UNFPA, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) -- the same agency that's illegally lobbying to legalize abortion in Kenya's new constitution -- would get a $24 million raise. (To help finance other vote-buying schemes, perhaps?) Sen. Sam Brownback (R-Kans.) seemed frustrated along with the other Republicans. "It's us funding abortions overseas," he said. "There are a lot of people in the country that find this deeply offensive." It's just too bad that none of those people seem to work for this administration. (Family Research Council)
- We offer praise tonight, not that this decision has been rendered in this Senate Committee, but that we, as American citizens, have the power to evict any member of the Senate who is running for office in November, and to set in place those who honor LIFE. Pray that the full Senate be made aware of the anger of the public over this decision; and pray for the elections in November, now only 92 days away!!
- "Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them." (Acts 6:3)
5. 41 REPUBLICANS BLOCK SMALL BUSINESS BILL
The AP reports Obama's "election-year jobs agenda suffered a new setback Thursday when Senate Republicans blocked a bill creating a $30 billion government fund to help open up lending for credit-starved small businesses." Some Republicans "likened it to the unpopular bailout of the financial industry." The vote "was 58 to 42, with all 41 Republicans voting to continue the filibuster."
The New York Times notes that the bill, "championed by Senator Mary L. Landrieu, Democrat of Louisiana, had the backing" of the United States Chamber of Commerce and the National Federation of Independent Business." Also, "several Republican lawmakers also helped write it." However, the Times adds, "the vote followed several heated exchanges on the floor, in which Republicans accused Democrats of politicizing the bill and trying to deny them the opportunity to propose changes." (AP, New York Times)
- Gracious Father, we praise You for this victory! We humbly come before You and ask that You, and not Congress, be recognized as the champion of America's small businesses. We pray that You will select legislators and officials; people who honor, worship and praise You; as the ones who will ultimately reverse this dictatorial curse on our country and set her free. We pray that any monies sent to financial institutions for small business loans prior to this administration wrongfully assuming office, will be freed up, provide loans to viable small businesses and spur growth in our economy. May America's dollar and economy be blessed by You, and not further damaged by hidden global interests that hate America.
Please protect, galvanize and encourage all 41 Republican Senators who now are" fighting the good fight" based upon Your Word and Law. May they not back down. For You are the Matchless, Timeless and Holy One . . . the Great I Am. We Love You, Praise You and Thank You, Lord. In Yeshua's Name we present these petitions, ask that America be saved, and pray for many more victories over the evil one! Amen.
- "Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me. But to the wicked God says: 'What right have you to declare My statutes, or take My covenant in your mouth, seeing you hate instruction and cast My words behind you? Now consider this, you who forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be no none to deliver: whoever offers praise glorifies Me; and to him who orders his conduct aright I will show the salvation of God." (Psalm 50: 15-17 and 22-23 NKJV)
6. ETHICS COMMITTEE DETAILS CHARGES AGAINST RANGEL
Panel hits Rangel with 13 ethics charges
House investigators accused veteran New York Rep. Charles Rangel of 13 violations of congressional ethics standards on Thursday, throwing a cloud over his four-decade political career and raising worries for fellow Democrats about the fall elections.
The charges came as lawyers for Rangel and the House ethics committee worked out a plea deal, according to people familiar with the talks. But Republicans on the ethics committee indicated it was too late.
The deal between the lawyers has little meaning if the committee members don't approve it, and Republicans insisted - at the first meeting of a House panel deciding Rangel's fate - that the case go forward with an ethics trial. The panel is evenly divided between Democrats and Republicans. (AP)
- Lord continue to bring out all hidden schemes and illegal activities of our Congress. Do not let them get away with anything, and bring righteousness into our government. We pray for the soul of Charles Rangel, that he will find true repentance and the reality of Jesus Christ.
- "Let the proud be ashamed. . ." (Psalm 119:78a)
7. FEDERAL JUDGE BLOCKS KEY PROVISIONS IN ARIZONA IMMIGRATION LAW
State Heads Back to Court
Arizona's court-altered illegal immigration law went into effect just after midnight Wednesday, hours after a federal judge blocked its most controversial provisions -- including on-the-spot police checks of suspected illegal immigrants.
Soon after Judge Susan Bolton's decision was announced, a spokesman for Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer said the state will appeal the ruling to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco on Thursday, asking the appellate court for a swift decision to lift the injunction and allow the blocked provisions to take effect. Brewer vowed to take the case "all the way to the Supreme Court if necessary," in a legal process that could take years to unravel, leaving other states considering similar laws in a legislative limbo. (Fox News)
- Thank You, Lord, that Arizona plans to appeal this ruling. We ask that You prepare the hearts of all judges to see and hear the truth, and respond with righteous judgments.
- "When my enemies turn back, they shall fall and perish at Your presence."(Psalm 9:3)
8. HOUSE MEMBERS FORM TENTH AMENDMENT TASK FORCE
The Congressional 10th Amendment Task Force today introduced a House Resolution, reaffirming Congress' commitment to the principle of federalism and the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
The resolution specifically calls for "real decentralization of power" and recognizes that "the cause of liberty demands that government should be made accountable again to the consent of the governed" through the restoration of American federalism.
"The Founding Fathers' vision of a limited national government of enumerated powers has gradually given way to an intrusive, irresponsible, and virtually omnipotent national government. I am proud to be among the efforts to engaged and educate other Members of Congress on the importance of restoring federalism principles in Congress," said Congressman Rob Bishop (R-UT), co-founder of the 10th Amendment Task Force.
The following members were original co-sponsors of the resolution: 10 original co-founders of the 10th Amendment Task Force: Rep. Rob Bishop (UT-01), Marsha Blackburn (TN-07), John Culberson (TA-07), Doug Lamborn (CO-05), Scott Garrett (NJ-05), Jason Chaffetz (UT-03), Tom McClintock (CA-04), Cynthia Lummis (WY-At large), Randy Neugebauer (TX-19), Michael Conaway (TX-11) and; House Republican Conference Chairman Mike Pence (IN-06), RSC ChairmanTom Price (GA-06), Jeb Hensarling (TX-05), Joseph Pitts (PA-16), Robert Latta (OH-05), Roscoe Bartlett (MD-06), Mike Coffman (CO-06), Todd Tiahrt (KS-04), Bill Cassidy (LA-06), Tom Graves (GA-09), and Phil Gingrey (GA-11)
- Praise the Lord for the watchmen on the wall in Congress. Ask the Lord to surround this resolution with His power and might as well as the founders and co-founders of this resolution. Angels will have to shepherd this bill through the House, for many of the current members believe that they know best how to direct the lives of the great "unwashed" masses of Americans. The Lord has a different message for the elite. We must repent for allowing traitors into our government and for yielding to deception.
- "Now the God of hope fill you all with joy and peace in believing,that you may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15: 13)
9. ONE NATION UNDER GOD WINS AGAIN
In a 3-0 decision this week the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in Washington, DC, ruled that the National Motto, "In God We Trust," on coins and currency is constitutional and that it does not violate the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. Congressman Randy Forbes (R-VA) who led the fight to have "In God We Trust" engraved in the new Congressional Visitors Center said,"The phrase 'In God We Trust' has been an integral part of American society, and the very essence of those words is reflective of the principles upon which our country was founded. This Circuit Court of Appeals has rightfully recognized that our Constitution does not require the exclusion of references to God from the laws governing this nation, but rather gives us the freedom to affirm our national motto by its use on our currency. I applaud their decision." (Religious Freedom Coalition) Read more.
- Offer praise for this great victory. Praise God!
- "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)
10. DEALING WITH A LAME-DUCK CONGRESS
Last month, I wrote about the danger of the Democrats using a post-election lame duck session of Congress to ram through whatever radical ideas they could before the new Congress is sworn in. Rep. Tom Price (R-GA) has introduced a resolution that would essentially adjourn this Congress after the election -- preventing it from meeting unless there is a national emergency. The nine-page resolution reads like an indictment of Democrat malfeasance, and you can read it here. (Gary Bauer)
- Offer praise for the foresight shown by this piece of legislation, and pray that this will pass -- against all odds -- in both the House and the Senate when Congress reconvenes in September. As American citizens, we need to "hold their feet to the fire" and demand that the will of the people -- and not the will of any one political party -- prevail in the Halls of Congress. No more "dirty tricks" . . . only a nation that functions once again under the rule of law! Pray!
- "In all their distress he too was distressed, and the angel of his presence saved them." (Isaiah 63:9)
11. HOUSE ADJOURNED; SENATE HAS ONE WEEK TO GO
The House went into recess on Friday and will not return until after Labor Day. Wednesday GOP Conference Chairman Mike Pence told me that Republicans would spend the next five weeks working to promote their agenda. Virtually every Republican will hold multiple town hall meetings. On the other hand, most Democrats are hiding from the atrocious policies of President Obama will not hold any town hall meetings at all.
The Senate will not adjourn until sometime next week. (William Murray; Religious Freedom Coalition)
- Pray that millions of citizens across our land will hear about the Town Hall Meetings to be scheduled in their areas, and will flood those town halls to let their voices be heard. And may Congress take heed to their message! No matter how deceived certain leaders may be in your nation's capitol, when all is said and done, the power rests in the hands of the people to determine who will rule (serve) over us.
- "Your people shall volunteer freely in the day of Your power." (Psalm 110:3 NAS)
On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVII, No. 21b
* * INTERNATIONAL ISSUES * *
1. FEDS ADMIT TERRORISTS ENTER U.S. FROM MEXICO
2. HOUSE REPUBLICANS GIVE GREEN LIGHT FOR ISRAELI STRIKE ON IRAN
3. IRANIAN COMMANDER STRESSES IRAN'S INTEL SUPREMACY OVER ENEMIES
4. ENVOY WARNS ABOUT IRAN'S STRONG RESPONSE TO ISRAELI ATTACK
5. EX-CIA CHIEF: STRIKE ON IRAN SEEMS MORE LIKELY NOW
6. BARAK: IF HIZBULLAH ATTACKS, WE'LL STRIKE LEBANESE GOVERNMENT
7. EGYPT'S FOREIGN MINISTER RESPONDS TO HIZBULLAH THREATS OF VIOLENCE
8. ISRAEL WELCOMES NEW EU SANCTIONS ON IRAN
9. OBAMA SPENT $23 MILLION BACKING PRO-ABORTION KENYAN CONSTITUTION
10. SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST FOR KENYAN ELECTION
1. FEDS ADMIT TERRORISTS ENTER US FROM MEXICO
Richard Stana, General Accounting Office director for homeland security and justice, said in a report issued July 22, "These [drug trafficking] organizations collect fees from alien smuggling organizations for the use of specific smuggling routes, and available reporting indicates that some Mexican drug trafficking organizations specialize in smuggling special-interest aliens into the United States." Those "special interest aliens" are individuals associated with terrorist organizations. The far left, which includes President Obama, is so set on having "open borders" that the terrorists are just allowed to stroll into the USA. Indeed Obama tried, in a speech on July 1st, to discourage Americans from even thinking that we can protect our borders. He stated, "But our borders are just too vast for us to be able to solve the problem only with fences and border patrols." (Religious Freedom Coalition)
- Dr. Obama has announced his prognosis to Americans (his patient), but we know that we do not have to believe anything that threatens our life, for we have the Lord on our side when we repent. It sounds as if the "audacity of hope" just slipped out the back door, but our prayers stand at the front door forbidding the entrance of wickedness into our country. Pray for the state of Arizona that calls for the health of our nation from the influx of terrorists into our country. Pray that the rest of the fifty states stand with Arizona and demand safety for our nation. Now is not the time for politics but for action against terrorists. Ask the Lord to call forth His warrior angels to stand at our borders, terrifying the terrorists.
- "Every word of God is pure; He is a shield unto them that put their trust in Him." (Proverbs 30:5)
2. HOUSE REPUBLICANS GIVE GREEN LIGHT FOR ISRAELI STRIKE ON IRAN
Nearly one third of the Republican congressmen in the U.S. House of Representatives have introduced a resolution that would support Israel's right to use "all means necessary to confront and eliminate nuclear threats posed by Iran", including military force.
The resolution was introduced by Rep. Louie Gohmert [R-Texas] and 46 co-sponsors.
House Resolution 1553 "condemns the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran for its threats of 'annihilating' the United States and the State of Israel, for its continued support of international terrorism, and for its incitement of genocide of the Israeli people."
It "supports using all means of persuading the Government of Iran to stop building and acquiring nuclear weapons" and pledges that the U.S. will ensure that Israel "continues to receive critical economic and military assistance, including missile defense capabilities, needed to address the threat of Iran."
In addition, it "expresses support for Israel's right to use all means necessary to confront and eliminate nuclear threats posed by Iran, defend Israeli sovereignty, and protect the lives and safety of the Israeli people, including the use of military force if no other peaceful solution can be found within a reasonable time."
(Israel National News) Read more.
- Offer praise for the bold action taken by these members of Congress on behalf of Israel as she defends herself against the Iranian threat. Pray for the protection of each member and his or her family who supported this resolution. Pray!
- "He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart." (Psalm 91:4)
3. COMMANDER STRESSES IRAN'S INTELLIGENCE SUPREMACY OVER ENEMIES
A senior commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) warned western powers about the severe consequences of their possible military aggression against Iran, saying the country can repel all enemy attacks due to its intelligence supremacy.
Zonnour stressed that Tehran has already identified enemies' weaknesses. He further warned the country's foes of retaliatory measures in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz should they take any action against Iran. Iran will act correspondingly in the world's most strategic waterway if its enemies decide to make global shipping routes unsafe for the country's cargo ships, Zonnour warned.
The Strait of Hormuz, the entrance to the strategic Persian Gulf waterway, is a major oil shipping route. An estimated 40 percent of the world's oil supply passes through the waterway. (IMRA - Independent Media Review and Analysis) Read more.
- Talk is cheap and so is sword rattling! Are we intimidated sufficiently by the words of Iran? Certainly not! Praise the Lord that He hates threats of wickedness and stealing - world peace. Is the Lord setting up circumstances for Armageddon? Pray that people will be saved, that the Word of the Gospel continues to spread throughout Iran. The Lord did not place oil in the earth for one country to stand in the way of the distribution of oil to nations' industries. Pray for a distraction of Iran's attention away from its boasting and onto its people.
- "So speak you, and do so, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty." (James 2:12)
4. ENVOY WARNS ABOUT IRAN'S STRONG RESPONSE TO ISRAELI ATTACK
Tehran's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Mohammad Khazaee warned that Iran will demolish Tel Aviv in case of an Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear facilities. The Iranian diplomat underlined Iran's right to use nuclear energy for civilian purposes, and said Tehran's withdrawal from its right stances would encourage enemies.
The remarks by the Iranian envoy came after recent reports said that Republicans in the House of Representatives have introduced a measure that would green-light an Israeli bombing campaign against Iran. The resolution provides explicit support for military strikes against Iran, stating that Congress supports Israel's use of "all means necessary" against Iran "including the use of military force".(IMRI) Read more.
- Offer praise to the Lord for the strong stand that the U.S. Congress has taken, supporting Israel's right to respond to the Iranian threat "by all means necessary." Israel is a formidable foe; pray that, somehow, the threats uttered by Iranian officials will diminish, and they will instead "see the light" and stand down. Pray!
- "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5:16)
5. EX-CIA CHIEF: STRIKE ON IRAN SEEMS MORE LIKELY NOW
A former CIA director says military action against Iran now seems more likely because no matter what the U.S. does diplomatically, Tehran keeps pushing ahead with its suspected nuclear program. Michael Hayden, a CIA chief under President George W. Bush, says that during his tenure a strike was "way down the list" of options. But he tells CNN's "State of the Union" that such action now "seems inexorable." He predicts Iran will build its program to the point where it's just below having an actual weapon. Hayden says that would be as destabilizing to the region as the real thing.
U.S. officials have said military action remains an option if sanctions fail to deter Iran. Iran says its nuclear work is for peaceful purposes such as power generation. (AP)
- We know that our military officials have been preparing for a possible strike against Iran's nuclear facilities for a long time, so this is now not a question of "if" but "when." Shadowy figures behind the scenes often determine (or think They can determine) a timetable for such attacks, but it is the Hand of God that governs in the affairs of men. Pray that our leaders will all know and hear the voice of the Most High God in any and all military planning regarding Iran.
- "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." (Psalm 32:8)
6. BARAK: IF HIZBULLAH ATTACKS, WE'LL STRIKE LEBANESE GOVERNMENT
Defense Minister Ehud Barak said in an interview to the Washington Post [published] on Monday [July 26] that if Hizbullah resumes firing rockets at Israel, the Israel Defense Forces [IDF] will respond with a direct attack on Lebanese government institutions.
In an interview to the American paper ahead of his landing in the United States for an official visit, the defense minister warned that Israel would strike directly at the Lebanese government, since it is allowing Hizbullah to rearm. He said that if Hizbullah fires rockets at Tel Aviv, "we will not run after each Hizbullah terrorist or launcher. We will see it as legitimate to hit any target that belongs to the Lebanese state, not just to Hizbullah."
Barack also commented on the Iranian nuclear program, and said that Jerusalem and Washington share the same "diagnosis" that Iran is "determined to reach nuclear military capability." But he acknowledged "there are differences about what could be done about it, how it should be done, and what (is) the timeframe within which certain steps could be taken. It's still time for sanctions," Barak said in the interview Friday [July 23] in his office at the Defense Ministry in Tel Aviv, but "probably, at a certain point, we should realize that sanctions cannot work." (Bridges for Peace)
- Pray that the Lord will protect the northern borders of Israel from any attack, confounding Hizbullah in any scheme that they might have to move against the Land.
- "I will lift up my eyes to the hills-from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber not sleep." (Psalm 121:1-4)
7. EGYPT'S FOREIGN MINISTER RESPONDS TO HIZBULLAH THREATS OF VIOLENCE
Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmad Aboul Gheit warned on Monday [July 26] that attempts to resolve regional issues by the use of force would undermine the stability of Lebanon, an apparent reference to Hizbullah chief Na'srallah's recent threat to resort to violence if and when his group is accused in the assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Al-Hariri [that took place] five years ago.
The Special Lebanese Tribunal (SLT), an investigation into the Al-Hariri killing, is due to announce indictments and Na'srallah said this week that he expects members of his group to be among those indicted. He has referred to the SLT as "an Israeli project."
Regional leaders are moving to head-off instability in Lebanon. King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, Syrian President Bashar Al-Asad, and Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani are all due to visit Beirut beginning with King Abdullah on Friday [July 30]. (By The Media Line, July 27, 2010)
[Reported by: Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that these governments will continue to be a moderating force, keeping Hizbullah from attacking Israel.
- "I will deliver you from the hand of the wicked, and I will redeem you from the grip of the terrible." (Jeremiah 15:21)
8. ISRAEL WELCOMES NEW EU SANCTIONS ON IRAN
Israel has welcomed new European Union sanctions on Iran over their nuclear program, with a press statement posted on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Web site calling the action by the EU a "significant step." The UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office Web site in its news section on Monday [July 26] said the sanctions are stronger than recent United Nations' measures and include restrictions on the Iranian oil and gas industries and new limitations on their finance, transport and trade sectors.
Prime Minister's Office spokesman Mark Regev spoke with Bridges for Peace about Israel's response to the new sanctions and said the sanctions send "a clear message to Iran that it should abide by the demands of the international community. Iran must pay a price for continuing to move ahead on its dangerous and reckless nuclear policies."
Israel has been calling for sanctions on Iran's gas and oil industries for a while. Said Regev on the new EU sanctions that target those sectors, "These sanctions are good sanctions, they are ratcheting up the pressure on the Iranian regime to abandon its nuclear program. I think if Iran continues to thumb its nose at the international community, to aggressively pursue nuclear weapons, then I think we have to continue to ratchet up the pressure on that regime. Ultimately the leadership in Iran must understand that its nuclear program is unacceptable to the international community."
When asked about how hopeful he was that the new sanctions would be effective and Iran actually learn from them, Regev said, "Iran has to understand that it cannot have normal relations with the international community and continue to pursue its dangerous and aggressive nuclear program. If the international community acts firmly, if the international community puts very intense pressure on Iran, this could well make the difference." (By Joshua Spurlock, BFP Israel Mosaic Radio, July 27, 2010)
- Pray for a firm resolve among the nations of the world to further marginalize the nation of Iran, putting increasing pressure on that nation to abandon its "dangerous and reckless nuclear policies."
- "Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; defend me from those who rise up against me. Deliver me from the workers of iniquity, and save me from bloodthirsty men." (Psalm 59:1-2)
9. OBAMA SPENT $23 MILLION BACKING PRO-ABORTION KENYAN CONSTITUTION
[Reprinted from last week's edition.]
Obama is apparently so committed to the abortion industry that he's using American tax dollars to help Kenya adopt a constitution that enshrines abortion as a constitutional right.
Fox News recently reported that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has estimated that more than $23 million of taxpayer dollars had been used in support of the new pro-abortion Kenyan constitution. The use of taxpayer dollars to lobby for abortion overseas is a violation of the Siljander Amendment. According to New Jersey Rep. Chris Smith, "U.S. law is being violated with impunity." Smith said the U.S. shouldn't be funding either side, but in reality, "we're bankrolling the 'yes' campaign."
Smith noted: "If violations of the law have occurred, which on the face of it they have, the information must be brought before law enforcement. Not even presidents are above the law."
The pro-abortion Kenyan constitution wasn't even written by Kenyans. It was written by U.S.-funded Non-Governmental Organizations in cooperation with Planned Parenthood. TVC has joined with more than 175 other organizations through the World Congress of Families to protest the passage of the pro-abortion constitution on August 4. In a petition to the Kenyan people, the World Congress of Families states: We declare our solidarity with those Kenyans who are standing up for the most vulnerable among us - the unborn child and his or her mother - and support the 'No' campaign." TVC stands in solidarity with this effort to protect the unborn in Obama's ancestral homeland. He obviously won't. (Traditional Values Coalition)
- The constitutional crisis that Kenya now faces has been engineered by Obama and his Cousin, Odinga. As Americans, we weep in REPENTANCE that $23 million of our own tax money has been invested into the nation of Kenya, in order to sway these voters to vote FOR "CHANGE," as ours did here. We understand that that "change," if adopted, will sanction the shedding of innocent blood through government-funded abortions AND the gradual, but certain, implementation of SHARIAH LAW in the nation of Kenya.
Stand in the gap for our nation, as we cry out for mercy to God for this heinous deed. Ask that, by His grace, the curse of the government - sanctioned shedding of innocent blood not fall upon the people of Kenya. Sever the cords in the spirit of any and all wicked alliances between the governments of Kenya and the United States, and pray that captives be set free to find our Messiah. Pray!
- "The LORD is righteous; He has cut in pieces the cords of the wicked." (Psalm 129:4)
10. SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST FOR KENYAN ELECTION
Referendum on new Constitution will be held on Wednesday, August 4th.
Dear Saints,
The vote for a new constitution for Kenya will be held on August 4, 2010. If a "yes" vote prevails, abortion will be legalized, courts of sharia law will be established, religious liberty for Christian evangelism stopped, the wealth and resources of the country bled off for the global elite.
The new constitution is written in such a way that is is virtually impossible for it to be amended if it is enacted. So the stakes in this election are very high, not just for Kenya, but for all of Africa and for us here in the US.
WE need to repent for our sins ,as a country, for pouring in millions of taxpayer dollars to influence the election and to buy off leaders. We are to remit these sins to the Lord, and leave the judgment of the men involved to God.
Prayer Points:
1) That the eyes of the hearts of all Kenyans be enlightened by the truth of the Holy Spirit; that all lies be exposed; that His Light dispel all darkness and confusion.
2) That we acknowledge our sins as a nation and remit them to the cross so the Lord may have mercy on our land.
3) That intercessors and gate keepers accurately hear from the Lord and see clearly the war in the heavenlies, that we may stand in witness agreement with what He is doing as His angels war against demonic hosts in the second heaven. We can then declare His victory here upon the earth.
4) That Kenya come into her God ordained destiny as a nation and the newly formed unity of the churches prevail.
Please pray for Kenya, not just for the election, but throughout the month of August, that there be no violence and that peace prevail.
From: Friends of Kenya
- Please pray in agreement with these prayer points and please remember to pray over this election on Wednesday. As of this writing, the polls in Nairobi show that the new constitution has very strong support . .. only a miracle can turn this around. Ask God for a miracle for Kenya!
- "For nothing is impossible with God." (Luke 1:37)
A Note to Our Readers
CHPP Announces New Publishing Schedule
Dear Friends,
At the end of this week, Congress will go out of session for the summer district work period; and will resume their business after Labor Day. Accordingly, "On Capitol Hill This Week" will not be published until further notice.
Please stay tuned for more details about our adjusted publishing schedule later this week.
Thank you!!
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
JUDGE (Sho-fayt)
"And the heavens proclaim his righteousness, for God himself is judge. " (Psalm 50:6)
Father,
Thank You that You do not give me what I so often deserve. But because of the Blood of Yeshua, You give me so much more. Thank You, Sho-fayt, Judge. Thank You for Your perfect judgment.
"I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High." (Psalm 9:2)
(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)
