In This Issue• On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 4a
• Focus on Lebanon
• Special Prayer for the IDF
• PLO Raises Flag in Washington
• This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
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On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XVIII, Number 4a
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
January 24 - 28, 2011
"I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security." (Jeremiah 33:6)
On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 4a
1. START TREATY STALLS IN RUSSIA
2. UN ARAB RIGHTS COMMITTEE CALLS FOR END TO ISRAELI SETTLEMENTS
3. U.S. SUPPORTS "PALESTINE" IN U.N. RESOLUTION
4. OBAMA FORMING MIDEAST "TASK FORCE"
5. PLO FLAG RISES IN WASHINGTON
6. JORDAN P.M.: RELATIONS WITH ISRAEL AT LOWEST POINT SINCE PEACE ACCORD
7. RUSSIAN PRESIDENT TAKES HISTORIC MIDDLE EAST TOUR
8. EU's ASHTON CALLS FOR QUARTET TALKS
9. IRANIAN WARSHIPS COMING TO MEDITERRANEAN AND RED SEAS
1. START TREATY STALLS IN RUSSIA
You thought last year's ratification of a treaty with Russia to cut nuclear weapons was difficult? Just try getting a follow-up through the Kremlin - and the Senate, or even the Pentagon. President Obama's nuke-free-world vision looks further out of focus.
The New START treaty sets a limit of 1,550 warheads and 800 launchers for the U.S. and Russian nuclear arsenals. Except those caps are for the major bombs, the ones that can incinerate cities halfway around the world. The treaty wasn't designed to curb the smaller, artillery-shell-ready nukes that each side possesses for possible use in a land war. Russian officials sound like they're fine with keeping it that way.
The Russian foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, said nyet Thursday to early U.S. signals for negotiating away so-called tactical nuclear weapons. Before any accord on cutting tactical nukes, Lavrov announced, the New START levels of strategic weapons has to be reached, which will take years. (Wired.com) Read more.
- Lord, we praise You that even Russia sees flaws in the START treaty, although from a different perspective than the U.S. We ask that You grant wisdom to our leaders to see dangerous wording and plans which are not advantageous, so that the treaty will be reversed.
-"The Lord will protect him, and keep him alive; he shall be called blessed in the land; and You will not deliver him to the will of his enemies." (Psalm 41:2)
2. UN ARAB RIGHTS COMMITTEE CALLS FOR END TO ISRAELI SETTLEMENTS
On Monday, the United Nations Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People called on all member nations to take steps to compel Israel to end its alleged "illegal" settlement activity in Arab-occupied territory, including the eastern section of Jerusalem, warning that such actions preclude the possibility of peace.
The Committee said in a statement, "The international community should send a clear and unambiguous message: settlement activity is illegal and incompatible with peace. It must stop. This is imperative for having credible negotiations that can achieve the stated objective of the peace process," it added, referring to various UN resolutions and internationally agreed objectives based on a two-State solution, with Israel and an Arab terrorist State living side by side in peace.
- As regular readers of this newsletter know, Jewish settlements in Judea and Samaria are not illegal under international law, despite the fact that the UN , US, EU, and others keep trying to make others believe they are. (Emet News Service) The Word is true; and in the latter days, all nations will turn against Israel. As we see this fact now unfolding before our very eyes, pray yet for the peace of Jerusalem, and be ready to lead others to Messiah, as you can.
- "On that day, when all the nations of the earth are gathered against her, I will make Jerusalem an immovable rock for all the nations. All who try to move it will injure themselves." (Zech. 12:3)
3. U.S. SUPPORTS "PALESTINE" IN U.N. RESOLUTION
U.S. to withhold veto from Palestinian UN move to condemn Israeli settlements
Non-veto would spark a US-Israel crisis
Barack Obama is about to withhold the US veto from a Palestinian-Arab motion due to be tabled at the UN Security Council condemning Israel for its settlement policy in the West Bank and Jerusalem, debkafile's Washington sources report. If he does, he will be the first US president to let an anti-Israel motion go through the Security Council and building on the West Bank and even in the forty-year old suburbs of East Jerusalem would become illegal. (Debkafile) Read more
- Father God, we know You to be a just God, so we cringe at reports like these. America is defying her covenenant with Zion, and threatening the "apple of Your eye." Therefore, like the Israelites of old, we know not how to pray, except to yet ask, Holy One, that you would show mercy in the midst of the judgment that is surely to come. Thank You, Lord God, for hearing our prayers, in Your Name, amen.
- " . . . we know [not] what to do, but our eyes are upon You." (2 Chronicles 20:12)
4. OBAMA FORMING MIDEAST "TASK FORCE"
As chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's emissary Yitzhak Molcho continue their separate talks in Washington with US special envoy to the Middle East George Mitchell, the Obama administration is looking for new ideas to jumpstart the peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians. The POLITICO website reported Thursday that the Obama administration is seeking new ideas from diplomats and former administration officials familiar with the Mideast conflict and on how to advance the peace process.
Officially, the administration is attempting to maintain "business as usual", stressing that the parties must relaunch direct talks on the core issues. Behind the scenes, however, Washington sources say they are disappointed by the fact that both Israel and the Palestinians are failing to provide specific answers to the American bridging efforts in terms of borders and security. (Ynet News) To read the names of those who are now involved in these behind-the-scenes talks, go here.
- Should any of these parties read the Scriptures, they would know why all their attempts to solve the Middle East "conflict" has no man-made answers. Only the Lord can solve the problem. Pray that God will cause this "stumbling block" in the peace negotiations to turn the hearts of the unsaved towards Him, for only Yahweh is the source of all wisdom. Amen.
- "And it shall be in that day," says the Lord, "That you will call Me 'My Husband' and no longer call Me 'My Master." (Hosea 2: 16)
5. PLO FLAG RISES IN WASHINGTON
The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) hoisted its flag Tuesday above the brick building housing its offices in Washington, D.C. The Palestinian Authority (PA/PLO) also has their office there. They have also been allowed to call themselves "the General Delegation of the PLO," conforming to how they describe their missions in Europe, Canada, and several Latin American countries." Previously, they were known as a "bureau." They do not, however, have embassy status. But Ghaith al-Omari of the American Task Force on Palestine said Arab officials understood that permission to fly the flag represents "political dividends" for "improving security and governance" in Judea and Samaria. When the decision was made last year to allow the PLO to fly its flag and change its designation, the State Department made it clear that nothing else has changed. "There has been no change in the status of the Palestinian mission here in Washington," State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said. " (Emet News Service) Read more below . .
- Yahweh said to Joshua, "Do not be afraid of them, for I will deliver them into your hands; not one of them shall withstand you." Yahweh threw them into a panic before Israel: Joshua inflicted a crushing defeat on them at Gibeon, pursued them in the direction of the Beth-horon ascent, and harried them all the way to Azekah and Makkedah. While they were fleeing before Israel down the descent from Beth-horon, Yahweh hurled huge stones on them from the sky, all the way to Azekah, and they perished; more perished from the hailstones than were killed by the Israelite weapons. (Joshua 10:8,10-11)
6. JORDAN P.M.: RELATIONS WITH ISRAEL AT LOWEST POINT SINCE PEACE ACCORD
Jordanian Prime Minister Samir Rifai said Sunday that relations between Israel and Jordan are the lowest point they have been since the peace agreement was signed between the two countries.
Rifai explained Qatari newspaper Al-Shark that the reason for this deterioration in diplomatic ties is because of "the settlement building policy, the unilateral steps that Israel adopts and the continued human rights violations against the Palestinian people." (Jerusalem Post) Read more.
- Another sign of these times is until recently, Jordan stood with Israel, and now even this nation is backing off. The global hatred of Israel is becoming insane, just as Scripture foretold. Praise God His Word is true! In the end, all nations that come against Israel will be destroyed, and she will survive, to know her Messiah.
- "On that day I will make the clans of Judah like a firepot in a woodpile, like a flaming torch among sheaves. They will consume all the surrounding peoples right and left, but Jerusalem will remain intact in her place." (Zech. 12:6)
7. RUSSIAN PRESIDENT TAKES HISTORIC MIDDLE EAST TOUR
One week ago, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev began a historic Middle East tour, sending a message to the world that "Palestinians are ready for statehood and independence." Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas held a joint press conference in Jericho with Medvedev, and the two planned to sign agreements in agriculture, sports and communications. As one of the first nations to recognize the Palestinian state in 1988, Medvedev reaffirmed Russia's position and has granted Palestinians full diplomatic representation in Moscow. (Intercessors for America)
- Pray for continued security and economic blessing for Israel and her leaders. Intercede for wisdom, discretion and a godly perspective for US leaders in their diplomacy towards Israel, especially as nations are aligning with Palestine and those in support of Israel may find themselves isolated in the days ahead. Give thanks for Canada and Greece who are currently strong allies of Israel. Intercede that the hearts of Israelis would find their hope and trust in God, and recognize Him as their true "alliance" and everlasting Redeemer.
- "We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts." (2 Peter 1:19)
8. EU's ASHTON CALLS FOR QUARTET TALKS
The EU foreign policy chief called on Thursday for the Quartet of Middle East mediators to meet early next month to help Israel and the Palestinians overcome the deadlock in peace talks. With negotiations in limbo for the past three months, the European Union's Catherine Ashton said the EU, Russia, the United States, and United Nations should schedule a high-level meeting to revive the peace process and put it back on track.
"I propose the Quartet meet as soon as possible to help find a solution to the current impasse. The Munich Security Conference in early February offers a good opportunity," Ashton said at the end of a two-day visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories. "My trip to the region so early in the year is an expression of my personal commitment and that of the European Union and its 27 member states to peace in the Middle East," she said. "I have urged both Israelis and Palestinians to find a satisfactory way to engage without delay in substantive negotiations on all final-status issues. There is no alternative to a negotiated solution," she added in a statement.
Washington succeeded in relaunching direct talks between Israel and the Palestinians in early September, only to see the negotiation grind to a halt three weeks later when Israel's partial moratorium on building in Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank expired. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas refuses to return to talks until Israel freezes construction on land it captured in a 1967 war. Senior US envoys were due in the region at the weekend in the latest bid to break the impasse.
Ashton visited the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, where Orthodox Christians, Copts and the Ethiopian Church were about to celebrate their Christmas. Abbas was also in Bethlehem to attend midnight mass. (Reuters)
- Too bad that the members of the EU have visions of grandiose legacies for solving the problems of the Israeli/Palestinian conflict instead of seeing the Word of God in the Bible. Pray for Israel's firm stand against any manipulation of its land by people who have no business in interfering. Israel needs its settlements for the Jews making aliyah. Ashton probably means well, but she has no idea what she is talking about. The EU must pray about and focus instead on its Moslem problems and terrorism in European countries.
- "The nations also will know that I, the Lord, sanctify Israel when My sanctuary is in their midst forever." (Ezekiel 37:28)
9. IRANIAN WARSHIPS COMING TO MEDITERRANEAN AND RED SEAS
Less than 24 hours after the breakdown of its nuclear dialogue with the six world powers in Istanbul, Iran announced plans Sunday, Jan. 23, to send a fleet of warships, including a home-made destroyer, on operational and intelligence-gathering missions to the Red Sea and on to the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal. debkafile's military sources: Parts of the fleet will in fact be deployed in the three waters around Israel's southern and western shores.
Tehran is taking advantage of the lack of military and diplomatic momentum on the part of US and Israel for a naval thrust to expand its range of operations and encroach on their areas of control.
It is also a rapid response to the arrival of the USS Enterprise carrier with a strike group carrying 6,000 sailors and marines and 80 warplanes in the Mediterranean at the end of last week on its way to the Arabian Sea opposite Iran. British ex-Prime Minister Tony Blair's call on the West to stop apologizing and react to Iran with force was not lost on the rulers of the Islamic Republic.
- "Rescue me, LORD, from evildoers; protect me from the violent, who devise evil plans in their hearts and stir up war every day. They make their tongues as sharp as a serpent's; the poison of vipers is on their lips.. . . Do not grant the wicked their desires, LORD; do not let their plans succeed." (Psalm 140:1-3, 8)
Focus on Lebanon
Special Section: FOCUS ON LEBANON
Tonight, the nation of Lebanon is in a state of turmoil. Because Lebanon is Israel's neighbor on her northern border, this situation bears close watching and prayer.
The following report was issued by Intercessors for Israel, in Jerusalem, dated Friday, January 21.
The UN Tribunal report on the assassination of former Lebanese PM Rafik Hariri is also due out this week. Pre-reports say that Iran's top religious leader, some of Syria's leadership and Hizbullah are all going to be indicted. Hizbullah has already pulled out of the Lebanese government - causing it to fall.
a) Again, release the truth. May it be shouted from the rooftops so that all will hear.
- Give much wisdom and courage to the nations and their leaders on how to respond to the final results of this investigation.
- Use the truth in this report to wake up world leaders - especially US President Obama and French President Sarkozy - both of whom talk of supporting an independent Lebanon. Urge them to walk their talk!
- Bring Hizbullah - this murderous terrorist organization - to shame and destroy it.
-Behold, he travails with iniquity, has conceived mischief, and brought forth falsehood. He made a pit . . . and is fallen into the ditch which he made. His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own scalp. (Psa.7:14-16)
b) Take advantage of this and save as many Hizbullah terrorists as possible.
- Fill their faces with shame; that they may seek Your name, O LORD. (Psa. 83:16)
c) Use this report to cut off the ties between Iran, Syria and Hizbullah.
- Let them all be confounded and turned back that hate Zion. (Psa. 129:5)
d) Destroy the world's false thinking that it is better to have any sort of "peace" than to deal with terrorists with military might and end their reign of terror.
- For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; (Rom. 1:18)
e) Protect the true Church in Lebanon from anything that is not of You.
Special Prayer for the IDF
Special Prayer for the Israeli Defense Force (IDF)
(Source: Intercessors for Israel)
4. With all that is happening up north in Lebanon, as well as the continual rocket attacks from Gaza down south, the IDF needs to be super alert. Also, there is controversy surrounding Yoav Golant, who is the one chosen to replace Gabi Ashkenazi as the IDF Chief of Staff.
- Yeshua, captain of the hosts of the LORD, ease enable the transition between Ashkenazi and Golant - or whomever You want to be in that position - to be smooth and soon.
- Protect all of the IDF's intelligence contacts in both Lebanon and Gaza.
- Provide them with accurate, up-to-date intelligence information and a safe method to transfer it to the IDF.
- Raise up many Rahabs to help Israel - and bless them mightily with a revelation of Yourself.
- If the IDF needs to make a pre-emptive strike on Hizbullah, give the leadership wisdom, courage and the correct strategy and tactics.
- Do not allow Israel to be more merciful with Your enemies than You are.
In that day will I make the governors [allufim = generals in modern Hebrew] of Judah like an hearth of fire among the wood, and like a torch of fire in a sheaf. They shall devour all the people round about, on the right hand and on the left: and Jerusalem shall be inhabited again in her own place, even in Jerusalem. (Zech. 12:6)
- Enable the IDF to totally destroy these two terror organizations - although have as much mercy as possible on the terrorists and save many.
- May Israel's Home Front Command and her citizens show great courage and fortitude in the next war - as it is predicted that Israel will be under a huge missile barrage.
- Yet, through it all we trust in You and Your promises.
Behold, He that guards Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.
(Psa. 121:4) He that scattered Israel will gather him, and guard him, as a shepherd does his flock.(Jer. 31:10)
PLO Raises Flag in Washington
Members of Congress Protest
The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) hoisted its flag Tuesday above the brick building housing its offices in Washington, D.C. The Palestinian Authority (PA/PLO) also has their office there. They have also been allowed to call themselves "the General Delegation of the PLO," conforming to how they describe their missions in Europe, Canada, and several Latin American countries." Previously, they were known as a "bureau." They do not, however, have embassy status. But Ghaith al-Omari of the American Task Force on Palestine said Arab officials understood that permission to fly the flag represents "political dividends" for "improving security and governance" in Judea and Samaria. When the decision was made last year to allow the PLO to fly its flag and change its designation, the State Department made it clear that nothing else has changed. "There has been no change in the status of the Palestinian mission here in Washington," State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said. "
It operates under guidance provided by the State Department. It does not have any diplomatic privileges or immunities." PLO representation in Washington was made illegal under a number of laws in the mid 1980s, when the group was regarded as a terrorist group under the leadership of master terrorist Yasir Arafat. Since 1993, at the launch of the Oslo peace process, US presidents [George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama ] have exercised their prerogative to waive the ban every six months. Obama and his predecessor, George W. Bush, have cultivated the PLO and its leadership of the PA/PLO as a means of stemming the influence of Hamas, a radical Islamist terrorist group which won a landslide victory in democratically-held elections in 2006 to lead the PA/PLO.
A number of lawmakers have sought to reinstate the ban, saying the Palestinian Authority has not moderated enough, citing among other factors the Palestinian refusal to enter direct negotiations. US House Foreign Affairs Committee chairwoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Fla) was among those opposing the flag raising. "Raising this flag in D.C. is part of the Palestinian leadership's scheme to manipulate acceptance and diplomatic recognition of a yet-be-be-created Palestinian state, while refusing to directly negotiate with Israel or accept the existence of Israel as a democratic, Jewish state," Ros-Lehtinen said in a statement. "[It's] part of the same strategy aimed at extracting concessions without being required to meet international commitments." "The US has reinforced Ram'Allah's [the city where the headquarters of the PA/PLO is located in Israel.--ed] rejectionism through economic and political support, including support for the PLO office in Washington, instead of requiring they meet all conditions in US law," she said. (Jerusalem Post, CBN)
- Lord God, lay Your hand on this snare of the enemy on our land and cleanse us. We declare by the power of God vested in us that there will be no recognition by America nor the international community of this Palestinians' diplomatic mission in Washington, D.C. By the blood of Jesus, and the Word of God, Jerusalem and all the Land of Israel was given to the Jews as their homeland. No act of man shall dislodge this truth nor topple this Word from God. In Jesus Name.
- "And the Lord said unto Abram, Lift up now your eyes, and look from the place where you are northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward: For all the Land which you see, to you will I give it, and to your seed forever. Arise, walk through the Land in the length of it and in the breadth of it; for I will give it unto you." (Genesis 13:14,15,17)
On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XVIII, No. 4b
1. MORE THAN 200,000 MARCH FOR LIFE IN WASHINGTON
2. OBAMA TO GIVE STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS ON TUESDAY NIGHT
3. OBAMACARE REPEALED IN HOUSE; SENATE MAY FOLLOW SUIT
4. THREE SENATORS INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO CUT SPENDING
5. NET NEUTRALITY COULD FACE LEGAL BATTLE
6. IN CHINA: WHICH GIRL WOULD DIE, MR. PRESIDENT?
7. MONTANA LAWMAKER'S NEW PROPOSAL WOULD HIT FEDS WITH CHARGES
8. HAWAII WON'T RELEASE OBAMA'S BIRTH INFORMATION
9. IN NEW JERSEY, A JUDGE FOR HAMAS
10. LIST OF 27 STATES SUING OVER OBAMACARE
11. HOUSE SPEAKER INTRODUCES NO TAXPAYER FUNDING FOR ABORTION ACT
12. REP. GABRIELLE GIFFORDS MOVED TO REHAB CENTER IN HOUSTON
1. MORE THAN 200,000 MARCH FOR LIFE IN WASHINGTON
More than 200,000+ pro-life Americans from every Christian denomination of all ages, faiths and creeds are marching together in Washington, partly in protest of the infamous 1973 Roe v. Wade decision, which usurped and nullified state laws restricting the practice of abortion, and partly in joyous celebration of the sanctity of human life and the principle of the Right to Life.
Meanwhile, at the White House, USA Today reports that "President Obama echoed his support for abortion rights today, the 38th anniversary of the Supreme Court's pro-choice decision in Roe v. Wade. 'Government should not intrude on private family matters,' Obama said in a statement, adding that he also supports policies to prevent 'unintended pregnancies.'"
• Heavenly Father, may the Marches for Life in Washington, D.C. and across America continue to grow and not diminish. May pro-life activities, organizations and efforts prosper and achieve their goals! May pro-life people be encouraged in spirit and redouble their efforts to defend life and the unborn. May the sanctity of human life be celebrated and may Americans stand up for life in increasing numbers until American government resumes its responsibility to protect the unborn, and not support their abuse and murder. We pray that God would intervene against all governmental actions which support abortions, euthanasia, and embryonic stem cell research
- "Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord; the fruit of the womb is His reward." (Psalm 127:3)
2. OBAMA TO GIVE STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS ON TUESDAY NIGHT
Obama will deliver his address to Congress on Tuesday night, January 25th, beginning at 9:00 p.m. As always, the following cast of government leaders will all be assembled in the House chamber that night: 435 members of Congress; 100 senators; 9 Chief Justices of the United States Supreme Court; all members of Obama's cabinet (save one); and the Joint Chiefs of Staff. [Fox News is reporting today that Chief Justice John Roberts is also considering standing down . . .]
In order to assure the safety of our leaders that night, Washington, D.C. will be a no-fly zone; al police will all be on high alert; and (if history repeats itself) there may be anti-aircraft missiles stationed in front of the U.S. Capitol Building. Let's pray together and ask our own Commander-in-Chief to deploy His heavenly host to secure the safety of our government officials on Tuesday night.
- Father God, we stand in the gap for this administration, and we ask for your Hand of Mercy to hover over our leaders as they are gathered within the House chamber tomorrow night. Lord, we understand that, due to our iniquities, we deserve Your wrath; but we ask that, in wrath You remember mercy. In Jesus' Name, amen.
- "In wrath, remember mercy . . ." (Hab. 3:2)
3. OBAMACARE REPEALED IN HOUSE; SENATE UNDER PRESSURE TO DO THE SAME
With the House having approved a bill to repeal the abortion-funding ObamaCare bill, pressure is now on the Senate to do so - although Senate Democrat Leader Harry Reid doesn't plan to allow a vote. On a 245-189 vote, the House voted for the bill to repeal the law that had the federal government essentially taking over the health care industry and putting a program in place that prompted significant concerns about abortion funding and rationing. The vote received support from all Republicans and three Democrats.
Senator Mitch McConnell said he hoped the Senate would somehow be forced to "follow suit." Republicans in the House of Representatives kept their promise to you by voting to repeal the Democrats' health spending bill," he said. "I want to congratulate our colleagues in the House on this important first step. I hope the Senate will soon follow suit with a vote of its own." The Democratic leadership in the Senate doesn't want to vote on this bill. But I assure you, we will," he added - in what sounded like a promise to push the Senate to act.
Reid has already said he will not allow the repeal measure to enjoy a debate or vote, so Senate Republicans may be forced to employ filibusters or attempt to attach the repeal bill to another piece of legislation as an amendment in order to get a vote on it. (LifeSiteNews)
- Father, the world says this is impossible, but You are the God of the impossible, and nothing is too hard for You. We ask for a way to remove the healthcare law in the Senate despite what the opposition may say. We pray that You will intervene to help them create new healthcare legislation that actually helps America without overspending, or socialist control.
- "For with God nothing shall be impossible." (Luke 1:37)
4. GOP ATTEMPTS HISTORIC $2.5 TRILLION CUT IN FEDERAL SPENDING
Jordan, Garrett and DeMint Unveil the Spending Reduction Act
Today, (1/20) Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH), Chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC), Rep. Scott Garrett (R-NJ), Chairman of the RSC Budget and Spending Task Force, and Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC), Chairman of the Senate Steering Committee, unveiled the Spending Reduction Act, which begins to address the rapidly growing national debt by making substantial spending cuts immediately and throughout the next decade.
Compared to current projections, the Spending Reduction Act would save taxpayers $2.5 trillion through 2021. It starts by keeping House Republicans' pledge to take current spending back to 2008 levels and repeal unspent funds from the failed "stimulus." (Office of Senator DeMint)
At the beginning of the next fiscal year on October 1, 2011, spending is further reduced to 2006 levels and frozen there for the next decade. To help achieve these savings, the bill shrinks the size and cost of the civilian federal workforce and specifically targets over 100 budget items and spending reforms.(Newsmax)
- Father, we ask that You bring Your kind of stability and awareness to the budget and to spending, not just federally, but in every sector of our country, thanking You that Your mercies are new every morning! We intercede for all of the gentle stewards, those leading the charge of a yearly balanced budget and of spending curtailments, for every bit of this money is Yours.
- The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, says the LORD of hosts. The latter splendor of this house shall be greater than the former, says the LORD of hosts; and in this place I will give prosperity, says the LORD of hosts. (Haggai 2:8-9)
5. NET NEUTRALITY COULD FACE LEGAL BATTLE
Despite spending more than a year hashing out a so-called "compromise" on measures to protect the open Internet, the Federal Communications Commission will most likely have to defend its recent net neutrality order in court, industry insiders predict. If challenged, the controversial net neutrality order - supported by the commission's three Democratic Commissioners and fiercely opposed by the two Republican commissioners - may face the same court that last year ruled against the FCC's earlier net neutrality attempt. (Politico.com) Read more.
- - Although there is much on the internet that we desire not to be available to children, government regulations are not the answer. Instead the answer is to curb the lust of the eyes. Parents need to really control their children's use of the internet and teach them about what is acceptable and what is not. The Lord made us to be thinking beings, not animals to be ruled by a "nanny" government. Pray for parents and the children so that all work together for what the Lord calls "good."
- "And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous--to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." (Luke 1:17)
6. IN CHINA: WHICH GIRL WOULD DIE, MR. PRESIDENT?
Chinese Dissident Calls for Obama to 'Imagine' One of His Daughters 'Has to Be Put to Death,' Just Like Under China's One-Child Policy
As the anniversary of Roe V Wade approaches and President Hu of China dines at the White House, a Chinese human rights advocate addressed President Obama on the issue of forced abortion. "Just imagine, just imagine, among your two beautiful children, all you are allowed to have is one; the other one has to be put to death," said Chai Ling. Ling's remarks were made as she detailed the chilling statistics of forced abortion and the sterilization policy in China. "As we gather here in Washington, over 35,000 forced and coerced abortions are taking place today in China; every 2.5 seconds a precious baby's life is taken; among every six baby girls, one will never be born simply because she is a girl." Did the president hear her call, or was he too busy selling American debt to China? Read more (CNSNews.com)
- May the voice of the persecuted ring out in the halls of the Chinese government until the reversal of this despicable "one-child" policy is accomplished. In Jesus' Name, amen.
- "In my distress I called upon the LORD, And cried out to my God; He heard my voice from His temple, And my cry came before Him, even to His ears." (Psalm 18:6)
7. MONTANA LAWMAKER'S NEW PROPOSAL WOULD HIT FEDS WITH CHARGES
The state of Montana, which came up with the idea that the guns made, sold and kept inside its borders simply are exempt from federal regulations and made that its law, now is considering a new weapon that could be used to cancel much of the authority of federal agents over its residents.
A new legislative proposal would declare that the state's local county sheriffs are the pre-eminent law enforcement authority in their jurisdictions, and federal agents such as those working for the Internal Revenue Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and others, would be required to get permission from them before they could take any action.
The new law has been developed with the help of the same people who brought up the plan that Montana can, under the U.S. Constitution, exempt from federal regulation guns that are not in "interstate" commerce. That plan caught on so well there already are seven other states that have adopted similar laws, and at least three more states, Kentucky, South Carolina and Texas, already have bills pending for this legislation session. Of course it's being challenged in federal court, with a review pending now before the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. But supporters say they ultimately want a ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court itself. (World Net Daily) Read more.
- Some observers now refer to this proposal as the "Sheriff's first" law, and it does give states the right to regulate inside their borders, as intended by the writers of the Constitution. Praise the Lord that other states have caught on to this escape from federal regulations. Again, Americans do not need "Big Daddy" to tell them how to act. Praise the Lord for the independent spirit of the people of Montana, a spirit that most people who live in cities and suburbs have forgotten ever existed. Pray that Americans only yield their spirit to the Holy Spirit as directed in obedience to God's Word. Pray for a positive ruling by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, and by Supreme Court, if needed. Pray!
- "And the judges shall make diligent inquiry, and, indeed, if the witness is a false witness; then you shall do to him as he thought to do to his brother; so you shall put away the evil person from among you." (Deuteronomy 19: 18, 19)
8. HAWAII WON'T RELEASE OBAMA'S BIRTH INFORMATION
A privacy law that shields birth certificates has prompted Democratic Gov. Neil Abercrombie to abandon efforts to dispel claims that Obama was born outside Hawaii, his office says. State Attorney General David Louie told the governor that privacy laws bar him from disclosing an individual's birth documentation without the person's consent, Abercrombie spokeswoman Donalyn Dela Cruz said Friday. "There is nothing more that Gov. Abercrombie can do within the law to produce a document," said Dela Cruz. "Unfortunately, there are conspirators who will continue to question the citizenship of our president." (Fox News) Read more
- Another obstacle has appeared in this hunt for the birth certificate, and the mystery continues. Pray that the Holy Spirit will move on Obama to release the birth certificate, since he has the ability to do so within Hawaiian law. The Lord knows where the president was born and where the birth certificate is located. Pray that He will expose the truth when His plans are ready to do so.
- "Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ." (Colossians 2:8)
9. IN NEW JERSEY, A JUDGE FOR HAMAS
New Jersey, the Garden State, has just taken its first step toward becoming the Sharia State, with Governor Christie's nomination of Sohail Mohammed, an attorney to detained terrorist suspects, to a Superior Court judgeship in Passaic County. The Sohail nomination continues Christie's unfortunate pandering to the American Muslim Union and the Islamic Center of Passaic County. (Religious Freedom Coaliiotn) Read more
- This article has not appeared in the mainstream press (we wonder why . . .), but we wanted to call this to your attention for prayer. Ask our Lord to intervene, and to help this governor come to his senses. Pray for the protection of the good people of New Jersey, and sever all ties with wicked allies on their behalf. Pray!
- "Give us aid against the enemy, for the help of man is worthless." (Psalm 60:11)
10. LIST OF 27 STATES SUING OVER OBAMACARE
Last March, Virginia and Florida (joined by 12 other states) filed suit against Obamacare, challenging its constitutionality. Since that time, many other states have joined in, recognizing the threat posed by the legislation to both the Constitution and their own state budgets. As we reported on Friday, more than half of all states are now suing over Obamacare. (Heritage Foundation) Read more.
- Offer a chorus of praise for the growing numbers of states thar are taking a careful look at the federally-mandated health care program, and suing to reject it. Pray taht this groundswell will continue until all 50 states -- the entire nation -- says "no" to this socialist agenda. Praise God!
- "Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord!" (Psalm 150:6)
11. SPEAKER BOEHNER INTRODUCES "NO TAXPAYER FUNDING FOR ABORTION ACT"
This week HR-3 barring taxpayer funding of abortions was filed by Speaker of the House John Boehner and other pro-life congressmen including Chris Smith (R-NJ). In introducing the bill Speaker Boehner said, "A ban on taxpayer funding of abortion is the will of the people and ought to be the law of the land. But current law - particularly as enforced by this Administration - does not reflect the will of the people." The bill is expected to pass the House but meet fierce opposition from a very pro-abortion Senate leadership. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
- Pray for passage!
- "When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan." (Proverbs 29:2)
12. REP. GABRIELLE GIFFORDS MOVED TO REHAB CENTER IN HOUSTON
Still in ICU; Minor Setback Today
ABC News reports a build-up of fluid in her brain has slowed her transfer to a rehab centre. Doctors have inserted a small drain in Ms Giffords' skull to remove the fluid, the site said. The staff are not greatly concerned by this development, which is common for such brain injuries.
"The support network is so critical, doctors say, and the Congresswoman is getting that," Ms Giffords' Communications Director CJ Karamargin told FOX 11 Arizona. "She's making progress each day," Mr Karamargin said. Read more: http://www.news.com.au/world/fluid-on-the-brain-a-setback-for-shot-congresswoman-gabrielle-giffords/story-e6frfkyi-1225994281029#ixzz1C0trPQxU
- We continue to lift up this courageous member of Congress before the Throne of Grace, asking our Messiah to minister His healing touch upon her. Except for today's news of a bit of a setback, her rapid recovery so far has been nothing short of miraculous. Pray that the world will take note that her healing reflects more than the skill of her doctors, but is the direct result of prayer and of God's intervention for her life.
- "Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen!" (Rev. 7:12)
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
LIVING GOD (El Khi)
My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the LORD; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. (Psalm 84:2)
Oh Lord, there are inexpressible yearnings within my heart, and You know them all. Only You satisfy, Living God. My soul longs for You and I desire Your closeness and Your comfort. O Living God, how I love You.
"We give thanks to You, O God, we give thanks! For Your wondrous works declare that Your name is near." (Psalm 75:1)
(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)
