This Weeks's Prayer NewsGreetings!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
On Capitol Hill This Week - Volume XVIII, Number 31a
October 17 - 21, 2011
Please note:
Every edition of "On Capitol Hill This Week" is now divided into three sections, as:
1) Domestic Issues
2) Focus on Legislation/Judiciary
3) International News
Please be sure to visit all three sections each week, to find the news that our Lord will quicken to you to pray over. Shalom!
DOMESTIC ISSUES
"Because you have kept the word of My perseverance, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth." (Revelation 3:10)
Iran's Assassination Attempt Foiled
Below please find a summary of last week's prayer points on this critical topic from our Daily Briefs, followed by breaking news over the weekend. Please continue to remain in prayer over all aspects of this dangerous news, both hidden and in view.
1. FBI Stops Iranian-backed Assassination and Bombing Plots against Saudi and Israeli Targets - Breaking Christian News
(Washington, DC)-Attorney General Holder confirmed at a news conference today that the FBI had successfully halted an alleged terror plot to bomb the Israeli and Saudi embassies in Washington, DC, and to assassinate the Saudi ambassador. Officials state the plan was backed by the Iranian government.
- Today we join you in praising the LORD for this wonderful victory! Our Father has surely heard our prayers for the safety of our people, and He is surely answering! Praise God! [See more on this news below.]
- "Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever." (Psalm 136:1)
2. Iran Terror Plot an Act of War? - Fox News
Alleged Iranian-backed plot to kill Saudi diplomat flares tensions between Washington and Tehran as State Dept. and Saudi Embassy, seen left, call case a violation of international law and several U.S. lawmakers call plot an act of war.
- Make this headline a matter of urgent prayer. Lift up our own leaders at the White House, in Congress, and at the Pentagon, asking that they be led of the Lord in the next steps they will take. By Constitutional law, only Congress can declare an act of war. Please intercede accordingly.
- "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5:16)
3. Iran calls Saudi ambassador assassination allegations an 'evil plot' - The Telegraph
Iran's US ambassador accused Israel of carrying out the murders of Iranian nuclear scientists with US support, in a letter sent to UN leader Ban Ki-moon and the UN Security Council. "Iran categorically and in the strongest terms condemns this shameful allegation by the United States authorities and deplores it as a well-thought evil plot in line with their anti-Iranian policy," Mohammad Khazaee said in the letter.
For these updates, offer praise to the LORD that He is in control!
" The LORD is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him." (Habakkuk 2:20)
4. US on High Alert, Conducts Drill in Israel and Saudi Arabia - Arutz Sheva
The United States is conducting a week-long large-scale aerial exercise in Israel and Saudi Arabia as a navy fleet sails to the Mediterranean in preparation for any surprise flare-ups in the Middle East as Israel and frees 1,027 terrorists and security prisoners in exchange for kidnapped soldier Gilad Shalit.
5. Saudi Arabia takes Iran to UN over alleged plot - Jerusalem Post
Saudi Arabia has taken a first step to have Iran reported to the United Nations Security Council, a move that could lead to new sanctions, over an alleged plot to assassinate its ambassador in Washington, Saudi-owned newspapers reported on Sunday.
6. Iran warns West of 'strong confrontation' to any 'inappropriate measures' - Haaretz
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned on Sunday that Tehran would respond robustly to any "inappropriate measure" by Western powers linked to an alleged Iranian plot to kill the Saudi ambassador to Washington, state television reported.
7. Iran calls U.S. assassination charges 'Nazi propaganda' - Haaretz
Iran said Monday that it has asked the United States to provide information about the two people arrested in a plot that Washington linked to Tehran and said was aimed at assassinating the Saudi ambassador to the U.S. Foreign Minister Ali-Akbar Salehi said Iran would investigate the case as well while at the same time accusing the U.S. of using propoganda methods similar to those employed by Nazi Germany.
Updates: "Occupy" Marxist Movement
The "Occupy" Movement, which began on Wall Street just a month ago, has now spread not only across the country, but also around the world. At some sites, these demonstrations have become violent.
Offer praise that:
a) Our Omniscient God knows every detail of these events, and He also looks down in love, knowing the hearts and souls of all involved.
"And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." (Hebrews 4:13)
b) Our Omnipotent God is more powerful than any movement on earth.
" 'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty."
(Zech. 4:6)
For each item listed below, we invite you to pray in the Spirit over this news, for the Lord Almighty is still in control.
"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans." (Romans 8:26)
1. ACORN: Puppet Master of Occupy Wall Street - FrontPage Magazine
The Working Families Party, an infamous ACORN front group notorious for corruption, was instrumental in organizing the Occupy Wall Street protests, according to radical journalist Laura Flanders of Free Speech TV.
2. 6 protesters arrested in Senate building on Capitol Hill - WTOP News
On Tuesday, Oct. 11, several members of a group protesting war and other causes were arrested at the Senate Hart Building on Capitol Hill. There were approximately 75-100 protesters inside the building at the time.
3. NYC "Occupy" showdown averted; Cleanup put off - CBS News
The cleanup of a plaza in lower Manhattan where protesters have been camped out for a month was postponed early Friday, sending cheers up from a crowd that had feared the effort was merely a pretext to evict them.
4. Anti-Semitism tainting Occupy Wall Street protests - YnetNews
Several anti-Semitic incidents have been reported during "Occupy Wall Street" demonstrations in New York as Jews were blamed for the turmoil in America's financial markets. In addition, anti-Israel signs were raised against "Israel's occupation of Gaza". The "Emergency Committee for Israel" has published a hard-to-watch clip in which Jews are attacked and blamed for the financial crisis and assistance to Israel.
5. GEORGE SOROS DOLLARS BEHIND OCCUPY WALL STREET? - CNSNews.com
Anti-Wall Street protesters say the rich are getting richer while average Americans suffer, but the group that started it all may have benefited indirectly from the largesse of one of the world's richest men. There has been much speculation over who is financing the disparate protest, which has spread to cities across America and lasted nearly four weeks. One name that keeps coming up is investor George Soros, who in September debuted in the top 10 list of wealthiest Americans. Conservative critics contend the movement is a Trojan horse for a secret Soros agenda. Read more.
6. Proof! Wall Street protests no 'spontaneous uprising' - WorldNetDaily
A public relations firm closely partnered with the George Soros-funded Tides Foundation represented last week's anti-Wall Street march past millionaires' homes in New York, WND has learned. Fenton Communications has been behind the public relations strategy of a who's who of far-left causes, organizations and activists, from Soros himself to Health Care for America Now to crafting strategies for MoveOn.org and a litany of anti-war groups. Read more.
7. Marxist Matrix of Occupy Protesters, Obama & George Soros: The Devil's Symphony? - Canada Free Press
Are the Occupy Protests really the inscrutable uprising the mainstream media claims? Or, are they instead the work of mad tycoon George Soros? . . . We can hardly be blamed to see a connect when we detect a connecting, central motif-Marxism. The Occupy Protests are presented as the organic polar opposite of the Tea Party protests, arising of their own impetus as logically as weeds erupting in an empty field. But the central Marxist anti-capitalist message of Occupy argue against this. Read more.
8. Occupy Wall Street has raised $300,000 - CBS News
(AP) NEW YORK - The Occupy Wall Street movement has close to $300,000, as well as storage space loaded with donated supplies in lower Manhattan. It stared down city officials to hang on to its makeshift headquarters, showed its muscle Saturday with a big Times Square demonstration and found legions of activists demonstrating in solidarity across the country and around the world.
Could this be the peak for loosely organized protesters, united less by a common cause than by revulsion to what they consider unbridled corporate greed? Or are they just getting started? Read more.
9. Communist Party U.S.A. Spokesman Gets Overwhelming Applause from Occupy Chicago
John Bachtell, a spokesperson from the national board of the Communist Party U.S.A., addressed the angry mob of nearly 3000. He claimed to "bring greetings and support" from the party, to the occupy movement. Bachtell received a very warm welcome and overwhelming applause form the "occupiers."
10. Scope of 'Occupy' Violence Stuns Italians - The Blaze
Horrified residents watched Rome burn Saturday after an off-shoot of Rome's "Occupy Wall Street" protest turned violent. Italian riot police fired tear gas and water cannons after a group of violent protesters hijacked the demonstration against corporate greed. Rioters smashed bank windows, torched cars and hurled bottles. The European 'occupy'-ers called themselves "the indigent."
Domestic Issues
1. FAST AND FURIOUS: IS HOLDER INCOMPETENT OR MISLEADING CONGRESS?
2. TREASURY OFFICIAL: ENERGY DEPT SHOULD HAVE SOUGHT LEGAL COUNSEL ON SOLYNDRA
3. INCREDIBLE CORRUPTION AT THE HIGHEST LEVELS
4. OBAMA ADMINISTRATION CANCELS CLASS ACT
5. H.R. 105: EMPOWERING PATIENTS FIRST ACT
6. OBAMACARE APPEALED TO SUPREME COURT
7. HOUSE PASSES RESTRICTIONS ON HEALTH CARE ABORTIONS
8. SENATE REPUBLICAN JOBS BILL URGES TAX REFORM AND CUTS
9. FEDERAL EMPLOYEES MUST "SACRIFICE;" 3RD YEAR OF PAY FREEZE PROPOSED
10. PLEASE OPPOSE THE UNITED NATIONS ARMS TRADE TREATY
11. FED TO "CONTINUOUSLY MONITOR CONVERSATIONS" ACROSS THE INTERNET
12. U.S. CHALLENGED TO EXPLAIN ACCUSATIONS OF IRAN PLOT
1. FAST AND FURIOUS: GOP SAYS HOLDER IS INCOMPETENT OR MISLEADING CONGRESS
Twice in 2010, Attorney General Eric Holder received memos referencing the Fast and Furious program, memos that seemingly undermine the letter of his May 3, 2010 testimony that he heard about the Fast and Furious program over the previous few weeks. Justice Department officials acknowledge that the memos to Holder reference Fast and Furious as an operation - but they argue the memos do not include details about tactics that allowed guns to cross the border.
They say Holder understood the May 2011 question to Holder from Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., to have been about when the attorney general learned about the controversial tactics, not about the existence of the program. Issa asked Holder when he first knew about the Fast and Furious program. Holder replied: "I'm not sure of the exact date, but I probably heard about Fast and Furious for the first time over the last few weeks." (ABC News)
- Father God, we pray that everything hidden in these decisions will be revealed. Let those who approved this dubious plan be exposed and punished for such a horrendous action that put our agents in danger and still jeopardizes American and Mexican lives.
- "But this is a people robbed and plundered; All of them are snared in holes, and they are hidden in prison houses; they are for prey, and no one delivers; for plunder, and no one says, "Restore!" (Isaiah 42:22)
2. TREASURY OFFICIAL: ENERGY DEPT SHOULD HAVE SOUGHT LEGAL COUNSEL ON SOLYNDRA
Treasury Department officials said they could not recall another time the government put the interest of private investors in front of those of taxpayers before the loan restructuring for the bankrupt but politically connected solar panel firm Solyndra. Further, one department official told a House panel that the restructuring of the $535 million loan should have been reviewed by the Justice Department.
Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Fla.), chairman of House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, questioned Gary Burner, chief financial officer of the Treasury Department's Federal Financing Bank. "So in your experience of 28 years, plus being the chief financial officer, have you ever heard of taxpayer money be subordinate to outside commercial firms?" Stearns asked. (CNSNews.com) Read more.
- In the Name of Yeshua, the Son of the living God, We call forth all hidden agendas, corruption, false witness, bribes and favor that have influenced the financial structures and usury to be exposed. We further declare that all those that have used their wealth, position of authority to gain prominence through fraud, deceit and thievery, will be brought to justice in affiliation with the Solyndra Loan Guarantee.
Lord we do ask for your Wisdom for all those on the Subcommittee of Commerce and Energy. We declare that only the truth be spoken by this committee, legal counsel, and witnesses, and we further declare the U.S. Constitution and the laws governing commerce and finances to be upheld. Amen.
- "Behold, the Lord, the Lord of hosts, will lop off the boughs with terrorizing force; the high in stature will be hewn down and the lofty will be brought low." (Isaiah 33:10)
3. INCREDIBLE CORRUPTION AT THE HIGHEST LEVELS
The headlines don't tell it all. While the focus is on the huge amounts of money given to stalled or bankrupt "green" projects by the Obama Administration, no one is paying much attention to the actual corruption. $737 million in tax payer money was given to The SolarReserve project where Nancy Pelosi's brother-in-law, Ronald Pelosi, is second in command. To top that off the project is being built just over the border from California in Senate majority Leader Harry Reid's home state. Virtually every "green" loan from the fed's in the last three years has had some connection to an Obama donor or to one of his cronies in Congress. (Religious Freedom Coalition) Read more
- Abba Father, we come before You bowed down with sadness at the ever growing revelations of layered corruption! Huge amounts of taxpayers' money are being expended on distorted science as to energy generation. But beyond that is the corruption of who receives this money. We repent profoundly for being a people so covetous and greedy that this kind of corruption is now so wide spread with no sense of guilt. Political 'payback' is obvious and twisting of legalities viewed as acceptable. People elected to serve the rest of us are instead are taking from us for their benefits only. Have Mercy Lord on us as a nation, and draw us back to You, Lord, Amen.
- "But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light, for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. " (Eph. 5:13)
4. OBAMA ADMINISTRATION CANCELS CLASS ACT
Key Component of Obama's Health Care Program
House Republican Policy Committee Chairman Tom Price, M.D. (R-GA) issued the following statement after it was reported that the Department of Health and Human Services announced it would give up on trying to implement the CLASS Act.
"The Department of Health and Human Services has apparently concluded that the CLASS Act program is not financially sustainable. One has to wonder what took them so long," said Chairman Price. "From the very beginning, it was obvious this program was not viable and that it was built around budgetary gimmicks meant to hide its true cost and the trust cost of the entire health care reform package. It is emblematic of the same flawed thinking and approach that is embodied in the entire law that was rammed through Congress under the previous Democrat majority.
"While one less, certain to fail government program is welcome news, Obama's entire health care reform package needs to be repealed to make way for patient-centered reforms like those in the Empowering Patients First Act. This legislation would protect the quality of America's health care system while expanding access to affordable health care choices for more Americans." (House Republican Policy Committee)
- Offer praise for this report, and continue to ask our Lord to move upon the hearts of all in authority until every component of "Obamacare" has been dismantled and destroyed.
- "'Not by might, nor by power, but my My spirit,' saith the LORD." (Zech. 4:6)
5. H.R. 105: EMPOWERING PATIENTS FIRST ACT
This act, introduced by Rep. Dan Burton (R-IL), repeals the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the health care provisions of the Health Care and Education and Reconciliation Act of 2010, effective as of their enactment. Restores or revives provisions amended or repealed by such Act or such health care provisions.
- Pray for passage!
- "For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil." (1 Peter 3:12)
6. OBAMACARE APPEALED TO SUPREME COURT
After 18-months of preparation, the Florida based conservative legal group Liberty Counsel filed a petition with the U.S. Supreme Court, requesting a review of the evasive ruling by the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals on its lawsuit against the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, commonly known as "ObamaCare."
Legally, ObamaCare's fate will now be decided at the U.S. Supreme Court. If this filing is accepted, it is believed that this case could be the first to be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court and the first to strike a legal death blow against the ObamaCare law.
Matt Staver, Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman said, "This unprecedented law has caused great confusion in America's judicial system. It has also harmed our medical practitioners, destroyed jobs and our nation's economy. Employers won't hire when required future healthcare costs are projected at $2,200. per employee!"
"Worst of all, ObamaCare is unquestionably unconstitutional. If Congress has the power to FORCE each person to purchase health insurance, then individual liberty is totally meaningless," Staver continued. (Liberty Counsel)
[For more information on this critical case, see below.]
7. HOUSE PASSES RESTRICTIONS ON HEALTH CARE ABORTIONS
On Thursday, the House revisited the abortion issue in President Obama's health care law by passing tougher restrictions for the law. Under the new legislation, government-funded insurance plans would be prohibited from covering abortions. The measure also strengthens conscience protections for anti-abortion health care providers. This bill, the Protect Life Act, was sponsored by Congressman Joe Pitts (R-PA). The new restrictions passed the House 251-172. However, the Democratic-led Senate is not expected to pass the bill. (CBNnews.com)
-- OBAMA VOWS TO VETO PROTECT LIFE ACT - (He will fight for the death of the unborn.)
Obama . . . announced that he "strongly opposes" the bill because it "intrudes on women's reproductive freedom and access to health care," claiming the health care bill already preserves federal policy against tax funding for abortion. The health bill has already led to a major expansion of the abortion industry: health officials announced this summer that virtually every private insurer, including sectarian institutions, would soon be forced to offer free contraception, abortifacient birth control, and sterilization in its health plans as part of an essential "preventive care" package. (Lifesite News)
- Lord, we know that abortion is a mockery, for You created children in Your image. We pray for this legislation to be passed and all candidates who are seriously running for president will uphold and value life. Remove unrighteous leaders.
- But he walked in the way of the kings of Israel; indeed he made his son pass through the fire, according to the abominations of the nations whom the Lord had cast out from before the children of Israel. (2 Kings 16:3)
For behold, Your enemies, O Lord, For behold, Your enemies shall perish; All the workers of iniquity shall be scattered. (Psalm 92:9)
8. SENATE REPUBLICAN JOBS BILL URGES TAX REFORM AND CUTS
Senate Republicans, having rejected Obama's jobs bill, offered a sweeping and largely repackaged plan of their own on Thursday. Their "Jobs Through Growth Act" features a fresh call for tax reform and cuts as well as a number of components previously proposed, but stalled in the Democratic-led Senate.They include steps to: require a balanced budget; repeal Obama's overhaul of the U.S. healthcare system; lift prohibitions on offshore energy exploration and promote U.S. trade. (Reuters)
- Lord, we thank You that some of our lawmakers do have wisdom and sanity in matters of finance. We ask that You give them further wisdom on how to implement these ideas for the benefit of our nation and people. Please give them the courage of their convictions to hold firm, and the votes they need to bring about these necessary changes.
- "This is what the LORD says: Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know Me, that I am the LORD, Who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight," declares the LORD." (Jeremiah 9:23,24)
9. FEDERAL EMPLOYEES MUST "SACRIFICE;" 3RD YEAR OF PAY FREEZE PROPOSED
"Super Committee" May Make Recommendation
In the Senate:
Senators Joe Lieberman (I-CT) and Susan Collins (R-ME) said in a letter to the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction (the "super committee") that federal employees "must sacrifice as part of an urgent need to curtail the cost of the federal government and reduce the national debt."
The Senators said, "As a strong supporter of our federal workforce, we say this with regret, because we are asking many dedicated, hard-working, and patriotic public servants to pay a price for fiscal and economic conditions for which they are not responsible. But people across the country are struggling, most especially those who are suffering from historic levels of unemployment, and all Americans, including those of us in the public sector, must help get our country out of the hole we are in." (www.fedsmith.com) Read more.
In the House:
House Oversight Committee Recommends Extending Pay Freeze for 3 More Years
At the end of last week, House Oversight Committee Chairman Darrell Issa (R-CA) sent a letter to the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction (the "super committee") recommending that it adopt some specific cuts to the federal workforce. (Fedsmith.com) Read more.
- Whether we cut back our budgets in our homes or in our nation, painful decisions must be made. Pray that Congress seeks the Hand and Wisdom of God in every step they will take now to reign in our out-of- control spending habits. Pray!
- "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." (James 1:5)
10. PLEASE OPPOSE THE UNITED NATIONS ARMS TRADE TREATY
Will be used to impose gun control on American citizens
The United Nations is planning on its Arms Trade Treaty being finalized in 2012, after this mid-July saw another session of talks of the third Preparatory Committee on the ATT.
The ATT is about regulating, tracking, and controlling domestic and international small arms trade. There would be a registry for recordkeeping, but under a subtler name, and it would be run by an international bureaucracy. Firearms manufacturers would be under new and extra scrutiny, having to meet a host of new regulations, according to experts like Larry Pratt of Gun Owners of America and Wayne LaPierre of the NRA.
Canada's delegation, at the meeting, tried to have civilian firearms exempted from the treaty with the very narrow clause "small arms have certain legitimate civilian uses, including sporting, hunting, and collecting purposes," submitted for approval, but it wasn't, proving once again that the UN's complete civilian disarmament doctrine is at the core of the ATT.
It's more than a little hypocritical that the Obama administration is willing to cede control of Americans' small-arms ownership and use to the UN under the guise of ending gun running, given the Obama administration's AFT and DOJ's own alleged roles in the largest and most scandalous gun trafficking case ever. A simple reminder to our Senators about 'Project Gunrunner" and "Operation Fast and Furious" - which saw guns trafficked to Mexico apparently with U.S. government approval and collusion, and with disastrous results - should be enough to stop the Arms Trade Treaty. And, this should be a 2012 election issue; help make it one.
Contact your Senators, and remind them that our hard won and vigilantly preserved constitutional protections should never be interpreted or submitted to the whims or the planned agenda of any global organization, much less the dangerous and untrustworthy UN.
- Sometimes we pray, and sometimes we act. This time, please do both.
- "Your troops will be willing on your day of battle." (Psalm 110:3)
11. FEDERAL RESERVE TO "CONTINUOUSLY MONITOR CONVERSATIONS" ACROSS THE INTERNET
The New York Federal Reserve Bank will soon know every time it is mentioned in the blogosphere. In December, all tweets, Facebook posts, YouTube videos, and other blog and social content will be monitored by the Federal Reserve in order for them to be "aware of the reactions and opinions expressed by the general public as it relates to the [them] and [their] actions on a variety of subjects." A Federal Reserve spokesman spoke of the program saying, "The New York Fed is committed to improving its communications and engagement with the public in order to enhance and improve the public's understanding of its activities and the role it plays in supporting the U.S. economy. To do that effectively, the New York Fed is interested in getting a better sense of the relevant concerns and discussions that are taking place in the public domain." (Conservative Action Alerts) Read more.
- Raise up a chorus of prayer, and ask our Lord to move upon the hearts of our congressmen to initiate hearings about this egregious violation of our privacy.
- " . . . if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven." (Matthew 18:19)
12. U.S. CHALLENGED TO EXPLAIN ACCUSATIONS OF IRAN PLOT
The Obama administration on Wednesday sought to reconcile what it said was solid evidence of an Iranian plot to murder Saudi Arabia's ambassador to the United States with a wave of puzzlement and skepticism from some foreign leaders and outside experts.
Iran's leaders marshaled a furious formal rejection Wednesday of the American accusations, calling the case a cynical fabrication meant to vilify Iran and distract Americans from their severe economic problems. A senior member of Iran's Parliament, Alaeddin Boroujerdi, said he had "no doubt this is a new American-Zionist plot to divert the public opinion from the crisis Obama is grappling with." (AP)
- Father, if this is all a scheme to divert attention from other urgent matters such as Fast and Furious debacle, we pray that these accusations will not escalate tensions. Let the truth be known and if it truly was a terror plot, we pray that this discovery will stifle further terrorist plots.
- "You will chase your enemies, and they shall fall by the sword before you. Five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight; your enemies shall fall by the sword before you." (Leviticus 26:7-8)
Obamacare Appealed to Supreme Court
Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, aka ObamaCare, Appealed to Supreme Court
After 18-months of preparation, the Florida based conservative legal group Liberty Counsel filed a petition with the U.S. Supreme Court, requesting a review of the evasive ruling by the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals on its lawsuit against the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, commonly known as "ObamaCare."
On September 8th, a divided Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Virginia, ruled on the Liberty Counsel case regarding the repeal of the health care legislation. They decided that the health care mandate is a "tax," and that the federal Anti-Injunction Act (AIA) prohibits their court from ruling on the merits of the case until the "tax" is paid and "a refund sought by the taxpayer." This ruling meant that the Liberty Counsel case could not be brought to trial until the mandate becomes effective in 2014. Every court which has considered this question before has found that the mandate is a "penalty," not a "tax," and that the AIA does not apply. Ironically, the Department of Justice has also argued that the AIA does not apply and that the statutory intent clearly indicated that the AIA was inapplicable.
Legally, ObamaCare's fate will now be decided at the U.S. Supreme Court. If this filing is accepted, it is believed that this case could be the first to be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court and the first to strike a legal death blow against the ObamaCare law.
Matt Staver, Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman said, "This unprecedented law has caused great confusion in America's judicial system. It has also harmed our medical practitioners, destroyed jobs and our nation's economy. Employers won't hire when required future healthcare costs are projected at $2,200. per employee!"
"Worst of all, ObamaCare is unquestionably unconstitutional. If Congress has the power to FORCE each person to purchase health insurance, then individual liberty is totally meaningless," Staver continued.
It is almost certain that the High Court will accept one or more cases involving ObamaCare. It is likely the Court will accept the Liberty Counsel Florida case brought by 26 States and the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB), because in that case, the "individual mandate" was struck down at the Fourth Circuit Court appellate level.
It is also anticipated that the High Court will accept the "Liberty University v. Geithner," another Liberty Counsel case, because the "tax versus penalty" issue must be decided before the Court can rule on the merits. This case has the only challenge to the constitutionality of an "employer mandate," another key issue that must be resolved.
Either way, rulings are expected before the end of June 2012 - right in the midst of Obama's reelection campaign! (Liberty Counsel)
[Editor's comment:
In a recent press conference, Michelle Bachmann stated that Obamacare is the reason that employers are not hiring at this time, therefore causing the huge jump in unemployment figures and our stagnant economy. She explained that, because under the rules of Obamacare, an employer must pay over $2,000 per year to insure each new employee, small businessmen -- who simply cannot afford that investment -- are refusing to hire new employees.
Now we know!]
- Gracious Father, Provider of all health care that is given by You with love, and at no cost. We humbly ask that You provide Supreme Court acceptance of the Liberty Counsel filing to stop mandated health care. We ask that no more courts will be able to rule frivolously to aid the continuance of this harmful legislation, wrongfully driven to approval in our Congress. We also ask that the "Liberty University v. Geithner" case be approved, and that the tax vs. penalty issue of this evil health care reform legislation be answered. Liberty Counsel believes that You, Lord have uniquely prepared them for this season in our nation's history, and that You are bigger than all of the torturous events in the over two-year battle to STOP ObamaCare - -and that the Fourth Circuit's ruling and the DOJ's appeal certainly doesn't take You by surprise! Please rule and overrule this heinous legislation that is meant to bring our free country into socialistic enslavement. We pray that there will be a sweeping rejection of ObamaCare's unconstitutional mandates. Please Save America for Your Glory! In Jesus's Mighty Name we pray. Amen.
- "When you go to war in your land against the enemy who oppresses you, then you shall sound an alarm with the trumpets, and you will be remembered before the Lord your God, and you will be saved from your enemies." (Numbers 10: 9 NKJV)
On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XVIII, Number 31b
FOCUS ON LEGISLATION
Bills to Support in Prayer:
Pray for passage!
Please lift up the members of Congress or the Senate who are sponsoring these bills, with the promise of Scripture, below.
"He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers." (Psalm 1:3)
1. H.R. 2833: The "Employee Workplace Freedom Act"
2. S. 299: The REINS Act (Rein in the EPA and Other Federal Agencies)
3. H.R. 2497: The HALT Act (Stop Obama's Amnesty Policy)
4. H.R. 1938: The North American-Made Energy Security Act
5. H.Con.Res. 13: Reaffirming "In God We Trust" as our National Motto
6. Feeling Under-Taxed? Send Uncle Sam Some Extra Cash
1. H.R. 2833: The "Employee Workplace Freedom Act"
Over the past two and a half years, American businesses - both small and large - have dealt with an onslaught of new mandates, regulations and taxes. The Obama regime's National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) piled on another rule in August when it announced that employers must display 11 by 17 inch signs outlining the 76-year-old National Labor Relations Act. This needless requirement - which falls OUTSIDE the NLRB's statutory authority - opens the door for legal action by the NLRB against companies that don't comply.
This new rule is further evidence that the Obama regime puts the interests of union bosses ahead of individual workers. We already saw this pattern of behavior on full display when the NLRB filed an baseless and punishing complaint against Boeing for wanting to move a plant from one State to another. Our federal agencies should work WITH American companies to reduce the regulatory burdens that inhibit growth - they should NOT enact NONSENSICAL rules that add unnecessary costs!
Thankfully, something IS being done to STOP one of these foolhardy rules in its tracks: Rep. Ben Quayle (R-AZ) has introduced HR 2833, the "Employee Workplace Freedom Act," which would REVERSE the new ruling by the NLRB.
Rep. Quayle's bill is short and simple - exactly like bills in Congress SHOULD be. It simply reads:
(a) Repeal- The final rule (including any supplement or revision to such rule) published by the National Labor Relations Board in the Federal Register on August 30, 2011 (76 Fed. Reg. 54006 et seq.), is repealed.
(b) Rules Requiring NLRA Notices Prohibited- The National Labor Relations Board shall not promulgate or enforce any rule that requires employers to post notices relating to the National Labor Relations Act (29 U.S.C. 151 et seq.) on or after the date of enactment of this section. (Conservative Action Alerts) Read more.
2. S. 299: The REINS Act (Rein in the EPA and Other Federal Agencies)
The EPA's latest consideration to revise regulations limiting ozone, mercury, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide; coal ash waste; and water used in cooling the processes at coal-fired power plants would have a negative impact on both the economy and jobs, and on the availability of electric power. Many see the new scheme as one that will unduly burden the power industry, even forcing shutdowns of numerous coalfired plants altogether. Estimated costs of compliance for utility companies are up to $129 billion, with a reduction of up to 81,000 megawatts of electricity generation. Then there's the jobs at stake. A Commerce Department analysis predicts a loss of 60,000 jobs due to the EPA's rulings.
It's time the out-of-control and draconian-style EPA was reined in. The House of Representatives has already passed two bills that would do just that: H.R. 910 and H.R. 2018. The Senate now needs to take action on either or both of these bills.
There is another bill that would affect all federal agencies, the REINS Act, Regulations From the Executive in Need of Scrutiny Act of 2011, S. 299. This bill would require Congressional approval of any interim or final regulation from the Executive Branch bureaucracy that costs more than $100 million per year, or that excessively increases costs or prices or has "significant adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or U.S. competitiveness." This measure already has 28 sponsors and hearings are completed. There is a companion bill in the House, H.R. 10, that has garnered 159 cosponsors. Help keep these bills moving in both chambers.
3. H.R. 2497: The HALT Act (Stop Obama's Amnesty Policy)
A June 17 memo published by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) made official the White House's declaration that the DREAM Act - amnesty for certain groups of illegals - is federal law. In response to this circumventing of Congress, Rep. Lamar Smith (R-Texas) is about to introduce Hinder the Administration's Legalization Temptation Act to block the ICE's executive order policy.
Currently, details of the draft are a bit sketchy, but we know the measure would prevent the Obama Administration from discretionary granting parole, issuing deferred action and extended voluntary departure to removable aliens, granting work authorization to illegals, waiving the three and 10 year bars to admittance for aliens who are already illegally present in the U.S., and granting cancellation of removal to illegal immigrants.
Unfortunately the bill applies to the Obama Administration only; the powers would be restored to the next President who assumes the office on January 22, 2013. That is one of the arguments against the bill, from both sides of the issue. Another is that there would be increased costs for trying and deporting - as much as $12,500 per case - undocumented immigrants, and right now, the funds are not there and would not be allocated. This, however, must be weighed against the enormous cost of schooling, healthcare, and even incarceration that American taxpayers are now shouldering for millions of illegals.
Contact your Senators and Representatives, and let them know they should support the HALT Act to block the Obama administration's new de facto amnesty policy, but insist they amend the bill to make it permanent.
[ H.R. 2497 is sponsored by Lamar Smith (R-TX) and its companion bill in the Senate, S. 1380, is sponsored by Senator David Vitter (R-AL)]
4. H.R. 1938: The North American-Made Energy Security Act
Help Bring Canadian Oil to American Refineries
The North American-Made Energy Security Act, H.R. 1938, is a directive aimed at the President of the United States to encourage him to "expedite the consideration and approval of the construction and operation of the Keystone XL oil pipeline, and for other purposes" in order to bring Canadian oil to American refiners. The State Department's own recently published study indicates that the Keystone XL project meets industry standards and does not significantly affect the environment.
The privately funded $13 billion project from TransCanada Corporation would be a boon to America's crude oil imports, as the plan is to send 700,000 bpd, and up to 830,000 bpd if pumping capacity is increased, south to Texas refineries. However, it's going to be up to Obama to grant a permit, as the pipeline crosses the border between Canada and the United States. The project will either be approved or denied by him via an executive order.
A small segment of rabid and very vocal environmental extremists are against the project and are staging protests at the White House to get Obama's attention in this matter. Our economy relies on affordable transportation for goods and services, and commuters. Help keep American cars and trucks on the road and manufacturing possible by making sure Obama knows both the people's will in this matter and the sense of Congress in favor of this economically beneficial, "shovel-ready," stable and affordable oil supply pipeline project that would create more jobs.
On July 26 the House passed H.R. 1938 by a vote of 279 to 147. On July 28, H.R. 1938 was read for the second time in the Senate and placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders.
5. H.Con.Res. 13: Reaffirming "In God We Trust" as our National Motto
House to vote on resolution reaffirming "In God We Trust" as national motto
In November, we expect the House of Representatives to vote on H.Con.Res.13, legislation introduced by Rep. Forbes to reaffirm "In God We Trust" as the official motto of the United States, and support and encourage its display in public buildings, public schools, and other government institutions. Over the past several years, we have seen efforts to change our national motto in a de facto manner. Federal agencies and departments have been instructed that the phrase not be posted in those buildings.
The effect on our public schools has been chilling, as teachers and administrators do not know whether they can post our national motto on their walls. H.Con.Res.13 will reaffirm to Americans their right to display our national motto, clarifying confusion over the issue. Just in the last month, at least 6 localities in Texas and Oklahoma have exercised this right by voting to display "In God We Trust" in prominent locations in their council chambers and courtrooms.
6. Feeling Under-Taxed? Send Uncle Sam Some Extra Cash
Senator John Thune (R-SD) has introduced legislation that would create an option for individuals who believe they are under-taxed to voluntarily send extra money to the U.S. Treasury. The legislation is dubbed the Buffett Rule Act of 2011 and is the Republicans' response to Berkshire Hathaway CEO Warren Buffett's recent comments that he isn't paying enough in taxes. Any money collected from individuals would go towards paying down the debt.
"If individuals like Warren Buffett or President Obama are inclined to donate their own personal money toward paying down the federal government's debt, they ought to have that right to do so voluntarily," said Thune. "This bill would make it easier for those wealthy individuals who feel they are currently under-taxed to pay more to the U.S. Treasury above and beyond their current obligations, without raising taxes on America's job creators."
Companion legislation was introduced recently in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressman Steve Scalise (R-LA). Starting with the 2011 tax year, this legislation would provide a "clearly marked, convenient option" on tax return forms to allow individuals to give additional money to the government. The minimum donation amount would be $1.
On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XVIII, Number 31c
INTERNATIONAL ISSUES
The Feast of Tabernacles Begins
The Feast of Tabernacles (or Sukkot), a week-long biblical feast, began Wednesday, October 12, in Israel and in Jewish homes and communities around the world. It is a happy holiday on the Jewish calendar. Literally, "sukkot" means "booths."
The holiday commemorates the 3,500-year-old journey of the Israelites with Moses from slavery in ancient Egypt to freedom in the Land of Israel. They wandered in the desert for 40 years living in temporary booths, and for generations now, it has been the custom to build a "sukkah," in accordance with Leviticus 23:33-43.
In Israel, most restaurants, coffee shops, and hotels set up sukkot for patrons to eat in. A huge sukkah is erected in downtown Jerusalem in a public plaza outside government offices, and families build sukkot on their patios. A myriad of small shops sell special decorations to hang in sukkot as happy hammering is heard all over the city. The booth is big enough to accommodate a table, as the family eats its meals in the booth during the seven days of the holiday. The Exodus story is also retold or read from the Bible.
The flimsiness of the dwelling equalizes all men because everyone is on the same level during this week. It also reminds those inside that they are but frail creatures in need of God's protection and provision. Sukkot, the third pilgrimage holiday, coincides with the end of the fruit harvest. In ancient Israel, farmers went up to Jerusalem and brought gifts of their crops to God at the Temple.
Bridges for Peace extends greetings to all our Jewish friends everywhere and our Christian supporters who love Israel for a joyous, safe, and memorable holiday. (By Bridges for Peace, October 12, 2011)
- Pray that the Jewish people the world over will have a joyous Sukkot. Pray that the Lord will protect His people from harm at this time and draw their hearts to Him.
- "For the LORD will comfort Zion, He will comfort all her waste places; He will make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the LORD; joy and gladness will be found in it, thanksgiving and the voice of melody." (Isaiah 51:3)
NOTE:
ICEJ continues to provide live streaming of the celebration of the Feast of Tabrenacles in Jerusalem from now through October 18.
You can access their program online by going here.
The Release of Gilad Shalit
Gilad Shalit to Be Freed in Prisoner Swap with Hamas
Gantz: Gilad to Return on Tuesday
In a deal more than five years in the making, Israel and Hamas have reached a prisoner exchange agreement that will free IDF [Israel Defense Force] soldier Gilad Shalit, who was kidnapped by Gaza terrorists in a cross-border raid in June 2006.
The Al Jazeera report cited a televised address from Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal, who said that of the 1,027 freed prisoners, hundreds of them had life sentences. Netanyahu's Twitter feed said the concluded negotiations with Hamas were"arduous," but no official Israeli figures were given on the number of Palestinian terrorists to be freed in the exchange as of Tuesday afternoon.
The Hamas military wing's website confirmed the deal as well, with a statement from the military wing saying, "An honorable exchange deal has accomplished, whereby Palestinian detainees will be freed." According to the website, Meshaal told a press conference that the deal will be split into two stages: one in a week and another after two months. It was unclear from his comments what those stages would involve.
The statement released by Netanyahu on the Prime Minister's Facebook page said, "There is an inbuilt tension between the desire to bring back an abducted soldier, or citizen, and the need to maintain the security of the citizens of Israel. . . The deal I am bringing to the government expresses the right balance between all of these considerations."
He also acknowledged the pain the deal will cause the families of terrorism victims. "I do not wish to hide the truth from you - it is a very difficult decision," said Netanyahu. "I feel for the families of victims of terror; I appreciate their suffering and distress; I am one of them. But leadership must be examined at moments such as this, being able to make difficult, but right, decisions."
Netanyahu's statement said he told the Israeli team to initial the deal last Thursday [October 6], and it was finalized before the Israeli cabinet on Tuesday. The Israeli leader included "a special thanks to the government of Egypt and the Egyptian Intelligence Services for providing much assistance in mediating and helping us reaching this agreement."
Netanyahu's statement said he had shared the news with Gilad's parents, Noam and Aviva Shalit, as well as Gilad's grandfather Zvi. "I told them that I am keeping my promise, and I'm bringing their son and grandson home. I told them, 'I'm bringing your boy back,'" said Netanyahu.
(Excerpts of an article by Joshua Spurlock, www.themideastupdate.com, October 11, 2011)
- Praise the Lord for these negotiations! Pray that the prisoners that are being released will be kept from doing further harm to the nation of Israel.
- "For I will not trust in my bow, nor shall my sword save me. But You have saved us from our enemies, and have put to shame those who hated us. In God we boast all day long, and praise Your name forever." (Psalm 44:6-8)
Gantz: Gilad to Return on Tuesday
IDF [Israel Defense Force] Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen Benny Gantz officially informed Noam and Aviva Shait that their son, captive soldier Gilad Shalit, is set to return home next Tuesday [October 18] after five years in Hamas captivity. Gantz visited the Shalit family home in Mitzpe Hila on Thursday [October 13] ahead of the impending prisoner swap. The IDF Chief briefed the family about the details of the deal, explaining that the first phase of the swap will take place on Tuesday. According to the agreement, Gilad will be flown to Egypt and from there to the Tel Nof Air Force base where his family will finally reunite with him. The IDF chief declined to speak to the media upon leaving the Shalits' home. The deal will take place in two stages: The first stage, which is set to take place within a week, will see 450 prisoners released parallel to Shalit. Shalit will be transferred to Egypt and from there to Israel. The second stage, scheduled to take place in two-months time, will see 550 additional prisoners released.
Shimshon Libman, who heads the Shalit campaign, told reporters that "the chief of staff met with the family. He probably discussed the preparations being made ahead of Gilad's return. "I hope that we'll have Gilad back home by Simchat Torah night [Oct. 21, last night of festival season, "Rejoicing with the Law of God"], barring any problems."
Popular Resistance Committees' Spokesman Abu Mujahid said Thursday that Shalit's captures will release a video documenting his time in captivity after the prisoner exchange is completed. "The video will show that he was treated well and with respect, as demanded by the Islamic dogma," he said. [Go to www.bridgesforpeace.com for another Ynet article detailing how the negotiations took place.] (Excerpts of an article by Ahiva Rayed, Ynetnews, October 13, 2011) [Reported by Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that the Lord will shelter Gilad and his family as they are reunited. Pray that he will recover quickly from any physical or emotional ramifications from his imprisonment. Pray strength and comfort for the families of victims of those prisoners that are being released.
- "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4)
For additional information on the release of Gilad Shalit, as well as detailed prayer points, please visit the website for Intercessors for Israel by going here.
More International News for Prayer
1. U.S. UPSET AFTER UNESCO RECOMMENDS ADMITTING "PALESTINE"
2. EU REPRESENTATIVE: QUARTET TO INVITE ISRAEL, PALESTINIANS TO MEET
3. BLOODY SUNDAY IN CAIRO
4. WHITE HOUSE SHOWS NO SUPPORT FOR EGYPTIAN CHRISTIANS
5. CANTOR SAYS CHRISTIANS THREATENED
6. EXECUTING FAITH: THE CASE OF PASTOR YOUCEF NADARKHANI
7. NOT A SINGLE CHRISTIAN CHURCH OR SCHOOL LEFT IN AFGHANISTAN
8. OBAMA SENDS 100 TROOPS TO UGANDA, SOUTH SUDAN
9. IRAN TO DISPATCH SHIPS TO ATLANTIC OCEAN
10. STATE DEPARTMENT ISSUES WORLDWIDE TRAVEL ALERT
11. MAJOR GENERAL RAM ROTHBERG NEW ISRAELI NAVAL CHIEF
1. U.S. UPSET AFTER UNESCO RECOMMENDS ADMITTING "PALESTINE"
The Palestinians got another symbolic boost recently from a United Nations cultural body, but they have yet to gain needed support from several key nations in the West or the UN itself. The UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Executive Board has voted to recommend admitting "Palestine" as a full member, even though it is not officially recognized as a full member state by the UN as a whole.
The UNESCO recommendation still requires a final vote for the bid to be approved. The United States, which voted against the measure, feels UN moves worsen Middle East tensions. International efforts are still underway to restart Israel-Palestinian peace talks. The Palestinian UN membership application is also still under consideration by the UN Security Council.
The US was also not pleased that the UNESCO Executive Board would recommend approving the bid before the UN has given their own thoughts on the Palestinian membership application in the Security Council. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton asked what the parameters, such as borders, currently characterize the Palestinian state UNESCO is considering for membership - noting these matters still need to be resolved in negotiations. In comments to reporters released by the State Department, Clinton said on Wednesday, "I have to state that I find it quite confusing and somewhat inexplicable that you would have organs of the UN making decisions about statehood or quasi-statehood status while the issue has been presented to the United Nations."
Perhaps the most significant concern to Israel is that the precedent could lead to the Palestinians gaining membership in the International Criminal Court (ICC). Amb. Baker, currently the director of the Institute for Contemporary Affairs at the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs, said that was possible. Such a scenario could lead to a legal assault against Israel, which has seen multiple frivolous criminal cases launched against its officials in Europe by pro-Palestinian activists. (http://www.www.themideastupdate.com)
- Pray that UNESCO and other UN organizations will not move ahead of the UN body in dealing with the issue of Palestinian statehood. Pray that the US and others will stand firm in opposing such actions.
- "Destroy, O Lord, and divide their tongues, for I have seen violence and strife in the city. Day and night they go around it on its walls; iniquity and trouble are also in the midst of it. Destruction is in its midst; oppression and deceit do not depart from its streets. As for me, I will call upon God, and the LORD shall save me . . . Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice." (Psalm 55:9-11, 16-17)
2. EU REPRESENTATIVE: QUARTET TO INVITE ISRAEL, PALESTINIANS TO MEET
With less than two weeks to go before a quasi-deadline for the resumption of Israel-Palestinian negotiations, European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said on Monday [October 9] the sides would be invited by the Mideast Quartet "to meet in the coming days." Speaking in a press conference following a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council that was webcast on the Council of the European Union Web site, Ashton said she was set to speak with leaders of both sides later that day. The discussions come as the deadline for a preparatory meeting for the sides suggested by the Mideast Quartet - the US, the EU, the UN, and Russia - is less than two weeks away.
On September 23, the Quartet issued a timeline for resuming peace talks, in which they called for the preparatory meeting within a month's time for discussions on the framework of the new round of negotiations. It was unclear if that was the meeting to which Ashton was referring on Monday. (By Joshua Spurlock, www.themideastupdate.com, October 10, 2011)
- Pray that the Lord Himself will arrange, guide and direct all discussions regarding peace between Israel and the Palestinians. Pray that Israel's willingness to come to the table will finally be recognized and acknowledged by the international community.
- "I, wisdom, dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge and discretion. The fear of the LORD is to hate evil; pride and arrogance and the evil way and the perverse mouth I hate. Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom; I am understanding, I have strength. By me kings reign, and rulers decree justice. By me princes rule, and nobles, all the judges of the earth. I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me." (Proverbs 8:12-17)
3. BLOODY SUNDAY IN CAIRO
On October 8th Coptic Christians took to the streets in Cairo to protest the burning of the Mar Gerges Church in the Elmarenab village of Aswan. They were immediately attacked by the police and several Christians were killed. Outraged thousands of Coptic Christians took to the streets to demonstrate. The outnumbered police called in the army to kill even more Christians. At last count there were 36 Christians dead (26 according to mainstream media reports) and hundreds more injured. This is Barack Obama's "Arab Spring," a so-called peaceful revolution that has empowered in Egypt the radical Muslim Brotherhood, a group Obama's Administration calls "secular in nature." (Religious Freedom Coalition) Read more.
- God, we ask that You will make the Muslim Brotherhood to hear a noise of chariots, and a noise of horses, even the noise of a great host coming upon them in the twilight hours and cause a great fear to fall upon all the Muslim Brotherhood as they realize the Lord God of heaven has discovered where they live and what evil they are doing. God take authority over all the powers of darkness working through these people to oppose You. Bring defeat to their camp. Weaken them and strip them of their aggressive nature and bring them down in defeat. In Jesus' Name.
- "Wherefore they arose and fled in the twilight, and left their tents, and their horses, and their asses, even the camp as it was, and fled for their lives." (II Kings 7:7)
4. WHITE HOUSE SHOWS NO SUPPORT FOR EGYPTIAN CHRISTIANS
Hussein Obama organized NATO airstrikes to assist Islamic rebels in overthrowing the government of Libyan strongman Moammar Gaddafi. The President was also instrumental in unseating the secular president of Egypt, Hosni Mubarak. The President used very strong rhetoric when calling for an "Arab Spring" and the removal of secular leaders in several Middle Eastern nations including Yemen. Now, as one Christian church after the other is burned and as Christians lie dead in the street, murdered by police, little is heard from the White House. (Religious Freedom Coalition)
For more information on this topic, please see: "Egypt: Destroying Churches, One at a Time," by Raymond Ibrahi. Go here.
- Father God, we call forth warrior angels to come down upon these Islamic rebels who are burning churches and killing Christians. The Lord is righteous and He has cut in pieces the cords of the wicked. (Psalm 129:4) We close the door to the evil spirits of radical Islamic insurgence. In the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by His Blood we declare that all demonic forces be bound and cast out and that the kingdom and authority of the Lord Jesus be established in these countries. In Jesus' Name we pray.
- "Lift up your heads, O gates; and be lifted up you everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is the King of glory? The Lord of hosts, He is the King of glory." (Psalm 24:9-10)
5. CANTOR SAYS CHRISTIANS THREATENED
At the Values Voter Summit in Washington, DC House Majority Leader Eric Cantor said, "The Jewish people are not the only religious minority under attack in the Middle East. Christians are under the same pressure. Since then, Cantor has made numerous statements about Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani who is facing death in Iran for converting from Islam to Christianity. Cantor said, "For us in America, it is unthinkable that someone would be put to death for their faith." (Religious Freedom Coalition)
- Father, we pray that Mr. Cantor will rise up and continue to make very strong statements and actions against this horrible treatment of Iranian pastor Youcef Nadarkhani until he is released from jail and becomes a free man. God, we ask that all charges against this pastor be dropped immediately and that international pressure be put upon Iran to stand down. Father God send angels to stand by this pastor. In the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ of Nazareth, we bind the spirit of religious control, and we loose the great and mighty love of God over the country of Iran.
- "But thanks be to God, which gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as you know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." (I Corinthians 15:57-58)
6. EXECUTING FAITH: THE CASE OF PASTOR YOUCEF NADARKHANI
For several months, FRC has been calling on Christians and other people of conscience to call for the release of Iranian Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani, who has been tried and convicted of "waging war against Allah" for the simple reason that he refuses to renounce his Christianity. He has now been tried and found guilty for the fourth time--guilty because in open court, he stands up for his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. News reports are ambivalent about his prospects for release. According to this morning's Washington Post, the pastor's lawyer "is hopeful an appeals court will acquit his client." To be clear, Pastor Nadarkhani's "crime" is that he's a Christian and refuses to recant his faith in Christ. He hasn't been a Muslim since his youth--but under Islamic law, his conversion is an affront to Islam that is punishable by death.
. . . Last week, House Speaker John Boehner spoke out on his behalf, saying, "This goes beyond the law to an issue of fundamental respect for human dignity. I urge Iran's leaders to abandon this dark path, spare Youcef Nadarkhani's life, and grant him a full and unconditional release." In addition to praying for Pastor Nadarkhani, his wife, and young sons, please call the Iranian Interest Section at the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, DC at (202) 965-4990. You can also contact the Permanent Mission of the Islamic Republic of Iran at the United Nations (email: iran@un.int; phone: (212) 687-2020). (Family Research Council)
- Continue in earnest prayer, beseeching heaven for the life of this precious saint of God. Praise the Lord, for we serve a God who is not deaf, but who does take heed to our prayers.
- "For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil." (I Peter 3:12)
7. NOT A SINGLE CHRISTIAN CHURCH LEFT IN AFGHANISTAN
There is not a single, public Christian church left in Afghanistan, according to the U.S. State Department. This reflects the state of religious freedom in that country ten years after the United States first invaded it and overthrew its Islamist Taliban regime. In the intervening decade, U.S. taxpayers have spent $440 billion to support Afghanistan's new government and more than 1,700 U.S. military personnel have died serving in that country.
The last public Christian church in Afghanistan was razed in March 2010, according to the State Department's latest International Religious Freedom Report. The report, which was released last month and covers the period of July 1, 2010 through December 31, 2010, also states that "there were no Christian schools in the country. . . There is no longer a public Christian church; the courts have not upheld the church's claim to its 99-year lease, and the landowner destroyed the building in March [2010]," reads the State Department report on religious freedom. "[Private] chapels and churches for the international community of various faiths are located on several military bases, PRTs [Provincial Reconstruction Teams], and at the Italian embassy. Some citizens who converted to Christianity as refugees have returned." (CNSNews.com) Read more.
- Oh, dear God . . . we are grieved by this report. Abba, please move on the hearts of Your people, and call some to re-enter this field, which is ripe for harvest. We hear the enemy of our souls laughing gleefully now, but his day will soon come to an end.
Take up the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, and decree an END to the rule of Shaira law, and the oppression of Islam over Afghanistan. Amen!
- "He told them, 'The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.'" (Luke 10:2)
8. OBAMA SENDS 100 TROOPS TO UGANDA, SOUTH SUDAN
Hussein Obama said last Friday that he has dispatched 100 troops to Central Africa (Uganda, South Sudan) to help fight the Lord's Resistance Army; and to aid in the hunt and removal of Joseph Kony, head of the Lord's Resistance Army. In a letter sent to House Speaker John Boehner, Obama said the group "has murdered, raped, and kidnapped tends of thousands of men, women, and children in Central Africa" and "continues to commit atrocities across the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and South Sudan that have a disproportionate impact on regional security." This action was done without the approval of Congress. (ABC News) Read more.
- Pray that the real truth and whole truth of this situation comes to light and that God will reveal how we are to pray His will into this matter.
UPDATE: After Obama announced earlier this week that he would be sending American troops into Uganda, WND uncovered billionaire activist George Soros' ties both to the political pressure behind the decision and to the African nation's fledgling oil industry. (WorldNetDaily) Read more.
- Father, this unfolding scenario in Uganda and the fact that our young men will be sent into the throes of another war in another Arab nation lead us to cry out for divine intervention that will block America's sons from being forced to fight this war. Of the 28 wars in the world, only two are not the result of Islamic insurgents. God, we ask that you will surround George Soros and Obama with the your mighty power and save their souls and they turn from their wicked ways. We stand in agreement with the Word of God which states that when the wicked shall take counsel together they shall come to nought. Defend America, Lord God, and our sons and daughters. We declare that the spiritual powers of darkness be cut off and not allowed to touch them. We ask this in the mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.
- "The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ: and He shall reign forever and ever." (Revelation 11:17)
9. IRAN TO DISPATCH SHIPS TO ATLANTIC OCEAN
The Iranian Naval Forces will dispatch ships to the Atlantic Ocean, Fars News Agency quoted Defense Minister Ahmad Vahidi as saying on Monday. Vahidi made the remarks at the assumption of office ceremony by a new commander of the Naval Forces North Fleet. He stressed that the Iranian vessels are currently deployed in the Caspian and Oman Seas, the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean. (Trend) Go to original source here.
- As the sabre-rattling increases between our two nations, ask the Prince of Peace to send forth His Spirit to cause this tension to subside. May nothing occur outside of His will and outside of His timing. Amen.
- "But the LORD of hosts will be exalted in judgment, And the holy God will show Himself holy in righteousness." (Isaiah 5:16)
10. STATE DEPARTMENT ISSUES WORLDWIDE TRAVEL ALERT
The U.S. State Department has issued a worldwide alert for American citizens about possible "anti-U.S. actions" following charges against two Iranians accused of conspiring with Tehran to kill the Saudi ambassador to the United States.
The State Department said late Tuesday that the alleged Iranian-backed assassination attempt may indicate the Iranian government could be taking a "more aggressive focus" on terrorist activity.
- It's time to decree Psalm 91 over our nation, and over all American citizens who may be traveling abroad. Thank God for His mighty angelic army . . . He has countless warrior angels just standing ready to do His will, even on our behalf.
In our fallen state as a nation, stand in the place of repentance for our sins, and ask the God of Mercy to dispatch His legion for our protection. His desire is that we may live and call forth the His praises in the gates of our cities!
- "The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent." (2 Peter 3:9 NLT)
11. MAJOR GENERAL RAM ROTHBERG NEW ISRAELI NAVAL CHIEF
In a ceremony held at an Israel Navy base in Haifa on October 10, Major General Ram Rothberg entered his new role as commander of the Israel Navy. The ceremony was attended by IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Benny Gantz and other members of the General Staff Forum. Maj. Gen. Rothberg took the place of Maj. Gen. Eliezer Marom, who led the Navy for the past four years and is expected to retire from the IDF after 38 years of service. "In these four years, an intensive and quality operational culture has been introduced to the ranks of the Navy," Lt. Gen. Benny Gantz said. "[Naval soldiers] have done everything required of them in various operations, some of them known and some of them secret."
Retiring Maj. Gen. Marom said: "In recent years, naval forces have operated in all theaters of war, especially distant ones, against the axis of evil led by Iran in order to eradicate terrorists and ensure the safety and security of Israel and its residents. I got to see the Navy develop as a strategic arm, capable of operating far from Israel's borders in an independent and professional manner." (Israel Defense Forces and State News Service)
- Let us pray for Adonai's richest blessings upon Israel's newly installed Navy Commander-in-Chief, Major General Ram Rothberg. May he bring strategic leadership to Israel's naval operations and strongly defend Israel along with IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz, and Israeli Air Force Commander-in-Chief Ido Nehoshtan.
May Gen. Rothberg be a stalwart defender against any and all flotillas and naval attacks, and lead a strong naval support to Israeli air and land operations. May these military leaders seek Your Face in all that they do, and may no weapon formed against Israel prosper.
We also ask that You will please guide and protect Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, President Shimon Peres, Minister of Defense Ehud Barak, the Israeli Cabinet, the Israeli Supreme Court, and the Knesset, Israel's legislature. In Yeshua's Name we pray. Amen.
- "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust.' Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you." (Psalm 91: 1-2 and 9 NKJV)
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.
(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)
