• The Daily Brief
• The Middle East in Focus
• The Daily Jot
• Obama's Attack Backfires
• About those Unemployment Figures
• Convinced Now, Mr. Holder?
• IPT Alert: MB at White House
• A Word from our Catholic Friends
• The Good News Corner
• Honoring Passover
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
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P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
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The Daily Brief - Tuesday, April 10, 2012
"The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet." (Romans 10:16)
The Daily Brief
1. Interest on Federal Debt Hit $104B in First Half of FY2012 -- Despite Low Interest Rates - CNS News
Even though the U.S. Treasury in March was paying an average interest rate of only 2.187 percent on Treasury securities, the federal government still needed to pay a record $104.413 billion in interest on its publicly held debt in the first six months of fiscal 2012, the most it has had to pay in the first half of the year in the 15-year span for which the Treasury Department has posted daily statements online.
- Lord, we thank You that the interest rates are low, but we pray that somehow our government will stop spending funds we do not have, so we can make some progress in reducing our national debt. We ask for a fiscally conservative Congress and administration that will truly represent the American people in reducing unnecessary expenditures. Help us to exercise wisdom and balance in these important matters. Amen.
- " Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life." (I Tim 6:17-19)
2. Private sector adds 209,000 jobs in March - CNN
Private companies continued to add jobs in March, albeit at a slightly slower pace than in February.
- Father, we are grateful on behalf of those finding jobs, but also ask that those who are still looking would be encouraged, and continue in their search. Bless them with jobs that will enable them to feed their families and help them feel better about being providers, with Your help. Amen.
- "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)
3. Americans brace for next foreclosure wave - Reuters
Half a decade into the deepest U.S. housing crisis since the 1930s, many Americans are hoping the crisis is finally nearing its end. House sales are picking up across most of the country, the plunge in prices is slowing and attempts by lenders to claim back properties from struggling borrowers dropped by more than a third in 2011, hitting a four-year low.
- Abba, we thank You that the foreclosure rate has been dropping, and we pray that this trend will continue as folks try to get back on their feet financially. We ask for mercy and encouragement to those who are struggling to get back "on track" with their home ownership. Amen.
- "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" (Matt. 6:25,26)
4. Obama signs insider trading bill, wants more curbs on Congress - Reuters
President Barack Obama called on Wednesday for stricter controls on lawmakers to confront "the corrosive influence" of money in Washington as he signed into law an insider trading ban he said was needed to help restore trust in the U.S. government.
- Abba, again this news reminds us of the need to follow our Constitution, as our Founding Fathers, many of whom worshipped You, set forth. We ask that no branch of our national government will try to usurp the authority of the others. May the executive branch (president), legislative branch (Congress) and judicial branch (court system) uphold the Constitution of these United States, and not trespass those boundaries, we pray. Amen.
- "Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same." (Romans 13:1-3)
5. US credit rating downgraded, again - AFP
A small credit ratings agency downgraded the United States' credit rating for a second time, arguing the country was no closer to solving its runaway debt problem.
- Father, we pray you guide and direct our leaders on strategies to bring a halt to our debt. Give wisdom on the right path to turn around the economy.
- And He will be the stability of your times, a wealth of salvation, wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the Lord is his treasure. (Isaiah 33:6)
6. 'Nonpartisan' Hillary to skip Democratic convention - Charlotte Observer
At the Democratic convention four years ago, her spirited speech helped unite the party behind Barack Obama, and four years from now, many Democrats hope she'll be the White House nominee delegates rally around.
But as for the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte - Hillary Clinton won't be coming. As the country's chief diplomat, she's expected to stay above all things partisan, [but] her husband, former President Bill Clinton, will be [there.] Read more.
- Father, we pray as these events are upon us, that Your will be done in the Republican and Democratic conventions. May Your candidate arise and be victorious! In Jesus Name.
- Let all things be done decently and in order. (1 Corinthians 14:40)
7. Grand jury will not hear Trayvon Martin case - CBS
Florida State Attorney Angela Corey decided Monday not to use a grand jury in the case of Trayvon Martin's shooting death. Former U.S. Attorney Kendall Coffey said that by not using a grand jury, prosecutors will probably not charge accused shooter George Zimmerman with a capital offense in Martin's death.
- Father, may the truth be revealed in this case. Give understanding and insight to those handling the case, and the jurors involved. Protect this case by not allowing the media to "stir up" dissension.
- The Lord will give you discernment in everything. (2 Timothy 2:7b) Weymouth New Testament
8. Wright: Justice Thomas 'worshiping some other God' -The Blaze
Last week, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright spoke at Metropolitan Baptist Church in Charleston, W.Va., as part of a week long revival event. The controversial preacher showed no love for Justice Clarence Thomas, as he told his audience that, although Thomas "looks like" them, he is "worshiping some other God." Read more.
- Father, have mercy on the hearers of this message given by Jeremiah Wright. May they be hearers and doers of the written Word of God. May we study to show ourselves approved, and not believe every message.
- Strive diligently to present thyself approved to God, a workman that has not to be ashamed, cutting in a straight line the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15) Darby Bible Translation
9. School Removes 'God" from Lee Greenwood Song - Fox News
Parents at a Massachusetts elementary school are furious after educators first removed the word 'God' from the popular Lee Greenwood song, "God Bless the U.S.A." and then pulled the song all together from an upcoming concert.
Fox 25 in Boston is reporting that children at Stall Brook Elementary School in Bellingham were told to sing, "We love the U.S.A." instead of "God Bless the U.S.A." After parents started complaining, school officials removed the song from the school assembly concert. The school's principal released a statement to Fox 25 stating they hope to "maintain the focus on the original objective of sharing students' knowledge of the U.S. States, and because of logistics, will not include any songs."
- Father, we ask that You move mightily in that school, bringing students to Yourself, and shaking the administration to its very core. We pray that so many students would come to Christ that the administration would either quit or join them.
- "For I will pour water upon him who is thirsty, and floods upon dry grounds: I will out My Spirit upon your seed, and My blessings upon your offspring;" [Isaiah 44:3]
UPDATE:
School returns 'God' to song of patriotism - Washington Times
God may once again bless the USA at Stall Brook Elementary. The Bellingham, Mass., school, under fire for changing the lyrics of Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA" to "We Love the USA" for an upcoming fourth-grade concert, reversed course Thursday after drawing a backlash from parents and hints of legal threats from Mr. Greenwood, who penned the 1984 tune. Read more.
- Offer praise for this answer to prayer, as many of us interceded late last week that this decision would be overturned. Let's remain vigilant against "political correctness" in our schools. Praise God!
The Middle East in Focus
This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:
"Praise the LORD. Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise him in the heights above. Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his heavenly hosts. Let them praise the name of the LORD, for at his command they were created, and he established them for ever and ever- he issued a decree that will never pass away." (Psalm 148:1,2,5,6)
1. Israel signals willingness to accept Western plans for next round of Iran nuclear talks - Ha'aretz
Israel had previously any negotiated resolution should end all uranium enrichment, high and low level, and remove all fuel already stockpiled by Iran, but P5+1 want first to tackle the 20% enrichment.
2. Israel 'satisfied' with Iran's rejection of West's demands - Ynet News
Senior state officials were satisfied Sunday with Iran's rejection of Western proposals for the nuclear crisis. "As far as Israel is concerned, the Iranian response is good," one state official said. It has been estimated that this will force US President Barack Obama to toughen sanctions on the Islamic Republic.
3. Abbas threatens to renew UN statehood bid - Jerusalem Post
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas renewed his threat on Sunday to unilaterally seek UN recognition of a Palestinian state if Israel did not accept his conditions for resuming the peace process.
4. Hamas executes 3 in Gaza, including Israel 'collaborator' - Ha'aretz
Islamist group Hamas executed three men on Saturday, hanging two convicted murderers and a Gazan found guilty of collaborating with Israel, the Hamas-run ministry of interior said.
5. New blast hits Egypt gas pipeline serving Jordan, Israel - Reuters
An explosion hit the Egyptian pipeline carrying gas to Israel and Jordan on Monday for 14th time since the uprising against President Hosni Mubarak began last year, security sources said.
The Daily Jot
The Economy at 65% Unemployment?
The Bible says of the latter days, "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived (2 Timothy 3:13)". Such appears to be the case as the news media and the White House claim economic victory saying the unemployment rate has dropped from 8.3 percent to 8.2 percent. The idea seems to be to convince the American people that they are better off than they think and that the economy is improving. It is not. Don't fall for it. The shell game before the November elections has started. Spinning the numbers is the order of the day. Keeping control of Congress and the White House by a ruling class through deception and misdirection is the game.
The Federal Reserve reports that those "Not in the Labor Force" have reached a record 87,897,000. Those Not in the Labor Force are considered by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as those who have no job and are not looking for one. BLS says that "discouraged workers" are those not currently looking for work because they believe no job is available to them in their line of work, they have been unable to find work, perhaps do not have the skills to find work, or employers are discriminating against them for some reason. During the month of March, for example, there were 865,000 discouraged workers and 1.5 million who did not look for work during March.
BLS says that the number of unemployed persons--those who do not have a job, but are still looking for one--totaled 12.7 million, representing 8.2 percent of the workforce. There are approximately 154,878,000 in the total American workforce. If you add the number of unemployed to the number of those not in the labor force divided by the total workforce, you will find that the actual unemployment rate is about 65%. This is an astounding number that no one can even begin to fathom. Of course, BLS, Congress and the White House would argue that those "Not in the Labor Force" cannot be considered part of unemployment anymore because they are no longer employable or seeking a job.
The impact of sending jobs overseas, creating over $14 trillion of debt, and allowing an illegal workforce has restructured our entire economy. The casualty is the middle class and small business that was once the backbone of our nation and the job creators of our society. Is it any wonder that gasoline prices combined with unemployment are crushing our nation's economic ability? It would appear that unless fundamental changes are made away from socialism, that the critical mass of economic hardship has yet to strike full force. What to do? Yeshua says in Matthew 6:33, "But seek ye first the kingdom of YHVH, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." The Lord will provide, but we need to do the right thing.
Have A Blessed And Powerful Day,
Bill Wilson
www.dailyjot.com
Obama's Attack Backfires
Did Obama's ham-handed attack on the Supreme Court backfire? A new Rasmussen poll suggests it may have. According to the poll, 41% of likely voters rate the Supreme Court's performance as good or excellent -- up 13 points from mid-March. Moreover, that represents the court's highest rating in two-and-a-half years.
It's impossible to know for sure, but I suspect these improved ratings reflect the public's concern with Obama's attack on the court, which even liberals denounced, as well as ObamaCare's unpopularity. Given all the speculation in the media that the court would, based on the oral arguments, strike down this unpopular law, it stands to reason that the public would be more supportive of the court.
Regardless of why the court's rating is up, it is encouraging to see that Obama's attack did not sway public opinion against the court. (Gary Bauer)
About those Unemployment Figures
Fewer Workers = Lower Unemployment?
The nation's unemployment rate fell to 8.2% based on data released Friday by the Department of Labor. According to the report, only 120,000 new jobs were created in March. Most economists were predicting more than 200,000 new jobs amid signs of an economic recovery.
But there was bad news buried in the report -- 164,000 Americans dropped out of the labor force last month. These folks are so discouraged that they quit looking for work. As a result, they no longer count when the bureaucrats tally the official unemployment rate.
If everyone got so discouraged that they stopped looking for a job, the unemployment rate would go to zero. It is hard to celebrate a lower unemployment rate that is the direct result of fewer people actually working. Yet this is the reality of Obama's economic "recovery."
Many Americans are frustrated that the government continues to report an improving unemployment rate when the number of workers is declining. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-CA) wants to change that. He has introduced legislation that would require the government to include discouraged workers in its official unemployment statistic.
That figure already exists. It's known as the U-5 rate, which currently stands at 9.6%. But it is overshadowed by the official unemployment figure known as U-3. Hunter's legislation would make the U-5 rate America's official unemployment rate.
As Rep. Hunter recently explained, "We need to be realistic and focus our attention on the figure that provides the most accurate representation of national unemployment -- not the figure that under-represents the challenge we face."
Of course, the biggest challenge confronting the economy is sitting in the Oval Office today. And in 211 days, the American people will have a chance to end this nightmare by sending Barack Obama to the unemployment line! (Gary Bauer)
Convinced Now, Mr. Holder?
Despite the overwhelming popularity of voter ID laws, the Obama Administration is working non-stop to strike them down. Attorney General Eric Holder has ordered the Justice Department to block implementation of voter ID laws in South Carolina and Texas, despite a 6-to-3 ruling by the Supreme Court upholding such laws.
In the past, Holder has argued that voter ID laws are unnecessary and burdensome to minority groups. Holder insists that ballot access is more important than ballot security. Now James O'Keefe -- the man who exposed ACORN and NPR -- has struck again to show how voter fraud is a growing problem.
In recent weeks, O'Keefe has exposed how easy it is to cast ballots for dead people and to commit voter registration fraud. But Attorney General Eric Holder was unfazed by the facts.
So O'Keefe upped the ante and went after Holder's own ballot. His undercover agents went into a District of Columbia polling location and were offered Eric Holder's ballot. They did not take it so as to avoid violating any laws themselves. But they proved it could be easily done because the poll worker didn't ask for ID and said none was necessary.
Seeing how easy it was to compromise his own ballot, I would hope the Attorney General of the United States would change his mind and respect the common sense views of most Americans. But Holder, like the man he works for, is a committed left-wing ideologue. And when reality conflicts with his ideology, it is reality that must give way. (Gary Bauer)
IPT Alert: MB at White House
IPT Exclusive:
State Department Barred Inspection of Muslim Brotherhood Delegation
The State Department broke with normal procedures last week when it ordered the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) not to conduct a secondary inspection on members of the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood's Freedom and Justice Party (FJP) on their way to visit government officials and think tanks in the United States.
This happened despite the fact that one member of the delegation had been implicated - though not charged - in a U.S. child pornography investigation, the Investigative Project on Terrorism (IPT) has learned.
According to senior enforcement sources and documents reviewed by the IPT, investigators had information tying Abdul Mawgoud Dardery to the pornography investigation that was based in Pennsylvania. He was the senior member in the four-person FJP delegation which held court with academic groups and met with senior officials at the White House and State Department last week. . .
A U.S. official familiar with immigration procedures told the IPT that extra inspection is standard operating procedure when a foreign visitor has been tied to criminal or terrorist activities. "Secondary inspections" involve going through the visitor's baggage and viewing the contents of computers and other electronic devices to search for evidence of illicit activity. Agents would typically search other members of the party to ensure Dardery did not hand off his computer equipment to an associate to avoid detection.
In addition, the Brotherhood's relationship with the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas would have triggered extra scrutiny for the incoming delegation. But that "secondary inspection" never happened, a law enforcement source said. The State Department ordered CBP not to do it.
The State Department issued a cable specifically barring Customs officials from carrying out any inspections of Dardery and the other members of the delegation on their arrival at New York's John F. Kennedy Airport. The immigration official described this action by the State Department as "extraordinary."
Beyond the State Department's prohibition on conducting extra scrutiny of Dardery and members of his delegation, the State Department barred US Customs officials from carrying out even the standard inspection mandated for foreigners arriving from Egypt, where an enhanced security program is in place as a result of the 9-11 attacks.
The Muslim Brotherhood was founded in Egypt in 1928 with the goal of establishing a worldwide Islamic state through jihad and martyrdom. The group is considered the parent of all Sunni terrorist groups, including Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. [Source: Investigative Project on Terrorism] Read more.
PRAYER REQUEST:
Abba, we ask for Your wisdom for all in the administration in Washington, who make these security decisions. We ask that the "hidden agendas" and "secret things" would be revealed concerning their true intention. We ask for actions to back up their "rhetoric", and welcome their easing of opposition to the existing peace treaty with Israel. We ask that they follow through on what they are saying, and shine Your Light into the darkness of their hearts. Bring them to an encounter with You, the God of Israel, and the One who loves them as well. Amen.
DECREE:
"For there is nothing hidden except to be revealed, nor is anything kept secret except in order that it may be made known." (Mark 4:22)
A Word from our Catholic Friends
VIDEO: Test of Fire: Election 2012
(Official HD Version - Catholic)
Will you vote the values that will stand the test of fire? Some things are more important than high gas prices or a faltering economy. They are life, marriage and freedom. This November, Catholics must stand up and protect their sacred rights and duties.
Please share this video with your friends! Visit www.CC2W.org for more details.
The Good News Corner:
Alabama Officials Order Abortion Clinic Operators to Surrender License
The Alabama Department of Health (ADPH) on Friday ordered the operators of a Birmingham abortion clinic to surrender their license by May 18.
In late January, life advocates photographed two women being carried out of the New Woman All Women Health Care clinic into an alley, where ambulances were waiting. The incident sparked an investigation from the ADPH, which resulted in a 76-page report detailing nine categories of health code violations. The clinic has a history of bad reports from ADPH dating back as far as 2003.
"Non-licensed employees were administering medications to patients," said Father Terry Gensemer of the Charismatic Episcopal Church (CEC) for Life. There were also "charges of false and inaccurate medical records (and) failure to follow up with patients that were experiencing complications after the abortion procedures." (Citizenlink) Read more.
Honoring Passover . . .
"Inspirational Pesach Video: Jewish Journey From Bondage"
By Rachel Hirshfeld
"If there is one thing we have learned from the past it is that we must never leave our fate in the hands of others."
In honor of the Passover holiday and in view of the increasingly dire threats against the state of Israel and the Jewish people, TheLandofIsrael.com issued a video proclaiming that, "If there is one thing we have learned from the past it is that we must never leave our fate in the hands of others."
"Today Israel is facing a threat unparalleled in world history. Not only is our existence in the state of Israel in danger, but the lives of millions of our citizens," the video begins. "Over half of world Jewry is at the risk of being snuffed out by a genocidal dictator. Iran today is on the verge of completing its nuclear arsenal to accomplish exactly that aim."
In the 1930s and 40s, the video narrator explains, Jewish people were homeless, forced to leave their fate in the hands of others. As the Nazis perpetrated their brutal and systematic campaign to eliminate an entire nation, the world turned a blind eye and remained silent. "Country after country the Jews had no where to run. No one to rely on."
"We are re-living the year 1939, but this time is different," it continues. "The Jewish people have been resurrected as the nation of Israel I our homeland . . . We are finally free. Never Again will we be at the mercy of other nations. Israel must always protect the future of the Jewish people."
"As we sit down to the Passover seder this year, we remember and recount the Jewish people's journey from slavery to freedom, from bondage to redemption and from exile to the Land of Israel. As Yigal Alon poignantly stated, 'A nation that does not respect its past faces a present of weakness and a future pervaded by clouds.'"
"Let us remember our national history in order to strengthen our collective future and ensure that never again will the Jewish people be at the mercy of other nations that seek our destruction." (Arutz Sheva) Read more.
[To view this video, "Iran v. Israel: Back to the Future." go here.]
Share this video and support Israel's right to defend and protect! NEVER AGAIN will Israel depend on the help of other countries for our survival. Israel must always protect the future of the Jewish People.
AND . . .
BARBRA STREISAND - AVINU MALKEINU
As we listen to this classic Israeli tune, let's all continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem, again and again and again. Thank you.
• The Middle East in Focus
• The Daily Jot
• Obama's Attack Backfires
• About those Unemployment Figures
• Convinced Now, Mr. Holder?
• IPT Alert: MB at White House
• A Word from our Catholic Friends
• The Good News Corner
• Honoring Passover
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
"Partners in Prayer for Our Nation"
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
The Daily Brief - Tuesday, April 10, 2012
"The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet." (Romans 10:16)
The Daily Brief
1. Interest on Federal Debt Hit $104B in First Half of FY2012 -- Despite Low Interest Rates - CNS News
Even though the U.S. Treasury in March was paying an average interest rate of only 2.187 percent on Treasury securities, the federal government still needed to pay a record $104.413 billion in interest on its publicly held debt in the first six months of fiscal 2012, the most it has had to pay in the first half of the year in the 15-year span for which the Treasury Department has posted daily statements online.
- Lord, we thank You that the interest rates are low, but we pray that somehow our government will stop spending funds we do not have, so we can make some progress in reducing our national debt. We ask for a fiscally conservative Congress and administration that will truly represent the American people in reducing unnecessary expenditures. Help us to exercise wisdom and balance in these important matters. Amen.
- " Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life." (I Tim 6:17-19)
2. Private sector adds 209,000 jobs in March - CNN
Private companies continued to add jobs in March, albeit at a slightly slower pace than in February.
- Father, we are grateful on behalf of those finding jobs, but also ask that those who are still looking would be encouraged, and continue in their search. Bless them with jobs that will enable them to feed their families and help them feel better about being providers, with Your help. Amen.
- "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)
3. Americans brace for next foreclosure wave - Reuters
Half a decade into the deepest U.S. housing crisis since the 1930s, many Americans are hoping the crisis is finally nearing its end. House sales are picking up across most of the country, the plunge in prices is slowing and attempts by lenders to claim back properties from struggling borrowers dropped by more than a third in 2011, hitting a four-year low.
- Abba, we thank You that the foreclosure rate has been dropping, and we pray that this trend will continue as folks try to get back on their feet financially. We ask for mercy and encouragement to those who are struggling to get back "on track" with their home ownership. Amen.
- "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" (Matt. 6:25,26)
4. Obama signs insider trading bill, wants more curbs on Congress - Reuters
President Barack Obama called on Wednesday for stricter controls on lawmakers to confront "the corrosive influence" of money in Washington as he signed into law an insider trading ban he said was needed to help restore trust in the U.S. government.
- Abba, again this news reminds us of the need to follow our Constitution, as our Founding Fathers, many of whom worshipped You, set forth. We ask that no branch of our national government will try to usurp the authority of the others. May the executive branch (president), legislative branch (Congress) and judicial branch (court system) uphold the Constitution of these United States, and not trespass those boundaries, we pray. Amen.
- "Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same." (Romans 13:1-3)
5. US credit rating downgraded, again - AFP
A small credit ratings agency downgraded the United States' credit rating for a second time, arguing the country was no closer to solving its runaway debt problem.
- Father, we pray you guide and direct our leaders on strategies to bring a halt to our debt. Give wisdom on the right path to turn around the economy.
- And He will be the stability of your times, a wealth of salvation, wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the Lord is his treasure. (Isaiah 33:6)
6. 'Nonpartisan' Hillary to skip Democratic convention - Charlotte Observer
At the Democratic convention four years ago, her spirited speech helped unite the party behind Barack Obama, and four years from now, many Democrats hope she'll be the White House nominee delegates rally around.
But as for the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte - Hillary Clinton won't be coming. As the country's chief diplomat, she's expected to stay above all things partisan, [but] her husband, former President Bill Clinton, will be [there.] Read more.
- Father, we pray as these events are upon us, that Your will be done in the Republican and Democratic conventions. May Your candidate arise and be victorious! In Jesus Name.
- Let all things be done decently and in order. (1 Corinthians 14:40)
7. Grand jury will not hear Trayvon Martin case - CBS
Florida State Attorney Angela Corey decided Monday not to use a grand jury in the case of Trayvon Martin's shooting death. Former U.S. Attorney Kendall Coffey said that by not using a grand jury, prosecutors will probably not charge accused shooter George Zimmerman with a capital offense in Martin's death.
- Father, may the truth be revealed in this case. Give understanding and insight to those handling the case, and the jurors involved. Protect this case by not allowing the media to "stir up" dissension.
- The Lord will give you discernment in everything. (2 Timothy 2:7b) Weymouth New Testament
8. Wright: Justice Thomas 'worshiping some other God' -The Blaze
Last week, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright spoke at Metropolitan Baptist Church in Charleston, W.Va., as part of a week long revival event. The controversial preacher showed no love for Justice Clarence Thomas, as he told his audience that, although Thomas "looks like" them, he is "worshiping some other God." Read more.
- Father, have mercy on the hearers of this message given by Jeremiah Wright. May they be hearers and doers of the written Word of God. May we study to show ourselves approved, and not believe every message.
- Strive diligently to present thyself approved to God, a workman that has not to be ashamed, cutting in a straight line the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15) Darby Bible Translation
9. School Removes 'God" from Lee Greenwood Song - Fox News
Parents at a Massachusetts elementary school are furious after educators first removed the word 'God' from the popular Lee Greenwood song, "God Bless the U.S.A." and then pulled the song all together from an upcoming concert.
Fox 25 in Boston is reporting that children at Stall Brook Elementary School in Bellingham were told to sing, "We love the U.S.A." instead of "God Bless the U.S.A." After parents started complaining, school officials removed the song from the school assembly concert. The school's principal released a statement to Fox 25 stating they hope to "maintain the focus on the original objective of sharing students' knowledge of the U.S. States, and because of logistics, will not include any songs."
- Father, we ask that You move mightily in that school, bringing students to Yourself, and shaking the administration to its very core. We pray that so many students would come to Christ that the administration would either quit or join them.
- "For I will pour water upon him who is thirsty, and floods upon dry grounds: I will out My Spirit upon your seed, and My blessings upon your offspring;" [Isaiah 44:3]
UPDATE:
School returns 'God' to song of patriotism - Washington Times
God may once again bless the USA at Stall Brook Elementary. The Bellingham, Mass., school, under fire for changing the lyrics of Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA" to "We Love the USA" for an upcoming fourth-grade concert, reversed course Thursday after drawing a backlash from parents and hints of legal threats from Mr. Greenwood, who penned the 1984 tune. Read more.
- Offer praise for this answer to prayer, as many of us interceded late last week that this decision would be overturned. Let's remain vigilant against "political correctness" in our schools. Praise God!
The Middle East in Focus
This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:
"Praise the LORD. Praise the LORD from the heavens; praise him in the heights above. Praise him, all his angels; praise him, all his heavenly hosts. Let them praise the name of the LORD, for at his command they were created, and he established them for ever and ever- he issued a decree that will never pass away." (Psalm 148:1,2,5,6)
1. Israel signals willingness to accept Western plans for next round of Iran nuclear talks - Ha'aretz
Israel had previously any negotiated resolution should end all uranium enrichment, high and low level, and remove all fuel already stockpiled by Iran, but P5+1 want first to tackle the 20% enrichment.
2. Israel 'satisfied' with Iran's rejection of West's demands - Ynet News
Senior state officials were satisfied Sunday with Iran's rejection of Western proposals for the nuclear crisis. "As far as Israel is concerned, the Iranian response is good," one state official said. It has been estimated that this will force US President Barack Obama to toughen sanctions on the Islamic Republic.
3. Abbas threatens to renew UN statehood bid - Jerusalem Post
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas renewed his threat on Sunday to unilaterally seek UN recognition of a Palestinian state if Israel did not accept his conditions for resuming the peace process.
4. Hamas executes 3 in Gaza, including Israel 'collaborator' - Ha'aretz
Islamist group Hamas executed three men on Saturday, hanging two convicted murderers and a Gazan found guilty of collaborating with Israel, the Hamas-run ministry of interior said.
5. New blast hits Egypt gas pipeline serving Jordan, Israel - Reuters
An explosion hit the Egyptian pipeline carrying gas to Israel and Jordan on Monday for 14th time since the uprising against President Hosni Mubarak began last year, security sources said.
The Daily Jot
The Economy at 65% Unemployment?
The Bible says of the latter days, "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived (2 Timothy 3:13)". Such appears to be the case as the news media and the White House claim economic victory saying the unemployment rate has dropped from 8.3 percent to 8.2 percent. The idea seems to be to convince the American people that they are better off than they think and that the economy is improving. It is not. Don't fall for it. The shell game before the November elections has started. Spinning the numbers is the order of the day. Keeping control of Congress and the White House by a ruling class through deception and misdirection is the game.
The Federal Reserve reports that those "Not in the Labor Force" have reached a record 87,897,000. Those Not in the Labor Force are considered by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as those who have no job and are not looking for one. BLS says that "discouraged workers" are those not currently looking for work because they believe no job is available to them in their line of work, they have been unable to find work, perhaps do not have the skills to find work, or employers are discriminating against them for some reason. During the month of March, for example, there were 865,000 discouraged workers and 1.5 million who did not look for work during March.
BLS says that the number of unemployed persons--those who do not have a job, but are still looking for one--totaled 12.7 million, representing 8.2 percent of the workforce. There are approximately 154,878,000 in the total American workforce. If you add the number of unemployed to the number of those not in the labor force divided by the total workforce, you will find that the actual unemployment rate is about 65%. This is an astounding number that no one can even begin to fathom. Of course, BLS, Congress and the White House would argue that those "Not in the Labor Force" cannot be considered part of unemployment anymore because they are no longer employable or seeking a job.
The impact of sending jobs overseas, creating over $14 trillion of debt, and allowing an illegal workforce has restructured our entire economy. The casualty is the middle class and small business that was once the backbone of our nation and the job creators of our society. Is it any wonder that gasoline prices combined with unemployment are crushing our nation's economic ability? It would appear that unless fundamental changes are made away from socialism, that the critical mass of economic hardship has yet to strike full force. What to do? Yeshua says in Matthew 6:33, "But seek ye first the kingdom of YHVH, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." The Lord will provide, but we need to do the right thing.
Have A Blessed And Powerful Day,
Bill Wilson
www.dailyjot.com
Obama's Attack Backfires
Did Obama's ham-handed attack on the Supreme Court backfire? A new Rasmussen poll suggests it may have. According to the poll, 41% of likely voters rate the Supreme Court's performance as good or excellent -- up 13 points from mid-March. Moreover, that represents the court's highest rating in two-and-a-half years.
It's impossible to know for sure, but I suspect these improved ratings reflect the public's concern with Obama's attack on the court, which even liberals denounced, as well as ObamaCare's unpopularity. Given all the speculation in the media that the court would, based on the oral arguments, strike down this unpopular law, it stands to reason that the public would be more supportive of the court.
Regardless of why the court's rating is up, it is encouraging to see that Obama's attack did not sway public opinion against the court. (Gary Bauer)
About those Unemployment Figures
Fewer Workers = Lower Unemployment?
The nation's unemployment rate fell to 8.2% based on data released Friday by the Department of Labor. According to the report, only 120,000 new jobs were created in March. Most economists were predicting more than 200,000 new jobs amid signs of an economic recovery.
But there was bad news buried in the report -- 164,000 Americans dropped out of the labor force last month. These folks are so discouraged that they quit looking for work. As a result, they no longer count when the bureaucrats tally the official unemployment rate.
If everyone got so discouraged that they stopped looking for a job, the unemployment rate would go to zero. It is hard to celebrate a lower unemployment rate that is the direct result of fewer people actually working. Yet this is the reality of Obama's economic "recovery."
Many Americans are frustrated that the government continues to report an improving unemployment rate when the number of workers is declining. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-CA) wants to change that. He has introduced legislation that would require the government to include discouraged workers in its official unemployment statistic.
That figure already exists. It's known as the U-5 rate, which currently stands at 9.6%. But it is overshadowed by the official unemployment figure known as U-3. Hunter's legislation would make the U-5 rate America's official unemployment rate.
As Rep. Hunter recently explained, "We need to be realistic and focus our attention on the figure that provides the most accurate representation of national unemployment -- not the figure that under-represents the challenge we face."
Of course, the biggest challenge confronting the economy is sitting in the Oval Office today. And in 211 days, the American people will have a chance to end this nightmare by sending Barack Obama to the unemployment line! (Gary Bauer)
Convinced Now, Mr. Holder?
Despite the overwhelming popularity of voter ID laws, the Obama Administration is working non-stop to strike them down. Attorney General Eric Holder has ordered the Justice Department to block implementation of voter ID laws in South Carolina and Texas, despite a 6-to-3 ruling by the Supreme Court upholding such laws.
In the past, Holder has argued that voter ID laws are unnecessary and burdensome to minority groups. Holder insists that ballot access is more important than ballot security. Now James O'Keefe -- the man who exposed ACORN and NPR -- has struck again to show how voter fraud is a growing problem.
In recent weeks, O'Keefe has exposed how easy it is to cast ballots for dead people and to commit voter registration fraud. But Attorney General Eric Holder was unfazed by the facts.
So O'Keefe upped the ante and went after Holder's own ballot. His undercover agents went into a District of Columbia polling location and were offered Eric Holder's ballot. They did not take it so as to avoid violating any laws themselves. But they proved it could be easily done because the poll worker didn't ask for ID and said none was necessary.
Seeing how easy it was to compromise his own ballot, I would hope the Attorney General of the United States would change his mind and respect the common sense views of most Americans. But Holder, like the man he works for, is a committed left-wing ideologue. And when reality conflicts with his ideology, it is reality that must give way. (Gary Bauer)
IPT Alert: MB at White House
IPT Exclusive:
State Department Barred Inspection of Muslim Brotherhood Delegation
The State Department broke with normal procedures last week when it ordered the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) not to conduct a secondary inspection on members of the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood's Freedom and Justice Party (FJP) on their way to visit government officials and think tanks in the United States.
This happened despite the fact that one member of the delegation had been implicated - though not charged - in a U.S. child pornography investigation, the Investigative Project on Terrorism (IPT) has learned.
According to senior enforcement sources and documents reviewed by the IPT, investigators had information tying Abdul Mawgoud Dardery to the pornography investigation that was based in Pennsylvania. He was the senior member in the four-person FJP delegation which held court with academic groups and met with senior officials at the White House and State Department last week. . .
A U.S. official familiar with immigration procedures told the IPT that extra inspection is standard operating procedure when a foreign visitor has been tied to criminal or terrorist activities. "Secondary inspections" involve going through the visitor's baggage and viewing the contents of computers and other electronic devices to search for evidence of illicit activity. Agents would typically search other members of the party to ensure Dardery did not hand off his computer equipment to an associate to avoid detection.
In addition, the Brotherhood's relationship with the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas would have triggered extra scrutiny for the incoming delegation. But that "secondary inspection" never happened, a law enforcement source said. The State Department ordered CBP not to do it.
The State Department issued a cable specifically barring Customs officials from carrying out any inspections of Dardery and the other members of the delegation on their arrival at New York's John F. Kennedy Airport. The immigration official described this action by the State Department as "extraordinary."
Beyond the State Department's prohibition on conducting extra scrutiny of Dardery and members of his delegation, the State Department barred US Customs officials from carrying out even the standard inspection mandated for foreigners arriving from Egypt, where an enhanced security program is in place as a result of the 9-11 attacks.
The Muslim Brotherhood was founded in Egypt in 1928 with the goal of establishing a worldwide Islamic state through jihad and martyrdom. The group is considered the parent of all Sunni terrorist groups, including Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. [Source: Investigative Project on Terrorism] Read more.
PRAYER REQUEST:
Abba, we ask for Your wisdom for all in the administration in Washington, who make these security decisions. We ask that the "hidden agendas" and "secret things" would be revealed concerning their true intention. We ask for actions to back up their "rhetoric", and welcome their easing of opposition to the existing peace treaty with Israel. We ask that they follow through on what they are saying, and shine Your Light into the darkness of their hearts. Bring them to an encounter with You, the God of Israel, and the One who loves them as well. Amen.
DECREE:
"For there is nothing hidden except to be revealed, nor is anything kept secret except in order that it may be made known." (Mark 4:22)
A Word from our Catholic Friends
VIDEO: Test of Fire: Election 2012
(Official HD Version - Catholic)
Will you vote the values that will stand the test of fire? Some things are more important than high gas prices or a faltering economy. They are life, marriage and freedom. This November, Catholics must stand up and protect their sacred rights and duties.
Please share this video with your friends! Visit www.CC2W.org for more details.
The Good News Corner:
Alabama Officials Order Abortion Clinic Operators to Surrender License
The Alabama Department of Health (ADPH) on Friday ordered the operators of a Birmingham abortion clinic to surrender their license by May 18.
In late January, life advocates photographed two women being carried out of the New Woman All Women Health Care clinic into an alley, where ambulances were waiting. The incident sparked an investigation from the ADPH, which resulted in a 76-page report detailing nine categories of health code violations. The clinic has a history of bad reports from ADPH dating back as far as 2003.
"Non-licensed employees were administering medications to patients," said Father Terry Gensemer of the Charismatic Episcopal Church (CEC) for Life. There were also "charges of false and inaccurate medical records (and) failure to follow up with patients that were experiencing complications after the abortion procedures." (Citizenlink) Read more.
Honoring Passover . . .
"Inspirational Pesach Video: Jewish Journey From Bondage"
By Rachel Hirshfeld
"If there is one thing we have learned from the past it is that we must never leave our fate in the hands of others."
In honor of the Passover holiday and in view of the increasingly dire threats against the state of Israel and the Jewish people, TheLandofIsrael.com issued a video proclaiming that, "If there is one thing we have learned from the past it is that we must never leave our fate in the hands of others."
"Today Israel is facing a threat unparalleled in world history. Not only is our existence in the state of Israel in danger, but the lives of millions of our citizens," the video begins. "Over half of world Jewry is at the risk of being snuffed out by a genocidal dictator. Iran today is on the verge of completing its nuclear arsenal to accomplish exactly that aim."
In the 1930s and 40s, the video narrator explains, Jewish people were homeless, forced to leave their fate in the hands of others. As the Nazis perpetrated their brutal and systematic campaign to eliminate an entire nation, the world turned a blind eye and remained silent. "Country after country the Jews had no where to run. No one to rely on."
"We are re-living the year 1939, but this time is different," it continues. "The Jewish people have been resurrected as the nation of Israel I our homeland . . . We are finally free. Never Again will we be at the mercy of other nations. Israel must always protect the future of the Jewish people."
"As we sit down to the Passover seder this year, we remember and recount the Jewish people's journey from slavery to freedom, from bondage to redemption and from exile to the Land of Israel. As Yigal Alon poignantly stated, 'A nation that does not respect its past faces a present of weakness and a future pervaded by clouds.'"
"Let us remember our national history in order to strengthen our collective future and ensure that never again will the Jewish people be at the mercy of other nations that seek our destruction." (Arutz Sheva) Read more.
[To view this video, "Iran v. Israel: Back to the Future." go here.]
Share this video and support Israel's right to defend and protect! NEVER AGAIN will Israel depend on the help of other countries for our survival. Israel must always protect the future of the Jewish People.
AND . . .
BARBRA STREISAND - AVINU MALKEINU
As we listen to this classic Israeli tune, let's all continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem, again and again and again. Thank you.
