• The Daily Brief
• The Middle East in Focus
• The Daily Jot!
• Take Action! (Part One)
• "Gay Pride" at the Pentagon
• Today's Legislative Focus
• Take Action! (Part Two)
• Take Action! (Part Three)
• The Good News Corner
• Worship with Us Today!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
"Partners in Prayer for Our Nation"
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
The Daily Brief Friday, June 15, 2012
"He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked." (Isaiah 11:4)
This Monday, June 18, we will publish The Daily Brief. "On Capitol Hill This Week" will resume the following week on Monday, June 25th.
Happy Father's Day!
The Daily Brief
1. New Obama policy will spare as many as 800,000 illegal immigrants
from deportation - Fox News
The Obama administration will stop deporting and begin granting work permits to younger illegal immigrants who came to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives, effecting as many as 800,000. By-passing Congress, this election-year initiative addresses a top priority of an influential Latino electorate that has been vocal in its opposition to administration deportation policies.
The extraordinary step comes one week before President Barack Obama plans to address the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials' annual conference in Orlando, Fla. Republican presidential challenger Mitt Romney is scheduled to speak to the group on Thursday. Read more.
- Abba, the political implications of this move are very obvious. We pray that our President would not be able to by-pass Congress, and unilaterally issue edicts of his own choosing. We come against the "spirit of lawlessness" that is so rampant in our nation and the world. We know the purpose of government is to bring order out of chaos, not create more chaos. We ask, Lord, that our system of "checks and balances" would actively balance the scales of justice, and that all things would be done decently and in order. In Jesus Name, Amen.
- "Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many. Because lawlessness is increased, most people's love will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved." (Matthew 24:11-13)
2. Obama signs beam of One World Trade Center - CNN
With the under-construction One World Trade Center fast approaching its final height, Obama visited the New York tower Thursday to get an update on its growth and help prepare one of the finishing touches. Obama flew into New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport in the late afternoon and traveled by motorcade to the construction site for a briefing on the building, currently 104 stories and 1,300 feet tall -- already the tallest structure in New York. . . . According to reporters at the scene, Obama wrote on the steel beam: "We remember, we rebuild, we come back stronger! Obama " Read more.
- Father, we note, with some sadness that the "World Trade Center" is being renamed "One World Trade Center" with the trend toward "the new world order" being emphasized. We ask, Lord, that we all would remember what happened on 9/11 and never forget that we cannot build man-made towers for security, but that our security is in You! We ask that we, as a nation, humble ourselves before You and look to You as our Strong Tower and our defense.
We see, too, that this is another instance of the prophecy of Isaiah 9:10 being acted out by man -- in this case, the president of the United States -- as referenced in the book, The Harbinger. May God have mercy upon our land. Amen.
- "The name of Adonai is a strong tower; a righteous person runs to it and is raised high [above danger]. The wealth of the rich is his fortified city, like a high wall, in his own imagination." (Proverbs 18:10,11)
- "The bricks have fallen down, but we will rebuild with dressed stone; the fig trees have been felled, but we will replace them with cedars." (Is. 9:10)
3. Foreign holdings of US debt hit record high - AP
Foreign demand for U.S. Treasury securities rose to a record high in April. China, the largest buyer of Treasury debt, increased its holdings slightly after trimming them for two straight months.
- Lord, we are appalled to see our debt rising rapidly, making us dependent on foreign nations, who are our enemies. We ask, Father, that we as a nation, would humble ourselves and confess our sins and seek Your face and Your forgiveness. We ask for wisdom, honor, and integrity among those in our administration, as they seek to find the answers to this exorbitant debt. May we all be willing to be accountable and exercise restraint and discretion in our spending, we pray. Amen.
- "Yours, O Lord, is the greatness,The power and the glory,The victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours;Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, And You are exalted as head over all. Both riches and honor come from You, And You reign over all. In Your hand is power and might; In Your hand it is to make great And to give strength to all. "Now therefore, our God, We thank You And praise Your glorious name." (I Chronicles 29:11-13)
4. Data points to soft U.S. economy, possible Fed action - Reuters
The number of Americans filing for first-time unemployment benefits climbed last week, indicating continued trouble for the labor market. New claims for U.S. state jobless benefits rose for the fifth time in six weeks and consumer prices fell in May, opening the door wider for the U.S. Federal Reserve to help an economy that shows signs of weakening.
- Abba, we submit to You in these earthly cares of shelter and provision, and we thank You that You have promised to meet all of our needs, financial, and otherwise. You are our Source, and we praise You for Your great love and provision. Again, we pray for direction and clarity for those seeking employment. We come against a "spirit of hopelessness", and speak encouragement and hope to those looking for jobs.
- "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)
5. Lone Senator Blocks Renewal of NSA Wiretap Program - Wired News
The Obama administration wanted a quick, no-questions-asked-or-answered renewal of broad electronic eavesdropping powers that largely legalized the Bush administration's illegal warrantless wiretapping program. That's despite Obama's campaign promise to revisit and revise the rules to protect Americans' rights. But Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) has stepped in to stop the bill because the government refuses to say how often the spy powers are being used.
- Lord, this is an example of how the government's "balance of power' should work, not with "rubber-stamping" legislation; but having honest and open debate and answering questions. We thank You that there could and should be an honest questioning and exchange of ideas, before a vote. May Congress and the Administration work out this problem to protect the innocent, while pursuing the lawbreakers. Amen.
- " Before God, nothing created is hidden, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of him to whom we must render an account." (Hebrews 4:13)
6. Panetta Warns of Cyber Pearl Harbor - CNS News
'The Capability to Paralyze This Country Is There Now'
Defense Secretary Leon Panetta warned a Senate panel today that America faces "the potential for another Pearl Harbor" launched by enemies who have the capability to wield a cyberattack that would "paralyze this country."
- Abba, again we come to You, asking that You reveal the secret things, and the plans of our enemies! We ask that they be paralyzed with confusion, and not be able to accomplish their evil intents against our nation! Give our cyber-space technicians Your wisdom, in order to "foil" the plans for evil. We look to You, our Hope and our Shield, our Help in the time of trouble. Amen.
- "Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, The Creator of the ends of the earth, Neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength." (Isaiah 40:28-29)
7. Pentagon makes June gay pride month - Times of Israel
Last summer, gays in the military dared not admit their sexual orientation. This summer, the Pentagon will salute them, marking June as gay pride month just as it has marked other celebrations honoring racial or ethnic groups.
- Lord, is this the same Pentagon that had the policy of "don't ask, don't tell" concerning gays in the military? How far we have fallen, that we now "celebrate" perversion. Have mercy, O Lord. We pray for those caught in this lifestyle, who want to be free, that You will show Yourself strong on their behalf, and lead them in Your way of freedom, as they submit themselves to You, we pray. Amen.
- "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." (Isaiah 61:1-2)
The Middle East in Focus
This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:
"He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way." (Psalm 25:9)
1. Mofaz calls on Netanyahu and Abbas to renew peace talks - Ha'aretz
Kadima Chairman MK Shaul Mofaz called Thursday on Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to return to peace talks.
2. Israel must use the 'opportunity' provided by the Arab Spring, says former IDF chief-designate - Ha'aretz
Maj. Gen. (ret.) Yoav Galant spoke about his fears for Israel's security, and about how the country should "market" itself, at a conference on Middle East security in Washington on Friday.
3. Most Israelis think Romney would be 'friendlier' - Jerusalem Post
The fact that Israelis have conflicted attitudes toward US President Barack Obama came out loud and clear in a poll released on Thursday.
4. Kids Dressed as Terrorists in Pro-Jihad Kindergarten Graduation Ceremony in Gaza - The Blaze
Now it appears that no child is left behind in Gaza, where kindergarteners recently held a jihad-promoting graduation ceremony replete with camouflage make-up, fatigues, fake machine guns and a kiddie version of water-boarding.
5. Iran: We caught ring of assassins hired by Israeli network - Jerusalem Post
Iranian security forces on Thursday announced the arrest of a ring of assassins which it says were responsible for the recent killings of nuclear scientists, Iranian media reported. Police also sought to directly tie the suspects to Israel, alleging that they were "hired by an Israeli spy network," according to state news agency IRNA.
The Daily Jot!
US Government supporting Russian arms supplier to Syria
On June 12 CNN reported that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton told attendees at a Brookings Institute gathering, "We are concerned about the latest information we have that there are attack helicopters on the way from Russia to Syria, which will escalate the conflict quite dramatically." A spokesman for the Russian company that sells these weapons to Syria, Rosoboronexport, told CNN "No one can ever accuse Russia of violating the rules of armaments trade set by the international community. The contract was signed long ago, and we supply armaments that are self defense rather than attack weapons." What Clinton did not tell the Brookings attendees is that US taxpayers are also buying helicopters from the same Russian company.
While Clinton was criticizing the Russians for selling attack helicopters to Syria, the Administration is buying attack helicopters from Rosoboronexport to replenish the Afghanistan helicopter fleet. US taxpayers are footing the $375 million bill that could increase to over half a billion dollars. It seems wrong that the US, after nation-building in Afghanistan for 10 years and 7 months at the cost of 2,000 US lives and tens of thousands of maimings, that our government would not be replacing old Russian equipment with American-made equipment. Furthermore, it is morally and ethically wrong for the US government to be doing business with the same company that is enabling mass atrocities in Syria.
Several Congressmen led by Senator John Cornyn (R-Tx) wrote Defense Secretary Leon Panetta saying that the US should be sanctioning the Russian company rather than giving it half a billion dollars. AFP reports that Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said: "This particular contract is the only method legally available to the department to provide those aircraft and, just as importantly, safe and reliable spare parts and equipment to support those aircraft for the Afghan military." The Defense Department acknowledged in a letter to lawmakers that Rosoboronexport is continuing to supply weapons and ammunition to the Syrian regime and there is evidence that these weapons are being used on civilians.
James 1:8 says, "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." Our government is a den of elected and appointed usurpers and deceivers who are truly double minded. This White House sees no problem with supporting evil regimes with your tax dollars. This Congress, though trying to appear righteous in this particular incident, was irresponsible with your money by not holding the White House accountable in the first place. Meantime, people are enriching themselves off the lives of our soldiers and by seizing the fruits of your hard labor through taxes. With this kind of stewardship, from the voter all the way to the White House and every place in between, is it no wonder our nation is in the condition it is in?
Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!
Bill Wilson
www.dailyjot.com
Take Action! (Part One)
(Article One)
From Eagle Forum: Take a Stand Against Unconstitutional Amnesty!
President Obama blatantly violated the Constitution once again today when he announced he will grant amnesty to over 800,000 illegal immigrants under the age of 31. The policy will allow these aliens to not only live but also work in the United States.
This policy is similar to that proposed in the Dream Act, which passed in the House of Representatives under Nancy Pelosi, but failed in the Senate in 2010, even while liberals still had a commanding majority.
House Judiciary Committee Chair Lamar Smith (R-TX) declared, "This huge policy shift has horrible consequences for unemployed Americans looking for jobs and violates President Obama's oath to uphold the laws of this land." Smith went on, "How can the administration justify allowing illegal immigrants to work in the U.S. when millions of Americans are unemployed? President Obama and his administration once again have put partisan politics and illegal immigrants ahead of the rule of law and the American people."
Watch Phyllis Schlafly's statement. Obama is consistently flouting the Constitution by implementing policy through the Executive branch that is too radical to get through even the Reid-Pelosi Congress. He did it with cap and trade and card check, now he has done it with amnesty, and we must not let him get away with it!
Conservatives in Congress are hard at work developing a strategy to stand up against this egregious abuse of power. Our friend Congressman Steve King (R-IA) has already declared that he will sue the Obama Administration to keep the policy from going into effect. King used this remedy successfully in Iowa when then-Governor, now U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack attempted to implement policy by Executive Order.
Take Action!
We need you to contact your Senators and Representatives and tell them to take a stand for the Constitution. They cannot let the Obama get away with as he put it "working his way around Congress" in violation of the Constitution.
Capitol Switchboard: (202) 224-3121
We need you to attend Town Hall meetings and get your friends and family to continue to call your legislators until they take action.
We will keep you posted as specific legislation comes together, but for now your legislators just need to hear that you want this problem addressed!
Further Information:
Rep. Allen West questions new Obama deportation policy as 'backdoor' right to vote. To view his remarks, go here.
(Article Two) The Dictator-In-Chief?
Obama announced today that he is imposing a new policy that will end deportations for younger illegal immigrants brought here before they were 16. They will be allowed to remain in the country and receive work permits provided they have no criminal record and have completed high school, earned a GED or served in the military.
Some conservatives will denounce this plan as a likely first step toward amnesty. Others will think it is equitable. In fact, the Associated Press reports that Obama's plan "tracks closely to a proposal offered by Republican Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida."
But here's the bigger issue in my view: Are we a nation of laws or does one man now have the power to ignore Congress and dictate his own policies? Obama may not like our immigration laws, but he is not free to ignore them or rewrite them. That power rests with the legislative branch, not the executive branch. (Gary Bauer)
"Gay Pride" at the Pentagon
On June 1st, President Obama issued a proclamation declaring June "Gay Pride Month." Various federal departments will host events throughout the month recognizing their homosexual employees. For the first time ever the Pentagon will host its own "Gay Pride" events this month, "just as it has marked other celebrations honoring racial or ethnic groups."
But there's a big problem with that statement -- homosexuals aren't just another "racial or ethnic group." They define themselves based on their private bedroom behavior. Why should that be a cause for celebration?
When do we celebrate "Straight Pride Month"? Should the government applaud other personal preferences too, like "Swingers Pride Month"? This is all just left-wing politically correct nonsense that divides rather than unites us as Americans.
Unfortunately, the Pentagon is caving in to the radical secularists in more ways than one. Since 2003, the B&H Publishing company, affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention, has published the Soldier's Bible, Sailor's Bible, Marine's Bible and Airman's Bible with the service emblem of the specific branch prominently featured on the cover.
But an atheist foundation sued after some service members "witnessed the Bibles being conspicuously featured on military exchange shelves and storefronts across the globe." As a result, the Pentagon has revoked its permission for the B&H Company to print Bibles using the service emblems.
"Gay Pride" is in, and the military service Bibles are out. Yet one more example of Obama's assault on our traditional values. Elections have consequences, my friends. We can't afford four more years of this nightmare! ("The Culture War" by Gary Bauer)
Today's Legislative Focus
From The Madison Project
www.madisonproject.com
Bonus Legislation
[Every week, we will try to spotlight some positive legislation that is worthy of conservative support.]
H.R. 3372, the Dairy Pricing Deregulation Act
While liberals in both parties are attempting to expand the role of government in the agriculture sector, conservative stalwart, Rep. Joe Walsh (R-IL), is seeking to roll back existing draconian price controls. Believe it or not, the Federal government has been setting milk prices since 1937. Milk is a basic necessity for all American consumers, yet when you combine the price controls together with subsidies for dairy farmers, it has a disastrous effect on all consumers. This is a quintessential example of how government intervention artificially raises the cost of basic commodities, engendering regressive inflationary pressure on those people whom Democrats purport to endear. This must end.
Please call your members of Congress and ask them to support HR 3372, a common sense bill that will gradually end federal involvement in regulation of milk prices. Also kindly request that your member sign Congressman Walsh's letter to leadership calling for a floor vote on this bill.
Take Action! (Part Two)
Help stop a Pentagon purge of military Bibles
Of all the threats to our national security today, activist Mikey Weinstein has decided that military editions of the Bible deserve the attention of his militant secularist group, the Military Religious Freedom Foundation. After the group threatened a class-action lawsuit, the Pentagon conspicuously revoked approval to use the logo of each service branch on the covers of Bibles sold in military exchange stores. Weinstein even insists that all the remaining copies be purged from the store shelves.
Let's be clear here: The Bibles were sold at no cost to the government, and service members voluntarily purchased them. At no point were military members coerced or encouraged by their superiors to buy the books. They were simply for sale in the military exchange stores. Yet Weinstein told Fox News that their mere presence on the shelves constitutes a religious endorsement by the Department of Defense. "If their logos are being placed on a particular version of Christianity . . .. when we are engaged in a war with fundamentalist Muslims -- it's a security threat."
While the Bible may indeed be a threat, it's not to our national security. The Bible is a threat to the depression, loneliness, broken marriages, and high suicide rates that the brave men and women of our military face every day. When so many of our soldiers are suffering, why would the Department of Defense be so intent on removing such a source of solace? Why -- especially in time of war -- would Defense officials spend time and effort on an issue that doesn't help our servicemen and women?
Months before the start of World War II, President Franklin Roosevelt actually wrote the prologue to the Gideon Bibles given to the Armed Forces, encouraging them to draw courage from its contents. "As Commander-in-Chief, I take pleasure in commending the reading of the Bible to all who serve in the armed forces of the United States. Throughout the centuries, men of many faiths and diverse origins have found in the Sacred Book words of wisdom, counsel, and inspiration. It is a fountain of strength, and now, as always, an aid in attaining the highest aspirations of the human soul."
Will the Department of Defense once again cave to a small group of militant secularist activists? Please sign our petition, which we will deliver to the Defense officials, and join us in urging them to reverse their decision and stand strong against those who seek to purge our military of one of its greatest sources of strength.
Tony Perkins, President
Family Research Council
Take Action! (Part Three)
STOP IRAN!!
Knesset Christian Allies Caucus (KCAC) Sponsors Petition
--Demands World's Leaders to Take Action Against Iran
Dear Christian Allies,
A nuclear Iran is the biggest threat that faces Israel and the West today. Iran's official foreign policy is the destruction of the State of Israel and they are on the verge of acquiring the capability to do so! We at the Knesset Christian Allies Caucus encourage Jews and Christians to stand together in the face of this threat and sign the following petition - www.stopiran.org. Please encourage your congregations and communities to join this campaign.
All the best,
Josh Reinstein, Director
Knesset Christian Allies Caucus
Here is the text of this petition: We demand that world leaders take immediate action against the threat of nuclear attack from Iran. The world cannot stand by and allow Iran to perpetrate another Holocaust against the Jewish people. Israel's very existence is at stake. We urge the leaders of the free world to Stop Iran Now before it's too late.
The Good News Corner
What honor looks like: The flash mob at Gate 38 of Reagan National Airport
(WWII Vets with Honor Flight spontaneously cheered by travelers
at Reagan National)
Honor is a hard term to describe. It doesn't have a color or weight or shape. If someone were to ask me what honor looked like, I'd probably struggle with what to say.
But something happened on May 23, 2012 at 9:31 a.m. at Gate 38 of Reagan National Airport that might change that. A flash mob of sorts broke out. But not like you've seen on YouTube with highly choreographed dance numbers or people singing a song in unison. In fact, virtually all of the participants of this "flash mob" didn't know they would be participating until moments before it happened.
Let me explain. Shortly before 9:30 over the loud speakers, a US Airways gate attendant announced that an Honor Flight of World War II veterans would be arriving momentarily and encouraged anyone passing by to help greet them. Five or six people looked like they were officially part of the welcoming committee, and the rest of the people in the secure section of the airport were regular old travelers going somewhere. Then I had a terrible thought. What if these veterans came off the plane and just those five or six individuals were there to greet them. I walked a gate over to help see the veterans out.
But - then it happened and frankly, I wasn't expecting it. All throughout the terminal, people left their gates and gathered around gate 38. A few active military personnel in plain clothes approached the gate attendant and politely asked if they could join in the salute within the jet way as the heros first stepped off the plane. Every human being in the terminal stood at attention and faced the door.
Someone held up an old newspaper from 1945 that had a banner headline that said, "Nazis Quit!" And when I saw that newspaper, I realized that World War II wasn't just a chapter in a history book. It was men and women who saw an evil like the world has never seen before and traveled across the world to meet that evil. And they defeated it..
I wonder if in 1945, any of those brave soldiers could ever imagine that 67 years later, we'd still be basking in the freedom that they preserved. And some of those heros were about to walk through Gate 38.
The first soldier walked through the door. Old, frail and needing help walking. And every person I could see in the entire airport stood and applauded. No - maybe cheered is more like it.
But here's the thing - the applause didn't stop. For a full 20 minutes, as veteran by veteran stepped out of the jet way, the US Airways wing of Reagan National Airport thundered in appreciation. Travelers stepped out for the opportunity to shake their hand while others held back tears.
This is the America we picture in our heads. Heros getting a hero's welcome and those who enjoy the freedom adequately conveying their gratitude.
Now, I know what honor looks like.
(By Chris Muller)
To view the video of this spontaneous event, go here.
Worship with Us Today!
Overcome - Jeremy Camp
"Savior, worthy of honor and glory, worthy of all our
praises, You overcame! Jesus, awesome in power
forever, awesome and great is Your name! You
overcame. We will overcome by the blood of the
Lamb and the word of our testimony. You overcame!"
• The Middle East in Focus
• The Daily Jot!
• Take Action! (Part One)
• "Gay Pride" at the Pentagon
• Today's Legislative Focus
• Take Action! (Part Two)
• Take Action! (Part Three)
• The Good News Corner
• Worship with Us Today!
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
"Partners in Prayer for Our Nation"
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net
The Daily Brief Friday, June 15, 2012
"He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked." (Isaiah 11:4)
This Monday, June 18, we will publish The Daily Brief. "On Capitol Hill This Week" will resume the following week on Monday, June 25th.
Happy Father's Day!
The Daily Brief
1. New Obama policy will spare as many as 800,000 illegal immigrants
from deportation - Fox News
The Obama administration will stop deporting and begin granting work permits to younger illegal immigrants who came to the U.S. as children and have since led law-abiding lives, effecting as many as 800,000. By-passing Congress, this election-year initiative addresses a top priority of an influential Latino electorate that has been vocal in its opposition to administration deportation policies.
The extraordinary step comes one week before President Barack Obama plans to address the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials' annual conference in Orlando, Fla. Republican presidential challenger Mitt Romney is scheduled to speak to the group on Thursday. Read more.
- Abba, the political implications of this move are very obvious. We pray that our President would not be able to by-pass Congress, and unilaterally issue edicts of his own choosing. We come against the "spirit of lawlessness" that is so rampant in our nation and the world. We know the purpose of government is to bring order out of chaos, not create more chaos. We ask, Lord, that our system of "checks and balances" would actively balance the scales of justice, and that all things would be done decently and in order. In Jesus Name, Amen.
- "Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many. Because lawlessness is increased, most people's love will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved." (Matthew 24:11-13)
2. Obama signs beam of One World Trade Center - CNN
With the under-construction One World Trade Center fast approaching its final height, Obama visited the New York tower Thursday to get an update on its growth and help prepare one of the finishing touches. Obama flew into New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport in the late afternoon and traveled by motorcade to the construction site for a briefing on the building, currently 104 stories and 1,300 feet tall -- already the tallest structure in New York. . . . According to reporters at the scene, Obama wrote on the steel beam: "We remember, we rebuild, we come back stronger! Obama " Read more.
- Father, we note, with some sadness that the "World Trade Center" is being renamed "One World Trade Center" with the trend toward "the new world order" being emphasized. We ask, Lord, that we all would remember what happened on 9/11 and never forget that we cannot build man-made towers for security, but that our security is in You! We ask that we, as a nation, humble ourselves before You and look to You as our Strong Tower and our defense.
We see, too, that this is another instance of the prophecy of Isaiah 9:10 being acted out by man -- in this case, the president of the United States -- as referenced in the book, The Harbinger. May God have mercy upon our land. Amen.
- "The name of Adonai is a strong tower; a righteous person runs to it and is raised high [above danger]. The wealth of the rich is his fortified city, like a high wall, in his own imagination." (Proverbs 18:10,11)
- "The bricks have fallen down, but we will rebuild with dressed stone; the fig trees have been felled, but we will replace them with cedars." (Is. 9:10)
3. Foreign holdings of US debt hit record high - AP
Foreign demand for U.S. Treasury securities rose to a record high in April. China, the largest buyer of Treasury debt, increased its holdings slightly after trimming them for two straight months.
- Lord, we are appalled to see our debt rising rapidly, making us dependent on foreign nations, who are our enemies. We ask, Father, that we as a nation, would humble ourselves and confess our sins and seek Your face and Your forgiveness. We ask for wisdom, honor, and integrity among those in our administration, as they seek to find the answers to this exorbitant debt. May we all be willing to be accountable and exercise restraint and discretion in our spending, we pray. Amen.
- "Yours, O Lord, is the greatness,The power and the glory,The victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours;Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, And You are exalted as head over all. Both riches and honor come from You, And You reign over all. In Your hand is power and might; In Your hand it is to make great And to give strength to all. "Now therefore, our God, We thank You And praise Your glorious name." (I Chronicles 29:11-13)
4. Data points to soft U.S. economy, possible Fed action - Reuters
The number of Americans filing for first-time unemployment benefits climbed last week, indicating continued trouble for the labor market. New claims for U.S. state jobless benefits rose for the fifth time in six weeks and consumer prices fell in May, opening the door wider for the U.S. Federal Reserve to help an economy that shows signs of weakening.
- Abba, we submit to You in these earthly cares of shelter and provision, and we thank You that You have promised to meet all of our needs, financial, and otherwise. You are our Source, and we praise You for Your great love and provision. Again, we pray for direction and clarity for those seeking employment. We come against a "spirit of hopelessness", and speak encouragement and hope to those looking for jobs.
- "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)
5. Lone Senator Blocks Renewal of NSA Wiretap Program - Wired News
The Obama administration wanted a quick, no-questions-asked-or-answered renewal of broad electronic eavesdropping powers that largely legalized the Bush administration's illegal warrantless wiretapping program. That's despite Obama's campaign promise to revisit and revise the rules to protect Americans' rights. But Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) has stepped in to stop the bill because the government refuses to say how often the spy powers are being used.
- Lord, this is an example of how the government's "balance of power' should work, not with "rubber-stamping" legislation; but having honest and open debate and answering questions. We thank You that there could and should be an honest questioning and exchange of ideas, before a vote. May Congress and the Administration work out this problem to protect the innocent, while pursuing the lawbreakers. Amen.
- " Before God, nothing created is hidden, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of him to whom we must render an account." (Hebrews 4:13)
6. Panetta Warns of Cyber Pearl Harbor - CNS News
'The Capability to Paralyze This Country Is There Now'
Defense Secretary Leon Panetta warned a Senate panel today that America faces "the potential for another Pearl Harbor" launched by enemies who have the capability to wield a cyberattack that would "paralyze this country."
- Abba, again we come to You, asking that You reveal the secret things, and the plans of our enemies! We ask that they be paralyzed with confusion, and not be able to accomplish their evil intents against our nation! Give our cyber-space technicians Your wisdom, in order to "foil" the plans for evil. We look to You, our Hope and our Shield, our Help in the time of trouble. Amen.
- "Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, The Creator of the ends of the earth, Neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength." (Isaiah 40:28-29)
7. Pentagon makes June gay pride month - Times of Israel
Last summer, gays in the military dared not admit their sexual orientation. This summer, the Pentagon will salute them, marking June as gay pride month just as it has marked other celebrations honoring racial or ethnic groups.
- Lord, is this the same Pentagon that had the policy of "don't ask, don't tell" concerning gays in the military? How far we have fallen, that we now "celebrate" perversion. Have mercy, O Lord. We pray for those caught in this lifestyle, who want to be free, that You will show Yourself strong on their behalf, and lead them in Your way of freedom, as they submit themselves to You, we pray. Amen.
- "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." (Isaiah 61:1-2)
The Middle East in Focus
This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:
"He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way." (Psalm 25:9)
1. Mofaz calls on Netanyahu and Abbas to renew peace talks - Ha'aretz
Kadima Chairman MK Shaul Mofaz called Thursday on Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to return to peace talks.
2. Israel must use the 'opportunity' provided by the Arab Spring, says former IDF chief-designate - Ha'aretz
Maj. Gen. (ret.) Yoav Galant spoke about his fears for Israel's security, and about how the country should "market" itself, at a conference on Middle East security in Washington on Friday.
3. Most Israelis think Romney would be 'friendlier' - Jerusalem Post
The fact that Israelis have conflicted attitudes toward US President Barack Obama came out loud and clear in a poll released on Thursday.
4. Kids Dressed as Terrorists in Pro-Jihad Kindergarten Graduation Ceremony in Gaza - The Blaze
Now it appears that no child is left behind in Gaza, where kindergarteners recently held a jihad-promoting graduation ceremony replete with camouflage make-up, fatigues, fake machine guns and a kiddie version of water-boarding.
5. Iran: We caught ring of assassins hired by Israeli network - Jerusalem Post
Iranian security forces on Thursday announced the arrest of a ring of assassins which it says were responsible for the recent killings of nuclear scientists, Iranian media reported. Police also sought to directly tie the suspects to Israel, alleging that they were "hired by an Israeli spy network," according to state news agency IRNA.
The Daily Jot!
US Government supporting Russian arms supplier to Syria
On June 12 CNN reported that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton told attendees at a Brookings Institute gathering, "We are concerned about the latest information we have that there are attack helicopters on the way from Russia to Syria, which will escalate the conflict quite dramatically." A spokesman for the Russian company that sells these weapons to Syria, Rosoboronexport, told CNN "No one can ever accuse Russia of violating the rules of armaments trade set by the international community. The contract was signed long ago, and we supply armaments that are self defense rather than attack weapons." What Clinton did not tell the Brookings attendees is that US taxpayers are also buying helicopters from the same Russian company.
While Clinton was criticizing the Russians for selling attack helicopters to Syria, the Administration is buying attack helicopters from Rosoboronexport to replenish the Afghanistan helicopter fleet. US taxpayers are footing the $375 million bill that could increase to over half a billion dollars. It seems wrong that the US, after nation-building in Afghanistan for 10 years and 7 months at the cost of 2,000 US lives and tens of thousands of maimings, that our government would not be replacing old Russian equipment with American-made equipment. Furthermore, it is morally and ethically wrong for the US government to be doing business with the same company that is enabling mass atrocities in Syria.
Several Congressmen led by Senator John Cornyn (R-Tx) wrote Defense Secretary Leon Panetta saying that the US should be sanctioning the Russian company rather than giving it half a billion dollars. AFP reports that Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said: "This particular contract is the only method legally available to the department to provide those aircraft and, just as importantly, safe and reliable spare parts and equipment to support those aircraft for the Afghan military." The Defense Department acknowledged in a letter to lawmakers that Rosoboronexport is continuing to supply weapons and ammunition to the Syrian regime and there is evidence that these weapons are being used on civilians.
James 1:8 says, "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways." Our government is a den of elected and appointed usurpers and deceivers who are truly double minded. This White House sees no problem with supporting evil regimes with your tax dollars. This Congress, though trying to appear righteous in this particular incident, was irresponsible with your money by not holding the White House accountable in the first place. Meantime, people are enriching themselves off the lives of our soldiers and by seizing the fruits of your hard labor through taxes. With this kind of stewardship, from the voter all the way to the White House and every place in between, is it no wonder our nation is in the condition it is in?
Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!
Bill Wilson
www.dailyjot.com
Take Action! (Part One)
(Article One)
From Eagle Forum: Take a Stand Against Unconstitutional Amnesty!
President Obama blatantly violated the Constitution once again today when he announced he will grant amnesty to over 800,000 illegal immigrants under the age of 31. The policy will allow these aliens to not only live but also work in the United States.
This policy is similar to that proposed in the Dream Act, which passed in the House of Representatives under Nancy Pelosi, but failed in the Senate in 2010, even while liberals still had a commanding majority.
House Judiciary Committee Chair Lamar Smith (R-TX) declared, "This huge policy shift has horrible consequences for unemployed Americans looking for jobs and violates President Obama's oath to uphold the laws of this land." Smith went on, "How can the administration justify allowing illegal immigrants to work in the U.S. when millions of Americans are unemployed? President Obama and his administration once again have put partisan politics and illegal immigrants ahead of the rule of law and the American people."
Watch Phyllis Schlafly's statement. Obama is consistently flouting the Constitution by implementing policy through the Executive branch that is too radical to get through even the Reid-Pelosi Congress. He did it with cap and trade and card check, now he has done it with amnesty, and we must not let him get away with it!
Conservatives in Congress are hard at work developing a strategy to stand up against this egregious abuse of power. Our friend Congressman Steve King (R-IA) has already declared that he will sue the Obama Administration to keep the policy from going into effect. King used this remedy successfully in Iowa when then-Governor, now U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack attempted to implement policy by Executive Order.
Take Action!
We need you to contact your Senators and Representatives and tell them to take a stand for the Constitution. They cannot let the Obama get away with as he put it "working his way around Congress" in violation of the Constitution.
Capitol Switchboard: (202) 224-3121
We need you to attend Town Hall meetings and get your friends and family to continue to call your legislators until they take action.
We will keep you posted as specific legislation comes together, but for now your legislators just need to hear that you want this problem addressed!
Further Information:
Rep. Allen West questions new Obama deportation policy as 'backdoor' right to vote. To view his remarks, go here.
(Article Two) The Dictator-In-Chief?
Obama announced today that he is imposing a new policy that will end deportations for younger illegal immigrants brought here before they were 16. They will be allowed to remain in the country and receive work permits provided they have no criminal record and have completed high school, earned a GED or served in the military.
Some conservatives will denounce this plan as a likely first step toward amnesty. Others will think it is equitable. In fact, the Associated Press reports that Obama's plan "tracks closely to a proposal offered by Republican Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida."
But here's the bigger issue in my view: Are we a nation of laws or does one man now have the power to ignore Congress and dictate his own policies? Obama may not like our immigration laws, but he is not free to ignore them or rewrite them. That power rests with the legislative branch, not the executive branch. (Gary Bauer)
"Gay Pride" at the Pentagon
On June 1st, President Obama issued a proclamation declaring June "Gay Pride Month." Various federal departments will host events throughout the month recognizing their homosexual employees. For the first time ever the Pentagon will host its own "Gay Pride" events this month, "just as it has marked other celebrations honoring racial or ethnic groups."
But there's a big problem with that statement -- homosexuals aren't just another "racial or ethnic group." They define themselves based on their private bedroom behavior. Why should that be a cause for celebration?
When do we celebrate "Straight Pride Month"? Should the government applaud other personal preferences too, like "Swingers Pride Month"? This is all just left-wing politically correct nonsense that divides rather than unites us as Americans.
Unfortunately, the Pentagon is caving in to the radical secularists in more ways than one. Since 2003, the B&H Publishing company, affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention, has published the Soldier's Bible, Sailor's Bible, Marine's Bible and Airman's Bible with the service emblem of the specific branch prominently featured on the cover.
But an atheist foundation sued after some service members "witnessed the Bibles being conspicuously featured on military exchange shelves and storefronts across the globe." As a result, the Pentagon has revoked its permission for the B&H Company to print Bibles using the service emblems.
"Gay Pride" is in, and the military service Bibles are out. Yet one more example of Obama's assault on our traditional values. Elections have consequences, my friends. We can't afford four more years of this nightmare! ("The Culture War" by Gary Bauer)
Today's Legislative Focus
From The Madison Project
www.madisonproject.com
Bonus Legislation
[Every week, we will try to spotlight some positive legislation that is worthy of conservative support.]
H.R. 3372, the Dairy Pricing Deregulation Act
While liberals in both parties are attempting to expand the role of government in the agriculture sector, conservative stalwart, Rep. Joe Walsh (R-IL), is seeking to roll back existing draconian price controls. Believe it or not, the Federal government has been setting milk prices since 1937. Milk is a basic necessity for all American consumers, yet when you combine the price controls together with subsidies for dairy farmers, it has a disastrous effect on all consumers. This is a quintessential example of how government intervention artificially raises the cost of basic commodities, engendering regressive inflationary pressure on those people whom Democrats purport to endear. This must end.
Please call your members of Congress and ask them to support HR 3372, a common sense bill that will gradually end federal involvement in regulation of milk prices. Also kindly request that your member sign Congressman Walsh's letter to leadership calling for a floor vote on this bill.
Take Action! (Part Two)
Help stop a Pentagon purge of military Bibles
Of all the threats to our national security today, activist Mikey Weinstein has decided that military editions of the Bible deserve the attention of his militant secularist group, the Military Religious Freedom Foundation. After the group threatened a class-action lawsuit, the Pentagon conspicuously revoked approval to use the logo of each service branch on the covers of Bibles sold in military exchange stores. Weinstein even insists that all the remaining copies be purged from the store shelves.
Let's be clear here: The Bibles were sold at no cost to the government, and service members voluntarily purchased them. At no point were military members coerced or encouraged by their superiors to buy the books. They were simply for sale in the military exchange stores. Yet Weinstein told Fox News that their mere presence on the shelves constitutes a religious endorsement by the Department of Defense. "If their logos are being placed on a particular version of Christianity . . .. when we are engaged in a war with fundamentalist Muslims -- it's a security threat."
While the Bible may indeed be a threat, it's not to our national security. The Bible is a threat to the depression, loneliness, broken marriages, and high suicide rates that the brave men and women of our military face every day. When so many of our soldiers are suffering, why would the Department of Defense be so intent on removing such a source of solace? Why -- especially in time of war -- would Defense officials spend time and effort on an issue that doesn't help our servicemen and women?
Months before the start of World War II, President Franklin Roosevelt actually wrote the prologue to the Gideon Bibles given to the Armed Forces, encouraging them to draw courage from its contents. "As Commander-in-Chief, I take pleasure in commending the reading of the Bible to all who serve in the armed forces of the United States. Throughout the centuries, men of many faiths and diverse origins have found in the Sacred Book words of wisdom, counsel, and inspiration. It is a fountain of strength, and now, as always, an aid in attaining the highest aspirations of the human soul."
Will the Department of Defense once again cave to a small group of militant secularist activists? Please sign our petition, which we will deliver to the Defense officials, and join us in urging them to reverse their decision and stand strong against those who seek to purge our military of one of its greatest sources of strength.
Tony Perkins, President
Family Research Council
Take Action! (Part Three)
STOP IRAN!!
Knesset Christian Allies Caucus (KCAC) Sponsors Petition
--Demands World's Leaders to Take Action Against Iran
Dear Christian Allies,
A nuclear Iran is the biggest threat that faces Israel and the West today. Iran's official foreign policy is the destruction of the State of Israel and they are on the verge of acquiring the capability to do so! We at the Knesset Christian Allies Caucus encourage Jews and Christians to stand together in the face of this threat and sign the following petition - www.stopiran.org. Please encourage your congregations and communities to join this campaign.
All the best,
Josh Reinstein, Director
Knesset Christian Allies Caucus
Here is the text of this petition: We demand that world leaders take immediate action against the threat of nuclear attack from Iran. The world cannot stand by and allow Iran to perpetrate another Holocaust against the Jewish people. Israel's very existence is at stake. We urge the leaders of the free world to Stop Iran Now before it's too late.
The Good News Corner
What honor looks like: The flash mob at Gate 38 of Reagan National Airport
(WWII Vets with Honor Flight spontaneously cheered by travelers
at Reagan National)
Honor is a hard term to describe. It doesn't have a color or weight or shape. If someone were to ask me what honor looked like, I'd probably struggle with what to say.
But something happened on May 23, 2012 at 9:31 a.m. at Gate 38 of Reagan National Airport that might change that. A flash mob of sorts broke out. But not like you've seen on YouTube with highly choreographed dance numbers or people singing a song in unison. In fact, virtually all of the participants of this "flash mob" didn't know they would be participating until moments before it happened.
Let me explain. Shortly before 9:30 over the loud speakers, a US Airways gate attendant announced that an Honor Flight of World War II veterans would be arriving momentarily and encouraged anyone passing by to help greet them. Five or six people looked like they were officially part of the welcoming committee, and the rest of the people in the secure section of the airport were regular old travelers going somewhere. Then I had a terrible thought. What if these veterans came off the plane and just those five or six individuals were there to greet them. I walked a gate over to help see the veterans out.
But - then it happened and frankly, I wasn't expecting it. All throughout the terminal, people left their gates and gathered around gate 38. A few active military personnel in plain clothes approached the gate attendant and politely asked if they could join in the salute within the jet way as the heros first stepped off the plane. Every human being in the terminal stood at attention and faced the door.
Someone held up an old newspaper from 1945 that had a banner headline that said, "Nazis Quit!" And when I saw that newspaper, I realized that World War II wasn't just a chapter in a history book. It was men and women who saw an evil like the world has never seen before and traveled across the world to meet that evil. And they defeated it..
I wonder if in 1945, any of those brave soldiers could ever imagine that 67 years later, we'd still be basking in the freedom that they preserved. And some of those heros were about to walk through Gate 38.
The first soldier walked through the door. Old, frail and needing help walking. And every person I could see in the entire airport stood and applauded. No - maybe cheered is more like it.
But here's the thing - the applause didn't stop. For a full 20 minutes, as veteran by veteran stepped out of the jet way, the US Airways wing of Reagan National Airport thundered in appreciation. Travelers stepped out for the opportunity to shake their hand while others held back tears.
This is the America we picture in our heads. Heros getting a hero's welcome and those who enjoy the freedom adequately conveying their gratitude.
Now, I know what honor looks like.
(By Chris Muller)
To view the video of this spontaneous event, go here.
Worship with Us Today!
Overcome - Jeremy Camp
"Savior, worthy of honor and glory, worthy of all our
praises, You overcame! Jesus, awesome in power
forever, awesome and great is Your name! You
overcame. We will overcome by the blood of the
Lamb and the word of our testimony. You overcame!"
