THIS IS A SPECIAL EDITION OF THE DAILY BRIEF. PLEASE SEE FIRST ARTICLE, BELOW; THEN SECTION TITLED "NOW WE CAN FIGHT BACK."
Our regular headlines will be posted later today, for prayer.
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The Daily Brief
PART ONE
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
"May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way." (2 Thessalonians 3:16)
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Special Alert
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Protests Expected Today at Chick-Fil-A's Across the Nation
We have learned today of a leaked memo from a high-ranking Chick-Fil-A source outlining that the LGBT Chick-Fil-A protesters in some states are planning on "hijacking" the dining rooms and drive-thru lanes of the restaurants and staging a "sit-in" on August 1 instead of their planned "same sex kiss-a-thon" on Friday August 3rd.
It is rumored that the Occupy Movement will be joining the LGBT. Police departments are now being notified and preparing to deal with the protesters in case it turns violent. So if you are planning on going to Chick-fil-a today to support them, be ready for anything.
- Father, we ask that You keep everyone safe as they patronize these restaurants today, in the Name of Jesus. We thank You for the promise of Psalm 91, and we claim that verse now for all families whose hearts are set to support this wonderful, Christ-honoring restaurant with their business today.
We ask You to forgive those who are planning on protesting or demonstrating at these establishments, for they know not what they do, and we ask that each one, who is bent on this agenda, be led to You for salvation.
We ask this in Jesus' Name, amen.
- " . . . no weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me," declares the Lord." (Isaiah 54:17)
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The Middle East in Focus
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The Middle East in Focus
This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:
Except that it was YHWH who was for us, O may Israel say; except that it was YHWH who was for us when men rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us up alive, when their wrath was kindled against us - then the proud waters would have gone over our soul. Blessed is YHWH, who has not given us as a prey to their teeth. (Psalm 124:1-8)
1. Israel's message to Panetta: U.S. can't prevent an attack on Iran - Ha'aretz
U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta arrived in Israel last night for a brief visit that will focus on the American-Israeli dispute over whether to attack Iran's nuclear facilities. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak plan to stress that Israel reserves the right to defend itself, and to make its own decision on whether to attack.
2. US, Lockheed reach deal on Israeli F-35s - Ynet News
The Pentagon has reached an agreement with Lockheed Martin Corp on a $450 million program to enhance electronic warfare equipment on the F-35 fighter jet, and integrate Israeli-unique systems beginning in 2016, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.
3. MK: Netanyahu must 'unmask' US spying on Israel - Jerusalem Post
If US President Barack Obama does not commute the life sentence of Israeli agent Jonathan Pollard by the November 6 US election, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu should expose American efforts to spy on Israel, National Union MK Arieh Eldad said Tuesday at a Knesset State Control Committee meeting monitoring progress in efforts to bring about Pollard's release.
4. IDF chief on Iran: All options on the table - Ynet News
"All options are on the table" regarding Iran, IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Benny Gantz said Tuesday. He continued by saying, "Iran is continuing with its efforts to achieve nuclear capabilities. This is a severe global and regional problem and we should not ignore it, because (Iran) is the only country in the world that is developing nuclear weapons while calling to annihilate another country."
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Aug. 3: "Kiss-In" Outside
Chick-Fil-A's
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On August 3: Gays to Stage "Kiss-Ins" Outside Chick-Fil-A's
Chick-Fil-A fallout continues with kiss-in planned
Same-sex couples around the country are planning to kiss at Chick-Fil-A restaurants around the country in response to company president Dan Cathy's comments supporting organizations that fight against gay marriage.
"National Same-Sex Kiss Day" is set for Aug. 3, according to the event's official Facebook page.
Cathy came under fire after he told the Baptist Press that Chick-Fil-A was "guilty as charged" when it comes to supporting "the biblical definition of the family unit."
Chick-Fil-A has a supporter in former Arkansas governor and Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee, who is organizing a "Chick Fil-A Appreciation Day" two days before the kiss-in.
Huckabee, who hosts a political commentary show on Fox News, said he was "incensed at the vitriolic assaults" on the company following Cathy's comments.
"The goal is simple," he said on his Facebook page. "Let's affirm a business that operates on Christian principles and whose executives are willing to take a stand for the Godly values we espouse by simply showing up and eating at Chick Fil-A on Wednesday, August 1." (By ANTHONY BARTKEWICZ, New York Daily News, Monday, July 23, 2012) Read more.
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Now We Can Fight Back!
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Now We Can Fight Back!
Dear Friends,
I know that all of us are grieved to learn of the actions planned by the gay community, staging a "kiss-in" at Chick-Fil-A's across the nation this Friday, Aug. 3rd.
My own son, Jimmy Ballenger, has come up with a wonderful way that we can all "fight back" that day, based on the love of our Messiah! Here is his message:
Here's what I propose. Go today (Aug. 1) if you prefer, but determine to go on Friday (Aug. 3) if you can. When you do, keep your eyes open to see if you spot any couples kissing, and if you do, buy something off the menu and leave it w/ them. Don't preach at them, don't try to start a conversation w/ them, don't say a word. Just have a friendly smile on, drop it off right where they are, and walk away.
You may also leave a note inside saying something to the effect of, "This is just to let you know that I don't hate you because God's love is equal to all. I'd love to hear your thoughts about that if you're willing to share, but either way, I hope you enjoy the food." [Don't forget to leave your contact information!]
I was recently reflecting on Rom. 2:4 which says that God's kindness leads us to repentance, noting how that correlates w/ what He said to Abraham in Gen. 12:1-3 (blessing him to bless the nations), and there's what Jesus said towards the end of Mt. 5 about blessing our enemies even above what's asked of us, noting that we're no different from the world if we don't.
I know some of you might be a bit uncomfortable with this, and I don't blame you. I don't know how comfortable I'll be with it if the situation arises, but this isn't about my comfort. This is about the fact that God took on human flesh and suffered on our behalf so that we can spend eternity with Him, and if we can't accept that in our hearts, how are we any different from the servant who was forgiven much only to go on and throw someone in prison over a smaller debt? (See Mt. 18:23-35)
In Ezek. 33:11, God says that He takes no pleasure in the death of a wicked person, but would rather see that person repent and live. If that's what He says in His Word, shouldn't we feel the same way towards our enemies, too? August 3 is just two days away. Let's spread the word. Let's make it happen.
Submitted by:
Jimmy Ballenger
Youth With a Mission
Lebanon, PA
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Today's Legislative Focus
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Today's Legislative Focus
From The Madison Project
www.madisonproject.com
Farm Bill
We thought the $1 trillion farm/food stamp bill was dead in the water, but now proponents are using the drought to make one last push before the August recess. In an effort to never let a good crisis go to waste, there is a bipartisan effort to push through this massive farm bill.
As part of the 5-year farm bills, there is a provision that provides disaster aid to farmers. Last farm bill only authorized 4 years of disaster aid for livestock farmers. As such, advocates of the farm bill are pushing a 1-year extension of the current bill that contains extra aid for those farmers who are languishing under moderate to severe drought. The House will vote on a disaster relief package along with a 1-year extension of the last 5-year farm bill this week, as there will only be three weeks left until the September 30 deadline upon their return to Congress. The Senate will also schedule a vote before they leave at the end of the week.
Conservative Concerns:
1. Disaster aid:
We are concerned that proponents of the disaster aid package will use the bill as a vehicle to tack on extra funding for all farmers, even those who are already taken care of by current agriculture programs. All crop farmers are already covered by crop insurance programs that are heavily subsidized by the taxpayer. There is no need to pass a bloated 5-year bill or a temporary disaster aid package. At most, there is only justification to pass a disaster aid package for livestock farmers - those whose insurance has already expired a year earlier. However, they already went into this year with the understanding that there would be no crop insurance and had time to plan accordingly. Moreover, as Taxpayers for Common Sense notes, "livestock producers can also still qualify for taxpayer subsidized crop insurance policies addressing declining market prices and gross margins or enroll in a non-insured assistance program."
2. Bypassing Legislative Process:
Proponents of the disaster relief package plan to attach the plan to a 1-year clean extension of the current farm bill. In addition to our concerns regarding the actual disaster aid package, we fear that once that bill is passed by Congress, House leaders will take that short-term stop-gap bill and go directly to conference with the Senate. Hence, they will use this stop-gap bill as a vehicle to pass a conference report on a new long-term bill, even though the House never had a chance to vote on a 5-year bill in regular order. There has been a disturbing pattern of House leaders going over the heads of the rank-and-file members in an effort to negotiate with the Senate over long-term bills that never originally passed the House. Remember that a conference report has limited debate time and cannot be amended. This is exactly what happened with the highway bill.
Punchline:
We need all hands on deck this week. Let's call our members of Congress and demand that they oppose any 5-year farm bill or short-term bill that will be used as a vehicle to pass a long-term bill. Congressman Jeff Flake (R-AZ) is circulating a letter to leadership requesting Speaker Boehner not use the short-term extension as a shell to go to conference over a long-term bill. He also is requesting that any clean extension not include $5 billion in direct handouts to farmers, which were eliminated even from the profligate 5-year bills in the House and Senate. The bottom line is that no conservative can vote for any farm bill this week unless it is 1) a clean one-year extension 2) does not contain direct payments 3) does not contain any disaster aid except for livestock produces 4) a parallel commitment not to form a conference with the Senate.
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On the Campaign Trail
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Obama Aid to Israel a Ploy to Upstage Romney?
President Obama announced Friday that he will release an extra $70 million in military aid to Israel on the heels of Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney's scheduled trip to the country this weekend. The pledge, which was first announced in May, will go to help Israel's short-range rocket defense system known as Iron Dome. The apparatus has proven successful in stopping rocket attacks fired at Israeli civilians from close range, like from Gaza.
Obama made the announcement from the Oval Office as he signed a bill to expand military and civilian cooperation with Israel.
Following the act, a Romney spokeswoman said the former Massachusetts governor was happy to see steps being taken to enhance security cooperation with Israel.
"Unfortunately this bill does nothing to address yesterday's evasiveness from the White House on whether President Obama recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, which raised doubt about the president's commitment to our closest ally in the region," Romney spokeswoman Amanda Henneberg said.
The presumptive Republican nominee is a critic of Obama's policy toward Israel and has promised to ramp up U.S. aid to the Jewish state. (CBN News)
- Father, we note that in his time in office, Obama has never even set foot on Israeli soil. It appears that, by signing this document, he is coming in peaceably, and obtaining favor by flatteries. After the agreement made with Israel to release an extra $70 million in military aid as a political ploy, we trust our God to hold him to his word to deliver this aid, and not work deceitfully with Israel. In Jesus' Name.
- "And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits." (Daniel 11:32)
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More News from Israel
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REPORT:
NETANYAHU HOPING TO RESTORE RELATIONS WITH TURKEY
Turkey's Today's Zaman newspaper reported Tuesday [July 24, 2012] that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his wish to restore relations with Turkey and also discussed his love of Turkish coffee, but stressed: "We will not apologize for Marmara."According to the Turkish daily, speaking with Turkish reporters in Jerusalem Netanyahu said: "In a region where instability reigns, Israel and Turkey are two quite stable countries. I believe in (our) common interest." He also discussed the joint Turkish and Jewish history. Later in the report a "high-level" official is quoted as saying that the two countries have been trying to find a magic formula to mend the bilateral ties, but as of yet the efforts remain fruitless. The official added that Israel is open to proposals from third parties regarding such a formula.
"The formula needs to not only appeal to both countries but it should also not harm the dignity of either country." He then went on to discuss the Marmara incident saying that it led to trauma in Israel, but he is of the opinion that it is important for the two countries to get over the trauma at this point. "Have a look at the developments in the region and you will see Israel and Turkey have common interests," he noted.
The official noted that "Negotiations with Turkey have never been cut off. We still have open channels." He then implied that the two countries continue to share intelligence through the US. "We share our concerns about chemical weapons which may get into the hands of illegitimate groups."
Sources at the Foreign Ministry were satisfied with Netanyahu and Minister Avigdor Lieberman's meetings with Turkish journalists. "Lieberman stressed we will not apologize, and yet the tone in the reports remained positive," a Foreign Ministry official said. "We are seeing a change in the Turkish public and media." However, it remains unclear whether the meetings will affect bilateral relations. Meanwhile, President Shimon Peres is pressuring Netanyahu to restore relations with Ankara in the hopes this will grant Israel greater freedom vis-Ã -vis Iran. "Israel is eager to reach understandings and establish a dialogue," the Foreign Ministry official said. "It is very important." (By Ynetnews, July 24, 2012)
- Pray that the doors for communication and developing allies open up for Prime Minister Netanyahu. Pray that the Prime Minister is able to form strong bonds between Israel and Turkey.
- "I will mention the lovingkindnesses of the LORD and the praises of the LORD, according to all that the LORD has bestowed on us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel, which He has bestowed on them according to His mercies, according to the multitude of His lovingkindnesses." ( Isaiah 63:7)
[Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]
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The Good News Corner
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The Good News Corner
DISABLED SOLDIER FULFILLS DREAM OF BECOMING IDF OFFICER
B. (21) was born with cerebral palsy and has partial paralysis in all four limbs. Just before he turned 18, B. got a letter from the IDF [Israel Defense Forces] stating that he was officially exempt from military service. However, the physical hindrance did not stop B. from insisting on forgoing his exemption and joining the IDF. "I felt obligated to my country," B. explains, I decided that there was no reason for dodging the draft and giving up. Nothing justified not being like everyone else."
According to Yedioth Ahronoth, B. battled doctors' references, and was eventually granted the awaited permit, by order of which he was able to volunteer for a three year service, which is the duration of men's mandatory service. He was assigned to a highly classified Intelligence unit, where he was greatly valued. But that was also not enough. Last week, B. graduated from the IDF officers training course, and even got the Brigade Commander Decoration. "Being an IDF officer was a lifelong dream," B. says enthusiastically.
"Ever since I was enlisted, I wanted to be an officer, and I've been struggling to make it happen since my first day in the army. That is my form of self-fulfillment. I consider IDF service a calling, and see myself part of the military for many years to come."
The massive heat on the day of the graduation ceremony at the officers' training base (Bahad 1) did not scare away B's many friends, who joined his family members to share his exciting moment with him. "They are my driving force," B. explains, "without my family and friends I couldn't have done it."Status and accomplishment notwithstanding, B. diverts attention from his own story and speaks up to those who oppose universal recruitment: "I turn to all to please reconsider," he said, "it's only three years. You don't have to be an officer. You can be in combat or logistics. Everyone should contribute what he or she can. This is our country, and everyone who is still hesitating can take a look at me."
B's identity, as well as his official capacity, cannot be disclosed due to national security issues, but according to Yedioth Ahronoth, in about a month and a half, following professional training, B. will be awarded the rank of second lieutenant, thereby officially becoming an officer in the Israel Defense Forces. (By Reuven Weiss, Ynetnews, July 22, 2012)
- Thank the Lord for the courage and the initiative of this officer. Pray that he is blessed by God.
- ". . . so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you." (Joshua 1:5)
[Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]
Part Two
1. Chicago church leaders roast Rahm Emanuel over Chick-fil-A stance
- Fox News
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has ticked off the flocks by criticizing Chick-fil-A. Days after the big city boss blasted the chicken chain over its president's stance on same-sex marriage, an influential Baptist minister and Cardinal Francis George of the Archdiocese of Chicago struck back. The religious leaders, who support the traditional view of marriage, were incensed at Emanuel's claim that "Chick-fil-A's values are not Chicago's values."
"Must those whose personal values do not conform to those of the government of the day move from the city," George wondered. "Is the City Council going to set up a 'Council Committee on Un-Chicagoan Activities' and call those of us who are suspect to appear before it?"
Legal experts note that politicians, preachers and anybody else are entitled to their opinions on same sex marriage, which polls show the country is evenly split on. But they told FoxNews.com that it is disturbing that elected officials would threaten to use their power to block a company from doing business in their community because of a difference of opinion with people who work for the company. Read more.
- Heavenly Father, we pray for those who are expressing complete intolerance towards those who believe differently because of Your Word - we ask that You speak to their hearts, open their eyes, and manifest Your presence in their lives. We pray protection over every Chick-fil-A restaurant across the nation, as people gather there this week to show solidarity with the position expressed by its management of belief in traditional Biblical marriage. Prevent violence, protect all the Chick-fil-A workers and patrons from harm! Lord, give wisdom to the leadership of this brave company to stand firmly in the truth of Your Word, and be blessed by the outpouring of support. Bring disarray and defeat to those who are trying to stop freedom of thought and freedom of speech. We pray this in Jesus' mighty Name. Amen.
- "Let the lying lips be put to silence, which speak insolent things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous. Oh, how great is Your goodness, which You have laid up for those who fear You, which You have prepared for those who trust in You in the presence of the sons of men!" (Psalm 31:18,19)
2. Black Pastors Launch Campaign Opposing Gay Marriage:
Warn Obama We 'Will Not Stand With You' - CNS News
The Coalition of African American Pastors (CAAP) announced at the National Press Club on Tuesday that the grassroots group - comprised of the more than 3,000 members - is a launching a national campaign to support marriage between one man and one woman and to oppose the Obama administration's efforts to advance same-sex marriage.
"Today we will be launching a nationwide campaign rallying black pastors and African Americans to voice their opposition to the president's position on same-sex marriage, and withdraw their support from him," said CAAP President William Owens, who told reporters he voted for Obama in the 2008 presidential election.
"We wrote the president and Mr. Holder May the second, requesting an audience with him to discuss this very issue," Owens said. "He has not given us the courtesy of any reply.
The marriage pledge states that "homosexual practices of same-sex couples are in violation of religious and social norms and are aberrant" and that same-sex unions "are sinful and in direct violation of the law of God in that they are a deviation from the natural use and purpose of the body."
It concludes: "We therefore declare our opposition to any deviation from traditional marriages of male and female, notwithstanding the rulings of the court systems of the land or acts of legislative bodies in support of same-sex 'marriage' and/or civil unions. And to call on Pres. Obama to repudiate his assertion that gay marriage is a civil right." Read more.
- Thank You Lord for Your boldness in these Pastors! May their obedience to You be greatly blessed! For the sake of our children we pray that the Church will continue to rise up in courageous opposition to that which You call unholy, so that Your judgement will not fall on our nation. In Jesus' Name.
- "I have found My servant David; with My holy oil I have anointed him, with whom My hand shall be established; Also My arm shall strengthen him. The enemy shall not outwit him, nor the son of wickedness afflict him." (Psalm 89:20-22)
3. Two-Thirds of Democrats Now Support Gay Marriage - Pew Forum
Reports that the Democratic Party may add support for gay marriage to its party platform are in keeping with a significant shift of opinion on this issue among Democrats nationwide. Just four years ago, in 2008, only half (50%) of Democrats favored allowing gays and lesbians to marry legally, while 42% were opposed. Support for gay marriage among Democrats has jumped to 65% today, more than double the percentage that is opposed (29%).
- Father, as many in our nation unashamedly voice opposition to the healthy dictates of love in Your Word, we pray for a move of the Holy Spirit to convict of sin and of judgement, and to convince of righteousness and its eternal blessings. (John16:8) In Jesus Name may the church not approve sin, or the counsel of the ungodly, but boldly speak Truth and Light. Amen.
- "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper." (Psalm 1:1-3)
4. Judge says Arizona's abortion ban can take effect - Fox News
Arizona's ban on abortions starting at 20 weeks of pregnancy will take effect this week as scheduled after a federal judge ruled Monday that the new law is constitutional.
U.S. District Judge James Teilborg said the statute may prompt a few pregnant women who are considering abortion to make the decision earlier. But he said the law is constitutional because it doesn't prohibit any women from making the decision to end their pregnancies. The judge also wrote that the state provided "substantial and well-documented" evidence that an unborn child has the capacity to feel pain during an abortion by at least 20 weeks.
Republican Gov. Jan Brewer signed the ban into law in April, making Arizona one of 10 states to enact types of 20-week bans.
- Lord, please prosper the efforts of every state that is taking steps to protect the unborn, in Jesus' Name!
- "Open your mouth for the speechless; in the cause of all who are appointed to die." (Proverbs 31:8)
5. U.S. judge orders Iran, al-Qaida, Taliban to pay $6 billion over 9/11 - Ha'aretz
A U.S. judge has ordered al-Qaida, the Taliban and Iran to pay $6 billion to relatives of September 11 victims for aiding in the 2001 terror attacks in New York. The ruling is largely symbolic since it would be nearly impossible to collect any damages. But plaintiff Ellen Saracini tells the Daily News that she is happy about Monday's ruling by Manhattan Federal Magistrate Judge Frank Maas. Her husband, Victor, was the captain of one of the two planes that struck the World Trade Center.
- Lord, we thank You for judges who make rulings in defense of our nation and its people. We pray for a great abundance of righteous judges to be appointed to the courts of America, in Jesus' Name.
- "Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause for the poor and needy." (Proverbs 31: 9)
6. Rise in global anti-Semitism - Worthy News
US State Department report on international religious freedoms sees rising tide of anti-Semitism throughout globe. The report mentioned web sites promoting Holocaust denial operated with Iran's consent; desecration of Jewish synagogues and cemeteries in France; rise in popularity of an openly anti-Semitic party, (Jobbik party) in Hungary; defacing Jewish property in Ukraine, including a synagogue and several Holocaust monuments and soccer matches in the Ukraine and the Netherlands marred by anti-Semitic slogans.
- Lord, bless Your people Israel and open their eyes to the truth of their Messiah. Thank You for Your mighty hand extended over Israel. We pray in Jesus' name for the peace of Jerusalem, and for the defeat of satan's hate tactics against the Jewish people. Amen.
- "For Zion's sake I will not hold My peace, And for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, Until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, And her salvation as a lamp that burns." (Isaiah 62:1)
Psalm 83 confusion and today's Middle East
The current US-assisted Middle East unrest spanning from Libya across Northern Africa through Egypt and North into Syria has inspired much talk and speculation about Psalm 83. There are many Biblical commentators who believe that Psalm 83 is about a prophesied war that triggers several prophetic events, including the rapture, the tribulation, and the eventual return of Yeshua Ha Mashiach. A careful reading of Psalm 83, however, will demonstrate that there is no war prophesied and that the psalm is not a prophesy, but rather a prayer against the enemies of Israel that could be used even today as the nation is surrounded by those mentioned when Asaph wrote the psalm.
Verses 1-5 say, "Keep not thou silence, O YHVH: hold not thy peace, and be not still O YHVH. For, lo, thine enemies make a tumult: and they that hate thee have lifted up the head. They have taken crafty counsel against thy people, and consulted against thy hidden ones. They have said, Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation; that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance. For they have consulted together with one consent: they are confederate against thee." Then Asaph names names--Ishmaelites who are Arabs; there is Edom, Moab, Ammon from Jordan; Gebal and Tyre from Lebanon; Hagarenes from Mesopotamia, Syria and Egypt; Amalek and Philistines from Gaza and Egypt; and Assur from Turkey and Iraq.
The rest of the Psalm asks YHVH to cause these enemies to perish by wind, fire, storm, even confusion, concluding with verse 18, "That men may know that thou whose name alone is YHVH, are the most high over all the earth." There are many items in Psalm 83 that are common to prophecies referring to the Day of the LORD. One example is iwhen YHVH defeats the beast (Gog) in Ezekiel 38. Many of the countries and people groups are similar. The LORD uses rain, hailstones, fire, brimstone, and confusion to defeat this coalition (v. 21 "every man's sword shall be against his brother") that "they shall know that I am YHVH" (v.23).
These nations that are prophesied as coming against Israel by the Old Testament prophets are consistent enemies of Israel and today they are followers of the most antichrist system in the world--Islam. It is no huge revelation that these traditional enemies of Israel will cause wars and rumors of wars from now until the end. Our generation may well see the end time prophecies of the Bible play out before our very eyes. But let us be ever mindful of false teachings and traditions of men that lead us astray. Don't take my word for it, or other teachers; don't get angry if what you have been taught over a lifetime is challenged. Read the Bible for yourself, in its context, and judge what is being taught. Yeshua told his followers repeatedly to not be deceived by man.
Have A Blessed And Powerful Day,
Bill Wilson
UN Disabilities Treaty Currently Entangles Abortion into the US Constitution
Language in the (U.N.) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities that specifically references domestic issues outside the realm of "disabilities" requires further explanation. Article 25(a) of the Convention addresses the range and quality of health care, including "sexual and reproductive health".
The previous Administration found it necessary to submit statements explicitly declaring that these terms do not include abortion. Poland, Malta, and Monaco made similar reservations when they signed the treaty.
However, no language defining sexual and reproductive health has been placed in the Administration's instrument of ratification, and an attempt to do so in the Foreign Relations Committee was defeated.
- Pray that the Senate either does not pass this treaty, or adds a "reservation" about the "sexual and reproductive health" language on the floor of the Senate. Pray that members would stand in the way of the ratification of abortion into "a legally binding international treaty that would carry the same authority as the Constitution."
[Preferred position is that this treaty be defeated, in its entirety. Sources: Eagle Forum and Home School Legal Defense Association.]
- "When they had heard these words, they marveled, and left Him and went their way." (Matthew 22:22) (Source: Tim McGhee)
D.C. Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act filed as amendment to S. 3414 in Senate
Thank you for your prayers that this bill would pass in Congress, thereby protecting the unborn children who are pain-capable from abortion in Washington, D.C. Here is the latest news on this bill:
"SA 2716. Mr. LEE submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by him to the bill S. 3414, to enhance the security and resiliency of the cyber and communications infrastructure of the United States." (Source: Tim McGhee) Read more.
- Ask our Lord to cause this pro-life amendment to be "forged" onto the Cybersecurity Bill, by the Power of the Holy Spirit, and not be stripped from its language before the final vote is taken on S. 3414. Nothing is too difficult for Him, if we are in the center of His will; and protecting the lives of unborn babies in the nation's capital is clearly His desire. Pray!
- "Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you." (Jer. 32:17)
Ethics panel finds Rep. Laura Richardson guilty on seven counts
The House Ethics Committee issued a report on Wednesday finding Rep. Laura Richardson (D-Calif.) guilty on seven counts of violating the chamber's rules by improperly pressuring her staff to campaign for her, destroying evidence and tampering with witness testimony.
Richardson agreed to pay a fine of $10,000 within four months and promised to require staffers who work on her campaign to sign a waiver stating that they haven't been pressured to do so.
The verdict comes as Richardson faces one of the toughest member-on-member races this year against fellow Democrat Rep. Janice Hahn (Calif.). (The Hill) Read more.
Today's Legislative Focus
From The Madison Project
www.madisonproject.com
The Presidential Appointment Efficiency and Streamlining Act
Last June, with the help of 26 Republicans, the Senate passed a bill that would eliminate the confirmation requirement for 200 presidential appointees. This bill would completely abrogate the safeguards against tyranny that were established in the "Appointments Clause" of the Constitution. The Presidential Appointment Efficiency and Streamlining Act (S.679), which was sponsored by Chuck Schumer, will cede too much power to the Executive Branch.
Most of us thought this bill was dead on arrival in the House a long time ago, but amazingly, House leadership agreed to sneak this bill in under suspension before the August recess - when nobody is paying attention. This means that it requires a 2/3rds majority to pass. This bill should never be brought to the floor under regular order, much less under suspension. Please call your members of Congress and ask them to vote no on S. 679. Tell them not to cede power to Obama at a time when he is already end-running Congress on a daily basis.
Pentagon warns lawmakers: Sequester cuts would lead to 'unready, hollow' military force
Deputy Defense Secretary Ash Carter on Wednesday warned that sequestration would be a "major step" to "an unready, hollow" military force.
Testifying at a House Armed Services Committee hearing on sequestration, Carter began laying out some of the impacts of the $55-billion cut facing the Pentagon in 2013 if sequestration is not reversed.
Carter said the across-the-board cuts would require the Pentagon to "substantially modify and scale back the new defense strategy," which was crafted last year as the Defense Department prepared for $487 billion in budget reductions already planned for the next decade.
Carter and acting Office of Management Budget Director Jeffrey Zients told the committee Wednesday that sequestration should never go into effect, pushing Congress to fix the cuts before they hit on Jan. 2. (The Hill) Read more.
Support Marriage and the Military
(Two Chick-Fil-A Updates)
STRATEGY #1 - A MEAL FOR A SERVICEMAN
A caller to Laura Ingraham's radio show suggested a great way to help Chick-fil-A if you don't live near one of its restaurants. She said she called the closest Chick-fil-A, gave the employees her credit card number and asked them to use the money to treat a military customer to a meal.
What a great way to support and show your solidarity with both the Bible-based values of Chick-fil-A and the brave men and women who serve in our Armed Forces.
We here at Campaign for Working Families called and donated today, on Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day, and I hope you will consider treating a member of the military too. (Submitted by Gary Bauer)
STRATEGY #2 - SIGN A PETITION TO SUPPORT CHICK-FIL-A
From Mathew Staver, Founder and Chairman
Liberty Counsel
The threats by mayors of some of our nation's largest cities against Chick-fil-A and its President Dan Cathy are contemptible affronts to the Constitution - and an extreme assault on every American's freedom of speech and religious expression!
Dan Cathy simply stated that he believed in the biblical view of marriage as being between one man and one woman, which coincides with opinions held by a majority of Americans.
Pro-homosexual leftists have used Cathy's statement as an occasion to launch verbal assaults and threats against the Chick-fil-A organization and its ownership.
The badly misguided threats of action and discrimination against Chick-fil-A because of the viewpoint of its owner are not only illegal - they are toxic to every business and businessman in America!
Sara, well over 60,000 outraged Americans have signed our powerful Liberty Counsel petition in just a few days. The petition declares support for Chick-fil-A President Dan Cathy's First Amendment rights and for the biblical view of natural marriage!
We are delivering the petitions on Thursday to the Chick-fil-A corporate offices as well as the offices of the political figures who have displayed woeful ignorance of federal and state statutes governing civil rights and viewpoint discrimination.
I am asking that you join with us and be included in this important petition delivery - but I must have your name added by the end of the day to be included in the delivery!
Please take a minute now to add your name by clicking here.
Thank you and God bless you for standing with us against these outrageous assaults - Mat
Important footnote from CHPP:
Please note that you can sign your name onto this petition for FREE. There is NO COST to you!
However, after you sign on, Mat Staver provides an additional page for an offering, as you wish. This is an optional feature and not a part of this petition drive. Blessings, all!
Repeating: Today is D-Day for Health Mandate
An Announcement from the Family Research Council
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) mandate, which requires all health insurance plans to cover contraceptives, abortion-causing drugs including Plan B and Ella, and sterilization takes effect today, August 1. Organizations that refuse to comply could be fined enormous amounts of money, as much as $100 per day per employee.
Institutions that meet "safe haven" qualifications (including being a religious non-profit and not having offered any form of contraception) insultingly are given a "grace" period of one year, in which time they are supposed to rectify how they shall violate their conscience to fit President Obama's demands.
For a list of resources pertaining to the HHS mandate, click here.
Family Research Council Action (FRC Action) Senior Vice President Tom McClusky had the following comment:
"With the irony not noted, yesterday marked the release of the U.S. Department of State's annual report, 'International Religious Freedom Report for 2011.' In its opening paragraph the report notes: 'To think, believe, or doubt. To speak or pray; to gather or stand apart. Such are the movements of the mind and heart, infinitives that take us beyond the finite. Freedom of religion, like all freedoms of thought and expression, are inherent. Our beliefs help define who we are and serve as a foundation for what we contribute to our societies. However, as the 2011 International Religious Freedom Report documents, too many people live under governments that abuse or restrict freedom of religion.'
"Today, August 1st, marks the day the United States should officially be listed as one of the nations in that report. "President Obama has made clear, in his legislation, public remarks and his lawsuits, that he believes religion and conscience should take a back seat to his pro-abortion, - sterilization and -contraception agenda. The President might think that violating one's conscience 'is not a big deal' but to many Americans it is impossible. If the courts or Congress will not address this grave injustice, civil disobedience will be inevitable."
Netanyahu Says Israel Still Considering Iran Attack
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he's still debating with government advisers whether to strike Iranian nuclear facilities.
The premier spoke in an interview with Channel 2 television as Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta was flying from Cairo to Israel to meet him, Defense Minister Ehud Barak and other officials tomorrow.
"I haven't decided yet whether to attack," Netanyahu said. "However, I see the commitment of this regime of ayatollahs to develop nuclear bombs that are meant to destroy us and I won't let that happen."
Netanyahu said media reports that a decision on Iran has been made are wrong and irresponsible. While describing the process as one that involves conferring with a wide range of advisers, the prime minister noted that Israel's 1981 air raid on Iraq's Osirak nuclear reactor was carried out over the objections of the Mossad and military-intelligence agencies.
In Cairo, Panetta told reporters he'll discuss the Iranian nuclear threat with Israel's leaders and a "number of options" on how to respond. Iran says its uranium enrichment program will be used only for peaceful purposes. (Sources: Newsmax, Bloomberg)
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The Daily Brief
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1. Chicago church leaders roast Rahm Emanuel over Chick-fil-A stance
- Fox News
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has ticked off the flocks by criticizing Chick-fil-A. Days after the big city boss blasted the chicken chain over its president's stance on same-sex marriage, an influential Baptist minister and Cardinal Francis George of the Archdiocese of Chicago struck back. The religious leaders, who support the traditional view of marriage, were incensed at Emanuel's claim that "Chick-fil-A's values are not Chicago's values."
"Must those whose personal values do not conform to those of the government of the day move from the city," George wondered. "Is the City Council going to set up a 'Council Committee on Un-Chicagoan Activities' and call those of us who are suspect to appear before it?"
Legal experts note that politicians, preachers and anybody else are entitled to their opinions on same sex marriage, which polls show the country is evenly split on. But they told FoxNews.com that it is disturbing that elected officials would threaten to use their power to block a company from doing business in their community because of a difference of opinion with people who work for the company. Read more.
- Heavenly Father, we pray for those who are expressing complete intolerance towards those who believe differently because of Your Word - we ask that You speak to their hearts, open their eyes, and manifest Your presence in their lives. We pray protection over every Chick-fil-A restaurant across the nation, as people gather there this week to show solidarity with the position expressed by its management of belief in traditional Biblical marriage. Prevent violence, protect all the Chick-fil-A workers and patrons from harm! Lord, give wisdom to the leadership of this brave company to stand firmly in the truth of Your Word, and be blessed by the outpouring of support. Bring disarray and defeat to those who are trying to stop freedom of thought and freedom of speech. We pray this in Jesus' mighty Name. Amen.
- "Let the lying lips be put to silence, which speak insolent things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous. Oh, how great is Your goodness, which You have laid up for those who fear You, which You have prepared for those who trust in You in the presence of the sons of men!" (Psalm 31:18,19)
2. Black Pastors Launch Campaign Opposing Gay Marriage:
Warn Obama We 'Will Not Stand With You' - CNS News
The Coalition of African American Pastors (CAAP) announced at the National Press Club on Tuesday that the grassroots group - comprised of the more than 3,000 members - is a launching a national campaign to support marriage between one man and one woman and to oppose the Obama administration's efforts to advance same-sex marriage.
"Today we will be launching a nationwide campaign rallying black pastors and African Americans to voice their opposition to the president's position on same-sex marriage, and withdraw their support from him," said CAAP President William Owens, who told reporters he voted for Obama in the 2008 presidential election.
"We wrote the president and Mr. Holder May the second, requesting an audience with him to discuss this very issue," Owens said. "He has not given us the courtesy of any reply.
The marriage pledge states that "homosexual practices of same-sex couples are in violation of religious and social norms and are aberrant" and that same-sex unions "are sinful and in direct violation of the law of God in that they are a deviation from the natural use and purpose of the body."
It concludes: "We therefore declare our opposition to any deviation from traditional marriages of male and female, notwithstanding the rulings of the court systems of the land or acts of legislative bodies in support of same-sex 'marriage' and/or civil unions. And to call on Pres. Obama to repudiate his assertion that gay marriage is a civil right." Read more.
- Thank You Lord for Your boldness in these Pastors! May their obedience to You be greatly blessed! For the sake of our children we pray that the Church will continue to rise up in courageous opposition to that which You call unholy, so that Your judgement will not fall on our nation. In Jesus' Name.
- "I have found My servant David; with My holy oil I have anointed him, with whom My hand shall be established; Also My arm shall strengthen him. The enemy shall not outwit him, nor the son of wickedness afflict him." (Psalm 89:20-22)
3. Two-Thirds of Democrats Now Support Gay Marriage - Pew Forum
Reports that the Democratic Party may add support for gay marriage to its party platform are in keeping with a significant shift of opinion on this issue among Democrats nationwide. Just four years ago, in 2008, only half (50%) of Democrats favored allowing gays and lesbians to marry legally, while 42% were opposed. Support for gay marriage among Democrats has jumped to 65% today, more than double the percentage that is opposed (29%).
- Father, as many in our nation unashamedly voice opposition to the healthy dictates of love in Your Word, we pray for a move of the Holy Spirit to convict of sin and of judgement, and to convince of righteousness and its eternal blessings. (John16:8) In Jesus Name may the church not approve sin, or the counsel of the ungodly, but boldly speak Truth and Light. Amen.
- "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper." (Psalm 1:1-3)
4. Judge says Arizona's abortion ban can take effect - Fox News
Arizona's ban on abortions starting at 20 weeks of pregnancy will take effect this week as scheduled after a federal judge ruled Monday that the new law is constitutional.
U.S. District Judge James Teilborg said the statute may prompt a few pregnant women who are considering abortion to make the decision earlier. But he said the law is constitutional because it doesn't prohibit any women from making the decision to end their pregnancies. The judge also wrote that the state provided "substantial and well-documented" evidence that an unborn child has the capacity to feel pain during an abortion by at least 20 weeks.
Republican Gov. Jan Brewer signed the ban into law in April, making Arizona one of 10 states to enact types of 20-week bans.
- Lord, please prosper the efforts of every state that is taking steps to protect the unborn, in Jesus' Name!
- "Open your mouth for the speechless; in the cause of all who are appointed to die." (Proverbs 31:8)
5. U.S. judge orders Iran, al-Qaida, Taliban to pay $6 billion over 9/11 - Ha'aretz
A U.S. judge has ordered al-Qaida, the Taliban and Iran to pay $6 billion to relatives of September 11 victims for aiding in the 2001 terror attacks in New York. The ruling is largely symbolic since it would be nearly impossible to collect any damages. But plaintiff Ellen Saracini tells the Daily News that she is happy about Monday's ruling by Manhattan Federal Magistrate Judge Frank Maas. Her husband, Victor, was the captain of one of the two planes that struck the World Trade Center.
- Lord, we thank You for judges who make rulings in defense of our nation and its people. We pray for a great abundance of righteous judges to be appointed to the courts of America, in Jesus' Name.
- "Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause for the poor and needy." (Proverbs 31: 9)
6. Rise in global anti-Semitism - Worthy News
US State Department report on international religious freedoms sees rising tide of anti-Semitism throughout globe. The report mentioned web sites promoting Holocaust denial operated with Iran's consent; desecration of Jewish synagogues and cemeteries in France; rise in popularity of an openly anti-Semitic party, (Jobbik party) in Hungary; defacing Jewish property in Ukraine, including a synagogue and several Holocaust monuments and soccer matches in the Ukraine and the Netherlands marred by anti-Semitic slogans.
- Lord, bless Your people Israel and open their eyes to the truth of their Messiah. Thank You for Your mighty hand extended over Israel. We pray in Jesus' name for the peace of Jerusalem, and for the defeat of satan's hate tactics against the Jewish people. Amen.
- "For Zion's sake I will not hold My peace, And for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, Until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, And her salvation as a lamp that burns." (Isaiah 62:1)
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The Daily Jot
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Psalm 83 confusion and today's Middle East
The current US-assisted Middle East unrest spanning from Libya across Northern Africa through Egypt and North into Syria has inspired much talk and speculation about Psalm 83. There are many Biblical commentators who believe that Psalm 83 is about a prophesied war that triggers several prophetic events, including the rapture, the tribulation, and the eventual return of Yeshua Ha Mashiach. A careful reading of Psalm 83, however, will demonstrate that there is no war prophesied and that the psalm is not a prophesy, but rather a prayer against the enemies of Israel that could be used even today as the nation is surrounded by those mentioned when Asaph wrote the psalm.
Verses 1-5 say, "Keep not thou silence, O YHVH: hold not thy peace, and be not still O YHVH. For, lo, thine enemies make a tumult: and they that hate thee have lifted up the head. They have taken crafty counsel against thy people, and consulted against thy hidden ones. They have said, Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation; that the name of Israel may be no more in remembrance. For they have consulted together with one consent: they are confederate against thee." Then Asaph names names--Ishmaelites who are Arabs; there is Edom, Moab, Ammon from Jordan; Gebal and Tyre from Lebanon; Hagarenes from Mesopotamia, Syria and Egypt; Amalek and Philistines from Gaza and Egypt; and Assur from Turkey and Iraq.
The rest of the Psalm asks YHVH to cause these enemies to perish by wind, fire, storm, even confusion, concluding with verse 18, "That men may know that thou whose name alone is YHVH, are the most high over all the earth." There are many items in Psalm 83 that are common to prophecies referring to the Day of the LORD. One example is iwhen YHVH defeats the beast (Gog) in Ezekiel 38. Many of the countries and people groups are similar. The LORD uses rain, hailstones, fire, brimstone, and confusion to defeat this coalition (v. 21 "every man's sword shall be against his brother") that "they shall know that I am YHVH" (v.23).
These nations that are prophesied as coming against Israel by the Old Testament prophets are consistent enemies of Israel and today they are followers of the most antichrist system in the world--Islam. It is no huge revelation that these traditional enemies of Israel will cause wars and rumors of wars from now until the end. Our generation may well see the end time prophecies of the Bible play out before our very eyes. But let us be ever mindful of false teachings and traditions of men that lead us astray. Don't take my word for it, or other teachers; don't get angry if what you have been taught over a lifetime is challenged. Read the Bible for yourself, in its context, and judge what is being taught. Yeshua told his followers repeatedly to not be deceived by man.
Have A Blessed And Powerful Day,
Bill Wilson
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Update: UN Treaty - ALERT!
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UN Disabilities Treaty Currently Entangles Abortion into the US Constitution
Language in the (U.N.) Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities that specifically references domestic issues outside the realm of "disabilities" requires further explanation. Article 25(a) of the Convention addresses the range and quality of health care, including "sexual and reproductive health".
The previous Administration found it necessary to submit statements explicitly declaring that these terms do not include abortion. Poland, Malta, and Monaco made similar reservations when they signed the treaty.
However, no language defining sexual and reproductive health has been placed in the Administration's instrument of ratification, and an attempt to do so in the Foreign Relations Committee was defeated.
- Pray that the Senate either does not pass this treaty, or adds a "reservation" about the "sexual and reproductive health" language on the floor of the Senate. Pray that members would stand in the way of the ratification of abortion into "a legally binding international treaty that would carry the same authority as the Constitution."
[Preferred position is that this treaty be defeated, in its entirety. Sources: Eagle Forum and Home School Legal Defense Association.]
- "When they had heard these words, they marveled, and left Him and went their way." (Matthew 22:22) (Source: Tim McGhee)
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Another Legislative Update
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D.C. Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act filed as amendment to S. 3414 in Senate
Thank you for your prayers that this bill would pass in Congress, thereby protecting the unborn children who are pain-capable from abortion in Washington, D.C. Here is the latest news on this bill:
"SA 2716. Mr. LEE submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by him to the bill S. 3414, to enhance the security and resiliency of the cyber and communications infrastructure of the United States." (Source: Tim McGhee) Read more.
- Ask our Lord to cause this pro-life amendment to be "forged" onto the Cybersecurity Bill, by the Power of the Holy Spirit, and not be stripped from its language before the final vote is taken on S. 3414. Nothing is too difficult for Him, if we are in the center of His will; and protecting the lives of unborn babies in the nation's capital is clearly His desire. Pray!
- "Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you." (Jer. 32:17)
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Ethics Panel Finds Member Guilty
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Ethics panel finds Rep. Laura Richardson guilty on seven counts
The House Ethics Committee issued a report on Wednesday finding Rep. Laura Richardson (D-Calif.) guilty on seven counts of violating the chamber's rules by improperly pressuring her staff to campaign for her, destroying evidence and tampering with witness testimony.
Richardson agreed to pay a fine of $10,000 within four months and promised to require staffers who work on her campaign to sign a waiver stating that they haven't been pressured to do so.
The verdict comes as Richardson faces one of the toughest member-on-member races this year against fellow Democrat Rep. Janice Hahn (Calif.). (The Hill) Read more.
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Today's Legislative Focus
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Today's Legislative Focus
From The Madison Project
www.madisonproject.com
The Presidential Appointment Efficiency and Streamlining Act
Last June, with the help of 26 Republicans, the Senate passed a bill that would eliminate the confirmation requirement for 200 presidential appointees. This bill would completely abrogate the safeguards against tyranny that were established in the "Appointments Clause" of the Constitution. The Presidential Appointment Efficiency and Streamlining Act (S.679), which was sponsored by Chuck Schumer, will cede too much power to the Executive Branch.
Most of us thought this bill was dead on arrival in the House a long time ago, but amazingly, House leadership agreed to sneak this bill in under suspension before the August recess - when nobody is paying attention. This means that it requires a 2/3rds majority to pass. This bill should never be brought to the floor under regular order, much less under suspension. Please call your members of Congress and ask them to vote no on S. 679. Tell them not to cede power to Obama at a time when he is already end-running Congress on a daily basis.
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Pentagon Warns Congress
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Pentagon warns lawmakers: Sequester cuts would lead to 'unready, hollow' military force
Deputy Defense Secretary Ash Carter on Wednesday warned that sequestration would be a "major step" to "an unready, hollow" military force.
Testifying at a House Armed Services Committee hearing on sequestration, Carter began laying out some of the impacts of the $55-billion cut facing the Pentagon in 2013 if sequestration is not reversed.
Carter said the across-the-board cuts would require the Pentagon to "substantially modify and scale back the new defense strategy," which was crafted last year as the Defense Department prepared for $487 billion in budget reductions already planned for the next decade.
Carter and acting Office of Management Budget Director Jeffrey Zients told the committee Wednesday that sequestration should never go into effect, pushing Congress to fix the cuts before they hit on Jan. 2. (The Hill) Read more.
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Support Marriage and the Military
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Support Marriage and the Military
(Two Chick-Fil-A Updates)
STRATEGY #1 - A MEAL FOR A SERVICEMAN
A caller to Laura Ingraham's radio show suggested a great way to help Chick-fil-A if you don't live near one of its restaurants. She said she called the closest Chick-fil-A, gave the employees her credit card number and asked them to use the money to treat a military customer to a meal.
What a great way to support and show your solidarity with both the Bible-based values of Chick-fil-A and the brave men and women who serve in our Armed Forces.
We here at Campaign for Working Families called and donated today, on Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day, and I hope you will consider treating a member of the military too. (Submitted by Gary Bauer)
STRATEGY #2 - SIGN A PETITION TO SUPPORT CHICK-FIL-A
From Mathew Staver, Founder and Chairman
Liberty Counsel
The threats by mayors of some of our nation's largest cities against Chick-fil-A and its President Dan Cathy are contemptible affronts to the Constitution - and an extreme assault on every American's freedom of speech and religious expression!
Dan Cathy simply stated that he believed in the biblical view of marriage as being between one man and one woman, which coincides with opinions held by a majority of Americans.
Pro-homosexual leftists have used Cathy's statement as an occasion to launch verbal assaults and threats against the Chick-fil-A organization and its ownership.
The badly misguided threats of action and discrimination against Chick-fil-A because of the viewpoint of its owner are not only illegal - they are toxic to every business and businessman in America!
Sara, well over 60,000 outraged Americans have signed our powerful Liberty Counsel petition in just a few days. The petition declares support for Chick-fil-A President Dan Cathy's First Amendment rights and for the biblical view of natural marriage!
We are delivering the petitions on Thursday to the Chick-fil-A corporate offices as well as the offices of the political figures who have displayed woeful ignorance of federal and state statutes governing civil rights and viewpoint discrimination.
I am asking that you join with us and be included in this important petition delivery - but I must have your name added by the end of the day to be included in the delivery!
Please take a minute now to add your name by clicking here.
Thank you and God bless you for standing with us against these outrageous assaults - Mat
Important footnote from CHPP:
Please note that you can sign your name onto this petition for FREE. There is NO COST to you!
However, after you sign on, Mat Staver provides an additional page for an offering, as you wish. This is an optional feature and not a part of this petition drive. Blessings, all!
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Repeating: Today is D-Day for Health Mandate
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Repeating: Today is D-Day for Health Mandate
An Announcement from the Family Research Council
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) mandate, which requires all health insurance plans to cover contraceptives, abortion-causing drugs including Plan B and Ella, and sterilization takes effect today, August 1. Organizations that refuse to comply could be fined enormous amounts of money, as much as $100 per day per employee.
Institutions that meet "safe haven" qualifications (including being a religious non-profit and not having offered any form of contraception) insultingly are given a "grace" period of one year, in which time they are supposed to rectify how they shall violate their conscience to fit President Obama's demands.
For a list of resources pertaining to the HHS mandate, click here.
Family Research Council Action (FRC Action) Senior Vice President Tom McClusky had the following comment:
"With the irony not noted, yesterday marked the release of the U.S. Department of State's annual report, 'International Religious Freedom Report for 2011.' In its opening paragraph the report notes: 'To think, believe, or doubt. To speak or pray; to gather or stand apart. Such are the movements of the mind and heart, infinitives that take us beyond the finite. Freedom of religion, like all freedoms of thought and expression, are inherent. Our beliefs help define who we are and serve as a foundation for what we contribute to our societies. However, as the 2011 International Religious Freedom Report documents, too many people live under governments that abuse or restrict freedom of religion.'
"Today, August 1st, marks the day the United States should officially be listed as one of the nations in that report. "President Obama has made clear, in his legislation, public remarks and his lawsuits, that he believes religion and conscience should take a back seat to his pro-abortion, - sterilization and -contraception agenda. The President might think that violating one's conscience 'is not a big deal' but to many Americans it is impossible. If the courts or Congress will not address this grave injustice, civil disobedience will be inevitable."
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Netanyahu: Still Considering an Attack
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Netanyahu Says Israel Still Considering Iran Attack
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he's still debating with government advisers whether to strike Iranian nuclear facilities.
The premier spoke in an interview with Channel 2 television as Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta was flying from Cairo to Israel to meet him, Defense Minister Ehud Barak and other officials tomorrow.
"I haven't decided yet whether to attack," Netanyahu said. "However, I see the commitment of this regime of ayatollahs to develop nuclear bombs that are meant to destroy us and I won't let that happen."
Netanyahu said media reports that a decision on Iran has been made are wrong and irresponsible. While describing the process as one that involves conferring with a wide range of advisers, the prime minister noted that Israel's 1981 air raid on Iraq's Osirak nuclear reactor was carried out over the objections of the Mossad and military-intelligence agencies.
In Cairo, Panetta told reporters he'll discuss the Iranian nuclear threat with Israel's leaders and a "number of options" on how to respond. Iran says its uranium enrichment program will be used only for peaceful purposes. (Sources: Newsmax, Bloomberg)
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Worship with Us Today!
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Worship with Us Today!
"How Great Thou Art"
Click here to enjoy!
