Alert!
High Probability of NK Missile Launch
on Monday, April 15th! See below.
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
On Capitol Hill This Week Volume XX, Number 2a
INTERNATIONAL ISSUES: PART ONE
Special Edition: Israel; North Korea
April 15 - 19, 2013
"This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty." (Zech. 4:6)
of our International report today. Remaining news for prayer for other nations will be published on our regular schedule tomorrow, April 15th.
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News from Israel
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News from Israel
- YA'ALON: PAIN, SHOCK OF HOLOCAUST DON'T DIMINISH
- SHARP RISE IN GLOBAL ANTI-SEMITISM; FRANCE LEADS
- JUST 5% OF PALESTINIANS WANT UNCONDITIONAL PEACE TALKS
- IDF REMAINS ON HEIGHTENED ALERT
- REPORT: SYRIA WITHDRAWS TROOPS FROM GOLAN
- SYRIAN OPPOSITION GROUP FORMALLY ALIGNS WITH AL-QA'IDA
- SYRIAN TROOPS WIDEN OFFENSIVE IN BORDER AREAS
- CHEMICAL WARFARE LOOMS OVER SYRIA. ISRAEL PASSES ATROPINE TO REBELS
- ISRAEL LOOKING TO DEPORT HUNGER-STRIKING PRISONER
1. YA'ALON: PAIN, SHOCK OF HOLOCAUST DON'T DIMINISH
"Few versus many - the Jews of the Warsaw Ghetto ran a heroic fight to the death," said Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon during a ceremony in Kibbutz Yad Mordechai Monday [April 8] evening. "Seventy years later, we stand here with tears in our eyes, repeating what survivors and victims said. "In the years that went by the pain and shock did not diminish, but the founding of a national home for the people of Israel only a few years after these atrocities had taken place was a great and unique accomplishment in history," he said during the ceremony, which concluded the national Holocaust Remembrance Day events.
Addressing his personal history, Ya'alon shared with the audience his mother's Holocaust narrative, noting she had joined the partisans when she was 18, "and after the war found herself struggling alone with hardship en route to Israel. "I can't say for sure what she went through during those years of constantly running away, but I know for certain that she was always confident that a state that defends its citizens will be founded-a state that will pursue peace, but at the same time fight back in the face of any threat," the defense minister said.
Across the country, at the ceremony in Kibbutz Lohamei Hagetaot, Education Minister Shai Piron referred to the kibbutz hosting the ceremony, saying "Part of my educational worldview was formed here, when I was an educator in the Beit Shean Valley and arrived at the Lohamei HaGeta'ot Museum." Piron told the audience of the hours he spent at the museum archives, searching for documents and testimonies that would give him information about "my greatest educator-Janusz Korczak. He taught me that you can't avoid life - Every year, I would find myself flying with students to Poland, sit with them on the ground and teach them the man's doctrine."
Earlier Monday, some 11,000 people-including Holocaust survivors, teens and Israel Defense Forces [IDF] soldiers-took part in Poland's "March of the Living." The march, marked annually for the past 25 years, traditionally starts from the Auschwitz main gate inscribed "Arbeit Macht Frei" and ends at the Birkenau memorial.
Source (By Neri Brenner, Ynetnews, April 8, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]
Read article:
- Pray for God to heal the generational wounds that are still among His people from the Holocaust. Pray that the Lord will use the coming generations to prevent a holocaust from ever occurring again.
- For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds, says the Lord, because they called you an outcast saying: This is Zion; no one seeks her. (Jeremiah 30:17)
2. SHARP RISE IN GLOBAL ANTI-SEMITISM; FRANCE LEADS
According to a new report on global anti-Semitism, 2012 registered a 30% increase in anti-Semitic acts compared to 2011. These acts include vandalism and direct threats on Jewish lives. Numbering 686 in 2012, they followed two years of general decline in such incidents. Among the countries listed, France has the dubious honor of first place with 200 anti-Semitic acts registered. The United States saw 99 acts, Britain 84, Canada 74, and Australia three.
The rise of the radical Right in many European countries, most apparent in Greece, Hungary, and Ukraine where parties with a distinct anti-Semitic line have started vying for power, has also been listed as a boosting factor. In Hungary, parallel to more outspoken remarks against Jews and Israel, violence and vandalism against Jewish targets have seen a rapid increase. Poland, as well, registered a rise in vandalism incidents, mostly aimed against Jewish cemeteries and Holocaust memorials.
The report listed Operation Pillar of Defense as a contributing factor, claiming a correlation between the operation's end in November and an increase in anti-Semitic activities worldwide. Though responses to the operation were more moderate than to Operation Cast Lead, conspiracy theories and anti-Semitic rhetoric spread through the Arab media, albeit only for a short while.
"This is a completely new phenomenon, and we see many incidents which didn't happen before. The fact that neo-Nazis are now legal in Europe is a phenomenon which should be noted - They're already sitting in parliament in Hungary, but the same is happening in Ukraine, Greece and other countries," he said."It is important to do something not only on the national level but on the inter-European level, in the European Union [EU] institutions."
Source (By Shahar Chai, Ynetnews, April 7, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]
Read article:
- Pray that those who harbor hate in their hearts toward the Jewish people, or any group of people because of their beliefs or their race, will have their hearts turned. Pray that the Jewish people are allowed to dwell in peace and safety.
- Have mercy on me, O Lord! Consider my trouble from those who hate me, You who lift me up from the gates of death. (Psalm 9:13)
3. JUST 5% OF PALESTINIANS WANT UNCONDITIONAL PEACE TALKS
The Palestinians have refused to hold direct peace talks with Israel for more than two years unless Israel meets their preconditions, and if the Palestinian people have any say in it, that won't change any time soon. A new poll shows that only 5.2% of Palestinians believe in resuming talks with Israel without preconditions, which Israel has long requested.
According to a report from the WAFA Palestinian news agency, a solid two-thirds of those polled by the Jerusalem Media and Communications Center (JMCC) said that the Palestinians should only resume peace talks if Israel stops settlement growth. Israel actually imposed a 10-month partial freeze on their own settlement construction in 2009, but the Palestinians refused to engage Israel directly until the building stoppage was nearing its end.
While peace with Israel faces some roadblocks, the new poll says more than 90% of Palestinians believe that the Fatah political faction led by President Mahmoud Abbas should reconcile with the Hamas terrorist group-even if such a move results in sanctions from the US or Israel. The two main Palestinian groups have been divided since 2007.
The Palestinian poll, released on Wednesday [April 10], shows that US Secretary of State John Kerry will likely face quite a challenge to convince the sides to restart talks. Kerry just wrapped a series of separate conversations with Israel and the Palestinians, which he described as "very constructive talks."
Source (By Joshua Spurlock, The Mideast Update, April 10, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that God will direct Israel in His path for peace. Pray that His hand will be upon all involved in the peace process.
- As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him. God is my strength and power, and He makes my way perfect. (2 Samuel 22:31, 33)
4. IDF REMAINS ON HEIGHTENED ALERT
The Israel Defense Forces' [IDF's] Judea and Samaria Division is at a heightened state of alert in light of recent events in the region, including a spate of rock and firebomb attacks that Palestinians have directed at Israeli civilians and security forces.
One of the most persistent threats to the safety of Israelis in Judea and Samaria is rock attacks. Since the beginning of 2013, Palestinians have thrown 1,195 rocks at Israelis. While rock attacks tend to attract less media attention than higher-profile attacks with more advanced weaponry, they also pose a potentially deadly threat. Just last week, Waal al-Arjeh was convicted of murder for carrying out a rock attack that killed a baby boy and his father, Yonatan and Asher Palmer, in 2011.
"According to its findings, this was a premeditated attack by a number of Palestinians who approached the post with several firebombs," he stated. "There was an attempt to capture them, and during the incident the [IDF] force was put in a dangerous situation and opened fire with nonlethal fire and then with live fire." The source added that the IDF force had responded appropriately, opening fire after firebombs had been thrown. Nonetheless, the incident has inflamed tensions in Judea and Samaria.
"The [Palestinian] Authority is making efforts to control the situation, but to a certain extent it is negatively using the death of the prisoner to agitate the street around the issue of the prisoners," the source within the Central Command stated. "Our goal is to prevent other incidents from getting out of control. There is coordination with the Authority so as to control the situation."
Source (By Dana Petrov, Israel Defense Forces, April 9, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]
Read article:
- Pray for a peace and calm throughout Judea and Samaria. Pray for safety for the residents and the IDF.
- And you would be secure, because there is hope; yes, you would dig around you, and take your rest in safety. (Job 11:18)
5. REPORT: SYRIA WITHDRAWS TROOPS FROM GOLAN
The Syrian government has withdrawn thousands of soldiers from the Golan Heights and moved them to battle fronts closer to Damascus, The Guardian reported Sunday [April 7].According to the report, the move has cast doubt over the future of a UN peacekeeping force on the strategically vital plateau. Western diplomats said the Syrian redeployments near the Golan ceasefire line were the most significant in 40 years.
According to The Guardian, rebel groups have moved into the vacuum sparking fears in Israel that jihadists will use the area as a staging ground for attacks on territory it controls. Evidence that surfaced in the past year suggests that rebel ranks have been filled with Islamist extremists including al-Qaeda members who seek to establish a new foothold in Syria. The Guardian explained that the eastern border of the Golan Heights was until recently thought to be occupied by four Syrian army divisions whose positions helped make the Golan the safest of Israel's four borders for more than four decades.
"They (the Syrian government) have moved some of their best battalions away from the Golan," said a western diplomatic source of the Syrian changes. "They have replaced some of them with poorer-quality battalions, which have involved reducing manpower. The moves are very significant."
It now remains to be seen whether Austria, whose troops from one third of the 1,000-strong force, will withdraw them from the border.
Source by Ynetnews, April 7, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]
Read article:
- Pray for God to show Israel how to keep the borders in the Golan secure. Pray for His wisdom as they seek to maintain stability.
- and He has filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom and understanding, in knowledge and all manner of workmanship.(Exodus 35:31)
6. SYRIAN OPPOSITION GROUP FORMALLY ALIGNS WITH AL-QA'IDA
Fears that opposition forces fighting Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad's regime are riddled with Islamists, Jihadists and terrorists were underscored on Monday [April 8] when the Syrian Jabhat Al-Nursa group announced it was formally aligning with the Iraqi Al-Qa'ida franchise. Jabhat Al-Nursa, which is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, is responsible for a number of suicide bombings that targeted regime locations and interests. Requests to the West by opposition groups for support including weapons for rebel fighters have been offset by fears that the arms would fall into the hands of terrorists. Israel is concerned that those fighters will reach out across the Syrian-Israeli border on the Golan Heights and has beefed-up security in that area.
The announcement of the merger between the two groups is already increasing concerns in Western capitals and in the Gulf States, which support an end to the rule of President Assad but charge the Shiite terrorist groups with seeking to overthrow Arab democracies and replace them with Islamic republics.
Source (By The Media Line, April 10, 2013) [Reported by BFP: Bridges for Peace]
- Pray that the Lord will stand in the way of Israel's neighbors that try to align with terrorists. Pray for such agreements to fall apart in chaos and confusion.
- You will chase your enemies, and they shall fall by the sword before you. (Leviticus 26:7)
7. SYRIAN TROOPS WIDEN OFFENSIVE IN BORDER AREAS
Pro-Assad forces battle rebels near Lebanese border; gunfire hits near Golan IDF unit, which fires back with Tamuz missile; government forces launch second offensive near Jordanian border.
An IDF unit in the northern Golan Heights was subject to shooting from Syria Friday. Blasts sounded in the area, but no injuries or damage were reported. Though initial reports determined that the incident was the result of errant fire from Syria, it was later reported that the IDF fired back at the direction of the post from which the gunfire was detected.
According to the IDF Spokesperson's Unit, the IDF responded with firing a Tamuz missile and a hit was detected. It has yet to be established whether there were any injuries in the Syrian post. Helicopters were circling the area to monitor the region, and the IDF informed UN forces in the region.
Over the past six months several shooting incidents from Syria across the border with Israel occurred. Though most incidents were perceived accidental, IDF assessments determined that some were intentional and fired back.
Read article:
- Heavenly Father, we lift up praise that no damage or injuries have been incurred by the Syrian fights near the northern Golan Heights. We ask You, Father, to be in the midst of the Israeli IDF units, keeping them alert and strong to any shifts of change in this fighting, and to any direct dangers to Israeli people who live in the area. In Jesus' Name we pray, Amen and Amen.
- The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. (Psalm 145:18)
8. CHEMICAL WARFARE LOOMS OVER SYRIA. ISRAEL PASSES ATROPINE TO REBELS
As the Syrian civil way went into its third year this week, signs abounded of increasing readiness for the use of chemical weapons on both sides of the conflict. Since February, the US, Israel, Ankara and Amman have been aware of Bashar Assad's resolve to override their threats and resort to deadly poison gas if the rebels closed in on the heart of Damascus. On April 3, an unnamed Syrian army officer made the warning clear. By continuing to advancie on Damascus, he said, "the rebels and their leaders" were assured of "certain death."
At about the same time, debkafile reported exclusively that the Syrian ruler had ordered protective suits for chemical warfare and gas masks distributed to the 4th and 3rd Divisions defending the capital. Tank commanders were told to activate their filtering systems against chemical and biological agents. Protective suits have since been distributed to the Syrian army units fighting in southern Syria and the Golan, the enclave divided between Syria and Israel by the 1974 ceasefire that ended the Syrian war of attrition after the Yom Kippur War.
These steps were registered by the joint counter-chemical warfare center set up between the US, Israel, Turkey and Jordan when President Barack Obama visited their capitals in the third week of March. In the last few days, Israeli troops were asked by this center to start handing out atropine injections or IV drips to Syrian rebels fighting Syrian troops on the Golan. Extracted from deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna), Jimson weed (Datura stramonium) and mandrake (Mandragora officinarum), atropine is highly effective for blocking such nerve agents as sarin, VX, soman and tabun and counteracting the effects of poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping and low heart rate.
The British disclosure April 12 in the Times of London of soil samples smuggled out of Syria provided forensic evidence of the use of chemical weapons but carefully avoided assigning responsibility. Though containing traces of "some kind of chemical weapon" collected from an unidentified "neighborhood on the outskirts of Damascus," the British experts could not identify the type of weapon - possibly even tear gas - or whether it was fired by forces loyal to President Assad or the rebels fighting him.
Read article:
- Abba Father, the confirmation that chemical weapons are now part of the fighting equation means that what was feared is now reality. Lord, we plead for mercy for all the people trapped in the midst of this expanding nightmare, and for all who might become exposed. We ask for protection of Your remnant and that more people may be saved before it is too late. Direct our prayers, Father, in Jesus' Name, Amen and Amen.
- Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6)
9. ISRAEL LOOKING TO DEPORT HUNGER-STRIKING PRISONER
Israel has expressed a desire to deport hunger-striking Palestinian security prisoner Samer Essawi to a UN or EU member state, but he has refused the initiative, AFP reported on Friday. Essawi was arrested by the IDF in Operation Defensive Shield during the second intifada in 2002. A member of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, he was sentenced to 30 years in prison for terrorism-related activity. Essawi served 10 years, and in October 2011 he was released along with 476 other Palestinians in the Egypt-brokered Gilad Schalit deal between Hamas and Israel.
However, in July 2012 he was rearrested as the IDF said he had violated the terms of his release. He began a hunger strike shortly after his arrest in 2012. Essawi's health has deteriorated as a result of the prolonged hunger strike. The Israeli official was quoted by AFP as saying the prisoner could be released to Gaza, or to "any EU member country, or any UN member country."
The official reportedly stated that Israel has communicated with both the EU and UN about possibly taking in Essawi, but has not received an answer. AFP quoted an EU spokesman as saying "Israel has not formally approached the EU on this subject." Essawi's lawyer Jawad Boulous told AFP that Israel had lobbied the prisoner to be deported to a number of states including Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Switzerland and Finland, but that he had "strongly refused in principle to be deported to any state."
Read article:
- Lord, if this is Your will, open a door for this man to be deported to a place where his protest would be more 'neutralized'. Israel cannot afford to be 'forced to free' criminals by hunger strikes as it would open a 'door way' for violent terrorists to have their way despite what their crimes are. This is a second arrest already for this man, which confirms he has no repentance. We ask You, Lord, to deal with this man in Your way, in Jesus' Name, Amen and Amen.
- God is jealous, and the Lord avenges - The Lord will take vengeance on His adversaries, and He reserves wrath for His enemies. The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him. (Nahum1:1,7)
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Israel Honors Its Memorial Day
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Netanyahu thanks fallen soldiers as Memorial Day commences
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Israel's bereaved families Sunday, the eve of the Day of Remembrance for Israeli Fallen Soldiers and Victims of Terrorism, stressing that their loved ones had not fallen in vain and that the memory of the victims dwells in the hearts of the Israeli people.
"Brothers and sisters, members of the family of bereavement," said Netanyahu, "on Memorial Day we remember our fallen loved ones, who fell during the Israeli wars and the acts of terror throughout the years."
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RED ALERT - PRAYERS FOR NORTH KOREA
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RED ALERT - PRAYERS FOR NORTH KOREA
Also: Emergency prayer requests submitted by Beverly Pegues, Window International Prayer Network (WIN)
Introduction:
Yesterday, members of our core team were engaged in a monthly conference call to address key issues that are resonating now, for prayer. During this call, the burden of the LORD was unusually heavy, and we continued to press in, to hear His voice.
The LORD then spoke that we were to go into a position of HIGH ALERT IN PRAYER for the next 24 - 48 hours, through Monday evening. Acting in obedience, all of our core team are on the wall now, in HIGH ALERT for news that needs instant prayer.
Today, the LORD spoke to say that He wants us to invite all of you, too, to join us on this wall. One of our members, RaJean Vawter, has summarized the bullet points for prayer, below, which we share with you now. This is followed by an Emergency Prayer Alert from the WIN Network; and closed by a brief study on the nature of "Repentance and Tyrants," also below.
We thank all of the 4,238 of you out there for joining us in this position
of HIGH ALERT in intercession today. Thank you.
Sara Ballenger
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
The message from RaJean follows:
If you put a lot of news stories together, it's easy to see that the next 24-48 hours are critical. I "saw" concentric circles getting closer and closer together, almost like they were forming a bull's eye. Consider the following:
- Monday our time, Israel will celebrate her 65th birthday. Independence Day. A typical time for terrorist strikes.
- Monday in Korea, they will celebrate the 101st birthday of founder Kim II Sung. It is their most important holiday of the year. Will they, as they have in the past, have some show of military strength? Last year they did a failed attempt to launch a satellite into space. A few months later, they succeeded.
- Will Korea play their nuclear card? They have a medium range missile capable of hitting Guam.
- The Pentagon says they are capable of arming a missile with nukes. Kerry says no they don't.
- North Korea has warned Japan that Tokyo would be the first target if they decide to play their nuclear card.
- Japan has placed PAC-3 missile interceptor units around Tokyo.
- North Korea has moved missiles into firing position along their coast.
- South Korea say they are expecting NK to fire any day.
- Mr. Obama says the U.S. will take all necessary steps to protect America. Yet due to sequestration, he has grounded a large percentage of the Air Force, including the 94th fighter squadron in Okinawa and the Korean Peninsula.
- China has confirmed live fire drills near the NK border. - NK has told all Russian diplomats and workers to leave the country. (The British Embassy was evacuated on Thursday.)
Emergency prayer requests submitted by Beverly Pegues,
Window International Prayer Network (WIN)
WIN PRAYER ALERT
North Korea Threats Continue
PRAY FOR:
- Deliverance and protection for the people in North and South Korea from a tyrant. The culmination of many years of communism, atheism, and isolationism are causing global concern (Psalms 2:1-3).
- The president of North Korea, Kim Jong Un's salvation. Pray that He acknowledges the One True God, the Creator of heaven and earth (Hebrews 11:3).
- North Korea to be at peace with South Korea and other nations. Pray for North Korea to open its doors to the preaching of the Gospel (Psalms 2:8).
- The protection of the targeted nations (South Korea, Japan, and USA). Pray that Christian Believers in the nations threatened by North Korea's leadership to humble themselves before God and pray for divine intervention (II Chronicles 7:14).
- Food, water and decent living conditions for the people of North Korea. They continue to live in desperate conditions of lack and poverty. Pray for the deliverance of Christian Believers who are tortured for their faith in North Korea, the number one persecutor of Christians in the world (Psalm 82:4).
In Closing: On Repentance and the Rule of Tyrants
(Notes submitted by Woody Barnett, Pittsburgh, PA)
[This is an excerpt of a Bible Study taught by Pastor Barnett]
"And in the latter period of their rule, when the transgressors have run their course, a king will arise insolent and skilled in intrigue." (Daniel 8:23, NASB, 1977 version)
Prophetic utterances give us insight as to what to expect from men and nations in, "the latter days." The statement in our text, "when the transgressors have run their course," really stood out to me during this study -------- and you and I can be sure that, "the transgressors [will] run their course." This should be a great hope and encouragement to all who love and follow Jesus Christ. This life is indeed short, and you and I, all who, "follow the Lamb wherever He goes," will see the inevitable triumph over, "the transgressors," who will indeed, "run their course."
Strong's says the word translated, "transgressors," means "to break away from just authority, rebel, revolt." This is a perfect description of the North Korean Regime of the last 68 years and, indeed, has been the description of most regimes throughout history. The classification of, "the transgressors," is the classification of all men and nations which do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as, "King of kings, and Lord of lords." They are those who do not, "Repent, for the Kingdom (the Government, the Rule) of Heaven is at hand." Too much "repentance" is just for personal gain, not, "for the Kingdom of Heaven," the Rule of Jesus Christ in our lives, every aspect of our lives, every aspect.
Today, I pray that my repentance and any repentance of our
nations, will be, "for the Kingdom of Heaven," not some agenda to just
get me/us out of "trouble," but the repentance which brings us more
and more into the Purpose of Jesus Christ in the earth.
> > > Father, in Jesus' Name, deliver me from any
compromise with, "the transgressors." Amen.
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North Korea News Briefs
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North Korea News Briefs
"This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty."
1. Summary of Events This Week
4/12
Overnight: N. Korea warns Japan of nuclear attack if the country continues hostile stance of threatening to shoot down N. Korean missiles. Monitoring.
4/11
Defense Intelligence Agency "assesses with moderate confidence [N. Korea] currently has nuclear weapons capable of delivery by ballistic missiles."
4/9
Reuters live coverage of Patriot missile battery in Tokyo. Japan promises shoot down of any NK missiles near island. http://reuters.livestation.com/demo
4/9
US & S. Korean defense sources indicate N. Korea missile launch appears imminent. Possibly multiple launches. Allied watch condition increased. Monitoring.
4/8
Overnight: N. Korea warns foreigners to evacuate S. Korea for their safety. US Embassy Seoul: No change in status. UN calls situation "very dangerous."
4/7
S. Korean and international intel sources indicate N. Korea preparing for a 4th nuclear test at Punggye-ri site. Monitoring.
2. High Probability of Monday, April 15th Missile Launch
N. Korea has begun celebrating the April 15 birthday of Kim Jong Un's grandfather, Kim Il Sung. The birthday is considered the most important of national holidays and designed to cement loyalty to the ruling Kim family. In the past, N. Korea has used major holidays to show off military power. Analysts say Pyongyang could well mark Monday the 15th with a provocative missile launch. During last year's celebrations, N. Korea failed in an attempt to send a satellite into space aboard a long-range rocket. (The Daily Star; Lebanon) Read more.
3. Defense Intelligence Agency Says N. Korea Has Nuclear Missile Capability
"DIA assess with moderate confidence the North currently has nuclear weapons capable of delivery by ballistic missiles, however the reliability will be low."
The DIA assessment was first publicly revealed (by surprise) by Colorado Rep. Doug Lamborn at a House Armed Services Committee hearing this week during an exchange. with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Martin Dempsey, the highest ranking military officer in the U.S. Armed Forces Representative Lamborn was reading from a March national intelligence assessment prepared by the Defense Intelligence Agency, which is the central producer and manager of foreign military intelligence for the United States Department of Defense. This was followed by an exchange between Representative Lamborn and the new Secretary of Defense, Chuck Hagel. Keep in mind that these exchanges took place during the unclassified session. Director of National Intelligence, James Clapper, issued his own statement, saying "the statement read by the member (Lamborn) is not an intelligence community assessment. (AP) Read more.
See the video here.
4. North Korea Threatens Japan
States "nuclear war is unavoidable"
Late this week N. Korea warned Japan that Tokyo would be the first target in the event of war on the Korean Peninsula. In commentary carried by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the communist country lashed out at Tokyo's standing orders to destroy any missile heading toward Japan, threatening such actions will result in a nuclear attack against the island nation, with Tokyo being "consumed in nuclear flames." (Threat Journal) Read more.
5. Japan Ready to Defend Against North Korean Nuclear Missiles
Japan is preparing for a potential North Korean nuclear missile attack - or a missile test. Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera ordered installation of a Patriot anti-missile defense missile battery on the grounds of the country's defense ministry in central Tokyo on Tuesday.
Standing orders were also issued to shoot down any missile arriving from North Korea, The New York Times reported. Two Japanese military bases near Tokyo, both equipped with Patriots, will provide the second line of defense, the ministry told reporters.
Warships equipped with interceptor missiles and Aegis radar have also been deployed in Japanese waters as a defense between that country and the Korean Peninsula.
South Korean officials said last weekend that Pyongyang appears to be preparing to test launch the Musudan, a new medium-range military missile. If true, the missile is estimated to have a range that can reach between Japan and Guam - in other words, from American bases on the territory of its ally, to the soil of its own island territory. (Israel National News) Read more.
6. Secretary of State John Kerry Visits Japan, China
a) Japanese Foreign Minister: Japan, U.S. Agree Cannot Let North Korea Have Nuclear Arms
Japan and the United States cannot allow North Korea to possess nuclear weapons, Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida said on Sunday after a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry. Kerry is in Japan for the last stop on an Asian tour aimed at solidifying support for curbing North Korea's nuclear program. Pyongyang has threatened for weeks to attack the United States, South Korea and Japan since new U.N. sanctions were imposed in response to its latest nuclear arms test in February, fueling speculation of a new missile launch or nuclear test.
b) U.S. says agrees with China on peaceful North Korea solution
The United States said on Saturday that China had agreed to help rid North Korea of its nuclear capability by peaceful means, but Beijing made no specific commitment in public to pressure its long-time ally to change its ways. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry met China's top leaders in a bid to persuade them to push reclusive North Korea, whose main diplomatic supporter is Beijing, to scale back its belligerence and, eventually, return to nuclear talks. Visiting Beijing for the first time as secretary of state, Kerry has made no secret of his desire to see China take a more active stance towards North Korea, which in recent weeks has threatened nuclear war against the United States and South Korea. (ww.watch.org)
7. Secretary of State Kerry Warns N. Korea
Condemns North Korea's nuclear weapons
US Secretary of State John Kerry arrived in N. Korea late this week and warned N. Korea the U.S. would defend its allies. Speaking at a joint news conference with the S. Korean Foreign Minister, Secretary Kerry said the U.S. would never accept N. Korea as a nuclear power and described rhetoric from Pyongyang as "unacceptable". U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry tells a news conference that the United States will not accept a nuclear armed North Korea, adding that the North Korean leader needs to understand "what the outcome of the conflict would be". To view this statement on a video, go here. (AP)
8. China Closing Border With N. Korea and Deploying Forces
China began closing key border crossings into N. Korea to tourist groups, including the main crossing bridge at Dandong, though at last report the crossing is still open for business travel. In addition, the S. Korean media reports China has moved a full army corps (2+ Divisions), to the N. Korean border and is currently carrying out training exercises. Additionally, Chinese media reports an armored brigade from a Shenyang mechanized infantry unit has been carrying out live-fire maneuvers near the N. Korean border. There are also reports China is increasing surveillance of large sections of the common border in preparation for a mass exodus of refugees from N. Korea. Read more.
More International News
1. TURKEY: AL-QAIDA CELL PLANNED TO BOMB U.S. EMBASSY, SYNAGOGUE
Turkish police said Friday they exposed a plot by a cell linked to Al-Qaida to bomb American and Jewish targets in the country, local media outlets reported.
The reports said two of the targets on the list were the United States Embassy in Ankara and a synagogue in Istanbul.
According to the reports, the information was gathered during a two-year operation in which the police was monitoring an Al-Qaida member who received training at the organization's camps in Afghanistan.
The operation led the police to two cell houses near Istanbul, where they found what was described as serious amounts of explosives ready to be detonated. Police, reports added, also seized six laptop computers, rifles and guns. Twelve people were arrested during the raid, police officials said, including eight Turks, two Chechens and two Azeris.
Forensic examination of the six laptops and documets police obtained revealed that the cell was preparing attacks on popular Turkish television personalities, besides plans to bomb the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, a synagogue in Istanbul's Balat district and a private museum. It was said that documents included photographs and floor plans of the targets along with other information concerning the targets.(Haaretz)
Read more.
- Lord, thank You for revealing the plots that were planned against the U.S. and Israeli sites in Turkey. We pray protection over all U.S. and Israeli sites across the globe. We claim victory over our enemies, In Jesus name.
- "For the Lord your God walks in the midst of your camp, to deliver you and give your enemies over to you; therefore your camp shall be holy, that He may see no unclean thing among you, and turn away from you." (Deuteronomy 23:14)
2. WEST HAS 'HARD EVIDENCE' OF SYRIA WMD USE
The West has 'hard evidence' that chemical weapons were used at least once since the two-year Syrian civil uprising against President Bashar Assad began, but failed to specify further details, AFP reported on Friday. 'There are several examples where we are quite sure that shells with chemicals have been used in a very sporadic way,' a western diplomat was quoted by AFP as saying.
Another diplomat said that 'quite convincing' evidence was sent to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to back the accusations made against forces loyal to Assad. The Syrian government is only willing to allow the UN to investigate what it claims was a rebel chemical attack near Aleppo last month. The opposition has blamed Assad's forces for that strike and also wants the UN team to look into other alleged chemical attacks by the government.
There have been three alleged chemical weapons attacks - the one near Aleppo and another near Damascus, both in March, and one in Homs in December. The rebels and Assad's government blame each other for all of them." (The Jerusalem Post)
Read more:
- Lord, strip Syria from these chemical weapons. Protect the people of Syria from their own government. We pray deliverance for the people. In Jesus Name.
- "Deliver me speedily; be my rock of refuge, a fortress of defense to save me. For You are my rock and my fortress; therefore, for Your name's sake, lead me and guide me. Pull me out of the net which they have secretly laid for me, for You are my strength. Into Your hand I commit my spirit; You have redeemed me, O Lord God of truth." (Psalm 31:2)
3. SYRIA AIR STRIKES 'TARGET CIVILIANS'
The Syrian Air Force is carrying out both deliberate air strikes against civilians and indiscriminate attacks, a leading rights group has warned. Human Rights Watch says it visited 52 sites in north-western Syria, documenting 59 such unlawful attacks. It points out that both types of attacks - estimated to have killed thousands - are serious violations of international law. It criticises Russia and China for blocking UN action against Damascus. Between October 2011 and July 2012 they vetoed three proposed UN Security Council resolutions against the Syrian government.
HRW says measures by the UN, such as targeted sanctions, an arms embargo and the referral of the situation to the International Criminal Court, are urgently needed. It says the Syrian government's unlawful actions are behind many of the 70,000 deaths estimated to have resulted from the conflict. (BBC News)
Read more.
- Lord, we pray for the measures by the UN for targeted sanctions, arms embargo, and the referral to the International Criminal Court be granted against Syria for the strikes against civilians. We speak peace and safety to the Syrian people who have experienced much destruction by their authorities. Provide a government in Syria to protect its people. In Jesus Name.
- my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior; you save me from violence. 4) I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies. (2 Samuel 22:3-4)
4. SYRIA CALLS ON UN TO RECOGNIZE REBELS' AL-QAEDA LINKS
Syria has urged the United Nations Security Council to class the al-Nusra Front as a group linked to al-Qaeda. The Syrian foreign ministry made the call in a letter to the UN, according to the Syrian state news agency. The letter said Syria expected the Security Council 'to fulfill its role in preserving global security'.
On Wednesday the front, a jihadist group fighting the Syrian regime, pledged allegiance to the leader of al-Qaeda, Ayman al-Zawahiri.
The Syrian statement refers to the UN resolution that established the al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee. Under the UN's sanctions regime, those with links to al-Qaeda have their financial assets frozen and face travel bans.
The sanctions also imposed an arms embargo on al-Qaeda. (BBC News)
Read more.
- Lord, if this group is linked to al-Qaeda, then grant the sanctions against them to bring a stop to their plans. We speak confusion to their camp, in Jesus name. May this group be scattered across the land, and disband, in Jesus Name.
- There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. (Luke 12:2)
5. IRANIAN MEDIA: SUCCESSFUL TESTING OF 3 NEW MISSILES
The Iranian Army announced on Saturday the successful testing of three new missiles, the Iranian Fars News Agency reported. The army revealed no details about the weapons, but did say that they were different from the Naze'at 10 and Fajr missiles that Iran has in its arsenal. The report stated that the Fajr-5 has a range of 75 km. which is a longer range than the medium range Naze'at 10.
The three types of missile were developed by the Army and Defense Industries and were test fired in the ground forces recent war-games, Lieutenant Commander of the Iranian Army's Ground Force Gen. Kioumars Heydari told Fars on Saturday. The army's missile and rocket units test fired the missiles on the first day of the ground drills being held in Kashan in Isfahan Province "to display their latest achievements and defensive tactics," Fars reported.
The army will also unveil its new personnel carriers during parades to be held throughout Iran on the National Army Day on April 18, said Heydari according to Fars. (Jerusalem Post) Read more.
- Thank the Lord that His weapons are much greater than anything of man; and that He promises to fight for His people, Israel, when the time comes. Stand in agreement with the Word of God, which is the Sword of the Spirit, and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Amen.
- "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee." (Psalm 122:6)
6. REPORT WARNS OF HEZBOLLAH, IRAN THREATS IN BALKANS
A leading Balkan-based website covering the region's politics published in late March a comprehensive study on Israeli-Balkan relations and the threat of Hezbollah, along with its chief sponsor Iran.
'While the Israelis are, of course, concerned by the occasional manifestations of neo-Nazism, they are currently focusing on Hezbollah - and behind it, Iran - as the main potential threat to their own interests. Israeli diplomats, tourists and local Jewish populations are all regarded as potential targets. In contrast to the case with Balkan-Sunni extremists, however, relatively little research has been published on Hezbollah in the Balkans today,' wrote Chris Deliso, the author of the study.
The new report, titled 'Israeli security concerns and the Balkans,' was published on the website Balkanalysis.com.
His investigation is based on interviews with leading Israeli counterterrorism experts. Dr. Ely Karmon, senior research scholar at the International Institute for Counter- Terrorism in Herzliya, was quoted in the study as saying that 'there is a clear pattern. Iran begins [in small countries] with diplomatic relations, investment promises and cultural relations. But all Iranian diplomatic and cultural activities carried out are under the control of their intelligence services.'
'For Iran, the Balkans is a good platform for two reasons. First, countries like Bosnia have already been long penetrated. Second, the local security and law enforcement are not sufficiently prepared for an adversary like Iran,' he continued. (The Jerusalem Post)
Read more.
- Father, stop Iran from infiltrating the smaller countries - like the Balkans. Guide the International Governments in a plan to prevent Iran from gaining a presence in these countries. Foil the plans of Iran, and bring forth a David to fight this Goliath.
- Goliath stood and shouted to the ranks of Israel, "Why do you come out and line up for battle? Am I not a Philistine, and are you not the servants of Saul? Choose a man and have him come down to me. If he is able to fight and kill me, we will become your subjects; but if I overcome him and kill him, you will become our subjects and serve us." Then the Philistine said, "This day I defy the armies of Israel! Give me a man and let us fight each other." On hearing the Philistine's words, Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified. But David said to Saul, Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. (1 Samuel 17)
7. IRAN WARNS OF WORLD WAR III
Iran ratcheted up its vitriol against Israel and the United States over the weekend, warning that an attack on the Islamic regime's nuclear facilities could lead to global war.
The rhetoric eerily matched that currently coming out of North Korea against its perceived enemies. 'Iran will not stand by in the face of such aggression,' Ali Ahani, Iran's ambassador to France, said Sunday, according to the Islamic regime's PressTV. 'This can entail a chain of violence that may lead to World war III. A potential Israeli attack against Iran with an objective of destroying its scientific and nuclear facilities is sheer madness. Its consequences are disastrous and uncontrollable.'
The deputy chief of staff of Iran's armed forces, Brig. Gen Masoud Jazayeri, warned the United States on Saturday that Iran would continue its nuclear program. 'We would not trade off our rights,' he said, adding that Iran would stand with North Korea in its faceoff with America. (WND) Read more.
- King of the Universe, Ruler of all Nations, we proclaim your Lordship over Israel, over Iran, and America. You have a mighty, mighty arm, that could come and spoil all of the plans of men to destroy people and nations. We beseech thee to reveal your mighty high hand, and the nations who plan evil against "the Apple of Your Eye" will tremble, and their nuclear plans will come to naught. We will give you the GLORY, and declare your mercy to a people who know not of a God of mercy and truth. AMEN
- "The Heavens are Yours, the earth also is Yours; the world and all its fullness, You have founded them. . . You have a mighty arm; strong is Your hand, and high is Your hand. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; mercy and truth go before your face." (Psalm 89: 11,13,14)
8. ISRAEL PROVIDING CHEMICAL WEAPONS ANTIDOTES TO SYRIAN REBELS
As the Syrian civil way went into its third year this week, signs abounded of increasing readiness for the use of chemical weapons on both sides of the conflict. Since February, the US, Israel, Ankara and Amman have been aware of Bashar Assad's resolve to override their threats and resort to deadly poison gas if the rebels closed in on the heart of Damascus. On April 3, an unnamed Syrian army officer made the warning clear. By continuing to advancie on Damascus, he said, "the rebels and their leaders" were assured of "certain death."
At about the same time, DEBKAfile reported exclusively that the Syrian ruler had ordered protective suits for chemical warfare and gas masks distributed to the 4th and 3rd Divisions defending the capital. Tank commanders were told to activate their filtering systems against chemical and biological agents. Protective suits have since been distributed to the Syrian army units fighting in southern Syria and the Golan, the enclave divided between Syria and Israel by the 1974 ceasefire that ended the Syrian war of attrition after the Yom Kippur War.
These steps were registered by the joint counter-chemical warfare center set up between the US, Israel, Turkey and Jordan when President Barack Obama visited their capitals in the third week of March. In the last few days, Israeli troops were asked by this center to start handing out atropine injections or IV drips to Syrian rebels fighting Syrian troops on the Golan.
Extracted from deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna), Jimson weed (Datura stramonium) and mandrake (Mandragora officinarum), atropine is highly effective for blocking such nerve agents as sarin, VX, soman and tabun and counteracting the effects of poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping and low heart rate. The IDF's distribution of a chemical weapon antidote to Syrian rebels may be regarded as the first Israeli intervention in the Syrian conflict, a small step past administering medical treatment to Syrians wounded in battle.
The Syrian high command will have noted this, or been tipped off by its Iranian, Russian or Hizballah intelligence comrades. And, say DEBKAfile's military sources, this may account for the Syrian decision for the first time in 34 years to direct shell fire at an IDF Golani patrol on duty Friday night, April 12, in the northern Golani area of Kibbutz El-Rom. (DebkaFile) Read more.
- Precious LORD, we come before Your throne of grace blessing You for Israel's willingness to help protect the Syrian rebels with antidotes while they battle their enemies. We also bless the IDF for helping the rebels to secure both Israeli and Syrian borders. We pray the angels of the LORD would be loosed over the borders where both Israeli and Syrian rebels stand guard in Jesus Name. Amen.
- "You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, Nor of the arrow that flies by day, Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday." (Psalm 91:5,6)
Government Declares Nicolas Maduro Winner of Election for New President
Henrique Cabriles to Contest the Announcement; Calls for Recount
1. THE STORY
(CNN) -- [Breaking news update at 11:56 p.m. Sunday]
The man former Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez handpicked to be his successor has won the country's presidential vote, officials said late Sunday.
With 99% of votes counted, Nicolas Maduro won 50.6% of votes, National Electoral Council President Tibisay Lucena said, calling the results "irreversible." Opposition candidate Henrique Capriles won 49.07% of votes, she said.
"I have won by nearly 300,000 votes. It is the decision of the people," Maduro told cheering supporters late Sunday, calling on Venezuelans to respect the results and respond peacefully. (CNN) Read more.
2. LATE-BREAKING NEWS
Venezuelan opposition candidate demands recount
(CNN) -- [Breaking news update at 12:57 a.m. Monday]
Denouncing election irregularities, Venezuelan opposition candidate Henrique Capriles Radonski demanded a recount and said early Monday that he will not recognize the country's presidential results "until every vote is counted."
3. REPORT FROM ON THE GROUND IN VENEZUELA
[This report was submitted earlier tonight by a private citizen whose friend, "E," lives near Caracas, and who wishes to remain anonymous.]
An official result of the elections has not not been given as the chavista-maduro government is stalling for time to commit fraud. But everyone knows that Capriles has won by a landslide. All of the country is on a literal powder keg of anguish and violence. The opposition is fearing loss by fraud, and if they win, they are fearing for their lives.
"E" tells me that she and her husband were coming home from church, walking, and suddenly they heard a thunder of motorcycles about to pass them -- OVER 100 of them -- all chavistas [Chavez' men], and ARMED TO THE HILT. "E" had to run into someone's house entrance because the street was very narrow- they would have been crushed.
That is all the information that I have now. "E," her husband and their friends are all spiritually fatigued . . . exhausted from so much spiritual warfare and "E" is in tears . . . such a spirit of fear is overtaking everyone. I told them that now is when they have to stand strong and decree in the face of the devil with boldness, "I believe God that it shall be even as it was told me", that we over here are crying out to the Lord for the country. Unless God intervenes miraculously, there is going to be blood- people are already barricading their doors. Please pray against this.
4. PRAYER REQUESTS FOR VENEZUELA
> > > We are claiming those things of God's intentions for Venezuela and the people of that nation. And NO MATTER the time delay, we stand with Venezuela for the RIGHT RESULTS. You do not stand alone Venezuela, the Lord is with you and we are with you too!!! We wait before you Lord with our eyes fixed on YOU . . . not the circumstance, not what anyone says or threats made. We WAIT ON YOU LORD ! In Jesus' name, amen!
1) Lord, we come into agreement with You to bless Venezuela with a Godly, righteous, Christian President. (Mr. Capriles a Christian with Jewish grandparents, has served in several offices already including Govenor.)
2) We bless Venezuela with an honest, open, and fair election. That the legitimate votes cast will be those counted and none others!
3) We bless Venezuela and the people of that nation including the military and all opposition with an atmosphere of Your peace, quiet streets and calm in their hearts. We say NO FEAR, we say this election will NOT be stolen. We proclaim a breakthrough in the Spiritual realm and decree change has come to Venezuela. We bless you with Joy of the Lord ! We ask your angels be dispatched to see to this and bring Godly results in Jesus' Name.
4) We bless Venezuela with a peaceful transition of authority and power. We say Peace be Still. We speak God's peace to the storm of political rhetoric and say the Kingdom of God is at hand and for Venezuela to lineup with God's destiny, plans and purposes and no other.
5) We ask You, Lord, to FORGIVE Ms. Lucena, the President National Electoral Council, and all others who are running this election, for reporting erroneous results. We stand only with the TRUE COUNT of the votes of the citizens of Venezuela.
6) We ask You to expose the identities of the men on the motorcycles who tonight are terrorizing the streets of the cities of Venezuela. If those men are from another nation, sent in to disrupt this election, we ask that they be expelled immediately from Venezuela.
7) And we thank You Lord for bringing a David with his 5 stones, and the one stone he throws WILL hit the target in Jesus' name!!
8) We ask you to dispatch Your angelic host to protect Henrique Capriles, his family, and all of his close associates from harm. Thank You, Lord!
5. SCRIPTURAL DECREES FOR THE NATION AND THE PEOPLE OF VENEZUELA
a. ALL of Psalm 94, including verses 1-3; 20-23.
1 O Lord God, to whom vengeance belongs-
O God, to whom vengeance belongs, shine forth!
2 Rise up, O Judge of the earth;
Render punishment to the proud.
3 Lord, how long will the wicked, How long will the wicked triumph? . . .
20 Shall the throne of iniquity, which devises evil by law, Have fellowship with You?
21 They gather together against the life of the righteous, And condemn innocent blood.
22 But the Lord has been my defense,
And my God the rock of my refuge.
23 He has brought on them their own iniquity,
And shall cut them off in their own wickedness;
The Lord our God shall cut them off.
b. Psalm 33:8,9
8 Let all the earth fear the Lord;
Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him.
9 For He spoke, and it was done;
He commanded, and it stood fast.
c. Psalm 47:8,9
8 God reigns over the nations; God sits on His holy throne.
9 The princes of the people have gathered together,
The people of the God of Abraham.
For the shields of the earth belong to God;
He is greatly exalted.
d. Isaiah 54:14,15
14 In righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror; for it shall not come near thee. 15 Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me: whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.
- TURKEY: AL-QAIDA CELL PLANNED TO BOMB U.S. EMBASSY, SYNAGOGUE
- WEST HAS 'HARD EVIDENCE' OF SYRIA WMD USE
- SYRIA AIR STRIKES 'TARGET CIVILIANS'
- SYRIA CALLS ON UN TO RECOGNIZE REBELS' AL-QAIDA LINKS
- IRANIAN MEDIA: SUCCESSFUL TESTING OF 3 NEW MISSILES
- REPORT WARNS OF HEZBOLLAH, IRAN THREATS IN BALKANS
- IRAN WARNS OF WORLD WAR III
- ISRAEL PROVIDING CHEMICAL WEAPONS ANTIDOTES TO SYRIAN REBELS
1. TURKEY: AL-QAIDA CELL PLANNED TO BOMB U.S. EMBASSY, SYNAGOGUE
Turkish police said Friday they exposed a plot by a cell linked to Al-Qaida to bomb American and Jewish targets in the country, local media outlets reported.
The reports said two of the targets on the list were the United States Embassy in Ankara and a synagogue in Istanbul.
According to the reports, the information was gathered during a two-year operation in which the police was monitoring an Al-Qaida member who received training at the organization's camps in Afghanistan.
The operation led the police to two cell houses near Istanbul, where they found what was described as serious amounts of explosives ready to be detonated. Police, reports added, also seized six laptop computers, rifles and guns. Twelve people were arrested during the raid, police officials said, including eight Turks, two Chechens and two Azeris.
Forensic examination of the six laptops and documets police obtained revealed that the cell was preparing attacks on popular Turkish television personalities, besides plans to bomb the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, a synagogue in Istanbul's Balat district and a private museum. It was said that documents included photographs and floor plans of the targets along with other information concerning the targets.(Haaretz)
Read more.
- Lord, thank You for revealing the plots that were planned against the U.S. and Israeli sites in Turkey. We pray protection over all U.S. and Israeli sites across the globe. We claim victory over our enemies, In Jesus name.
- "For the Lord your God walks in the midst of your camp, to deliver you and give your enemies over to you; therefore your camp shall be holy, that He may see no unclean thing among you, and turn away from you." (Deuteronomy 23:14)
2. WEST HAS 'HARD EVIDENCE' OF SYRIA WMD USE
The West has 'hard evidence' that chemical weapons were used at least once since the two-year Syrian civil uprising against President Bashar Assad began, but failed to specify further details, AFP reported on Friday. 'There are several examples where we are quite sure that shells with chemicals have been used in a very sporadic way,' a western diplomat was quoted by AFP as saying.
Another diplomat said that 'quite convincing' evidence was sent to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to back the accusations made against forces loyal to Assad. The Syrian government is only willing to allow the UN to investigate what it claims was a rebel chemical attack near Aleppo last month. The opposition has blamed Assad's forces for that strike and also wants the UN team to look into other alleged chemical attacks by the government.
There have been three alleged chemical weapons attacks - the one near Aleppo and another near Damascus, both in March, and one in Homs in December. The rebels and Assad's government blame each other for all of them." (The Jerusalem Post)
Read more:
- Lord, strip Syria from these chemical weapons. Protect the people of Syria from their own government. We pray deliverance for the people. In Jesus Name.
- "Deliver me speedily; be my rock of refuge, a fortress of defense to save me. For You are my rock and my fortress; therefore, for Your name's sake, lead me and guide me. Pull me out of the net which they have secretly laid for me, for You are my strength. Into Your hand I commit my spirit; You have redeemed me, O Lord God of truth." (Psalm 31:2)
3. SYRIA AIR STRIKES 'TARGET CIVILIANS'
The Syrian Air Force is carrying out both deliberate air strikes against civilians and indiscriminate attacks, a leading rights group has warned. Human Rights Watch says it visited 52 sites in north-western Syria, documenting 59 such unlawful attacks. It points out that both types of attacks - estimated to have killed thousands - are serious violations of international law. It criticises Russia and China for blocking UN action against Damascus. Between October 2011 and July 2012 they vetoed three proposed UN Security Council resolutions against the Syrian government.
HRW says measures by the UN, such as targeted sanctions, an arms embargo and the referral of the situation to the International Criminal Court, are urgently needed. It says the Syrian government's unlawful actions are behind many of the 70,000 deaths estimated to have resulted from the conflict. (BBC News)
Read more.
- Lord, we pray for the measures by the UN for targeted sanctions, arms embargo, and the referral to the International Criminal Court be granted against Syria for the strikes against civilians. We speak peace and safety to the Syrian people who have experienced much destruction by their authorities. Provide a government in Syria to protect its people. In Jesus Name.
- my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge, my savior; you save me from violence. 4) I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies. (2 Samuel 22:3-4)
4. SYRIA CALLS ON UN TO RECOGNIZE REBELS' AL-QAEDA LINKS
Syria has urged the United Nations Security Council to class the al-Nusra Front as a group linked to al-Qaeda. The Syrian foreign ministry made the call in a letter to the UN, according to the Syrian state news agency. The letter said Syria expected the Security Council 'to fulfill its role in preserving global security'.
On Wednesday the front, a jihadist group fighting the Syrian regime, pledged allegiance to the leader of al-Qaeda, Ayman al-Zawahiri.
The Syrian statement refers to the UN resolution that established the al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee. Under the UN's sanctions regime, those with links to al-Qaeda have their financial assets frozen and face travel bans.
The sanctions also imposed an arms embargo on al-Qaeda. (BBC News)
Read more.
- Lord, if this group is linked to al-Qaeda, then grant the sanctions against them to bring a stop to their plans. We speak confusion to their camp, in Jesus name. May this group be scattered across the land, and disband, in Jesus Name.
- There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. (Luke 12:2)
5. IRANIAN MEDIA: SUCCESSFUL TESTING OF 3 NEW MISSILES
The Iranian Army announced on Saturday the successful testing of three new missiles, the Iranian Fars News Agency reported. The army revealed no details about the weapons, but did say that they were different from the Naze'at 10 and Fajr missiles that Iran has in its arsenal. The report stated that the Fajr-5 has a range of 75 km. which is a longer range than the medium range Naze'at 10.
The three types of missile were developed by the Army and Defense Industries and were test fired in the ground forces recent war-games, Lieutenant Commander of the Iranian Army's Ground Force Gen. Kioumars Heydari told Fars on Saturday. The army's missile and rocket units test fired the missiles on the first day of the ground drills being held in Kashan in Isfahan Province "to display their latest achievements and defensive tactics," Fars reported.
The army will also unveil its new personnel carriers during parades to be held throughout Iran on the National Army Day on April 18, said Heydari according to Fars. (Jerusalem Post) Read more.
- Thank the Lord that His weapons are much greater than anything of man; and that He promises to fight for His people, Israel, when the time comes. Stand in agreement with the Word of God, which is the Sword of the Spirit, and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Amen.
- "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee." (Psalm 122:6)
6. REPORT WARNS OF HEZBOLLAH, IRAN THREATS IN BALKANS
A leading Balkan-based website covering the region's politics published in late March a comprehensive study on Israeli-Balkan relations and the threat of Hezbollah, along with its chief sponsor Iran.
'While the Israelis are, of course, concerned by the occasional manifestations of neo-Nazism, they are currently focusing on Hezbollah - and behind it, Iran - as the main potential threat to their own interests. Israeli diplomats, tourists and local Jewish populations are all regarded as potential targets. In contrast to the case with Balkan-Sunni extremists, however, relatively little research has been published on Hezbollah in the Balkans today,' wrote Chris Deliso, the author of the study.
The new report, titled 'Israeli security concerns and the Balkans,' was published on the website Balkanalysis.com.
His investigation is based on interviews with leading Israeli counterterrorism experts. Dr. Ely Karmon, senior research scholar at the International Institute for Counter- Terrorism in Herzliya, was quoted in the study as saying that 'there is a clear pattern. Iran begins [in small countries] with diplomatic relations, investment promises and cultural relations. But all Iranian diplomatic and cultural activities carried out are under the control of their intelligence services.'
'For Iran, the Balkans is a good platform for two reasons. First, countries like Bosnia have already been long penetrated. Second, the local security and law enforcement are not sufficiently prepared for an adversary like Iran,' he continued. (The Jerusalem Post)
Read more.
- Father, stop Iran from infiltrating the smaller countries - like the Balkans. Guide the International Governments in a plan to prevent Iran from gaining a presence in these countries. Foil the plans of Iran, and bring forth a David to fight this Goliath.
- Goliath stood and shouted to the ranks of Israel, "Why do you come out and line up for battle? Am I not a Philistine, and are you not the servants of Saul? Choose a man and have him come down to me. If he is able to fight and kill me, we will become your subjects; but if I overcome him and kill him, you will become our subjects and serve us." Then the Philistine said, "This day I defy the armies of Israel! Give me a man and let us fight each other." On hearing the Philistine's words, Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified. But David said to Saul, Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. (1 Samuel 17)
7. IRAN WARNS OF WORLD WAR III
Iran ratcheted up its vitriol against Israel and the United States over the weekend, warning that an attack on the Islamic regime's nuclear facilities could lead to global war.
The rhetoric eerily matched that currently coming out of North Korea against its perceived enemies. 'Iran will not stand by in the face of such aggression,' Ali Ahani, Iran's ambassador to France, said Sunday, according to the Islamic regime's PressTV. 'This can entail a chain of violence that may lead to World war III. A potential Israeli attack against Iran with an objective of destroying its scientific and nuclear facilities is sheer madness. Its consequences are disastrous and uncontrollable.'
The deputy chief of staff of Iran's armed forces, Brig. Gen Masoud Jazayeri, warned the United States on Saturday that Iran would continue its nuclear program. 'We would not trade off our rights,' he said, adding that Iran would stand with North Korea in its faceoff with America. (WND) Read more.
- King of the Universe, Ruler of all Nations, we proclaim your Lordship over Israel, over Iran, and America. You have a mighty, mighty arm, that could come and spoil all of the plans of men to destroy people and nations. We beseech thee to reveal your mighty high hand, and the nations who plan evil against "the Apple of Your Eye" will tremble, and their nuclear plans will come to naught. We will give you the GLORY, and declare your mercy to a people who know not of a God of mercy and truth. AMEN
- "The Heavens are Yours, the earth also is Yours; the world and all its fullness, You have founded them. . . You have a mighty arm; strong is Your hand, and high is Your hand. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; mercy and truth go before your face." (Psalm 89: 11,13,14)
8. ISRAEL PROVIDING CHEMICAL WEAPONS ANTIDOTES TO SYRIAN REBELS
As the Syrian civil way went into its third year this week, signs abounded of increasing readiness for the use of chemical weapons on both sides of the conflict. Since February, the US, Israel, Ankara and Amman have been aware of Bashar Assad's resolve to override their threats and resort to deadly poison gas if the rebels closed in on the heart of Damascus. On April 3, an unnamed Syrian army officer made the warning clear. By continuing to advancie on Damascus, he said, "the rebels and their leaders" were assured of "certain death."
At about the same time, DEBKAfile reported exclusively that the Syrian ruler had ordered protective suits for chemical warfare and gas masks distributed to the 4th and 3rd Divisions defending the capital. Tank commanders were told to activate their filtering systems against chemical and biological agents. Protective suits have since been distributed to the Syrian army units fighting in southern Syria and the Golan, the enclave divided between Syria and Israel by the 1974 ceasefire that ended the Syrian war of attrition after the Yom Kippur War.
These steps were registered by the joint counter-chemical warfare center set up between the US, Israel, Turkey and Jordan when President Barack Obama visited their capitals in the third week of March. In the last few days, Israeli troops were asked by this center to start handing out atropine injections or IV drips to Syrian rebels fighting Syrian troops on the Golan.
Extracted from deadly nightshade (Atropa belladonna), Jimson weed (Datura stramonium) and mandrake (Mandragora officinarum), atropine is highly effective for blocking such nerve agents as sarin, VX, soman and tabun and counteracting the effects of poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramping and low heart rate. The IDF's distribution of a chemical weapon antidote to Syrian rebels may be regarded as the first Israeli intervention in the Syrian conflict, a small step past administering medical treatment to Syrians wounded in battle.
The Syrian high command will have noted this, or been tipped off by its Iranian, Russian or Hizballah intelligence comrades. And, say DEBKAfile's military sources, this may account for the Syrian decision for the first time in 34 years to direct shell fire at an IDF Golani patrol on duty Friday night, April 12, in the northern Golani area of Kibbutz El-Rom. (DebkaFile) Read more.
- Precious LORD, we come before Your throne of grace blessing You for Israel's willingness to help protect the Syrian rebels with antidotes while they battle their enemies. We also bless the IDF for helping the rebels to secure both Israeli and Syrian borders. We pray the angels of the LORD would be loosed over the borders where both Israeli and Syrian rebels stand guard in Jesus Name. Amen.
- "You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, Nor of the arrow that flies by day, Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday." (Psalm 91:5,6)
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ALERT - Venezuela in Crisis
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Government Declares Nicolas Maduro Winner of Election for New President
Henrique Cabriles to Contest the Announcement; Calls for Recount
1. THE STORY
(CNN) -- [Breaking news update at 11:56 p.m. Sunday]
The man former Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez handpicked to be his successor has won the country's presidential vote, officials said late Sunday.
With 99% of votes counted, Nicolas Maduro won 50.6% of votes, National Electoral Council President Tibisay Lucena said, calling the results "irreversible." Opposition candidate Henrique Capriles won 49.07% of votes, she said.
"I have won by nearly 300,000 votes. It is the decision of the people," Maduro told cheering supporters late Sunday, calling on Venezuelans to respect the results and respond peacefully. (CNN) Read more.
2. LATE-BREAKING NEWS
Venezuelan opposition candidate demands recount
(CNN) -- [Breaking news update at 12:57 a.m. Monday]
Denouncing election irregularities, Venezuelan opposition candidate Henrique Capriles Radonski demanded a recount and said early Monday that he will not recognize the country's presidential results "until every vote is counted."
3. REPORT FROM ON THE GROUND IN VENEZUELA
[This report was submitted earlier tonight by a private citizen whose friend, "E," lives near Caracas, and who wishes to remain anonymous.]
An official result of the elections has not not been given as the chavista-maduro government is stalling for time to commit fraud. But everyone knows that Capriles has won by a landslide. All of the country is on a literal powder keg of anguish and violence. The opposition is fearing loss by fraud, and if they win, they are fearing for their lives.
"E" tells me that she and her husband were coming home from church, walking, and suddenly they heard a thunder of motorcycles about to pass them -- OVER 100 of them -- all chavistas [Chavez' men], and ARMED TO THE HILT. "E" had to run into someone's house entrance because the street was very narrow- they would have been crushed.
That is all the information that I have now. "E," her husband and their friends are all spiritually fatigued . . . exhausted from so much spiritual warfare and "E" is in tears . . . such a spirit of fear is overtaking everyone. I told them that now is when they have to stand strong and decree in the face of the devil with boldness, "I believe God that it shall be even as it was told me", that we over here are crying out to the Lord for the country. Unless God intervenes miraculously, there is going to be blood- people are already barricading their doors. Please pray against this.
4. PRAYER REQUESTS FOR VENEZUELA
> > > We are claiming those things of God's intentions for Venezuela and the people of that nation. And NO MATTER the time delay, we stand with Venezuela for the RIGHT RESULTS. You do not stand alone Venezuela, the Lord is with you and we are with you too!!! We wait before you Lord with our eyes fixed on YOU . . . not the circumstance, not what anyone says or threats made. We WAIT ON YOU LORD ! In Jesus' name, amen!
1) Lord, we come into agreement with You to bless Venezuela with a Godly, righteous, Christian President. (Mr. Capriles a Christian with Jewish grandparents, has served in several offices already including Govenor.)
2) We bless Venezuela with an honest, open, and fair election. That the legitimate votes cast will be those counted and none others!
3) We bless Venezuela and the people of that nation including the military and all opposition with an atmosphere of Your peace, quiet streets and calm in their hearts. We say NO FEAR, we say this election will NOT be stolen. We proclaim a breakthrough in the Spiritual realm and decree change has come to Venezuela. We bless you with Joy of the Lord ! We ask your angels be dispatched to see to this and bring Godly results in Jesus' Name.
4) We bless Venezuela with a peaceful transition of authority and power. We say Peace be Still. We speak God's peace to the storm of political rhetoric and say the Kingdom of God is at hand and for Venezuela to lineup with God's destiny, plans and purposes and no other.
5) We ask You, Lord, to FORGIVE Ms. Lucena, the President National Electoral Council, and all others who are running this election, for reporting erroneous results. We stand only with the TRUE COUNT of the votes of the citizens of Venezuela.
6) We ask You to expose the identities of the men on the motorcycles who tonight are terrorizing the streets of the cities of Venezuela. If those men are from another nation, sent in to disrupt this election, we ask that they be expelled immediately from Venezuela.
7) And we thank You Lord for bringing a David with his 5 stones, and the one stone he throws WILL hit the target in Jesus' name!!
8) We ask you to dispatch Your angelic host to protect Henrique Capriles, his family, and all of his close associates from harm. Thank You, Lord!
5. SCRIPTURAL DECREES FOR THE NATION AND THE PEOPLE OF VENEZUELA
a. ALL of Psalm 94, including verses 1-3; 20-23.
1 O Lord God, to whom vengeance belongs-
O God, to whom vengeance belongs, shine forth!
2 Rise up, O Judge of the earth;
Render punishment to the proud.
3 Lord, how long will the wicked, How long will the wicked triumph? . . .
20 Shall the throne of iniquity, which devises evil by law, Have fellowship with You?
21 They gather together against the life of the righteous, And condemn innocent blood.
22 But the Lord has been my defense,
And my God the rock of my refuge.
23 He has brought on them their own iniquity,
And shall cut them off in their own wickedness;
The Lord our God shall cut them off.
b. Psalm 33:8,9
8 Let all the earth fear the Lord;
Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him.
9 For He spoke, and it was done;
He commanded, and it stood fast.
c. Psalm 47:8,9
8 God reigns over the nations; God sits on His holy throne.
9 The princes of the people have gathered together,
The people of the God of Abraham.
For the shields of the earth belong to God;
He is greatly exalted.
d. Isaiah 54:14,15
14 In righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror; for it shall not come near thee. 15 Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me: whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.
On Capitol Hill This Week
Volume XX, Number 13b
DOMESTIC ISSUES
"The LORD will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul." (Psalm 121:7)
On the Hill
1. TEN CONGRESSMEN SPEAK OF MEDIA SILENCE ON GOSNELL TRIAL
Ten Congressmen took to the floor of the U.S. House on Thursday to shed some light on the trial of Kermit Gosnell, an abortionist who stands accused of murdering seven newborn infants (allegedly cutting their spines with scissors) and one grown woman. Among the 10 U.S. lawmakers was Rep. Chris Smith, a New Jersey Republican who says the media has intentionally ignored Gosnell's "house of horrors." "If Dr. Gosnell had walked into a nursery and shot seven infants with an AR-15, it would be national news and the subject of presidential hand-wringing," said Rep. Smith.
Indeed, that anti-gun advocates like CNN's Piers Morgan are Johnny on the Spot when it comes to gun violence, it's difficult to imagine this wouldn't be a bigger story if Gosnell had used so-called assault weapons.
"Will the decades-long major national news media cover-up of the brutality-and violence-of abortion methods ever end?" Rep. Smith continued. "Will Americans ever be told the horrifying details as to how - and how often - abortionists dismember, decapitate, and chemically poison innocent babies?"
In a letter sent by Media Research Center President Brent Bozell and twenty prominent leaders call on the broadcast networks to stop censoring coverage of the trial, pointing out that as of April 4th, since the trial began ABC, CBS and NBC have given the story zero coverage in their morning and evening news shows.
Again I ask. When will the media blackout stop? Will America ever be told about the brutality of abortion and the violence that is commonplace inside the abortion industry? Or will the media continue to censor this trial of the century, because it exposes an all too inconvenient truth that not only are unborn children destroyed in these killing centers, but that even babies who survive the abortion can't escape the deadly hand of the child predator. (The Blaze) Read more.
- Father, As mainstream media has consistently been silent we thank you for those on the front lines who are exposing the atrocity of the murder of innocent and unborn babies. We repent for the apathy of the church and repent on behalf of those who have been deceived or remain in denial of the painful reality of this sin. Lord, we lift every client, abortionist and their staff before your throne of grace. We call for an awakening in their hearts to the truth of this abomination; not to condemn, but to bring repentance and lead to your forgiveness and salvation. Write your laws upon their hearts and minds according to your word . . .that every man, woman and child would comprehend how deep and how wide is your love and kindness that triumphs over judgement.
- "This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds." Then he adds: "Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more. And where these have been forgiven, sacrifice for sin is no longer necessary. Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water." (Hebrews 10:16-20)
2. HAGEL QUESTIONED ON DOD'S TREATMENT OF CHRISTIANS IN MILITARY
A note from Congressman Randy Forbes:
This article from the Daily Caller was written following my questions to Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel during yesterday's House Armed Services Committee hearing. In an effort to combat an alarming trend of hostility towards faith and religious freedom in our military, the Armed Services Committee included important conscience protections in last year's National Defense Authorization Act. In light of the President's statement that this provision - included to protect the constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of religion - was "unnecessary and ill-advised," I asked the Secretary whether he planned to implement regulations that affirmed the conscience protections as written in the law.
As a Subcommittee Chairman on the Armed Services Committee, and Founder and Co-chairman of the Congressional Prayer Caucus, I will continue to fight to protect the conscience rights afforded under the Constitution not only for our men and women in uniform, but for all Americans.
Yours in service,
Randy Forbes
To read this article, go here.
- Heavenly Father, we ask that You remove from office those who do not honor Your Word. Remove them from all positions of authority that do not honor Your ways in all matters of national military affairs.
- "Therefore the Lord, the God of Israel, declares: 'I promised that your house and the house of your father should go in and out before me forever,' but now the Lord declares: 'Far be it from me, for those who honor me I will honor, and those who despise me shall be lightly esteemed." (1 Samuel 2:30)
3. DEMOCRATS DEFLECT AS OBAMACARE PROVES TO BE A MONSTER
As we all knew right from the beginning, Obamacare is going to be an abject failure, and a total disaster. All we had to do is look to Europe and Greece to see our future, yet when we looked it straight in the face, our course remained unchanged.
According to Investors Business Daily:
"As Democrats grow increasingly worried that Obamacare will explode on the launch pad just as midterm elections get going, the Obama administration seeks to pin blame on Republicans . . . Earlier this week, Health and Human Services head Kathleen Sebelius admitted that she didn't realize how complicated getting Obamacare off the ground would be . . . Sebelius complained that 'no one fully anticipated' the difficulties involved in implementing Obamacare, or how confusing it would be with the public . . . Rather than say 'let's get on board, let's make this work,' recalcitrant Republicans have forced her to engage in 'state-by-state political battles,' Sebelius said at a Harvard School of Public Health forum. 'The politics has been relentless.'"
Obamacare isn't even fully implemented, and premiums are already on the rise. As I've said numerous times, there are vastly simpler ways to gain control of the cost of healthcare in a responsible way; so that more people could have quality, affordable care. But that is not what this is about. Obamacare has never been about helping people; it is about power, and control. Simple as that.
Now that mid-term elections are coming up, Democrats are scrambling to place blame so they can keep their seats. Unfortunately, many Americans are not smart enough, or just don't care enough to see through the crap constantly being thrown at them. A real person would own up to their mistakes, but politicians are not real people. Politicians are animals that survive solely on deception and power. Obamacare is their biggest power play yet. (The Last Resistance) Read more.
- Lord, thank You that many leaders are beginning to have their eyes opened to the travesty put upon this nation by this ungodly bill. Not only is the moral direction of this bill evil, but its irresponsible financial stress that it puts upon our citizens is beginning to become obvious to those having to pay for this repressive law. We ask that You deliver us from this bondage. In Jesus' Name, amen.
- "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." (Galatians 5:1)
4. SENATE VOTES 68-31 TO MOVE FORWARD WITH GUN CONTROL BILL
The Senate voted to move forward on gun control Thursday, clearing the first of what is expected to be many 60-vote hurdles for the legislation. In a 68-31 vote, the Senate approved a procedural motion that will allow debate on the Democratic measure to being. Sixteen Republicans voted in favor of the motion, while two Democrats both from states President Obama lost in the 2012 election, voted against it. The two Democrats were Sens. Mark Begich (Alaska) and Mark Pryor (Ark.). The vote comes nearly four months after 26 people including 20 first-graders were killed by a lone gunman at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown,Conn.
- Father, we ask that Your heart for liberty prevail over this issue!
- "Truly, this only I have found: that God made man upright, but they have sought out many schemes." [Proverbs 7:29]
5. TOOMEY-MANCHIN PROPOSAL: ALLOWS DOCTORS TO BLOCK GUN RIGHTS
The proposal will allow a doctor to add a patient to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) without ever telling the patient he or she has been added.
There would be no due process requirement. Not all doctors will be able to do it with the same ease, but many will. Knowing a doctor could add him to a federal database as mentally ill without his knowledge could potentially dissuade a patient from going to the doctor in the first place to get help.
- Lord, under the guise of compromise and "reason" we have opened up a huge issue of not only privacy, but the potential for anyone who believes in the resurrection of Jesus to be placed on this background system. When the unrighteous rule, the righteous suffer. We pray strongly that You will place checks and balances in this bill so that ordinary people do not become targets of activists.
- "Because the sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the hearts of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil." [Eccl 8:11]
6. BOEHNER: I DON'T NEED GOP TO PASS GUN CONTROL LAW . . .
On Thursday, in the midst of ongoing national debate over prospective gun control and comprehensive immigration legislation, House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) said that he didn't need the approval of a majority of his own party to move forward with legislation. Referring to the so-called Hastert Rule, named after former House Speaker Denny Hastert (R-IL), which dictated that House leadership not bring up any bill for a vote without the support of a majority of the majority party, Boehner said, "Listen: It was never a rule to begin with."
Then, realizing the gravity of admitting that he could move without a majority of his own party, Boehner added, "And certainly my prerogative - my intention is to always pass bills with strong Republican support."
That may be his intention, but it has not been his history. On the fiscal cliff deal at the end of 2012, for example, he ignored a majority of his own party. That prompted a mini-rebellion in the House resulting in a supposedly humbled Boehner retaining his speakership. Should he buck the House Republicans again, he may face a stiffer challenge this time. (Washington Post) Read more.
- Father in heaven, we pray there be no land mines laid by Boehner that would impede the justice of law-abiding citizens owning guns which has always been a solid foundation used wisely for general purposes. God, raise up millions of citizens who will fight for the right to own guns that will be used within the range of the law for personal safety. God, raise up those who will vote for the right of the people to own guns for protection from harm. In Jesus' Name.
- "Fear not; For I am with you: be not dismayed: for I am your God: I will strengthen you; yea, I will help you; yea I will uphold you with the right hand of My righteousness. Behold, all they that were incensed against you shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; and they that strive with you shall perish." (Isaiah 41:10-11)
7. SENATE VOTES TO KEEP U.S. OUT OF U.N. ARMS TRADE TREATY
In the pre-dawn hours Saturday, the Senate approved a measure "to uphold Second Amendment rights and prevent the United States from entering into the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty." By a vote of 53-46, the Senate passed the amendment to the budget bill sponsored by Senator Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.).
Principally, this treaty would eradicate the Second Amendment in two ways: first, by mandating that state signatories create a registry of gun owners, manufacturers, sellers, and traders; second, by making it nearly impossible for civilians to purchase ammunition. The most egregious affront to the sovereignty of the United States is that there is not a single word in the Arms Trade Treaty protecting the unalienable right to keep and bear arms. (The New American) Read more.
- Offer praise for this very bold move by the U.S. Senate. Ask our Lord to strengthen the hands of those who are turning the battle at the gate, for they surely will begin to receive pressure from the White House as they move to curb even more measures that would curtail our rights under the Second Amendment. Pray!
- "He will be a spirit of justice to the one who sits in judgment, a source of strength to those who turn back the battle at the gate." (Isaiah 28:6)
8. SENATE "GANG OF EIGHT" SET TO INTRODUCE IMMIGRATION BILL
Democratic and Republican negotiators have reached agreement on all the major elements of sweeping legislation to remake the nation's immigration laws and expect to unveil the bill next week, lawmakers said Thursday.
After months of arduous closed-door negotiations, the "Gang of Eight" senators, equally divided between the two parties, had no issues left to resolve in person, and no more negotiating sessions were planned. Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois said the bill probably would be introduced on Tuesday.
The landmark legislation would overhaul legal immigration programs, require all employers to verify the legal status of their workers, greatly boost border security and put the estimated 11 million immigrants living in the U.S. illegally on a path to citizenship. A top second-term priority for President Barack Obama, it would enact the biggest changes to U.S. immigration law in more than a quarter century.
Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., complained that the bill will ensure that millions get amnesty but border enforcement never happens. "This is also why it is so troubling that (Senate Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy, D-Vt.) has rejected the GOP request for multiple hearings and that members of the Gang of Eight have publicly announced their intention to oppose any amendments," Sessions said in a statement Thursday. "To proceed along these lines is tantamount to an admission that the bill is not workable and will not withstand public scrutiny."
Once the legislation is released, it will be considered by the Senate Judiciary Committee, which has scheduled a hearing on Wednesday and will likely begin to amend and vote on the bill the week of May 6. From there, the bill would move to the Senate floor.
Both in committee and on the floor, the bill could change in unpredictable ways as senators try to amend it from the left and the right. The Gang of Eight - Schumer, Durbin, and Sens. John McCain and Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., Marco Rubio, R-Fla., Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Robert Menendez, D-N.J., and Michael Bennet, D-Colo. - have discussed banding together to defeat amendments that could significantly alter the legislation.
Even more uncertain, though, is the conservative-led House, where a bipartisan group is also crafting an immigration bill, though timing of its release is uncertain. Many conservatives in the House remain opposed to citizenship for immigrants who have been living in the U.S. illegally. (AP) Read more.
- Lord God, we ask that You prevail against this immigration legislation that allows any person from any nation to come into America and become a United States citizen. Father, let us not come under the burdens of people and their idol gods from other nations who know not the way of righteousness, nor do they follow the Lord God which Americans have always honored, or Jesus Christ as Savior of all mankind. God, kill this immigration bill, we ask in the mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.
- "Observe that which I command you this day; behold, I drive out before you the Amorite, and the Canaanite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, and the Hivite, and the Jebusite. Take heed to yourself, lest you make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land whither you go, lest it be for a snare in the midst of you. But you shall destroy their altars, break their images, and cut down their groves; for you shall worship no other god: for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God." (Exodus 34:11-14)
9. GOP SAYS OBAMA'S BUDGET BLOWS CHANCE OF "GRAND BARGAIN"
Top congressional Republicans declared President Obama's tax-laden budget for fiscal 2014 dead on arrival Wednesday, saying its failure to cut deficits destroys any hope of a "grand bargain" to fix the federal government's fiscal crisis.
- Lord of all Creation, we ask for Your help in this budget disaster unfolding over the last several years. Without Your mercy in this situation, America has no hope. We ask that both sides work together without the harsh, negative rhetoric that has blocked sound wisdom.
- "So our eyes look to the Lord our God, until He has mercy on us." [Psalm 123:2c]
10. TED CRUZ BLASTS OBAMA ADMIN'S ATTEMPTS TO EXPAND FEDERAL POWER
In a press release yesterday by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) he put forth a report titled "The Legal Limit: The Obama Administration's Attempts to Expand Federal Power." The Texas Senator analyzed six instances in the last 15 months where the U.S. Supreme Court has unanimously rejected the Obama Administration's arguments for increased federal power.
"When President Obama's own Supreme Court nominees join their colleagues in unanimously rejecting his Administration's call for broader federal power six times in just over one year, the inescapable conclusion is that the Obama Administration's view of federal power knows virtually no bounds," said Sen. Cruz. "This is a deeply troubling pattern that we will continue to highlight as long as this Administration continues seeking ways to expand its power in direct violation of Americans' constitutional rights."
Cruz highlighted the six cases in which the Supreme Court has unanimously rejected since January of 2012. (Patriot Newswire) Read More
- Father God, bring more and more senators to stand for the rights of the people and speak out against these attempts to expand federal power. God, we ask for strong reinforcement from heaven to fight against this prideful push for power. Strengthen the U.S. Supreme Court to stand firm in supporting sound judgment and not bow down to Baal. Save the souls of all members of the Supreme Court by the Blood of Jesus so they can comprehend the mind of Christ and be moved into a new realm of godly wisdom. In the Name of Jesus. Amen.
- "Happy is the man that finds wisdom and the man that gets understanding. But the wicked shall be cut off from the earth, and the transgressors shall be rooted out of it." (Proverbs 3:13, 2:22)
At the White House
1. OBAMA PICK FOR NATO COMMANDER CALLS FOR RUSSIA "PARTNERSHIP"
US President Barack Obama's nominee to become supreme allied commander of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) said Thursday that the United States should not pursue an antagonistic relationship with Moscow but rather one of partnership and reciprocity. "I think we would be better off if we quit treating Russia, or thinking of Russia, as an enemy and try to bring them into a partnership as we deal with Europe and other places," US Air Force Gen. Philip Breedlove told the US Senate's armed services committee in a confirmation hearing Thursday.
Breedlove, whom Obama nominated late last month to replace NATO's outgoing top commander, US Navy Adm. James Stavridis, needs confirmation from the Senate in order to assume the post.
Relations between the two countries have eroded precipitously since late last year, when Russia expelled the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) from the country.
Officials in Moscow accuse USAID of undermining Russia's sovereignty by funding non-governmental organizations (NGOs) engaged in political activities, while Washington says these groups are crucial to ensuring political plurality in Russia.
- Father, we see that Russia is returning to her old ways of "cold war" and reinstituting policies she had under communism and dictatorial rule. We know that Putin is not a man to be trusted, and so we are reluctant to enter into a "partnership" with our known enemy. We pray for Your wisdom to be given to whomever becomes the supreme allied commander of NATO, to always "trust, but verify", as President Reagan advised. We thank You for that wisdom, understanding, and discernment in advance. Amen.
- "Woe to the many nations that rage-- they rage like the raging sea! Woe to the peoples who roar--they roar like the roaring of great waters! Although the peoples roar like the roar of surging waters, when He rebukes them they flee far away; driven before the wind like chaff on the hills, like tumbleweed before a gale." (Isaiah 17:12,13)
2. DOE PLANS TO DUMP MAN-MADE URANIUM IN NEVADA
WASHINGTON - A Department of Energy plan to drag hundreds of canisters of radioactive nuclear material into the Nevada desert for a "shallow land burial" is raising safety concerns as experts worry what could happen if the security of the bomb-making material were compromised.
Energy officials told FoxNews.com the department is preparing to ship 403 welded steel containers of a man-made highly radioactive cargo to the Nevada National Security Site, about an hour northwest of Las Vegas. The canisters would carry about 2.6 kilograms of uranium-233 and uranium-235 - two products so dangerous that they require safety escorts and can only be handled with remote-controlled cranes. The radiation at the exterior of the canisters is about 300 rads (radiation absorbed dose), which categorizes it as a high-hazard level. According to Robert Alvarez of the Institute of Policy Studies, this raises serious proliferation and safety concerns.
"I went over to the headquarters, talked to project managers. They all sort of gave me the 'I don't know' response," Alvarez told FoxNews.com. "Nobody wants to deal with it."
No exact transport date has been given but sources say it could happen at any time.
Alvarez says DOE has yet to meet or address the challenges of ensuring that the uranium is accounted for and stored in safe facilities or creating a viable plan to safely dispose of it. He adds that the department's decision to move the nuclear material "sets an exceptionally bad precedent for the rest of the world not just in terms of non-proliferation but in protecting public safety and security from concentrated fissile materials."
Alvarez, who worked at the DOE and also served for five years as a senior investigator for what is now the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, is widely regarded as an expert on the country's nuclear weapons program. The DOE says it is actively taking steps to make sure the radioactive material being prepped to be moved doesn't do any harm. "The Department is committed to the safe and secure shipment and disposal of these materials, and throughout this process, will ensure this work is done in accordance with both federal and state requirements for safe transportation and disposal," Kumar said. (Fox News) Read more.
- Oh, Lord, we ask that a proper and secure place be found to safeguard this highly dangerous material. In Your wisdom, show those in charge how to handle this situation properly so that it does no harm and is not taken by those with evil intentions. Father, we appeal to You to guard our country from the dangers of those things we have manufactured ourselves. We submit ourselves to You as the Omnipotent and Omniscient God of the Universe.
- "I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions." (Proverbs 8:12)
3. NEW GAO REPORT IDENTIFIES $95 BILLION IN OVERLAPPING PROGRAMS
Duplicative drug abuse and treatment services are strewn over 76 federal programs. Housing services are spread across 20 different agencies. Renewable energy projects go through 23 federal agencies and 130 sub-agencies.
Even federal catfish inspections are done by three different agencies. These are only a few of 162 examples identified by the U.S. Government Accountability Office, a congressional watchdog agency, of fragmented, duplicative federal programs and services.
The 2013 edition of the annual report originally requested by Sen. Tom Coburn, R-OK, is being released today and it concludes that not only does such managerial dysfunction hobble the federal government, it's also extraordinarily costly.
"The $95 billion in overlap identified in this report, combined with the $200 billion in overlap identified in GAO's previous two reports, could easily cover the costs of sequestration," Coburn told The Washington Examiner. "Yet, instead of preventing furloughs, reopening air traffic control towers and restoring public access to White House, Congress and the administration continue to defend billions of dollars in duplication programs that are little more than monuments to the good intentions of career politicians in Washington," he said. (Washington Examiner) Read more.
- Lord God, pull out the stops around this entire country and raise up an army who will push for these overlapping programs to be removed. Bind the evil powers who are stealing from the people, killing all the good that America stands for, and destroying everything that honors the Lord God of heaven. Strengthen Sen. Tom Coburn, and others like him to take hold of bringing down these overlapping programs until they have won this battle and can stand in victory over the enemy. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
- "Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision: For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the Spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh." (Phil. 3:2-3)
4. IRS SAYS WARRANT NOT NEEDED TO TRACK TAXPAYER EMAIL, GPS RECORDS
IRS attorneys have asserted in internal documents that the Fourth Amendment does not protect email and that a warrant is not needed to plant a GPS location tracker on a car in its owner's driveway.
In documents obtained from the IRS by the ACLU under the federal Freedom of Information Act and posted on the website Wednesday, the agency's attorneys adopt an extremely aggressive posture toward the requirements the Fourth Amendment might place on its criminal investigators who want to read email or text messages, or use GPS location tracking.
"The Fourth Amendment does not protect communications held in electronic storage, such as email messages stored on a server, because Internet users do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy in such communications," states a 2009 "Search Warrant Handbook" from the IRS Criminal Tax Division's Office of Chief Counsel. (Washington Times) Read more
- God is good; sometimes the ACLU can be our friend. This is one of those times. Lift this matter up in prayer before the Lord, and ask that hearings be held on the Hill regarding this sensitive matter. Yes, the IRS needs to do its job, but we also have rights to privacy as American citizens. Pray that Congress will put this measure under scrutiny, so that our Constitution is upheld. In Jesus' name, amen.
- "He will speak against the Most High and oppress his holy people and try to change the set times and the laws. The holy people will be delivered into his hands for a time, times and half a time." (Daniel 7:25)
5. 'EVANGELICALS COULD BE PUT ON WATCH LIST, DENIED GUNS'
Citing recent "inflammatory rhetoric" by Army officials, the head of the Family Research Council is warning supporters that President Obama could put evangelical Christians and Catholics on a "watch list" to prevent them from purchasing guns. FRC President Tony Perkins said . . . that the Senate's bipartisan proposal requiring background checks for Internet gun sales is "very concerning given the fact that the United States military has been increasingly showing hostility toward evangelicals and Catholics as being somehow threats to national security and people that need to be watched."
In an email today to FRC supporters, Perkins explained that a recent Army briefing on "religious extremism" declared evangelical Christians and Catholics are among the biggest threats to America, along with Islamic supremacist groups such as al-Qaida and Hamas. Perkins said it was also discovered that, in an email, Army Lt. Col. Jack Rich highlighted FRC and the American Family Association as groups that do not share "our Army Values."
In his broadcast Wednesday, Perkins tied together the Army rhetoric with the proposed Senate legislation. "Well, what does that have to do with gun control?" he continued. "Well, what happens if all the sudden you are identified as an evangelical, Bible-believing fundamentalist and the government decides you've got to be put on a watch list?" Perkins explained that under the legislation, if "a caution comes up when they put your name in, you don't get a chance to buy a gun."
Perkins noted members of Congress, led by Rep. Doug Lamborn, R-Colo., have sent a letter to the secretary of the Army calling on the Army to apologize for attacking Christians and labeling them as extremists. (WorldNetDaily) Read more.
- Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your shaping this country's Constitutional laws. Protect us from the tyranny of men who seek to undo that which You have established and blessed in this nation's laws.
- "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, And recovery of sight to the blind, To set free those who are downtrodden, To proclaim the favorable year of the Lord." (Luke 4:18-19)
> > > See Also:
Lawmakers Want Army To Apologize For Attacks On Christians
At least a dozen members of Congress have signed a letter demanding the Secretary of the Army rescind and apologize for a briefing that labeled Evangelical Christians and Catholics as religious extremist groups, Fox News has learned. (Read more.)
6. CALIFORNIA BILL TO NULLIFY NDAA UNANIMOUSLY PASSES COMMITTEE
California
lawmakers are pushing a bill that would exempt the state from federal laws
authorizing indefinite detention of citizens. The California Public Safety
Committee voted unanimously Tuesday in favor of the California Liberty
Preservation Act, which was introduced by Republican Assemblyman Tim Donnelly.
The legislation is designed to free California from having to comply with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2012, which does nothing to prevent the potential seizure and indefinite detention of U.S. citizens. The California bill declares such federal power unconstitutional, and mandates the state and its localities refuse adhering to or assisting with federal implementation.
"The NDAA gives the executive branch-under not only President Obama, but also every future president - unprecedented power to detain US citizens without due process," Assemblyman Donnelly, the bill's author, wrote in a press release. "This runs counter to the very principles that make America great, and violates our nation's commitment to the rule of law."
California lawmakers are pushing a bill that would exempt the state from federal laws authorizing indefinite detention of citizens. The California Public Safety Committee voted unanimously Tuesday in favor of the California Liberty Preservation Act, which was introduced by Republican Assemblyman Tim Donnelly. The legislation is designed to free California from having to comply with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2012, which does nothing to prevent the potential seizure and indefinite detention of U.S. citizens. The California bill declares such federal power unconstitutional, and mandates the state and its localities refuse adhering to or assisting with federal implementation.
"The NDAA gives the executive branch-under not only President Obama, but also every future president - unprecedented power to detain US citizens without due process," Assemblyman Donnelly, the bill's author, wrote in a press release. "This runs counter to the very principles that make America great, and violates our nation's commitment to the rule of law." (The Daily Caller) Read more.
- We thank You, Father, that the state of California is making progress on this bill that would limit the unconstitutional intrusion of the federal government into state and personal liberties. Father, we ask that all other states would pass similar measures to stop the taking away of freedoms our founders fought for. Lord, raise up a resistance to the tyranny of this NDAA act that was erroneously signed into law. We ask this prayer, Holy God, in Jesus' name, amen.
- "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." (Galatians 5:1)
7. WHY DID U.N. BENGHAZI REPORT COVER UP FOR OBAMA GUN RUNNING?
JERUSALEM - Questions remain about the Obama administration's role in supplying arms to Libyan rebels as a United Nations report released this week reveals the weapons from Libya to extremists proliferating at an "alarming rate," fueling conflicts in Mali, Syria, Gaza and elsewhere. During the fight against Moammar Gadhafi's regime in 2011, it was widely reported the Obama administration coordinated foreign arms shipments via cut outs to the Libyan rebels.
In December 2012, the New York Times reported that after discussions among members of the National Security Council, the Obama administration backed arms shipments to Libyan rebels from both Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. American officials told the Times that the UAE first approached the Obama administration during the early months of the Libyan uprising, asking for permission to ship American-built weapons that the U.S. had supplied for the emirates' use. The administration rejected the request to ship U.S. weapons, instead urging the emirates to ship foreign weapons to Libya that could not be traced to the U.S., the Times reported. "The U.A.E. was asking for clearance to send U.S. weapons," one former U.S. official told the Times. "We told them it's O.K. to ship other weapons."
In March 2011, Reuters broke the story that Obama had signed a secret order authorizing covert U.S. government support for rebel forces seeking to oust Gadhafi, quoting U.S. government officials. Reuters noted the order was a principal form of presidential directive used to authorize secret operations by the Central Intelligence Agency. . .
Now the United Nations reports weapons initially sent to Benghazi are spreading from Libya at an "alarming rate," fueling conflicts in Mali, Syria and beyond. The report by the U.N. Security Council's Group of Experts said the North African state had become a key source of weapons transfers in the region, specifically blaming Qatar and the UAE for arming the rebels. While not referencing the U.S. support for the arms transfers, the U.N. experts said they had found that Qatar and the UAE had breached the arms embargo on Libya during the 2011 uprising by arming the rebels. . .
Both WND's reporting, which first revealed the U.S.-coordinated arms shipments, and the Times reporting starkly contrast with statements from top U.S. officials who have denied aiding the supply of weapons to the rebels. In February, the White House flatly denied involvement in arming the Syrian rebels, going so far as to say the Obama administration rejected a plan by former Secretary of State Clinton and then-CIA Director Petraeus to help arm the rebels. (WND) Read more.
- Lord God, awaken the entire citizenry of America to the blatant truth that this administration is out to completely raze America to the ground and will not be satisfied until it is done. Their loyalty is given to our enemies, for it is widely reported that their role of supplying arms to our enemies is true. We, therefore, ask our God to step into the middle of all that Obama does, that is not according ot His will, and for the good of our nation. We ask our Lord to take away his power, take away all access that is available to him financially, and to strip, shake and disesteem him. May this president be humbled, that he might find the one true source of all power -- that One is God. May he find him now! We call forth godliness, righteousness and repentance in our country that millions be saved by the power of the Blood of Jesus. May we all turn back to God. In His Name we pray.
- "Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ."
(II Thessalonians 1:6-8)
Urgent Prayer For Boston
Dear USRPN,
Bomb blasts rocked the city of Boston this afternoon during the Boston Marathon, killing two people and injuring 23. The first explosion took place at approximately 2:50pm near the finish line of the marathon as the runners were finishing the race. The second explosion occurred approximately 15 seconds after the first, at a distance of 50-100 yards from the initial blast. There was also a third explosion heard near the JFK Library.
The bombings are being considered a terrorist attack, and are being investigated as such. News sources report that the police are investigating a person of interest who was injured by one of the blasts. Washington D.C. and New York City are also taking security measures to prevent any possible attacks, including the deployment of counter-terrorism units to key landmarks and hotels.
This is serious, and displays the reality that we are a targeted nation, both physically and spiritually.
Please pray with us:
1. First and foremost that the Lord would work this together for good and for His purpose. It obviously wasn't His will for this to happen, but He is a redeeming God and can make even the most ugly situations beautiful and full of hope. (Romans 8:28)
2. Pray that God would comfort the families who have lost loved ones in this attack, and give peace and healing to those who have been injured. Also pray comfort and healing over the city of Boston. (2 Corinthians 1:3-5)
3. Pray for the exposure of any other possible bomb threats and/or terrorist attacks. Ask the Lord to give wisdom to the authorities as they take security measures to ensure the safety and protection of their cities. (Luke 12:2)
4. Ask the Lord to bring to justice those who are responsible for these attacks.
(Amos 5:24; Romans 12:19)
5. Pray for America. Ask the Lord for mercy on our nation, and that He would guard over our nation with His peace and security. Declare that the hand of the enemy cannot touch this land! (Psalm 91)
Thank you for praying with us. Let's look to the Lord to turn this around for good!
For the nation,
Cindy Jacobs
The Madison Report: Week of April 15 - 19, 2013
This week, there are two major issues being debated and decided on Capitol Hill. In both the Senate and in the House, policy is being set in place regarding:
a) Gun Control laws and
b) Immigration
In order to do understand the depths of each issue, and their ramifications for all of us, we refer you again this week to the Madison Report.
Please review their material, as you can, and pray over each item, accordingly.
You can access this week's Madison Report by going here.
This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
LORD, MY ROCK
(Adoni Tsuree)
"Praise be to the LORD, my Rock, who trains my hands for war." (Psalm 144:1)
How blessed I am to know that You are my Rock, and my fortress. You are the One who equips me to do Your work. Thank You that you equip the called - not call the equipped. Today, help me to realize that You have provided for my every need.- one step at a time.
( Source: THE NAME- HaShem: Daily Devotional Worship by Dr. Barri Cae Mallin)
Available on Amazon.com by going here:
http://www.amazon.com/THE-NAME-HaShem-Devotional-Worship/dp/1439263396
DOMESTIC ISSUES
"The LORD will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul." (Psalm 121:7)
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On the Hill
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On the Hill
- TEN CONGRESSMEN SPEAK OF MEDIA SILENCE ON GOSNELL TRIAL
- HAGEL QUESTIONED ON DOD'S TREATMENT OF CHRISTIANS IN MILITARY
- DEMOCRATS DEFLECT AS OBAMACARE PROVES TO BE A MONSTER
- SENATE VOTES 68-31 TO MOVE FORWARD WITH GUN CONTROL BILL
- SENATE PROPOSAL: ALLOWS DOCTORS TO BLOCK GUN RIGHTS
- BOEHNER: I DON'T NEED GOP TO PASS GUN CONTROL LAW . . .
- SENATE VOTES TO KEEP U.S. OUT OF U.N. ARMS TRADE TREATY
- SENATE "GANG OF EIGHT" SET TO INTRODUCE IMMIGRATION BILL
- GOP SAYS OBAMA'S BUDGET BLOWS CHANCE OF "GRAND BARGAIN"
- TED CRUZ BLASTS OBAMA'S ATTEMPTS TO EXPAND FEDERAL POWER
1. TEN CONGRESSMEN SPEAK OF MEDIA SILENCE ON GOSNELL TRIAL
Ten Congressmen took to the floor of the U.S. House on Thursday to shed some light on the trial of Kermit Gosnell, an abortionist who stands accused of murdering seven newborn infants (allegedly cutting their spines with scissors) and one grown woman. Among the 10 U.S. lawmakers was Rep. Chris Smith, a New Jersey Republican who says the media has intentionally ignored Gosnell's "house of horrors." "If Dr. Gosnell had walked into a nursery and shot seven infants with an AR-15, it would be national news and the subject of presidential hand-wringing," said Rep. Smith.
Indeed, that anti-gun advocates like CNN's Piers Morgan are Johnny on the Spot when it comes to gun violence, it's difficult to imagine this wouldn't be a bigger story if Gosnell had used so-called assault weapons.
"Will the decades-long major national news media cover-up of the brutality-and violence-of abortion methods ever end?" Rep. Smith continued. "Will Americans ever be told the horrifying details as to how - and how often - abortionists dismember, decapitate, and chemically poison innocent babies?"
In a letter sent by Media Research Center President Brent Bozell and twenty prominent leaders call on the broadcast networks to stop censoring coverage of the trial, pointing out that as of April 4th, since the trial began ABC, CBS and NBC have given the story zero coverage in their morning and evening news shows.
Again I ask. When will the media blackout stop? Will America ever be told about the brutality of abortion and the violence that is commonplace inside the abortion industry? Or will the media continue to censor this trial of the century, because it exposes an all too inconvenient truth that not only are unborn children destroyed in these killing centers, but that even babies who survive the abortion can't escape the deadly hand of the child predator. (The Blaze) Read more.
- Father, As mainstream media has consistently been silent we thank you for those on the front lines who are exposing the atrocity of the murder of innocent and unborn babies. We repent for the apathy of the church and repent on behalf of those who have been deceived or remain in denial of the painful reality of this sin. Lord, we lift every client, abortionist and their staff before your throne of grace. We call for an awakening in their hearts to the truth of this abomination; not to condemn, but to bring repentance and lead to your forgiveness and salvation. Write your laws upon their hearts and minds according to your word . . .that every man, woman and child would comprehend how deep and how wide is your love and kindness that triumphs over judgement.
- "This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds." Then he adds: "Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more. And where these have been forgiven, sacrifice for sin is no longer necessary. Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water." (Hebrews 10:16-20)
2. HAGEL QUESTIONED ON DOD'S TREATMENT OF CHRISTIANS IN MILITARY
A note from Congressman Randy Forbes:
This article from the Daily Caller was written following my questions to Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel during yesterday's House Armed Services Committee hearing. In an effort to combat an alarming trend of hostility towards faith and religious freedom in our military, the Armed Services Committee included important conscience protections in last year's National Defense Authorization Act. In light of the President's statement that this provision - included to protect the constitutionally guaranteed right to freedom of religion - was "unnecessary and ill-advised," I asked the Secretary whether he planned to implement regulations that affirmed the conscience protections as written in the law.
As a Subcommittee Chairman on the Armed Services Committee, and Founder and Co-chairman of the Congressional Prayer Caucus, I will continue to fight to protect the conscience rights afforded under the Constitution not only for our men and women in uniform, but for all Americans.
Yours in service,
Randy Forbes
To read this article, go here.
- Heavenly Father, we ask that You remove from office those who do not honor Your Word. Remove them from all positions of authority that do not honor Your ways in all matters of national military affairs.
- "Therefore the Lord, the God of Israel, declares: 'I promised that your house and the house of your father should go in and out before me forever,' but now the Lord declares: 'Far be it from me, for those who honor me I will honor, and those who despise me shall be lightly esteemed." (1 Samuel 2:30)
3. DEMOCRATS DEFLECT AS OBAMACARE PROVES TO BE A MONSTER
As we all knew right from the beginning, Obamacare is going to be an abject failure, and a total disaster. All we had to do is look to Europe and Greece to see our future, yet when we looked it straight in the face, our course remained unchanged.
According to Investors Business Daily:
"As Democrats grow increasingly worried that Obamacare will explode on the launch pad just as midterm elections get going, the Obama administration seeks to pin blame on Republicans . . . Earlier this week, Health and Human Services head Kathleen Sebelius admitted that she didn't realize how complicated getting Obamacare off the ground would be . . . Sebelius complained that 'no one fully anticipated' the difficulties involved in implementing Obamacare, or how confusing it would be with the public . . . Rather than say 'let's get on board, let's make this work,' recalcitrant Republicans have forced her to engage in 'state-by-state political battles,' Sebelius said at a Harvard School of Public Health forum. 'The politics has been relentless.'"
Obamacare isn't even fully implemented, and premiums are already on the rise. As I've said numerous times, there are vastly simpler ways to gain control of the cost of healthcare in a responsible way; so that more people could have quality, affordable care. But that is not what this is about. Obamacare has never been about helping people; it is about power, and control. Simple as that.
Now that mid-term elections are coming up, Democrats are scrambling to place blame so they can keep their seats. Unfortunately, many Americans are not smart enough, or just don't care enough to see through the crap constantly being thrown at them. A real person would own up to their mistakes, but politicians are not real people. Politicians are animals that survive solely on deception and power. Obamacare is their biggest power play yet. (The Last Resistance) Read more.
- Lord, thank You that many leaders are beginning to have their eyes opened to the travesty put upon this nation by this ungodly bill. Not only is the moral direction of this bill evil, but its irresponsible financial stress that it puts upon our citizens is beginning to become obvious to those having to pay for this repressive law. We ask that You deliver us from this bondage. In Jesus' Name, amen.
- "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." (Galatians 5:1)
4. SENATE VOTES 68-31 TO MOVE FORWARD WITH GUN CONTROL BILL
The Senate voted to move forward on gun control Thursday, clearing the first of what is expected to be many 60-vote hurdles for the legislation. In a 68-31 vote, the Senate approved a procedural motion that will allow debate on the Democratic measure to being. Sixteen Republicans voted in favor of the motion, while two Democrats both from states President Obama lost in the 2012 election, voted against it. The two Democrats were Sens. Mark Begich (Alaska) and Mark Pryor (Ark.). The vote comes nearly four months after 26 people including 20 first-graders were killed by a lone gunman at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown,Conn.
- Father, we ask that Your heart for liberty prevail over this issue!
- "Truly, this only I have found: that God made man upright, but they have sought out many schemes." [Proverbs 7:29]
5. TOOMEY-MANCHIN PROPOSAL: ALLOWS DOCTORS TO BLOCK GUN RIGHTS
The proposal will allow a doctor to add a patient to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) without ever telling the patient he or she has been added.
There would be no due process requirement. Not all doctors will be able to do it with the same ease, but many will. Knowing a doctor could add him to a federal database as mentally ill without his knowledge could potentially dissuade a patient from going to the doctor in the first place to get help.
- Lord, under the guise of compromise and "reason" we have opened up a huge issue of not only privacy, but the potential for anyone who believes in the resurrection of Jesus to be placed on this background system. When the unrighteous rule, the righteous suffer. We pray strongly that You will place checks and balances in this bill so that ordinary people do not become targets of activists.
- "Because the sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the hearts of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil." [Eccl 8:11]
6. BOEHNER: I DON'T NEED GOP TO PASS GUN CONTROL LAW . . .
On Thursday, in the midst of ongoing national debate over prospective gun control and comprehensive immigration legislation, House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) said that he didn't need the approval of a majority of his own party to move forward with legislation. Referring to the so-called Hastert Rule, named after former House Speaker Denny Hastert (R-IL), which dictated that House leadership not bring up any bill for a vote without the support of a majority of the majority party, Boehner said, "Listen: It was never a rule to begin with."
Then, realizing the gravity of admitting that he could move without a majority of his own party, Boehner added, "And certainly my prerogative - my intention is to always pass bills with strong Republican support."
That may be his intention, but it has not been his history. On the fiscal cliff deal at the end of 2012, for example, he ignored a majority of his own party. That prompted a mini-rebellion in the House resulting in a supposedly humbled Boehner retaining his speakership. Should he buck the House Republicans again, he may face a stiffer challenge this time. (Washington Post) Read more.
- Father in heaven, we pray there be no land mines laid by Boehner that would impede the justice of law-abiding citizens owning guns which has always been a solid foundation used wisely for general purposes. God, raise up millions of citizens who will fight for the right to own guns that will be used within the range of the law for personal safety. God, raise up those who will vote for the right of the people to own guns for protection from harm. In Jesus' Name.
- "Fear not; For I am with you: be not dismayed: for I am your God: I will strengthen you; yea, I will help you; yea I will uphold you with the right hand of My righteousness. Behold, all they that were incensed against you shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; and they that strive with you shall perish." (Isaiah 41:10-11)
7. SENATE VOTES TO KEEP U.S. OUT OF U.N. ARMS TRADE TREATY
In the pre-dawn hours Saturday, the Senate approved a measure "to uphold Second Amendment rights and prevent the United States from entering into the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty." By a vote of 53-46, the Senate passed the amendment to the budget bill sponsored by Senator Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.).
Principally, this treaty would eradicate the Second Amendment in two ways: first, by mandating that state signatories create a registry of gun owners, manufacturers, sellers, and traders; second, by making it nearly impossible for civilians to purchase ammunition. The most egregious affront to the sovereignty of the United States is that there is not a single word in the Arms Trade Treaty protecting the unalienable right to keep and bear arms. (The New American) Read more.
- Offer praise for this very bold move by the U.S. Senate. Ask our Lord to strengthen the hands of those who are turning the battle at the gate, for they surely will begin to receive pressure from the White House as they move to curb even more measures that would curtail our rights under the Second Amendment. Pray!
- "He will be a spirit of justice to the one who sits in judgment, a source of strength to those who turn back the battle at the gate." (Isaiah 28:6)
8. SENATE "GANG OF EIGHT" SET TO INTRODUCE IMMIGRATION BILL
Democratic and Republican negotiators have reached agreement on all the major elements of sweeping legislation to remake the nation's immigration laws and expect to unveil the bill next week, lawmakers said Thursday.
After months of arduous closed-door negotiations, the "Gang of Eight" senators, equally divided between the two parties, had no issues left to resolve in person, and no more negotiating sessions were planned. Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois said the bill probably would be introduced on Tuesday.
The landmark legislation would overhaul legal immigration programs, require all employers to verify the legal status of their workers, greatly boost border security and put the estimated 11 million immigrants living in the U.S. illegally on a path to citizenship. A top second-term priority for President Barack Obama, it would enact the biggest changes to U.S. immigration law in more than a quarter century.
Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., complained that the bill will ensure that millions get amnesty but border enforcement never happens. "This is also why it is so troubling that (Senate Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy, D-Vt.) has rejected the GOP request for multiple hearings and that members of the Gang of Eight have publicly announced their intention to oppose any amendments," Sessions said in a statement Thursday. "To proceed along these lines is tantamount to an admission that the bill is not workable and will not withstand public scrutiny."
Once the legislation is released, it will be considered by the Senate Judiciary Committee, which has scheduled a hearing on Wednesday and will likely begin to amend and vote on the bill the week of May 6. From there, the bill would move to the Senate floor.
Both in committee and on the floor, the bill could change in unpredictable ways as senators try to amend it from the left and the right. The Gang of Eight - Schumer, Durbin, and Sens. John McCain and Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., Marco Rubio, R-Fla., Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Robert Menendez, D-N.J., and Michael Bennet, D-Colo. - have discussed banding together to defeat amendments that could significantly alter the legislation.
Even more uncertain, though, is the conservative-led House, where a bipartisan group is also crafting an immigration bill, though timing of its release is uncertain. Many conservatives in the House remain opposed to citizenship for immigrants who have been living in the U.S. illegally. (AP) Read more.
- Lord God, we ask that You prevail against this immigration legislation that allows any person from any nation to come into America and become a United States citizen. Father, let us not come under the burdens of people and their idol gods from other nations who know not the way of righteousness, nor do they follow the Lord God which Americans have always honored, or Jesus Christ as Savior of all mankind. God, kill this immigration bill, we ask in the mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.
- "Observe that which I command you this day; behold, I drive out before you the Amorite, and the Canaanite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, and the Hivite, and the Jebusite. Take heed to yourself, lest you make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land whither you go, lest it be for a snare in the midst of you. But you shall destroy their altars, break their images, and cut down their groves; for you shall worship no other god: for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God." (Exodus 34:11-14)
9. GOP SAYS OBAMA'S BUDGET BLOWS CHANCE OF "GRAND BARGAIN"
Top congressional Republicans declared President Obama's tax-laden budget for fiscal 2014 dead on arrival Wednesday, saying its failure to cut deficits destroys any hope of a "grand bargain" to fix the federal government's fiscal crisis.
- Lord of all Creation, we ask for Your help in this budget disaster unfolding over the last several years. Without Your mercy in this situation, America has no hope. We ask that both sides work together without the harsh, negative rhetoric that has blocked sound wisdom.
- "So our eyes look to the Lord our God, until He has mercy on us." [Psalm 123:2c]
10. TED CRUZ BLASTS OBAMA ADMIN'S ATTEMPTS TO EXPAND FEDERAL POWER
In a press release yesterday by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) he put forth a report titled "The Legal Limit: The Obama Administration's Attempts to Expand Federal Power." The Texas Senator analyzed six instances in the last 15 months where the U.S. Supreme Court has unanimously rejected the Obama Administration's arguments for increased federal power.
"When President Obama's own Supreme Court nominees join their colleagues in unanimously rejecting his Administration's call for broader federal power six times in just over one year, the inescapable conclusion is that the Obama Administration's view of federal power knows virtually no bounds," said Sen. Cruz. "This is a deeply troubling pattern that we will continue to highlight as long as this Administration continues seeking ways to expand its power in direct violation of Americans' constitutional rights."
Cruz highlighted the six cases in which the Supreme Court has unanimously rejected since January of 2012. (Patriot Newswire) Read More
- Father God, bring more and more senators to stand for the rights of the people and speak out against these attempts to expand federal power. God, we ask for strong reinforcement from heaven to fight against this prideful push for power. Strengthen the U.S. Supreme Court to stand firm in supporting sound judgment and not bow down to Baal. Save the souls of all members of the Supreme Court by the Blood of Jesus so they can comprehend the mind of Christ and be moved into a new realm of godly wisdom. In the Name of Jesus. Amen.
- "Happy is the man that finds wisdom and the man that gets understanding. But the wicked shall be cut off from the earth, and the transgressors shall be rooted out of it." (Proverbs 3:13, 2:22)
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At the White House
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At the White House
- OBAMA PICK FOR NATO COMMANDER CALLS FOR RUSSIA "PARTNERSHIP"
- DOE PLANS TO DUMP MAN-MADE URANIUM IN NEVADA
- NEW GAO REPORT IDENTIFIES $95 BILLION IN OVERLAPPING PROGRAMS
- IRS SAYS WARRANT NOT NEEDED TO TRACK TAXPAYER EMAIL, GPS RECORDS
- 'EVANGELICALS COULD BE PUT ON WATCH LIST, DENIED GUNS'
- CALIFORNIA BILL TO NULLIFY NDAA UNANIMOUSLY PASSES COMMITTEE
- WHY DID U.N. BENGHAZI REPORT COVER UP FOR OBAMA GUN RUNNING?
1. OBAMA PICK FOR NATO COMMANDER CALLS FOR RUSSIA "PARTNERSHIP"
US President Barack Obama's nominee to become supreme allied commander of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) said Thursday that the United States should not pursue an antagonistic relationship with Moscow but rather one of partnership and reciprocity. "I think we would be better off if we quit treating Russia, or thinking of Russia, as an enemy and try to bring them into a partnership as we deal with Europe and other places," US Air Force Gen. Philip Breedlove told the US Senate's armed services committee in a confirmation hearing Thursday.
Breedlove, whom Obama nominated late last month to replace NATO's outgoing top commander, US Navy Adm. James Stavridis, needs confirmation from the Senate in order to assume the post.
Relations between the two countries have eroded precipitously since late last year, when Russia expelled the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) from the country.
Officials in Moscow accuse USAID of undermining Russia's sovereignty by funding non-governmental organizations (NGOs) engaged in political activities, while Washington says these groups are crucial to ensuring political plurality in Russia.
- Father, we see that Russia is returning to her old ways of "cold war" and reinstituting policies she had under communism and dictatorial rule. We know that Putin is not a man to be trusted, and so we are reluctant to enter into a "partnership" with our known enemy. We pray for Your wisdom to be given to whomever becomes the supreme allied commander of NATO, to always "trust, but verify", as President Reagan advised. We thank You for that wisdom, understanding, and discernment in advance. Amen.
- "Woe to the many nations that rage-- they rage like the raging sea! Woe to the peoples who roar--they roar like the roaring of great waters! Although the peoples roar like the roar of surging waters, when He rebukes them they flee far away; driven before the wind like chaff on the hills, like tumbleweed before a gale." (Isaiah 17:12,13)
2. DOE PLANS TO DUMP MAN-MADE URANIUM IN NEVADA
WASHINGTON - A Department of Energy plan to drag hundreds of canisters of radioactive nuclear material into the Nevada desert for a "shallow land burial" is raising safety concerns as experts worry what could happen if the security of the bomb-making material were compromised.
Energy officials told FoxNews.com the department is preparing to ship 403 welded steel containers of a man-made highly radioactive cargo to the Nevada National Security Site, about an hour northwest of Las Vegas. The canisters would carry about 2.6 kilograms of uranium-233 and uranium-235 - two products so dangerous that they require safety escorts and can only be handled with remote-controlled cranes. The radiation at the exterior of the canisters is about 300 rads (radiation absorbed dose), which categorizes it as a high-hazard level. According to Robert Alvarez of the Institute of Policy Studies, this raises serious proliferation and safety concerns.
"I went over to the headquarters, talked to project managers. They all sort of gave me the 'I don't know' response," Alvarez told FoxNews.com. "Nobody wants to deal with it."
No exact transport date has been given but sources say it could happen at any time.
Alvarez says DOE has yet to meet or address the challenges of ensuring that the uranium is accounted for and stored in safe facilities or creating a viable plan to safely dispose of it. He adds that the department's decision to move the nuclear material "sets an exceptionally bad precedent for the rest of the world not just in terms of non-proliferation but in protecting public safety and security from concentrated fissile materials."
Alvarez, who worked at the DOE and also served for five years as a senior investigator for what is now the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, is widely regarded as an expert on the country's nuclear weapons program. The DOE says it is actively taking steps to make sure the radioactive material being prepped to be moved doesn't do any harm. "The Department is committed to the safe and secure shipment and disposal of these materials, and throughout this process, will ensure this work is done in accordance with both federal and state requirements for safe transportation and disposal," Kumar said. (Fox News) Read more.
- Oh, Lord, we ask that a proper and secure place be found to safeguard this highly dangerous material. In Your wisdom, show those in charge how to handle this situation properly so that it does no harm and is not taken by those with evil intentions. Father, we appeal to You to guard our country from the dangers of those things we have manufactured ourselves. We submit ourselves to You as the Omnipotent and Omniscient God of the Universe.
- "I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions." (Proverbs 8:12)
3. NEW GAO REPORT IDENTIFIES $95 BILLION IN OVERLAPPING PROGRAMS
Duplicative drug abuse and treatment services are strewn over 76 federal programs. Housing services are spread across 20 different agencies. Renewable energy projects go through 23 federal agencies and 130 sub-agencies.
Even federal catfish inspections are done by three different agencies. These are only a few of 162 examples identified by the U.S. Government Accountability Office, a congressional watchdog agency, of fragmented, duplicative federal programs and services.
The 2013 edition of the annual report originally requested by Sen. Tom Coburn, R-OK, is being released today and it concludes that not only does such managerial dysfunction hobble the federal government, it's also extraordinarily costly.
"The $95 billion in overlap identified in this report, combined with the $200 billion in overlap identified in GAO's previous two reports, could easily cover the costs of sequestration," Coburn told The Washington Examiner. "Yet, instead of preventing furloughs, reopening air traffic control towers and restoring public access to White House, Congress and the administration continue to defend billions of dollars in duplication programs that are little more than monuments to the good intentions of career politicians in Washington," he said. (Washington Examiner) Read more.
- Lord God, pull out the stops around this entire country and raise up an army who will push for these overlapping programs to be removed. Bind the evil powers who are stealing from the people, killing all the good that America stands for, and destroying everything that honors the Lord God of heaven. Strengthen Sen. Tom Coburn, and others like him to take hold of bringing down these overlapping programs until they have won this battle and can stand in victory over the enemy. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
- "Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision: For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the Spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh." (Phil. 3:2-3)
4. IRS SAYS WARRANT NOT NEEDED TO TRACK TAXPAYER EMAIL, GPS RECORDS
IRS attorneys have asserted in internal documents that the Fourth Amendment does not protect email and that a warrant is not needed to plant a GPS location tracker on a car in its owner's driveway.
In documents obtained from the IRS by the ACLU under the federal Freedom of Information Act and posted on the website Wednesday, the agency's attorneys adopt an extremely aggressive posture toward the requirements the Fourth Amendment might place on its criminal investigators who want to read email or text messages, or use GPS location tracking.
"The Fourth Amendment does not protect communications held in electronic storage, such as email messages stored on a server, because Internet users do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy in such communications," states a 2009 "Search Warrant Handbook" from the IRS Criminal Tax Division's Office of Chief Counsel. (Washington Times) Read more
- God is good; sometimes the ACLU can be our friend. This is one of those times. Lift this matter up in prayer before the Lord, and ask that hearings be held on the Hill regarding this sensitive matter. Yes, the IRS needs to do its job, but we also have rights to privacy as American citizens. Pray that Congress will put this measure under scrutiny, so that our Constitution is upheld. In Jesus' name, amen.
- "He will speak against the Most High and oppress his holy people and try to change the set times and the laws. The holy people will be delivered into his hands for a time, times and half a time." (Daniel 7:25)
5. 'EVANGELICALS COULD BE PUT ON WATCH LIST, DENIED GUNS'
Citing recent "inflammatory rhetoric" by Army officials, the head of the Family Research Council is warning supporters that President Obama could put evangelical Christians and Catholics on a "watch list" to prevent them from purchasing guns. FRC President Tony Perkins said . . . that the Senate's bipartisan proposal requiring background checks for Internet gun sales is "very concerning given the fact that the United States military has been increasingly showing hostility toward evangelicals and Catholics as being somehow threats to national security and people that need to be watched."
In an email today to FRC supporters, Perkins explained that a recent Army briefing on "religious extremism" declared evangelical Christians and Catholics are among the biggest threats to America, along with Islamic supremacist groups such as al-Qaida and Hamas. Perkins said it was also discovered that, in an email, Army Lt. Col. Jack Rich highlighted FRC and the American Family Association as groups that do not share "our Army Values."
In his broadcast Wednesday, Perkins tied together the Army rhetoric with the proposed Senate legislation. "Well, what does that have to do with gun control?" he continued. "Well, what happens if all the sudden you are identified as an evangelical, Bible-believing fundamentalist and the government decides you've got to be put on a watch list?" Perkins explained that under the legislation, if "a caution comes up when they put your name in, you don't get a chance to buy a gun."
Perkins noted members of Congress, led by Rep. Doug Lamborn, R-Colo., have sent a letter to the secretary of the Army calling on the Army to apologize for attacking Christians and labeling them as extremists. (WorldNetDaily) Read more.
- Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your shaping this country's Constitutional laws. Protect us from the tyranny of men who seek to undo that which You have established and blessed in this nation's laws.
- "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, And recovery of sight to the blind, To set free those who are downtrodden, To proclaim the favorable year of the Lord." (Luke 4:18-19)
> > > See Also:
Lawmakers Want Army To Apologize For Attacks On Christians
At least a dozen members of Congress have signed a letter demanding the Secretary of the Army rescind and apologize for a briefing that labeled Evangelical Christians and Catholics as religious extremist groups, Fox News has learned. (Read more.)
6. CALIFORNIA BILL TO NULLIFY NDAA UNANIMOUSLY PASSES COMMITTEE
The legislation is designed to free California from having to comply with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2012, which does nothing to prevent the potential seizure and indefinite detention of U.S. citizens. The California bill declares such federal power unconstitutional, and mandates the state and its localities refuse adhering to or assisting with federal implementation.
"The NDAA gives the executive branch-under not only President Obama, but also every future president - unprecedented power to detain US citizens without due process," Assemblyman Donnelly, the bill's author, wrote in a press release. "This runs counter to the very principles that make America great, and violates our nation's commitment to the rule of law."
California lawmakers are pushing a bill that would exempt the state from federal laws authorizing indefinite detention of citizens. The California Public Safety Committee voted unanimously Tuesday in favor of the California Liberty Preservation Act, which was introduced by Republican Assemblyman Tim Donnelly. The legislation is designed to free California from having to comply with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2012, which does nothing to prevent the potential seizure and indefinite detention of U.S. citizens. The California bill declares such federal power unconstitutional, and mandates the state and its localities refuse adhering to or assisting with federal implementation.
"The NDAA gives the executive branch-under not only President Obama, but also every future president - unprecedented power to detain US citizens without due process," Assemblyman Donnelly, the bill's author, wrote in a press release. "This runs counter to the very principles that make America great, and violates our nation's commitment to the rule of law." (The Daily Caller) Read more.
- We thank You, Father, that the state of California is making progress on this bill that would limit the unconstitutional intrusion of the federal government into state and personal liberties. Father, we ask that all other states would pass similar measures to stop the taking away of freedoms our founders fought for. Lord, raise up a resistance to the tyranny of this NDAA act that was erroneously signed into law. We ask this prayer, Holy God, in Jesus' name, amen.
- "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." (Galatians 5:1)
7. WHY DID U.N. BENGHAZI REPORT COVER UP FOR OBAMA GUN RUNNING?
JERUSALEM - Questions remain about the Obama administration's role in supplying arms to Libyan rebels as a United Nations report released this week reveals the weapons from Libya to extremists proliferating at an "alarming rate," fueling conflicts in Mali, Syria, Gaza and elsewhere. During the fight against Moammar Gadhafi's regime in 2011, it was widely reported the Obama administration coordinated foreign arms shipments via cut outs to the Libyan rebels.
In December 2012, the New York Times reported that after discussions among members of the National Security Council, the Obama administration backed arms shipments to Libyan rebels from both Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. American officials told the Times that the UAE first approached the Obama administration during the early months of the Libyan uprising, asking for permission to ship American-built weapons that the U.S. had supplied for the emirates' use. The administration rejected the request to ship U.S. weapons, instead urging the emirates to ship foreign weapons to Libya that could not be traced to the U.S., the Times reported. "The U.A.E. was asking for clearance to send U.S. weapons," one former U.S. official told the Times. "We told them it's O.K. to ship other weapons."
In March 2011, Reuters broke the story that Obama had signed a secret order authorizing covert U.S. government support for rebel forces seeking to oust Gadhafi, quoting U.S. government officials. Reuters noted the order was a principal form of presidential directive used to authorize secret operations by the Central Intelligence Agency. . .
Now the United Nations reports weapons initially sent to Benghazi are spreading from Libya at an "alarming rate," fueling conflicts in Mali, Syria and beyond. The report by the U.N. Security Council's Group of Experts said the North African state had become a key source of weapons transfers in the region, specifically blaming Qatar and the UAE for arming the rebels. While not referencing the U.S. support for the arms transfers, the U.N. experts said they had found that Qatar and the UAE had breached the arms embargo on Libya during the 2011 uprising by arming the rebels. . .
Both WND's reporting, which first revealed the U.S.-coordinated arms shipments, and the Times reporting starkly contrast with statements from top U.S. officials who have denied aiding the supply of weapons to the rebels. In February, the White House flatly denied involvement in arming the Syrian rebels, going so far as to say the Obama administration rejected a plan by former Secretary of State Clinton and then-CIA Director Petraeus to help arm the rebels. (WND) Read more.
- Lord God, awaken the entire citizenry of America to the blatant truth that this administration is out to completely raze America to the ground and will not be satisfied until it is done. Their loyalty is given to our enemies, for it is widely reported that their role of supplying arms to our enemies is true. We, therefore, ask our God to step into the middle of all that Obama does, that is not according ot His will, and for the good of our nation. We ask our Lord to take away his power, take away all access that is available to him financially, and to strip, shake and disesteem him. May this president be humbled, that he might find the one true source of all power -- that One is God. May he find him now! We call forth godliness, righteousness and repentance in our country that millions be saved by the power of the Blood of Jesus. May we all turn back to God. In His Name we pray.
- "Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ."
(II Thessalonians 1:6-8)
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Urgent Prayer For Boston
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Urgent Prayer For Boston
Dear USRPN,
Bomb blasts rocked the city of Boston this afternoon during the Boston Marathon, killing two people and injuring 23. The first explosion took place at approximately 2:50pm near the finish line of the marathon as the runners were finishing the race. The second explosion occurred approximately 15 seconds after the first, at a distance of 50-100 yards from the initial blast. There was also a third explosion heard near the JFK Library.
The bombings are being considered a terrorist attack, and are being investigated as such. News sources report that the police are investigating a person of interest who was injured by one of the blasts. Washington D.C. and New York City are also taking security measures to prevent any possible attacks, including the deployment of counter-terrorism units to key landmarks and hotels.
This is serious, and displays the reality that we are a targeted nation, both physically and spiritually.
Please pray with us:
1. First and foremost that the Lord would work this together for good and for His purpose. It obviously wasn't His will for this to happen, but He is a redeeming God and can make even the most ugly situations beautiful and full of hope. (Romans 8:28)
2. Pray that God would comfort the families who have lost loved ones in this attack, and give peace and healing to those who have been injured. Also pray comfort and healing over the city of Boston. (2 Corinthians 1:3-5)
3. Pray for the exposure of any other possible bomb threats and/or terrorist attacks. Ask the Lord to give wisdom to the authorities as they take security measures to ensure the safety and protection of their cities. (Luke 12:2)
4. Ask the Lord to bring to justice those who are responsible for these attacks.
(Amos 5:24; Romans 12:19)
5. Pray for America. Ask the Lord for mercy on our nation, and that He would guard over our nation with His peace and security. Declare that the hand of the enemy cannot touch this land! (Psalm 91)
Thank you for praying with us. Let's look to the Lord to turn this around for good!
For the nation,
Cindy Jacobs
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The Madison Report
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The Madison Report: Week of April 15 - 19, 2013
This week, there are two major issues being debated and decided on Capitol Hill. In both the Senate and in the House, policy is being set in place regarding:
a) Gun Control laws and
b) Immigration
In order to do understand the depths of each issue, and their ramifications for all of us, we refer you again this week to the Madison Report.
Please review their material, as you can, and pray over each item, accordingly.
You can access this week's Madison Report by going here.
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This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
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This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .
(Adoni Tsuree)
"Praise be to the LORD, my Rock, who trains my hands for war." (Psalm 144:1)
How blessed I am to know that You are my Rock, and my fortress. You are the One who equips me to do Your work. Thank You that you equip the called - not call the equipped. Today, help me to realize that You have provided for my every need.- one step at a time.
( Source: THE NAME- HaShem: Daily Devotional Worship by Dr. Barri Cae Mallin)
Available on Amazon.com by going here:
http://www.amazon.com/THE-NAME-HaShem-Devotional-Worship/dp/1439263396
