CHPP The Daily Brief - Monday, June 2, 2014

Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
"A National Prayer Alliance"
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net

The Daily Brief:

"Praying for All in Authority"

Monday, June 2, 2014

"But You, O Lord, are a shield about me, My glory, and the One who lifts my head." (Psalm 3:3)

THANK YOU FOR YOUR AMAZING RESPONSE TO OUR D-DAY ALERT!

Today we are praising the Lord for the many of you who have quickly responded to our cry for a day of fasting, prayer, repentance and making a covenant with the Lord to not stray from His path again on THIS D-Day, Friday, June 6.

We welcome you to join us on the D-Day Conference call at 11:00 a.m. this Friday, sponsored by PrayerSurgeNow.

Conference Number: 712-432-0075
CORRECTED Access Code: 6149782#

Thank you, too, for praying for the Persecuted Church. Please visit the website for the International Christian Concern to find ongoing needs for prayer among the persecuted around the world. Thank you.

	The Daily Brief

1. Bergdahl Release Raises Questions Over Congressional Authority, Security - Washington Times

As America's only prisoner of war in Afghanistan was transferred back to U.S. custody, Republicans challenged the Obama administration's insistence it did not negotiate with terrorists in securing the soldier's release and say the move was illegal and could embolden terrorists around the globe. (Read more)
-       Father, thank You for the release of Bergdahl. We pray that the release of the five prisoners from Guantanamo prison will not harm us in the future. Father, we cover all such controversial decisions with the Blood of Jesus and cry out for the wisdom of God to be upon our leaders.

- "Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil." (Proverbs 3:7)

2. Bergdahl release arrangement could threaten the safety of Americans, Republicans say - Washington Post

Amid jubilation Saturday over the release of U.S. Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl from captivity by the Taliban, senior Republicans on Capitol Hill said they were troubled by the means by which it was accomplished, which was a deal to release five Afghan detainees from the military prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

Top Republicans on the Senate and House armed services committees went so far as to accuse President Obama of having broken the law, which requires the administration to notify Congress before any transfers from Guantanamo are carried out.

"Trading five senior Taliban leaders from detention in Guantanamo Bay for Bergdahl's release may have consequences for the rest of our forces and all Americans. Our terrorist adversaries now have a strong incentive to capture Americans. That incentive will put our forces in Afghanistan and around the world at even greater risk," House Armed Services Committee Chairman Howard P. McKeon (R-Calif.) and the ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, James M. Inhofe (Okla.), said in a joint statement.

Lawmakers were not notified of the Guantanamo detainees' transfer until after it occurred. (Read more)
- Whatever happened to the policy that "we do not negotiate with terrorists?" And since when are the lives of five terrorists required in exchange for only one American soldier? Pray that this weekend's decision not be repeated, nor become a precedent for future dealings with terrorist thugs. Stand in repentance and pray.

- "But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' For whatever is more than these is from the evil one." (Matthew 5:37)

3. GOP Shows Signs of Retreat on Obamacare - Washington Post

Republican candidates have begun to retreat in recent weeks from their all-out assault on the Affordable Care Act in favor of a more piecemeal approach, suggesting they would preserve some aspects of the law while jettisoning others. The changing tactics signal that the health-care law - while still unpopular with voters overall - may no longer be the lone rallying cry for Republicans seeking to defeat Democrats in this year's midterm elections. (Read more)
- Father, we continue to intercede over Obamacare. Give our leaders ideas and insights on how to combat this law.

- "Consider what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything."
(2 Timothy 2:7)

4. Judge Rules That The Government Must Respond In Regard To Obama's Fake SSN - Rapture Ready News

Judge Hollander in Maryland gives Attorney Orly Taitz 21 days to file a second amended complaint and add allegations in regards to an improper withholding by the Social Security Administration of records of Harry Bounel, whose Social Security Number is being illegally used by Barack Obama. When Taitz filed the complaint, SSA did not respond at all. After the law suit was filed, SSA responded by fraudulently claiming that the records were not found. (Read more)
- The lies, deceit, deception and fraud that continue to surface from within this administration seem to have no end . . . but God. He is the final judge, and He is our deliverer. Cry out to Him for mercy in this case, and let the truth be made known to the people. Amen.

- "They spread a net for my feet-- I was bowed down in distress. They dug a pit in my path-- but they have fallen into it themselves." (Psalm 57:6)

5. NSA Collecting Millions of Facial Images from Internet - New York Times

The National Security Agency is harvesting huge numbers of images of people from communications that it intercepts through its global surveillance operations for use in sophisticated facial recognition programs, according to top-secret documents. The spy agency's reliance on facial recognition technology has grown significantly over the last four years as the agency has turned to new software to exploit the flood of images included in emails, text messages, social media, videoconferences and other communications, the N.S.A. documents reveal. (Read more)
- Big Brother is definitely watching you . . . and me. Our only defense against this onslaught of evil is to remain under the presence of the Lord, for His cloud of Glory covers all. Remain in the place of holiness in your walk with Him, and pray for mercy for those who have not yet received Jesus Christ as their Savior and their Lord. Amen.

- "He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge . . ." (Psalm 91:4)

6. U.S. and China square off at Asia security forum - Reuters

The United States and China squared off at an Asian security forum on Saturday, with the U.S. defense secretary accusing Beijing of destabilizing the region and a top Chinese general retorting that his comments were "threat and intimidation".

Using unusually strong language, U.S. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel took aim at Beijing's handling of territorial disputes with its Asian neighbors. "In recent months, China has undertaken destabilizing, unilateral actions asserting its claims in the South China Sea," Hagel said.

He warned Beijing that the United States was committed to its geopolitical rebalance to the Asia-Pacific region and "will not look the other way when fundamental principles of the international order are being challenged". Hagel said the United States took no position on the merits of rival territorial claims in the region, but added: "We firmly oppose any nation's use of intimidation, coercion, or the threat of force to assert these claims." (Read more)
- Continue to pray in the Spirit over all matters related to Chinese-Japanese relations, and our own response to this flashpoint. Thank the Lord that He is in control; and praise Him. Amen.

- "For the kingdom is the LORD'S: and he is the governor among the nations."
(Psalm 22:28)

7. EPA releases landmark climate rules - The Hill

The Environmental Protection Agency on Monday released new rules that call on power plants to cut their carbon emissions 30 percent by 2030. The new rules are the centerpiece of President Obama's climate change plan, and are set to trigger a major battle with Republicans, coal-state Democrats and business groups. (Read more)
- To quote our famous former President, Ronald Reagan: "The words you don't want to hear are: 'We're from the government and we're here to help you.'" Pray that our legislative branch will assume its position of oversight before any new regulations are put into effect with these new EPA rules. May they govern wisely. Amen.

- "I will instruct you and show you the way to go; with My eye on you, I will give counsel." (Psalm 32:8)

8. Democrats' new coal headache - The Hill

The Environmental Protection Agency's new rule on carbon pollution is the latest headache for Democrats trying to defend a fragile Senate majority. With many vulnerable Democrats coming from energy-producing states, Republicans argued the Obama administration's call for power plants to cut their carbon emissions 30 percent by 2030 would cost local jobs and increase energy prices. (Read more)
- Offer praise to the Lord that we still have a two-party system in place in our government. We intercede for God's perfect will as both parties grapple with these new regulations, and for the voters to pay careful attention in the November elections. Amen.

- "Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord." (Psalm 150:6)

9. Obama suggests his upcoming rule on coal plants will avert long-term health crisis - Fox News

President Obama on Saturday tried to bolster public support for new rules his administration will announce next week on coal-firing power plants, arguing their carbon emissions are a national health crisis - beyond hurting the economy and causing global warming. "We don't have to choose between the health of our economy and the health of our children," Obama said in his weekly address. "As president and as a parent, I refuse to condemn our children to a planet that's beyond fixing." (Read more)
- Pray that the American people not be taken in by these false claims. Pray!

- "And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive." (Matthew 21:22)

	The Middle East in Focus

The Middle East in Focus

This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:

"He has shown His people the power of His works, to give to them the inheritance of the nations." (Psalms 111:6)

1. Cabinet Votes on 'Terrorist Bill' - Haaretz

Prior to a vote on the so-called terrorist bill at the weekly cabinet meeting on Sunday, Economy and Trade Minister Naftali Bennett called on cabinet ministers to support the bill, which would legally prevent certain terrorists from being pardoned.

2. Palestinian Unity Government to be Announced Monday, Despite Israeli Threats - Jpost

The Palestinian unity government with Hamas will be announced on Monday "despite Israeli threats," Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas said on Saturday.

3. Israel Air Force Continues to Build Its Firepower - Times of Israel

The firepower of the Israel Air Force (IAF) will be four times greater by year's end than it was two years ago, according to its commander, Maj. Gen. Amir Eshel, enabling Israel to bring another round of fighting with Hezbollah to a swift end.

4. IDF Retaliates After Mortar Shell Hits Mount Hermon - Times of Israel

Israel fired artillery shells at a target in Syria early Monday morning after a mortar shell from the war-torn country hit Mount Hermon, opening a second front hours after returning fire into Gaza.

5. Israel to deploy nuclear-armed submarines off Iran coast - Haaretz

Israel is to deploy three submarines equipped with nuclear cruise missiles in the Persian Gulf, the Sunday Times reported on Sunday.

	The Daily Jot

I probably shouldn't say this

At the risk of putting yet another target on my back, I want to let you in on a little family business. While I don't travel as much as I used to, I have been in some tenuous situations, especially in Africa. My wife and I have a longstanding agreement between us--that if I ever were taken hostage or in a situation where the American government had to choose whether to use deadly force, negotiate a bad deal for my release or be held hostage because of me, by all means use deadly force and I will fend for myself. I never wanted the United States to compromise its principles because of me. No negotiations with terrorists or kidnappers. It's this or that. I have held this view since the Iran hostage situation.
Having said that, the parents of Bowe Bergdahl must be elated. Their son, irrespective of what state of emotion and physicality he's in, is home. For a parent, nothing can replace the relief and love that this young man will experience from his family as he returns and is mainstreamed back into society. It is perplexing that they claim to be Christian, yet praised allah at the White House for the return of their son. It all seemed to be too "pat" for a president with Islamic sympathies and a soldier whose parents seemed confused on their citizenship as Americans and in the kingdom of God. The Bergdahls are the smokescreen.
The president broke longstanding policy and negotiated with Islamic terrorists. He gave up five of the most dangerous Taliban Commanders in US custody. They were key relationship builders between the Taliban, al Qaeda, and Iran. He likely broke the law. He sends a signal that the US will give in to terrorists who kidnap soldiers and citizens. It makes me wonder, and it should beg the question: Was there an alternative motive? This president is sympathetic to Islamic causes and has been cozy with the Muslim Brotherhood and its allies since his first foreign policy speech. A small price to pay to aid and comfort the enemy and get a praise report for allah at the White House.

The spin doctors are doing their jobs now. All sorts of bad things are being reported about Bergdahl. That is immaterial. This president made a deal with terrorists. It is really nothing new. He made a deal with terrorists in Libya, Egypt, Tunisia, Yemen and even Syria. He works against freedom and what is right. Psalm 37:12 says, "The wicked plots against the just, and gnashes upon him with his teeth." National Security Advisor, the infamous Susan Rice of the Benghazi catastrophe, said, "Sergeant Bergdahl wasn't simply a hostage; he was an American prisoner of war captured on the battlefield." If we are indeed at war with the Taliban and its accomplices, this president should be tried for treason.
Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!
Bill Wilson
www.dailyjot.com

	Update: Meriam Ibrahim's death penalty

Update: Meriam Ibrahim's death penalty

There have been breaking developments in Meriam Ibrahim's death penalty case over the weekend. First, a senior Sudanese official stated that Sudan was set "to free" Meriam.

Now, Sudan is retracting that statement, saying instead that it will wait for a court to rule on her appeal. There is no doubt Sudan is trying to stop the growing wave of international pressure.

As her attorneys in Sudan said, "It's a statement to silence the international media. This is what the government does."
We must not be silenced. We're redoubling our efforts around the globe. Sudan is cracking under the pressure.

But if we let up, Meriam will be executed for her Christian faith and her two American children in prison with her will be turned over to radical Islamists.

Don't be silenced. Be heard.
Demand Meriam's Freedom. Sign the Petition Today.

Jay Sekulow
ACLJ Chief Counsel
> > > In addition to taking action on behalf of Mrs. Ibrahim, take action in prayer. Cry out to the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob -- He is able to hear and to answer. Amen.

- "They will be Mine," says the Lord of hosts, "on the day that I prepare My own possession, and I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him." (Malachi 3:17)

	Jerusalem Day Celebrated on Capitol Hill

US Congress marks Jerusalem Day with Israeli delegates

Knesset members head to Capitol Hill to meet Congress and US religious leaders in honor of Jerusalem Day.

Jerusalem Day celebrations moved to Washington's Capitol Hill on Thursday, where the US Congress welcomed eleven members from the Knesset including the director-general of the Israeli parliament for an event that was also be attended by leaders of America's Christian and Jewish communities.
"Our strong and bipartisan relationship with the US Congress is more important than ever during this time of increasing volatility in the region," said Speaker of the Knesset Yuli Edelstein.

Organized by the Israel Allies Foundation and the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus, the event was attended by Israel's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Tzachi Hanegbi (Likud) as well as MK Yehiel Bar (Labor), MK Elazar Stern (HaTnuah), MK Zvulun Kalfa (Bayit Yehudi), and MK Dov Lipman (Yesh Atid).
"The friendship of the American people, and their representatives, to the State of Israel is engraved in our hearts, and we are honored that a delegation from Israel's parliament is being hosted on Capitol Hill by the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus on Jerusalem Day," said Edelstein.

Jerusalem Day was celebrated in Israel on Wednesday with several official ceremonies and speeches from government officials including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who took the opportunity to declare that Jerusalem will never be divided, despite the fact that most peace talks with Palestinians have accepted that East Jerusalem would serve as the capitol of a Palestinian nation. (Ynet News) Read more here.


Note: The Congressional Israel Allies Caucus is the only bipartisan, pro-Israel caucus in Congress. The Caucus spearheads pro-Israel initiatives and legislative efforts to ensure a secure future for the State of Israel. The Israel Allies Foundation supports the Caucus's work and seeks to interact the grassroots with their pro-Israel member.
To learn more about this caucus in Congress, and to see a listing of its members, please go here.

	Tensions Soar in the China Sea

Tensions Soar in the China Sea

China continues to grow more aggressive in exerting their controversial territorial claims at sea as well as in their air. On Tuesday of this week, a Vietnamese fishing boat capsized and sank after being rammed by a Chinese vessel not far from the where China has placed a massive offshore drilling platform within Vietnamese territorial waters in the S. China Sea. Government officials in Hanoi claim the vessel was surrounded by approximately 40 Chinese fishing boats before one of them began ramming it.

Both Vietnam and China claim absolute sovereignty over the waters which encompass the Paracel and Spratly Island archipelagos, beneath which massive oil and gas deposits have been discovered.
Late this week the United States warned China after a dangerous provocation involving Japanese aircraft over disputed waters in the East China Sea. According to the Japanese Ministry of Defense, two Japanese military patrol and surveillance aircraft were, for the first time ever, intercepted by two armed Su-27 Flankers from the People's Liberation Army Air Force. The Chinese fighters are reported to have flown within 100 feet of the Japanese aircraft which were said to be in the area monitoring Russian and Chinese naval exercises reported on in last week's issue of Threat Journal.
Not to be left out, S. Korea also expressed outrage over the joint Russian / Chinese war games as they took place in disputed waters to which they lay claim.

Further raising tensions in the region, Chinese state controlled media this week released images of three Chinese nuclear-armed ballistic missile submarines now deployed to Yalong Bay naval base on Hainan Island in the South China Sea.
The Jin-class submarines are equipped with 12 multiple-warhead JL-2 submarine launched ballistic missiles. A report published last year by the National Air and Space Intelligence Center stated that the JL-2 missile will, for the first time, allow Chinese submarines to target portions of the United States from operating areas located near the Chinese coast."

Additionally, readers may recall that last year, Chinese media published a report that revealed a nuclear missile strike on the western United States with JL-2 missiles could kill up to 12 million Americans. The Chinese government even published a strike map showing what cities would be hit as well as the potential spread of fallout.
(Source: Alerts USA)

	Hebrew Nation News

Hebrew Nation News

To visit this week's edition of Hebrew Nation News, please go here.

	The Good News Corner

The Good News Corner:

A victory for prayer
Friend -

I wanted to share with you a recent article published on Christian News Network, reporting that city councils and county commissioners across the country are re-introducing or considering adding prayer into their meeting agendas, in response to the Supreme Court's recent decision in Town of Greece v. Galloway, upholding the historic practice of opening legislative bodies with prayer.

As the founder and co-chair of the Congressional Prayer Caucus, I am encouraged to hear that towns and cities across the country are exercising their constitutional rights and bringing prayer back into the halls of local government. Prayer plays an important role in American life, and is woven throughout the very fabric of our nation's history. I remain dedicated to guarding the right of individuals in America to exercise their constitutionally protected faith freedoms.

Yours in service,

J. Randy Forbes
PS - The 100 members of the bipartisan Congressional Prayer Caucus are in the thick of the fight for religious liberty every day. Learn more about our most recent efforts, here.

	Signs and Wonders

Signs and Wonders:

Massive Indonesian volcano eruption grounds flights

A huge volcanic eruption in Indonesia has covered the region in a vast cloud of ash, grounding flights in Australia and south east Asia.

Sangeang Api, a volcano off the Indonesian island of Sumbawa, which lies in one of the most active areas of the Pacific 'ring of fire', has erupted at least three times since Friday.

Dramatic images show smoke, ash and debris shooting into the sky, while a flying saucer shaped current of gas wraps around the plumes.
All flights have been cancelled from Darwin airport, Australia's Northern Territory capital, and disruption is expected for days as the cloud could reach as far south as Brisbane.

The ash cloud from the first eruption is around 20,000 and 50,000 feet high and around 15 km wide, according to reports. It is moving south-easterly over Australia. A second, now over Darwin is sitting at around 45,000 feet, while a third is over Bali.

"Depending on wind and other weather conditions, the ash has the potential to affect flights to and from other airports, including Brisbane, during coming days. This is currently being fully assessed," Australian deputy prime minister Warren Truss said. (The Independent UK) Read more.

"And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; men's hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near."
(Luke 21:25-28)

	Worship With Us Today!

Worship With Us Today!

"A Powerful Prayer for Healing" Karen E. Smith
Worship Here