The Daily Brief, 2-27-07

1. Cheney to Pakistan: Stop Al Qaeda's 'Regrouping' - AP

Vice president pushes for Pakistani President Musharraf's help in stiffened push against Taliban, Al Qaeda militants; issues stern warning on new terrorist safe havens.

• Lord we pray that the media will not be able to hinder Vice President Cheney’s work as he goes around the nations seeking support for our plans in security issues. We pray he will have the favor of God to get the support of those nations in assisting us!

• "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.' (Proverbs 3:4,6) (NJKV)

2. Iraqi President Jalal Talabani in Stable Condition for Exhaustion - AP

Iraqi President Jalal Talabani is in stable condition as he recuperates from exhaustion and pulmonary inflammation at an Amman hospital, the Iraqi ambassador to Jordan said Monday. Talabani, 73, fell ill Sunday and was unconscious when he was rushed to hospital in Sulaimaniyah, his hometown in northeastern Iraq. But he recovered sufficiently to be flown to neighboring Jordan later in the day for extensive examination.

• Lord we pray for healing and full restoration of health for President Talabani. We ask, too, that You will put leaders in Iraq who will work well with the U.S., who will remain faithful in allegiance to us, and who will be able to bring all the people of Iraq together! Pray the gospel will be greatly received among all Iraqis.

• "Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy. He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, Bringing his sheaves with him." (Psalms 126:5,6)

3. Christian right displeased with Republican presidential field - Int'l Herald Tribune

A group of influential Christian conservatives and their allies emerged from a private meeting at a Florida resort this month dissatisfied with the Republican presidential field and uncertain where to turn.

• Lord, just as You raised David, a shepherd boy, to rule, we pray for You to give us a strong, godly, Christian leader as our next President who will not waiver in Your principles and who has Your wisdom on how to lead us.

• "Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel arose and went to Ramah." (1 Samuel 16:13)

4. White House Conducts Drill for IED Attacks Across 10 U.S. Cities - AP

Dozens of high-level officials joined in a White House drill Saturday to see how the government would respond if several cities were attacked simultaneously by the type of the roadside bombs used against American troops in Iraq. President George W. Bush went on a bike ride not far from the White House Saturday morning, and did not take part in the test.

• Lord, You never slumber and You know all things. We pray You will place leaders with Your wisdom in all cities so that we can be prepared for any terrorist attacks on our land or our shores!

• "Choose wise, understanding, and knowledgeable men from among your tribes, and I will make them heads over you." (Deuteronomy 1:13)

5. Critics Decry 'Jesus Tomb' Claim - AP

Archaeologists, clergymen deride claims in new James Cameron documentary that contradict Christian tenets. "The Lost Tomb of Christ," which the Discovery Channel will run on March 4, argues that 10 ancient ossuaries — small caskets used to store bones — discovered in a suburb of Jerusalem in 1980 may have contained the bones of Jesus and his family, according to a press release issued by the Discovery Channel. And the very fact that Jesus had an ossuary would contradict the Christian belief that he was resurrected and ascended to heaven.

• We know there will always be lying spirits that come against the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ and the truth of His resurrection. Pray that these lying counterfeits will be exposed quickly in this situation and that people will be not hear nor pay attention to these lies.

• I will hear what God the Lord will speak, for He will speak peace to His people and to His saints; but let them not turn back to folly. Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, that glory may dwell in our land. (Psalms 85:8,9) Blessed is that man who makes the Lord his trust, And does not respect the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.(Psalms 40:4)

The Middle East in Focus

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

"I will be an enemy to your enemies and I will oppose those who oppose you." (Exodus 23:22)

[Note: All items below are from Jerusalem Newswire, 2/26/07]

1. Olmert: Prepare for war with Syria

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert on Sunday ordered the IDF to actively prepare for war with Syria, despite buying in to assessments that such a conflagration is unlikely in the coming year.

2. Report: Hizbullah readying for war

Lebanon's Hizb'allah is reportedly establishing a new stronghold from which to rebuild its strength and launch future aggression against Israel.

3. IDF treats Nablus to a 'Hot Winter'

A large IDF incursion force rolled on the "Palestinian" town of Nablus (biblical Shechem) on Sunday in an effort to root out the terrorist infrastructure operating there. Nablus produced 117 out of 190 would- be "Palestinian" homicide bombers in 2006.

4. No surprise: France to champion Hamas-led government

In an announcement that was sure to surprise very few, French Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy said on Saturday that his government is ready to work with a "Palestinian" unity government that includes a violently anti-Israel Hamas.

5. Jewish kindergarten in Berlin defaced with Nazi slogans

A Jewish kindergarten was the target of an anti-Semitic assault by Nazi sympathizers in Berlin at the weekend.

Iran in the News

Iran in the News

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

"Rise up, O Judge of the earth; Render punishment to the proud."
(Psalm 94:2)

1. Iran: U.S. is in no position to attack - AP

Iran's foreign minister said Saturday the United States was in no position for another war, and maintained that negotiations — not threats — were the only way to resolve the standoff over its nuclear activities. Manouchehr Mottaki was responding to Vice President Dick Cheney, who renewed Washington's warning to Iran earlier Saturday that "all options" were on the table if Tehran continues to defy U.N. demands to halt uranium enrichment.

2. U.S.: Weapons Find Exposes Iran - AP

Massive cache seized north of Baghdad includes parts for sophisticated bombs believed to originate in Iran, military says.

3. Palestinians prepare to defend Iran - JNW

Palestinian Arab terror bosses say they are actively preparing to unleash a major wave of violence against Israel and US interests in the Middle East in defense of their allies in Iran.

4. Report: 3 Gulf states agree to IAF overflights en route to Iran - Ha'aretz

Three Arab states in the Persian Gulf would be willing to allow the Israel Air force to enter their airspace in order to reach Iran in case of an attack on its nuclear facilities, the Kuwaiti newspaper Al-Siyasa reported on Sunday. According to the report, a diplomat from one of the gulf states visiting Washington on Saturday said the three states, Qatar, Oman and the United Arab Emirates, have told the United States that they would not object to Israel using their airspace, despite their fear of an Iranian response.

Al Qaeda Strategy And Democratic Leadership

Al Qaeda Strategy And Democratic Leadership

There is a battle of wills going on in Washington, D.C. over the war on terror and Vice President Dick Cheney raised the ante by saying that the Democratic approach toward the war in Iraq would “validate the al Qaeda strategy.” These words immediately drew criticism from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who said, “You cannot say as the president of the United States, 'I welcome disagreement in a time of war,' and then have the vice president of the United States go out of the country and mischaracterize a position of the speaker of the House and in a manner that says that person in that position of authority is acting against the national security of our country."

In other words, Pelosi is saying that Cheney is questioning the patriotism of the Democratic Party members who support a cut and run strategy in Iraq. And nobody wants their patriotism called into question during a time of war. But the al Qaeda strategy is what Cheney was talking about, not the Democratic Party’s disagreement about how the war on terror is prosecuted. The al Qaeda strategy has been and continues to be one of long term attrition. Based on the doctrine of the Vietnam War, al Qaeda leadership believes that if enough hit and run terrorist tactics are employed with an increasing anti-war media drone, the United States will lose the will to fight and the Islamic theocracy will advance.

Cheney is correct. The way that the Democrats are objecting to the war on terror validates the al Qaeda strategy. The Democratic leadership is demanding withdrawal from the most heated front in the war on terror. Many influential Democratic leaders are getting behind legislation that would take away funding for the soldiers in Iraq. Others are supporting legislation that calls for quitting Iraq on a specific timetable unrelated to any military milestones that should be accomplished before leaving. The harsh public criticism of the war on terror, because the war in Iraq is the war on terror’s main front, is loudly proclaimed in the news media. And these are the key elements of the al Qaeda strategy.

There is no question that al Qaeda is in Iraq. Iranian government-sponsored terrorist groups are operating against U.S. soldiers in Iraq. The Iraqi front causes the terrorists to focus the majority of their money and efforts in Iraq rather than on the streets of American cities. The Democratic Party leadership should consider putting their country ahead of their political hatred for President Bush because the national security is at risk. Both parties should be quietly working together to solve the terrorist problem. Jesus Christ said in Mark 3:25, “And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand.”

Bill Wilson
Word of Life Ministry
www.dailyjot.com

Stem Cell Controversy

PANEL CALLS ADULT STEM-CELL STUDY FLAWED, WRONG

A scientific panel says a 2002 study that suggested adult stem cells might be as useful as embryonic ones was flawed and its conclusions may be wrong, a finding that raises questions about the promise of a less-controversial source for stem cells. The research by Catherine Verfaillie at the University of Minnesota concluded that adult stem cells taken from the bone marrow of mice could grow into an array of biological tissues, including brain, heart, lung and liver. So far only embryonic stem cells, which are commonly retrieved by destroying embryos at an early stage of development, are known to hold such regenerative promise. Many scientists think these cells might one day be used to treat certain diseases and other conditions.

Opponents of stem-cell research seized on the 2002 findings as evidence that stem-cell science could move forward without destroying embryos. But Miss Verfaillie has acknowledged flaws in parts of the study after inquiries from the British magazine New Scientist, which first publicized the questions last week. The panel concluded that it wasn't clear whether the flaws mean Miss Verfaillie's conclusions were wrong. It also determined that the flaws were mistakes, not falsifications. (Washington Times)

• Since many successful treatments have been made on numerous diseases with adult stem cells and the placenta is now known to be filled with stem cells, this study may now be moot, flawed or otherwise. Much new scientific data on this issue has been revealed since 2002. Continue to pray that the media will expose more of the truth of these new discoveries so that mothers will save the placentas of their newborns. Continue to pray that President Bush will stand firm against embryonic stem cell research. • "I was cast upon Thee from the womb; Thou art my God from my mother's belly." (Psalm 22:10)

Al Gore and Global Warming

Polluting the Truth

Last night it didn't take a recount to vote Al Gore the winner of two Academy Awards for his documentary on global warming, An Inconvenient Truth. Although the film received the movie industry's most prestigious award, it has yet to be celebrated (or validated) by scientists, many of whom say the former Vice President is grossly exaggerating the facts. As National Review points out, a recent U.N. Policymaker's Summary on climate change found that global warming will only be responsible for a rise in sea level of 8 to 17 inches by 2100--a number Gore inflated by over 2,000 percent. The film is also at odds with the most recent satellite imagery of Greenland where the "ice loss" has been dramatically reversed. Unlike the MovieGuide Awards I attended last week, where proclaiming the truth is a benchmark of success, Hollywood continues to honor Al Gore's distortion of facts. (Family Research Council)

Gore's Oscar
(Excerpt)

Meanwhile, today, Roy W. Spencer was talking about global warming too. Spencer is a Hollywood nobody and is not in the running for an Oscar. He is not a popular fellow since he keeps talking about inconvenient facts. His only credential is that he is the principal research scientist at the Global Hydrology and Climate Center of the National Space, Science and Technology Center.

Dr. Spencer believes that Gore and others are citing as fact what is still unproven. He says this:

"The media is, almost by definition, most interested in extreme views on the issue, so reporting seldom reveals that broad scientific uncertainty still exists. In fact, a silent majority of scientists still think that global warming could end up falling anywhere between a real problem and a minor nuisance: They can see reasons for it going either way. Call them the global warming moderates."

(Gary Bauer; End-of-Day; 2/26/07)

Links to Other Resources

In order to keep our Briefs "brief," we ask you to explore other key sites on your own, as you continue to pray for our nation, for Israel, and for His Kingdom on earth.

Recommended sites include the following:

DOMESTIC NEWS:

a. Intercessors for America

b. Family Research Council

c. End-of-Day by Gary Bauer

d. Dr. Dobson's Citizen Link

e. The Daily Jot

f. Traditional Values Coalition

g. Christian Coalition of America

INTERNATIONAL NEWS:

a Worthy News

b Bridges for Peace

c. Intercessors for Israel

" . . . every joint supplies . . ." (Eph. 4:16)

First Work Period Concluded

Legislative Update

• House Completed: Iraq Debate Week
• House Next: Port Security, Unions
• Senate Completed: Fiscal Year 2007
• Senate Next: 9/11 Commission Recommendations
• Conference: Minimum Wage

Since our last update: The House debated Iraq and passed its resolution H.Con.Res. 63. The Senate passed H.J.Res. 20, the spending bill to finish out Fiscal Year 2007, and failed to proceed on its Iraq bill, S. 574. Both chambers were off on the President's Day recess last week. The first working period ran from the convening of Congress at the beginning of January until this first recess.

The next work period runs from the President's Day recess until the Spring/Easter recess. The House was intentionally waiting until after the recess last week to roll out its domestic agenda. The Senate will likely continue its unfinished agenda. Minimum Wage is expected to be the first major domestic bill to pass. In terms of foreign policy, we expect the Iraq debate will shift from one of "disapproval" to one over funding the continued operations.

Segments:	House Only	Senate Only
Future Only	House	Senate

On Capitol Hill This Week - February 26 - March 2, 2007

On Capitol Hill This Week

Volume XIV, Number 6

February 26 - March 2, 2007


"For the LORD of hosts has purposed, And who will annul it? His hand is stretched out, And who will turn it back?" (Isaiah 14:27)

On Capitol Hill This Week; Vol. XIV, No. 6

1. DEMOCRATS' PLAN: RESCIND IRAQ WAR AUTHORIZATION
2. SENATORS SEND PRO-LIFE LETTER TO PRESIDENT BUSH
3. LEGISLATIVE NEWS ON THE HILL
4. MCCONNELL BECOMES THE SECOND DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE
5. RICE: THIS IS NOT 1938; WE ARE FACING DOWN IRAN
6. CHENEY: 'ALL OPTIONS' AVAILABLE FOR IRAN
7. ISRAEL ASKS U.S. FOR IRAQI AIRSPACE CORRIDOR FOR IRAN STRIKE
8. SYRIA UPS ARMAMENTS; MOVING FORCES CLOSER TO ISRAEL
9. U.S. TAKES “WAIT AND SEE” APPROACH TOWARDS PALESTINIANS
10. A BILL (HR 895) TO RECOGNIZE JERUSALEM AS CAPITAL OF ISRAEL
11. POLL: 75% OF ISRAELIS WANT TO BE IN EU
12. UNESCO TO INSPECT DIG NEAR TEMPLE MOUNT
13. SAFEGUARDING JERUSALEM

1. DEMOCRATS' PLAN: RESCIND IRAQ WAR AUTHORIZATION

This week debate will take place in both the Senate and in the House on whether to redefine the authorization to go to war in Iraq; and whether to curtail funding for that war. Key Senate Democrats are writing a bill to rescind the broad authorization to go to war in Iraq that Congress passed in 2002 and replace it with a narrow mission that would take all combat troops out of Iraq by March 2008. Drafted by two top committee chairmen, Sen. Joseph R. Biden Jr. of Delaware and Sen. Carl Levin of Michigan, the proposal would keep some troops in Iraq to assist with training, border security and counterterrorism but, Democrats hope, would keep U.S. troops out of what they say has become a civil war. "The 2002 authorization is no longer relevant to the situation in Iraq," Mr. Biden said in a speech last week, arguing that the measure was predicated on the presence of Saddam Hussein as dictator and weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. But the White House said the 2002 resolution, which passed the Senate 77-23, is still effective because it gave the president authority to enforce U.N. resolutions, which call for stability in Iraq.

Senate Republicans yesterday rejected the Democrats' plan, and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said Republicans have enough votes to block Democrats' new plan from passing, leaving the new majority few alternatives other than withholding funding for the troops. In the House, Democrats are pursuing just that strategy, with Rep. John P. Murtha, Pennsylvania Democrat and chairman of the defense appropriations subcommittee, proposing to limit funding unless the Defense Department can meet strict conditions even Mr. Murtha says are unlikely to be achieved. The House has already passed a nonbinding resolution disapproving of the troop reinforcements, which would send 4,000 Marines to Anbar province to target al Qaeda, and about 17,500 soldiers to Baghdad to combat Sunni- Shi'ite violence. But Republicans used a procedural maneuver to block a similar resolution in the Senate. (Washington Times)

• As Congress prepares to go back into session next week, pray that any and all measures regarding the funding of our troops in Iraq would be "above board" and without deception. Ask our Lord to move on the hearts of the men and women in Congress to put "first things first" and to stand by our troops so that ALL of their needs will be met in combat. • "But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil." (Matthew 6:37)

2. SENATORS SEND PRO-LIFE LETTER TO PRESIDENT BUSH

This week 34 Senators sent a letter to President Bush urging him to assertively stand firm against any efforts by Congress to weaken current pro-life policy. It is very significant that only 34 Senators are needed to uphold a Presidential veto. Thus, if President Bush vetoes pro- abortion bills drafted by pro-choice members of Congress, the Senate can uphold his veto. The letter was organized by the office of Senator Sam Brownback. It reads, in part: "We respectfully request that you issue a letter to the Senate and House Leadership, reaffirming your strong pro-life policy convictions and serving notice that you will veto any legislation that weakens present pro-life policy. . . . Issuance of such a letter now would be timely and of tremendous value in our effort to ensure that no life- related policy is weakened during the 110th Congress. We thank you for your continued leadership and appreciate your consideration of this request." To read the text of this letter in its entirety, as well as the names of all 34 Senators who signed on, click here. (RFC)

• We give thanks to You Father for the right stand that Senator Brownback and 33 other Senators have taken on "Pro Life issues" by making this request, in writing, to our president. We ask You now to move upon the heart of President Bush, who is also a defender of life, to come into alignment with this request, drafting a statement of policy to the new 110th Congress upholding pro-life legislation on Capitol Hill. Let their united stand for the dignity of life be used by Your hand to open the eyes of all others in Congress to the Truth of Your Word, for we are commanded to "choose life." In Your Name, amen. • "The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD, Like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes." (Prov. 21:1) "Thus saith The Lord thy Redeemer, and He that formed thee from the womb, I AM The Lord that maketh all things." (Isaiah 44:24a)

3. LEGISLATIVE NEWS ON THE HILL (DOMESTIC (FOCUS)

a. S. 568: THE TRUTH IN VIDEO GAME RATING ACT

U.S. Senator Sam Brownback reintroduced the Truth in Video Game Rating Act which would require a video game rating organization to review the entire playable content of a game before assigning a content rating. Brownback said, "The current video game ratings system is not as accurate as it could be because reviewers do not see the full content of games and do not even play the games they rate." As a result parents unwittingly buy children games that are far more violent and sexually explicit than they otherwise would. (RFC)

• We cry out to you Heavenly Father to raise up men and women of Integrity to sit on the Entertainment Softwares Ratings Board. We pray ttat through them a re-assessment of the ratings system will be created that will deny all despicable forms of evil in television, radio, movies and video games. May our hearts be turned again towards integrity and morality in all things. In Jesus Name, Amen. • "But those that seek my soul to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth."(Ps. 63:9)

b. H.R. 1063: CHILD INTERSTATE ABORTION ACT

Congresswoman Illena Ros- Lehtinen (R-FL) has reintroduced the Child Interstate Abortion Act (CIANA). The bill would make it a Federal crime to transport a minor across state lines to obtain an abortion for the purpose of evading a parental consent or parental notification law in the minor's home state. Over 30 states currently have notification or consent laws and some abortion clinics in neighboring states will actually advertise that parental consent is not needed if kids come to their states for abortions. The CIANA bill number is HR 1063 and already has 105 co- sponsors in the House. (RFC)

• Forgive us God for our evil and ignorant ways. As it is written, we speak life into the Child Interstate Abortion Act that it will become the law of the land. We claim in unity that parental rights are being restored to parents in our nation. • "These six things doth the Lord hate: yea even seven are an abomination unto him: a proud look. a lying tongue and hands that shed innocent blood . . . " (Proverbs. 6:16,17,18)

c. H.R. 254: "DAVID'S LAW" (A HATE CRIMES BILL) The U.S. House of Representatives will soon vote on HR 254, which establishes “hate crime” legislation. HR 254 will create new special rights for homosexuals under the guise of enhancing law enforcement. It would make “sexual orientation” a protected class alongside race, religion and gender. The intent of this law is to force the acceptance and approval of homosexuality on every American, regardless of their religious views. Here is a short analysis of HR 254, and the actual text of the bill can be found here.

H.R. 254 was introduced in Congress on January 5, 2007 and has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee (D-TX) is the bill's sponsor; H.R. 254 has no cosponsors as of Feb. 25, 2007. (American Family Association)

• Pray that this bill will wither and die in committee. • "Let them be as the grass on the housetops, which withers before it grows up . . ." (Psalm 129:6)

d. S. RES. 84: HONORING WILLIAM WILBERFORCE

Today, the tremendous movie, "Amazing Grace" about the life of William Wilberforce and his fight to end the slave trade in Great Britain begins in theaters all across America. Christian Coalition of America commends U.S. Senators Sam Brownback (R-KS) and Mark Pryor (D-AR) for introducing a resolution, S. RES. 84, last week commemorating the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the British slave trade and honoring the life of William Wilberforce, a humanitarian who was instrumental in abolishing the British slave trade. Senator Brownback said, “Wilberforce’s passion and commitment to end the British slave trade and renew the culture solidified the inherency of human dignity and sanctity of human life. As the 200th anniversary of British slave trade abolition approaches we should celebrate Wilberforce’s victories and use his legacy as an inspiration to renew our culture by continuing to fight for human life and human dignity.” [The full title of this bill is: S. RES. 84: Commemorating End of the Slave Trade and Honoring William Wilberforce.] (Christian Coalition of America; 2/24/07)

• "Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour." (Romans 13:7 KJV)

4. MCCONNELL BECOMES SECOND DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE

As President Bush looked on, retired Navy Vice Adm. John M. “Mike” McConnell took the oath of office as the second director of national intelligence from White House Chief of Staff Joshua Bolten. Speaking at the Bolling Air Force Base ceremony, the President said McConnell will be “a great asset” to the U.S. national security team as he contributes his vast intelligence experience to “one of the most difficult and important positions in our government.”

The President cited the sweeping responsibilities McConnell will carry as the nation’s second director of national intelligence. He will be the president’s principal advisor on intelligence matters as he leads the entire U.S. intelligence community. He will advise Bush about the national intelligence budget, oversee the collection and analysis of intelligence information, and ensure that all U.S. intelligence agencies and offices work together as a single, unified enterprise.

The President has asked McConnell to improve information sharing within the intelligence community, to step up its emphasis on language skills and cultural awareness, and to ensure that the acquisition community is investing in the right intelligence technologies. (Armed Forces Press, 2/20/07; Intercessors for America)

• Ask the LORD to provide discernment and good counsel to Director McConnell and all 16 U.S. intelligence agency leaders as they act to implement the President's directives to improve our nation’s security. • "For the Lord giveth wisdom; out of His mouth cometh knowledge and understanding." (Proverbs 2:6)

5. RICE: THIS IS NOT 1938; WE ARE FACING DOWN IRAN

The slow and still ineffective international efforts to coerce Iran into halting its nuclear program are not the same as the world’s policy of appeasement toward Nazi Germany in 1938, insisted US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on Sunday [February 18]. In an interview with Haaretz, Rice rejected Likud leader Binyamin Netanyahu’s constant comparing of the two failed diplomatic campaigns. “I am fond of historical analogies, but not that fond,” said Rice. Rice and the United States continue to hold out hope that Iran can be prevented from obtaining nuclear weapons via diplomatic negotiations. Netanyahu and other right- thinking Israelis have come to the realization that the international community’s pandering has only emboldened Tehran. (By Stan Goodenough, Jerusalem Newswire, February 19, 2007) [Reported by: Bridges for Peace]

• Pray that God will surround the nations’ leaders with wise counselors and give them wisdom in knowing how to deal with Iran. • “Listen now to my voice; I will give you counsel, and God will be with you; stand before God for the people, so that you may bring the difficulties to God.” (Exodus 18:19)

6. CHENEY: 'ALL OPTIONS' AVAILABLE FOR IRAN

Vice President Dick Cheney on Saturday renewed Washington's warning to Iran that "all options" are on the table if the country continues to defy U.N.-led efforts to end Tehran's nuclear ambitions. At a joint news conference with Prime Minister John Howard during a visit to Australia, Cheney also said Washington was "comfortable" with Britain's decision to withdraw troops from Iraq and that it was up to Australia to decide if it would do the same.

Cheney said the United States was "deeply concerned" about Iran's activities, including the "aggressive" sponsoring of terrorist group Hezbollah and inflammatory statements by President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. He said top U.S. officials would meet soon with European allies to decide the next step toward planned tough sanctions against Iran if it continues enriching uranium, leaving open the possibility of military action.

The International Atomic Energy Agency reported on Thursday that Iran had not only ignored a U.N. Security Council ultimatum to freeze its enrichment program, but had expanded the program by setting up hundreds of centrifuges. Enriched uranium fuels nuclear reactors but, enriched further, is used in nuclear bombs. Ahmadinejad said on Thursday it was of no importance if countries did not believe Iran's nuclear activities were peaceful, and said the country would resist "all bullies." Howard said efforts to keep Iran in check would be hampered if the United States and its allies lose the Iraq war. Cheney declined to say if he had asked Howard during talks held Saturday to add to the 1,400 troops Australian has in and around Iraq. (AP)

• Continue to pray for the Lord's strategies for the US and other allies to deal with Iran. PM Howard of Australia is exactly right when he says the failure of the Iraqi war would hamper efforts to control Iran; please pray that more US citizens would see his point of view. Israel and the US must do what the Lord calls them to do. • "For the Lord will have mercy on Jacob and will yet choose Israel, and will set them in their own land: and strangers shall be joined with them and they shall cleave to the house of Jacob." (Isaiah 14:1)

7. ISRAEL ASKS US FOR IRAQI AIRSPACE CORRIDOR FOR IRAN STRIKE

Israel opened negotiations to fly through US- controlled airspace in Iraq to carry out stirkes on Iranian nuclear facilities, a British newspaper reported Saturday. Israel's deputy minister denied the claim. The Daily Telegraph newspaper quoted an unnamed Israeli defense official as saying that the talks were aimed at planning for all scenarios, including any future decision to target Iran's nuclear program.

However, Ephraim Sneh, Israel;s Deputey Defense Minister, said that the report was incorrect. "This is baseless information," Sneh said. "Maybe people like to divert attention from the need for immediate economic sanctions with stories about imminent Israeli action, which is not on the agenda." Instead, the international community's focus should be on imposing economic sanctions on Iran for defying UN Security Council resolutions.

Senior officials of the five permanent members of the UN security Council - Britain, the US, France, China, and Russia - and Germany will meet Monday for an emergency summit in London to discuss measures against Tehran. (AP)

• Pray for Israel's safety, whatever measures she decides to take against Iran and its boasting of eliminating Israel from the face of the earth. Pray for wisdom as the officials from these six countries meet to discuss measures against Iran for her treachery against the world and Israel. Pray for salvation for the peoples of Iran, who are captives of a wicked government. • "Show me a token for good; that they which hate me may see it, and be ashamed: because Thou, Lord, hast helped me, and comforted me." (Psalm 86:17)

8. SYRIA UPS ARMAMENTS; MOVING FORCES CLOSER TO ISRAEL

The Syrian army has strengthened its capabilities in a way unprecedented in recent memory, aided by Iranian funding, the Israeli daily Haaretz reported. The Syrians are putting an emphasis on long-range missiles able to reach most of Israel’s large cities, the report indicated. Damascus is also close to signing a large deal with Russia to buy thousands of advanced anti-tank missiles.

Following last August’s war between Israel and Lebanon’s Hizbullah, some speculation arose in Israel about a possible conflict with Syria in the summer of 2007. Israeli officials denied these speculations, but it seems Syria has taken them seriously. Recent reports also indicate that the Syrian forces have advanced units closer to the Israeli border.

Meanwhile, Israel on Wednesday [February 21] completed a military exercise of its paratrooper battalion. The exercise took place on the Golan Heights, an area that Israel captured from Syria in 1967. Israel’s Defense Minister Amir Peretz said this was the most important exercise the army had conducted in the past five years. Nevertheless, Peretz stressed that it was not connected to any future conflict. (Media Line; Bridges for Peace)

• Pray that God will surround the borders of Israel with a myriad of angels. • “For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.” (Psalm 91:11–12)

9. U.S. TAKES “WAIT AND SEE” APPROACH TOWARDS PALESTINIANS;
CONGRESS WITHHOLDS AID

Congress will support Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in her "wait-and-see" approach to the Palestinians, said Sen. Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.) on Monday while visiting Israel. "Israel does not have a partner for peace. We will have to wait and see how the new Palestinian government is organized." Kyl heads a joint U.S.-Israel parliamentary committee on national security, which was started four years ago to strengthen U.S.- Israel defense ties. The committee is the only one of its kind involving Congress and a foreign country.

Last week, the House of Representatives, requesting clarification, froze an $86-million White House funding request to strengthen forces loyal to PA leader Abbas. The Israeli military objected to the funding. "The IDF's (Israel Defense Force) objections in this case center on equipment, such as body armor, that is liable to wind up in the wrong hands and be used for terrorism," said an Israeli security source. (CNS News, 2/22/07)

• Cry out for mercy and redemption in Israel, the Palestinian Territories, and the whole of the Middle East. Praise the Lord that Senator Kyl and Congress are watching the Israeli-Palestinian conflict very closely and the monies being appropriated. Ask the Lord to show His wisdom about Israel to Secretary of State Rice. • "Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the Lord, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shall tread upon their high places." (Deuteronomy 33:29)

10. A BILL (HR 895) TO RECOGNIZE JERUSALEM AS CAPITAL OF ISRAEL

Rep. Thomas M. Reynolds (R-NY) has just introduced this bill to the 110th Congress. Sixteen other members of Congress have joined him in sponsoring this bill, which was referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. The bill covers the following criteria:

SECTION 1. UNITED STATES POLICY REGARDING JERUSALEM AS THE CAPITAL OF ISRAEL.

(a) Limitation on Operation of Consulate in Jerusalem- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the United States shall not operate a United States consulate or diplomatic facility in Jerusalem, Israel, unless such consulate or diplomatic facility is under the supervision of the United States Ambassador to Israel.

(b) Identification of Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel in Official Government Documents- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any official document of the United States Government which lists countries and their capital cities shall identify Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

(c) Record of Place of Birth as Israel for Passport Purposes- For purposes of the registration of birth, certification of nationality, or issuance of a passport of a United States citizen born in the city of Jerusalem, the Secretary of State shall, upon the request of the citizen or the citizen's legal guardian, record the place of birth as Israel.

• Praise the Lord that our Congress never gives up on recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Several bills have been passed before, but no action has been taken to move our embassy back to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv. Praise the Lord that these congressmen have hearts and ears open to the Lord's directions. Ask the Lord to especially bless those sponsoring this bill and to bless its passage. • "Thy God hath commanded thy strength: strengthen, O God, that which Thou hast wrought for us." (Psalm 68:28)

11. POLL: 75% OF ISRAELIS WANT TO BE IN EU

A full 75% of Israelis would like Israel to be part of the European Union, and 11% said they would leave Israel if they were granted EU citizenship, according to a survey examining Israeli attitudes toward Europe. The study was commissioned by the Israeli offices of the German political foundation Konrad-Adenauer- Stiftung. Half of Israelis visited Europe in the past three years, the study found. The most popular destinations were France, Italy, Britain, Spain, and Germany. Eighty percent of respondents said they liked Britain, making it the most popular European state among Israelis.

The poll was carried out as Germany took up the rotating EU presidency, but only one-quarter of Israelis were aware of Germany’s leadership of the EU. German Chancellor Angela Merkel was among the most popular foreign leaders among Israelis. Dr. Lars Hansel, KAS manager in Israel, said, “The results show how deep the German–Israeli bond is and will help to bring Europe and Israel even closer.

“Germany is committed to Israel’s security, having recently sent peacekeeping forces to the shores off Lebanon to help protect Israel and subsidized the sale of 3 Dolphin-class submarines to the Israeli Navy. This poll proves that Israelis want to strengthen German–Israel ties too,” Hansel said. The survey was conducted between February 5–7, 2007, among 511 respondents from both Jewish and Arab populations. (By Ronny Sofer, Ynetnews.com, February 22, 2007) [Reported by: Bridges for Peace]

• This could be a dangerous trend. Israel is uniquely chosen by God, separate from other nations. Pray that Israel takes that seriously. • “And you shall be holy to Me, for I the LORD am holy, and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be Mine.” (Leviticus 20:26)

12. UNESCO TO INSPECT DIG NEAR TEMPLE MOUNT

UNESCO will send a team of four experts to Jerusalem to assess the impact of construction work which has inflames Israeli-Palestinian tensions. The experts will visit the hilltop compound know to Jews as the Temple Mouns to to Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary. Nearly three weeks ago, Israeli archaeologists began a salvage dig ahead of the constuction of a new pedestrian walkway up to the site. This dig sparked riots by Muslim worshippers and protests throughout the Arab world.

UNESCO director-general Koichiro Matsuura says that the inspection "could be a means of alleviating tensions and restoring a climate of confidence." The team of experts could spend only a few days and then will report its findings to Matsuura. (AP)

• Pray for peace and calm at the Temple Mount site. The Islamists will create trouble wherever they can, usurping the Temple site for their purposes, even though this site is the place where Solomon built the first temple for God three thousand years ago. Clearly the problem exists with the Moslems, for the Bible tells us the truth. • "Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His holy hill; for the Lord our God is holy." (Psalm 99:9)

13. SAFEGUARDING JERUSALEM

Appearing on the horizon is the awesome "final status of Jerusalem."

It's become very clear that the clash over the construction work near the Mugrabi Gate is part of a broader campaign for the control of Jerusalem. After all, this construction work has no connection to the Al- Aqsa Mosque nor any effect on it. In the view of those Arab leaders mobilizing the war and the incitement against the construction, Israel has no sovereignty in Jerusalem's Old City and has no right to carry out any sort of construction work in the Temple Mount environs. At the root of this war is the intensifying effort by the Palestinians to deny any link or rights of the Jewish people to the Temple Mount or to Jerusalem, and thus to undermine not only [Israel’s] right to sovereignty in Jerusalem, but also Israel's right to exist as a Jewish state. (Yehuda Ben Meir, Ha’aretz) [Reported by: Intercessors for America]

• Prayerfully read and ponder Zechariah, chapter 12, asking the Lord to intervene and grant wisdom and knowledge to President Bush and Secretary of State Rice so that they and our nation would be spared the consequence and judgments outlined in Zechariah 12, verses 3 and 9. • "And it shall happen in that day that I will make Jerusalem a very heavy stone for all peoples; all who would heave it away will surely be cut in pieces, though all nations of the earth are gathered against it. It shall be in that day that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem." (Zech. 12:3,9)

This Week, Worship Our Lord As . . .

HOPE OF ISRAEL (Meekvay Yisrael)

"O LORD, the hope of Israel, all who forsake you will be put to shame. (Jeremiah 17:13, NIV)

You are my Hope, O Meek-vay Yisrael. My sorrow may endure for the evening, but joy comes in the morning. You are my Hope; when all else fails, there is You. Help me never to give up on Your Wonderful Name. Amen!

(Taken from: Intimate Moments with the Hebrew Names of God, by Barri Cae Malin and Shmuel Wolkenfeld; Bridge-Logos Publishers; Gainesville, FL, 32614. ISBN: 0-88270-801-5)

Today's Daily Brief - 2-23-07

1. Officials: Senate Democrats Seek to Narrow Mission of U.S. Troops in Iraq to Training, Fighting . . .Al Qaeda - AP

Senate Democrats are drafting legislation to scale back the mission of U.S. troops in Iraq in an effort that would reduce the broad war-making powers Congress granted to President Bush in 2002, officials said Thursday. While these officials said the precise wording of the measure remains unsettled, one draft would restrict American troops in Iraq to combating Al Qaeda, training Iraqi army and police forces, maintaining Iraq's territorial integrity and otherwise proceeding with the withdrawal of combat forces.

• As Congress prepares to go back into session next week, pray that any and all measures regarding the funding of our troops in Iraq would be "above board" and without deception. Ask our Lord to move on the hearts of the men and women in Congress to put "first things first" and to stand by our troops so that ALL of their needs will be met in combat. • "But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil." (Matthew 6:37)

2. U.S. Soldier Gets 100 Years in Prison for Rape, Murder of Iraqi Girl - AP

GI sentenced for the gang rape and murder of an Iraqi teen and the murder of her family; he will be eligible for parole in 10 years.

• May the world take note of the redemptive purpose in this sad tale. Our nation is NOT one that condones such behavior, but rather one that brings these perpetrators to justice -- in uniform or not. Pray for the people of Iraq as they continue to grieve the loss of this family, and thank the Lord that justice IS being served. • "And when He is come, He will reprove the word of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." (John 16:8)

3. Police needing heavier weapons - USA Today

Law enforcement agencies across the country have been upgrading their firepower to deal with what they say is the increasing presence of high-powered weapons on the streets.

• Pray that this violence will end. • "No longer will violence be heard in your land, nor ruin or destruction within your borders, but you will call your walls Salvation and your gates Praise." (Isaiah 60:18 )

4. Anglican Leaders Demand U.S. Episcopal Church Ban Prayers for "Gay" Couples; End Consecration of Gay Clergy - Fox News

Anglican leaders meeting in Tanzania demanded Monday that the U.S. Episcopal Church unequivocally bar official prayers for gay couples and the consecration of more gay bishops to undo the damage that North Americans have caused the 77- million Anglican family.

• Our gracious Lord, please bless the Anglican Communion who seeks Your Face and Leadership for their Church. May the evil one not be allowed to damage their flock and may evil be thrown out of the worldwide Anglican Communion for Your Glory! • "Do not fret because of evil doers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity." (Psalm 37: 1 NKJV)

5. Bill Would Make Grasp of English a Citizenship Requirement - CNSNews.com

A bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives this week would designate English as the country's official language and require immigrants to learn English before becoming naturalized citizens. "English is the language of opportunity in America," the bill's primary sponsor, Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa), said in a statement. "The best way for our newcomers to work toward their own success is through our common bond of language."

• May critics discern the excellent intent of this bill written to give newcomers a "hope and a future." • "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29: 11 NKJV)

6. Film on Anti-Slavery Pioneer Triggers New Campaign - CNSNews.com

"Amazing Grace," a film that faithfullly recounts and examines the life of William Wilberforce, a Godly member of Parliament who initiated a petition for the abolition of slavery which led to the passing of Britain's 1807 abolition law is being released this week. One of Wilberforce's friends and ally was John Newton, former slave trader and author of the hymn, "Amazing Grace." On the 200th anniversary of the end of the British slave trade, Walden Media and Bristol Bay Production Company, the film's producers, are supporting a modern-day anti-slavery campaign called " The Amazing Change Campaign," to raise public awareness of the impact of slavery today. Sudan and Mauritania are among countries where slavery is still being practiced, according to anti- slavery campaign groups.

• Oh Lord, that all men were free! Thank You for the example of William Wilberforce's life and may we be faithful to set a Godly life example to our family and peers as he did. May this film show the world how to be and act as Christians in an ungodly world! • "Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass." (Psalm 37:5 NKJV)

The Middle East in Focus - 2-23-07

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

"Worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness; tremble before Him, all the earth." (Psalm 96:9)

1. Iran Pays for Palestinian Missile Strikes - Middle East Newsline

Israel's intelligence community has determined that Iran was financing the daily Palestinian missile attacks against the Jewish state. Officials said Iran has pledged to pay thousands of dollars for each missile strike from the Gaza Strip into Israel. They said the size of the Iranian payment depended on whether there were Israeli casualties or injuries.

2. Rice tells FM Livni: Summit must focus on two- state solution - Ha'aretz

U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said yesterday that she expects the trilateral summit tomorrow with Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas to focus on advancing the two-state solution.

3. Arab ministers interested in relations with Israel - Ynet News

Senior Arab officials on Thursday evening expressed their desire "to advance together toward recognition and normalizing relations with Israel ."

4. Hamas: U.S. blocking European efforts to end economic boycott - Ha'aretz

Hamas accused the United States on Thursday of trying to thwart European efforts to ease an economic blockade of a new Palestinian unity government.

5. Olmert: My vision is a Palestinian state - Ynet News

Speaking at the annual press conference hosted by the Foreign Press Association in Jerusalem on Wednesday Prime Minister Ehud Olmert stressed that while the political platform he built his premiership campaign on – the realignment plan which would have seen the evacuation of most of the settlements in the West Bank - has faded due to 'changed circumstances', his vision for the near future included the formation of an independent Palestinian state living side-by-side in peace with Israel.

6. Hamas' military wing: Truce is over - Ynet News

Hamas's Qassam Brigades have declared an end to a ceasefire with Israel, according to a statement released on Wednesday evening.

Iran in the News - 2-23-07

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

"Ye shall not fear them; for the Lord your God he shall fight for you."
(Deut. 3:22)

1. Gulf 'facing serious security threat' - GulfNews.com

IRAN could pose a greater threat to the security of the Gulf than Al Qaeda, the leader of region's US navy forces warned yesterday. US Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and US Fifth Fleet Commander Vice-Admiral Patrick Walsh said the country had been deliberately provocative in carrying out military exercises in the region - accusing the country's leadership of continuing to use aggressive language. "We consider this moment in time unprecedented in terms of the amount of insecurity and instability that is in the region," he said.

2. GCC Focuses on Air Defense, Navy - MENL

Gulf Cooperation Council militaries have launched an effort to bolster the air defense and navies to prepare for any war with Iran. Western industry sources said Gulf Arab states such as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates have led the way with procurement and development programs meant to bolster defenses in the Gulf. The sources said the three GCC states envisioned an Iranian attack on their oil facilities amid any U.S.-led war against Teheran.

3. Iran Denies Payment Delays as Russia Freezes Works on Bushehr Reactor - AP

Top Iranian officials on Monday rejected claims that Tehran had been dragging its feet on payments for a Russian-built nuclear power plant, The Associated Press news agency reports. The officials criticized Moscow of buckling under international pressure and prolonging the reactor’s launch. Russian officials on Monday said uranium fuel deliveries to the Bushehr nuclear plant in southern Iran and the reactor’s launch could fall behind schedule because of Iran’s delays in payment. But Mohammad Saeedi, the deputy head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, denied that Iran had been late making payments. “Iran has had no delay whatsoever in making payments for the Bushehr nuclear power plant to the Russian company,” Saeedi was quoted as saying by the official Iranian news agency, IRNA.

4. Iran defies deadline to halt atom work: U.N. watchdog - Reuters

The U.N.'s nuclear watchdog said on Thursday Iran had failed to meet a February 21 deadline to suspend enrichment of uranium, exposing Tehran to possible new sanctions over concerns it hopes to produce an atomic bomb. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said he was "deeply concerned that the Iranian government did not meet the (Wednesday) deadline set by the Security Council." "I urge again that the Iranian government should fully comply with the Security Council" as soon as possible."

5. World Powers Will Meet In London To Discuss Iran - Radio Free Europe

Representatives of six major powers will meet in London on February 26 to discuss further steps in the Iranian nuclear standoff. The announcement of the meeting follows confirmation from the UN nuclear agency that Iran ignored a Security Council deadline to suspend sensitive nuclear activities. A U.S. State Department spokesman Tom Casey said that Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Nicholas Burns will travel to London to consult with his Russian, Chinese, British, French, and German counterparts on the Iranian nuclear issue.

"Amazing Grace" ... a "Must-See" movie

CHPP wishes to encourage ALL of our Prayer Partners to go out this weekend and view "Amazing Grace" -- the amazing and inspiring story of William Wilberforce, a man who worked tirelessly to overturn the practice of slavery in the Enligsh Empire in the early nineteenth century. Below please find a commentary on this movie by Gary Bauer.
Amazing Grace

My friends, please make time to catch today’s Focus on the Family broadcast. My good friend Dr. James Dobson is devoting two days of his daily radio show to a discussion of William Wilberforce and his struggle to end slavery in England.

It took Wilberforce many, many years to change the hearts and minds of his countrymen. But listening to this broadcast, I came away encouraged about the ongoing effort to end abortion in America. You can find station listings or listen to Dr. Dobson’s show online at http://www.family.org

Today's Daily Brief - 2-22-07

1. Pelosi: Cheney's Out of Line - AP

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Wednesday phoned President Bush to air her complaints over Vice President Dick Cheney's comments that the Congressional Democrats' plan for Iraq would "validate the Al Qaeda strategy." Pelosi, who said she could not reach the president, said Cheney's comments wrongly questioned critics' patriotism and ignored Bush's call for openness on Iraq strategy.

• Father we bind the spirit of disunity in all areas of our government. We ask that wisdom and peace prevail over the thoughts and intents of our leadership. May both parties resolve issues rather than inflame them. • "A soft answer turneth away wrath; but grievous words stir up anger." (Proverbs 15:1)

2. Flow of illegal immigrants to U.S. starts to slow - Int'l Herald Tribune

All along the U.S.-Mexican border, there are signs that the measures that the U.S. Border Patrol and other agencies have taken over the past year, from erecting new barriers to posting 6,000 National Guardsmen as armed sentinels, are beginning to slow the flow of illegal immigrants into the United States.

• We rejoice, Lord, at this tidbit of good news. But we are aware, Father, that the situation is still far from corrected, so we ask that You move to stem the flood of illegal immigrants by Your strategies. We know that only Your strength and power can truly guard our borders. • "My goodness, and my fortress: my high tower and my deliverer; my shield and He in whom I trust." (Psalm 144:2)

3. Kennedy About to Introduce Immigration Reform Bill - CNSNews.com

Senators and lobbyists are putting the final touches on a comprehensive immigration-reform bill that includes an easier citizenship path for illegal aliens and weaker enforcement provisions than were in the highly criticized legislation that the Senate approved last year. Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, the Massachusetts Democrat who ardently supports citizenship rights for illegals, will introduce the bill as early as next week, according to Senate sources knowledgeable about the negotiations. If the Senate Judiciary Committee can make quick work of the bill, it could be ready for floor action in April.

• Father we ask that You directly intervene in the legislation for immigration reform to bring about wisdom and protection for the United States. We ask that the focus of all legislators bring about what is best for our nation, and not any special interests or political agendas. • "To bind his princes at his pleasure; and teach his elders wisdom." (Psalm 105:22)

4. Second Rape Claim Hits Iraqi Troops - AP

Four Iraqi soldiers have been accused of raping a 50- year-old Sunni woman and the attempted rape of her two daughters in the second allegation of sexual assault leveled against Iraqi forces this week, an official said Thursday. The allegation could undermine reputation of Iraq's security services, which U.S. hopes can take over so troops can come home.

• Father we bind the spirit of lust in all of the troops in Iraq, regardless of national background. We ask that Your Holy Spirit arise to bring conviction over all of the people of the region in order to change their hearts. • "And when He is come, He will reprove the word of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." (John 16:8)

5. Iraqi Militants Use Second Dirty Bomb in Two Days - AP

Insurgents exploded a truck carrying chlorine gas canisters Wednesday — the second such "dirty" chemical attack in two days — while a U.S. official said ground fire apparently forced the downing of a Black Hawk helicopter. All nine aboard the aircraft were rescued. The attacks offer a sweeping narrative on evolving tactics by Sunni insurgents who have proved remarkably adaptable.

• Lord we ask that all hidden stockpiles of chemical weapons and labs of manufacture be revealed, and these evil plans be destroyed quickly. • "For there is nothing covered that shall not be revealed, neither hid, that shall not be known." (Luke 12:2)

6. Rice Calls Coalition "Intact" - Washington Times

The Bush administration maintained yesterday that its Iraq coalition was still in good shape despite announcements by Britain and two other countries that they would withdraw all or some of their troops by the end of the year. "The coalition remains intact," Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said during a visit to Berlin. "It is the plan that -- as it is possible to transfer responsibilities to the Iraqis -- coalition forces would no longer be needed."

• Lord we ask that You stabilize the Iraqi government and their troops to bring about a democratic way of life for the people of the region. We also ask that You intervene to keep media spin from destroying any small victories that may occur in coalition changes. May Your truth and victory prevail over Iraq. • "O let the nations be glad and sing for joy; for Thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth." (Psalm 67:4)

The Middle East in Focus

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

"Worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness; tremble before Him, all the earth." (Psalm 96:9)

1. Quartet makes Hamas smile - Jerusalem Newswire

Desperate to chop up the Holy Land in a vain attempt to bring peace to the Middle East, the international community on Wednesday declined to cut ties with the defiant terror-supporting Palestinian Authority.

2. US congressional leaders remember Jewish refugees - JNW

A group of eight US congressional leaders this week introduced resolutions in both the Senate and House of Representatives calling for recognition that hundreds of thousands of Jews were made refugees by their Arab host nations at the time of Israel's rebirth.

3. Israelis long to be part of Europe - JNW

Despite widespread hostile feelings toward the Jewish state, the overwhelming majority of Israelis long to be part of the European Union, according to the results of a new poll.

4. 'Lawrence of Arabia' was a Zionist, says historian - JNW

Acclaimed Middle East historian Sir Martin Gilbert revealed this week that Lt.-Col. Thomas Edward Lawrence - better known as "Lawrence of Arabia" - was actually a strong Zionist.

Iran in the News

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

"Ye shall not fear them; for the Lord your God he shall fight for you."
(Deut. 3:22)

1. Iran Strengthening Syrian Military, Report Says - Ha'aretz

Iran is providing "generous" funding to help Syria beef up its forces, and those troops seem to be moving closer to the Israeli border, an Israeli daily reported on Thursday.

2. Secretary Rice Says: "U.S. Has No Desire For Confrontation With Iran - CNN; "Situation Room"

SEC. RICE: "We can talk [with Iran] about anything. That's an offer that I would renew today. We have, in fact, even under the circumstances, we've cooperated some in Afghanistan. And I think that was useful. So there is a different path. . . Let me just say here, publicly, the United States has no desire for confrontation with Iran, none. The option that we have is to continue to try to convince those who are reasonable in Iran that the course that they're on is destructive."

3. NSA's Stephen Hadley Says Iran Is "Increasingly Isolated" Over Its Nuclear Program - Financial Times

Iran faced further isolation if it failed to meet United Nations demands to curb its nuclear programme, the US's national security adviser warned on Wednesday. On the day of a UN deadline, Stephen Hadley argued that the Bush administration's concerns were shared by Russia, in spite of the split between Moscow and Washington on issues such as missile defence. "Regrettably, the Iranian regime has pursued a policy of pursuing a nuclear programme in defiance of the international community and the result is that it is increasingly isolated, he said.