NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER EDITION

A Call to Repentance: WEEK SIXTEEN

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER EDITION -- Part One

April 27, 2008

"I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Luke 5:32)


Prayer: America's Strength and Shield!

Prayer!

America's Strength & Shield

Praying for our Government Officials

Pray for: Strength for wise leadership of our local, state and national American Government officials, and for the educated participation of the community in the November elections with A Shield against the forces of confusion. Our nation's government was founded by God-fearing men who established a system of checks and balances in order to preserve liberty for all. However, the concepts of liberty and freedom are in jeopardy in America today. We must come together and pray that God would reign as king in the United States so that we may truly be, "One nation under God."

Pray for:

- Government officials (elected and non-elected, national and local)
- The Judiciary
- A new generation of virtuous leaders to be elected
- Integrity in the government

- Righteous legislation
- Election day
- Young voters to arise and vote on values and principles
- Informed voters

SCRIPTURES TO CLAIM:

"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." (I Timothy 2:1,2)

"But select capable men from all the people-men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain-and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens." (Exodus 18:21)

"Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." (Romans 13:1-2)

"The Lord is my strength and shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped." (Psalm 28:7)

Be a part of building a Prayer Blanket providing Strength and a Shield over our Nation!!

INTRODUCTION TO WEEK SIXTEEN

Ideas for Prayer in a Time of Turmoil and Transition

This week, we continue to press in during WEEK SIXTEEN of our 40 Weeks of Prayer and Fasting, to honor this week when America observes the National Day of Prayer.

In alignment with the prayer recommendations released by the National Task Force of the National Day of Prayer, we offer tihs week a prayer focus on the 3 Institutions created by God and vital to our Nation:

1. Our families

2. Our churches

3. Our governmental leaders

Next week we will conclude our NDP Prayer Focus, praying for 4 Institutions our Forefathers developed to serve our Nation:

1. Our military

2. Our educational systems

3. Our businesses and

4. Media

Praying for our Families

This week . . . pray for Strength for the security and future of our American Families, marriages, and children, with A Shield against the forces seeking to destroy this fundamental institution of God.

No institution in the culture is facing more intense persecution than the family. Not only are the incidences of divorce, infidelity and abuse on the rise, but social engineers are relentless in their efforts to dismantle the traditional family.

Pray that mothers and fathers will take their place in the home and care for their children.

Pray for:

- Wisdom for parents in raising their children
- Children who are victims of divorce
- Domestic violence
- Unity among families
- Protection of marriage

- Righteous legislation protecting families
- Preserving parents' rights in raising and educating their children
- Reconciliation among family members - The youth to repent for not respecting our parents

SCRIPTURES TO CLAIM:

"But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." (Joshua 24:15)

"Sons are a heritage from the LORD,
children a reward from him.

Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
are sons born in one's youth.

Blessed is the man
whose quiver is full of them.
They will not be put to shame
when they contend with their enemies in the gate." (Psalm 127:3-5)

"Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it." (Proverbs 22:6)

Praying for our Churches

Pray for: strength in the unity and boldness of our American Churches, national and local, as hundreds have taken the leadership statewide in the fight for marriage and families, with A Shield against the forces of disharmony and fear. While we often associate the word "church" with our locale of worship, Scripture takes a much broader view. The Church, ultimately, refers to the body of Christian believers around the world. Pray for the Lord to spark a revival throughout our nation, unity, and continue to sanctify and purify Christians around the world.

Pray for:

- Church leaders and youth pastors Unity among the different parts of the body
- A renewed boldness to speak out with power as the spiritual leaders of the nation
- A new generation of leaders and world changers to arise

- Youth groups to grow with solid biblical teaching
- The families of those in leadership
- God's heart to reach out to the community
- Unity among the generations and ethnicities
- Discipleship, mentoring, training, and equipping

SCRIPTURES TO CLAIM:

"And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." (Matthew 16:18-19)

" . . . endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." (Ephesians 4:3-6)

"And when she and her household were baptized, she begged us, saying, "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay." So she persuaded us." (Acts 16:15)

Praying for our Government Officials

Pray for: Strength for wise leadership of our local, state and national American Government officials, and for the educated participation of the community in the November elections with A Shield against the forces of confusion. Our nation's government was founded by God-fearing men who established a system of checks and balances in order to preserve liberty for all. However, the concepts of liberty and freedom are in jeopardy in America today. We must come together and pray that God would reign as king in the United States so that we may truly be, "One nation under God."

Pray for:

- Government officials (elected and non-elected, national and local)
- The Judiciary
- A new generation of virtuous leaders to be elected
- Integrity in the government

- Righteous legislation
- Election day
- Young voters to arise and vote on values and principles
- Informed voters

SCRIPTURES TO CLAIM:

"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." (I Timothy 2:1,2)

"But select capable men from all the people-men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain-and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens." (Exodus 18:21)

"Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." (Romans 13:1-2)

TRUST AND OBEY

"O Lord Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in You." (Psalm 84:11-12)

Words: John H. Sammis (1887)
Music: Daniel B. Towner

This song gives a simple, clear explanation of living the Christian life. The title expression was used in a testimony meeting, following an evangelistic crusade in Brockton, Massachusetts, by Dwight L. Moody. A young man stood to speak, and it soon became clear he knew little Christian doctrine. But he finished by saying, "I'm not quite sure-but I'm going to trust, and I'm going to obey." Daniel Towner, who was in the meeting, jotted down the words, and gave them to John Sammis, who developed the lyrics from them.


(Courtesy of Moody Bible Institute)

When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word, What a glory He sheds on our way! While we do His good will, He abides with us still, And with all who will trust and obey. Refrain Trust and obey, for there's no other way To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

To see the remaining four stanzas of this wonderful, classic hymn, and to enjoy its music, go here.


A Closing Thought . . .

Nothing Can Hinder God or a Good Man

By A. W. Tozer

"If any man will to do His will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God. . . " (John 7:17)

The notion that hostile persons or unfavorable circumstances can prevent the will of God from being fulfilled in a human life is altogether erroneous.

Nothing, no one, can hinder God or a good man!

It is one of the glories of the Christian faith that it can be present in effective power regardless of whether or not the moral and political environment is favorable to it. We recall that H. G. Wells once said that he personally believed Buddhism to be the best religion, but admitted that it could flourish only in countries having a warm climate!

If true religion consisted in outward practices, then it could be destroyed by laws forbidding those practices. But if the true worshiper is one who worships God in spirit and in truth, how can laws or jails or abuses or deprivations prevent the spiritual man from worship ing?

Let a man set his heart only on doing the will of God and he is instantly free! No one can hinder him. It is only when we introduce our own will into our relation to God that we get into trouble. When we weave into the pattern of our lives threads of our own desires we instantly become subject to hindrances from the out- side.

The essence of spiritual worship is to love supremely, to trust confidently, to pray without ceasing and to seek to be Christlike and holy, doing all the good we can for Christ's sake.

How impossible for anyone to hinder that kind of "practice"

The Daily Brief - Friday, April 25, 2008

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped." (Psalm 28:7)

NO DAILY BRIEFS, OCAPS NEXT WEEK

NO DAILY BRIEFS NEXT WEEK



OCAP WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED ON MONDAY

Dear Friends,

Next week, we will suspend the publication of the Daily Brief, allowing our staff members to participate in a variety of events related to the National Day of Prayer, across the country.

Similarly, the next edition of "On Capitol Hill This Week" ("the OCAP") will not be published this weekend, but instead will be released on Monday, May 5th.

The Call to Repentance WILL continue, without interruption, every Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. Eastern.

We invite you, too, to seek out and support an NDP event in your own area, by going to the website for the National Day of Prayer.

And this week, let us all pause and give thanks that we can, indeed, celebrate the place of prayer in our nation on Thursday, May 1st.

The next edition of The Daily Brief will be published on Tuesday, May 6, 2008.

Today's Daily Brief
1. Many states in apparent recession, poll shows - Washington Times



The finances of many states have deteriorated so badly that they appear to be in a recession, regardless of whether that's true for the nation as a whole, a survey of all 50 state fiscal directors concludes.

· Even though hard times have begun to visit us as a people, Jesus is still Lord and He does care for His own. Thank Him that He is in control; and seek Him for His plan for "you and your (own) household" in the days ahead.

· "In the day of prosperity be happy, but in the day of adversity consider -- God has made the one as well as the other." (Eccl. 7:12) · "But for me and my house, we shall serve the LORD." (Joshua 24:15)

2. Senate pressures OPEC on prices - Washington Times



Senate Democrats moved yesterday to put pressure on Saudi Arabia and other Persian Gulf oil states to increase oil supplies and bring down prices, saying they will block military sales to those OPEC countries unless they do.

· Offer praise for this initiative coming out of Congress, and pray that the pressure being applied to the OPEC nations WILL help to drive DOWN the price of oil. YES, LORD!

· "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." (Matthew 21:22)

3. Five U.S. bills seek 'fair share' of war costs - Washington Times



Iraqis would be forced to pay for U.S. efforts in their country directly or with loans from the United States if any of at least five similar pieces of legislation introduced on Capitol Hill this month are approved.

· Yes, wisdom IS to "share the load." Pray for favor for at least one of these bills, so that the Iraqi people might also bear the costs of this war, along with the taxpayers in the United States.

· " . . . if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 18:19)

4. Homeland Security Scrapping, Replacing Sub- Par Virtual Fence Along Arizona-Mexico Border - Fox News

The government will replace its highly touted "virtual fence" on the Arizona-Mexico border with new towers, radars, cameras and computer software, scrapping the brand-new $20 million system because it doesn't work sufficiently, officials said.

· "If it works, don't tix it; if it doesn't work, change it." As Homeland Security re-examines its "virtual fence," offer praise that they are willing to make the changes needed to implement an EFFECTIVE strategy to secure our borders to the south. Pray for wisdom as they do so.

· "Wisdom is protection, just as money is protection." (Eccl. 7:12)

5. Ahmadinejad: We'll 'slap mouths' of those demanding nuclear program halted - Ha'aretz

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Wednesday said Tehran would "slap on the mouth" countries demanding it give up its nuclear program, while also stating that Iran is ready to discuss the project with any country.

· Ask our Lord to shut this lion's mouth, and ask Him to forgive Mr. Ahmadenijad, for he knows not what he does.

· "My God sent His angel and shut the lions' mouths . . .:" (Daniel 6:22)

The Middle East in Focus

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

"For thus says LORD; Sing with gladness for Jacob, shout among the chief of the nations: publish, praise, and say, O LORD, save Your people, the remnant of Israel." (Jer. 31:7)

1. Egypt Mideast summit plans fail - Washington Times



Bickering over participants has derailed a planned Middle East summit next month between the United States, Israel, Egypt, Jordan and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas -- the second major multilateral meeting to unravel this week.

2. US: Clear Syrian reactor was not for peaceful purposes - Ynet News



The White House said Thursday that North Korea's secret work on a nuclear reactor with Syria was ''a dangerous and potentially destabilizing development for the world,'' raising doubts about Pyongyang's intention to carry through with a promised disclosure of its nuclear activities.

3. 'Reactor was near completion when hit' - Jerusalem Post

Yielding to months of pressure from the US Congress, the Bush administration gave members briefings on Thursday indicating that on September 6, Israel destroyed an alleged Syrian nuclear reactor built with North Korean help.

4. Israel: Syria may rethink retaliation in light of nuclear revelations - Ha'aretz



Senior Israeli defense sources said Thursday night that it was still early to gauge how Damascus would react to the news, but warned that the Syrians may now reconsider and decide to retaliate against Israel in some way.

5. Report: New U.S. Military Discovery Shows Iran Still Sending Arms to Iraq - Fox News

The U.S. military says it has found caches of newly made Iranian weapons in Iraq, leading senior officials to conclude Tehran is continuing to funnel armaments into Iraq despite its pledges to the contrary, the Wall Street Journal reported Friday.

6. Abdullah to Bush: Israel-PA talks must be based on fixed timetable - Ha'aretz

Jordan's King Abdullah II told U.S. President George W. Bush on Wednesday that stalled negotiations between Palestinians and Israelis should be based on clear grounds and fixed timetables as the United States pushes for reaching a Mideast peace agreement by next January.

7. Residents: Golan belongs to the Jewish people - Jerusalem Post

Heads of Israeli towns in the Golan Heights convened Thursday for an emergency meeting following reports in recent days that Prime Minister Ehud Olmert had agreed to relinquish the Golan Heights to Syria.


NO DAILY BRIEFS, OCAPS NEXT WEEK

NO DAILY BRIEFS NEXT WEEK



OCAP WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED ON MONDAY

Dear Friends,

Next week, we will suspend the publication of the Daily Brief, allowing our staff members to participate in a variety of events related to the National Day of Prayer, across the country.

Similarly, the next edition of "On Capitol Hill This Week" ("the OCAP") will not be published this weekend, but instead will be released on Monday, May 5th.

The Call to Repentance WILL continue, without interruption, every Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. Eastern.

We invite you, too, to seek out and support an NDP event in your own area, by going to the website for the National Day of Prayer.

And this week, let us all pause and give thanks that we can, indeed, celebrate the place of prayer in our nation on Thursday, May 1st.

The next edition of The Daily Brief will be published on Tuesday, May 6, 2008.

The Daily Brief - Thursday, April 24, 2008

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped." (Psalm 28:7)

Today's Daily Brief
1. Bush, Abbas, to Discuss Mid East Peace Process - Newsmax.com



Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is meeting with U.S. President George Bush at the White House Thursday for talks on advancing the peace process with Israel. Mr. Bush wants Israel and the Palestinians to complete a peace deal before he leaves office in less than nine months.

· Lord we pray that Your Holy Spirit will be present in these talks, and that You will fervently protect Your nation Israel from division and loss.

· "Remember these, O Jacob, and Israel, for you are My servant; I have formed you, your are My servant; O Israel you will not be forgotten by Me!" (Isaiah 44:21)

2. U.S. Envoy Says Opposition Won Zimbabwe Election - AP

April 24: U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, Ambassador Jendayi Frazer speaks during a media briefing in Pretoria, South Africa.

The Zimbabwean opposition leader won his nation's disputed presidential election, the top U.S. envoy to Africa told reporters Thursday.

· Thank You, Lord, for answering our prayer of yesterday, for exposing truth! We pray Your mercy over the many people of Zimbabwe, that their nation will not fall into violence and revenge.

· "Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Your right hand will save me." (Psalm138:7)

3. Secret Service Catch Mexican Official Nabbing White House BlackBerries - Fox News

ooops

Whether he was up to no good or simply desperate to play BrickBreaker, a Mexican press attaché was caught on camera by Secret Service pocketing several White House BlackBerries during a recent meeting in New Orleans.

· Thank You, Lord for catching this man in the act. We pray against any plan or action that could cause harm to the American officials whose instruments were stolen, and ask Your protection over the nation from secret plots.

· "The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul." (Psalm 121:7)

4. Oil Slips as Dollar Gains - Newsmax.com



Oil prices slipped Thursday on the back of a strengthening American dollar and a U.S. government report showing a build in crude supplies. The dollar was higher in European trading, after taking back some ground against the euro Wednesday. A stronger dollar makes commodities such as oil less attractive as a hedge against inflation and makes oil more expensive to investors overseas.

· Thank You, Lord, for this tiny tidbit of good news! We ask that You increase the value of the dollar, and stabilize oil prices at a lower level. You know how hard it is hitting our economy and the homes of Your people, so we thank you for provision and help in times of trouble.

· "Remember me, O Lord, with the favor You have toward Your people." (Psalm 106:4a)

5. Sales of New Homes Plunged in March - AP

Sales of new homes plunged in March to the lowest level in 16½ years as housing slumped further at the start of the spring sales season. The median price of a new home in March compared to a year ago fell by the largest amount in nearly four decades.

· Father we ask for recovery of the housing market. Lord, property ownership has been the backbone of America's families and the leading place of tax revenue in our nation. We pray that as You remove the greed from the system, You will have mercy over the families.

· "Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end, but establish the just." (Psalm 7:9a)

6. Probable Twisters Slam Texas - MSNBC



Several dozen homes in west and north Texas are hit by probable tornadoes, part of a storm that earlier pounded the state with hail and 70 mph winds.

· Thank You, Lord, for Your mercy over Texas, that none were killed in this outbreak of storms. We continue to plead for mercy over our nation's land and people.

· "Restore us, O Lord God of hosts; Cause Your face to shine, and we shall be saved!" (Psalm 80:19)

7. US shows evidence of alleged Syria-N. Korea nuke collaboration - AP



A top member of the House intelligence committee said classified information being shared with members of Congress Thursday shows that an alleged Syrian nuclear reactor built with North Korean help and destroyed last year by Israeli jets threatened to spread nuclear weapons technology.

· Offer praise that hidden things are being revealed now regarding secret agreements between two enemies of Israel: North Korea and Syria. Offer praise, too, for the courage with which Israel has moved to protect its own citizens. Offer prayer for wisdom for our own members of Congress and the administration as they craft a policy to respond to this new information.

· "Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven." (Matthew 18:19)

The Middle East in Focus

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

"For thus says LORD; Sing with gladness for Jacob, shout among the chief of the nations: publish, praise, and say, O LORD, save Your people, the remnant of Israel." (Jer. 31:7)

1. Court applies Law of Return to Messianic Jews because of fathers - Jerusalem Post

Messianic Jews are entitled to Israeli citizenship according to the Law of Return if their father is Jewish, according to a precedent-setting ruling handed down last week by the High Court of Justice.

· We are repeating this report from last week, as this ruling is such GOOD NEWS for the Messianic community in Israel. Praise G-d!

· "Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord." (Psalm 150:6)

2. Peace with Syria suicidal, MKs say - Ynet News

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert undoubtedly heard about the Syrian report saying he had agreed to cede Israeli control of the Golan Heights in exchange for peace with Syria, while on vacation.

3. 'Espionage case could seriously damage relations with US' - Ynet News

The prosecution of a second US citizen charged with spying on Israel's behalf is "like a Tomahawk missile to relations between the two countries" a top government official told Ynet on Tuesday evening following the arrest of Ben-Ami Kadish.

4. American accused of giving nuclear secrets to Israel - Ynet News

United States authorities arrested an American engineer on Tuesday on suspicion of giving military secrets involving nuclear weapons, fighter jets and air defense missiles to Israel during the 1980s, the Justice Department said. Investigators believe 83-year-old Ben-Ami Kadish took home secret documents and let the Israeli government worker photograph them.

Friday is Homosexual "Day of Silence"
Sodomite's Undeclared National Holiday In Public Schools

What amounts to an undeclared national holiday for sodomites is being held on Friday, April 25 in America's public schools. It's called the National Day of Silence. Of course, all the immoral regulars-- Planned Parenthood, the National Education Association, The Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network and all the other homosexual activist groups-- are showing the strength of their numbers by hijacking the public schools for a day. They say that its to draw attention to the anti gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered name calling, bullying and harassment in the schools. Of course, they are doing nothing wrong--just exercising their right to free speech, or not.

While all the sodomites are being quiet I thought it would be good to actually exercise my right to free speech by reviewing what the Bible says about sodomy. In Leviticus 18:22, the Lord told Moses, "Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination." Leviticus 20:13 says, "If a man also lie with mankind, as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them." The sodomites point to the Old Testament and say that is what God said before the grace of Jesus Christ in the New Testament.

So let's review what the New Testament says about homosexuality. Romans 1:22-28 says, "Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:

"And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was due. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not fit." Concerning marriage, Jesus said that God made them male and female that they would be joined together as one flesh and "What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder." As Christians we are to help these people, not by enabling them, to see the error of their ways that they, too, might enter the kingdom of heaven.

Bill Wilson

Word of Life Ministry

The Daily Brief - Wednesday, April 23, 2008

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped." (Psalm 28:7)

Today's Daily Brief
1. UN, NATO Drawn Into Georgia-Russia Spy Plane Attack - AFP

The UN Security Council was to meet Wednesday over Georgia's accusation that Russia shot down one of its unmanned spy planes, as Moscow denied involvement and NATO called for clarification. Tension between the two former Soviet states and neighbors escalated after an unmanned Georgian reconnaissance plane was destroyed over Georgia's separatist province of Abkhazia on Sunday. The Georgians allege that a Russian MiG-29 shot the plane down before flying back to Russia.

A small mountainous republic on Russia's southern edge, Georgia is a growing flashpoint in Russia's tense relations with the West, particularly over the ex-Soviet republic's push for NATO membership. Abkhazia broke from Georgia in the early 1990s and a ceasefire has been in place since 1994, although Georgia's pro-Western government accuses Russia of propping up the separatist authorities.

· Truthfulness is what we pray for Lord to resolve this issue over the destruction of a Georgian drone spy plane. We know that there will never be true peace until Your Son, Jesus comes back for His Bride; but until then, we pray that You will be glorified in all contentious international situations and that You will reveal Yourself to resolve unrest. In Your Name, we pray. Amen.

· "Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who deal truthfully are His delight." (Proverbs 12: 22 NKJV)

2. China Urged To Halt Arms Aid To Zimbabwe - Washington Times

U.S. State Department spokesman Tom Casey, cautioned China yesterday against additional weapons shipments to landlocked Zimbabwe after nations in southern Africa blocked a Chinese ship from delivering mortars, rockets, and bullets to the government of President Robert Mugabe. A South African newspaper reported that China was preparing a second shipment of considerably more sophisticated Chinese weaponry destined for Zimbabwe to be flown to Harare from China within the next week.

The Zimbabwean government has not published the results of the presidential election held more than three weeks ago, and the opposition says that is part of a ploy to steal the vote. There are reports of increasing violence and Mugabe's government is being accused of cracking down on dissenters.

· Heavenly Father, we look forward to the day when election results will no longer be colored with force and violence. May the truth about the recent Zimbabwean presidential election be known, and the Mugabe administration peacefully announce the results. We ask for Your Power to intervene in this tinderbox climate and that arms shipments not be allowed into Africa for murderous reasons. May Zimbabwe be saved for Your Glory. In The Mighty Name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

· "In the way of righteousness is life, and in its pathway there is no death." (Proverbs 12: 28 NKJV)

3. U.N. Says Darfur Conflict Getting Worse With Perhaps 300,000 Dead - Fox News

The conflict in Darfur is deteriorating, with full deployment of a new peacekeeping force delayed until 2009 and no prospect of a political settlement for a war that has killed perhaps 300,000 people in five years, U.N. officials said Tuesday. A joint U.N.-African Union (AU)peacekeeping force took over duties in Darfur in January from a beleaguered 7,000-man AU mission. But only about 9,000 soldiers and police officers of the authorized 26,000 have deployed.

The conflict began in early 2003 when ethnic African rebels took up arms against Sudan's Arab-dominated central government, accusing it of discrimination. Many of the worst atrocities in the war have been blamed on the Janjaweed militia of Arab nomads allied with the government.

· How much longer will this abomination continue, Lord? We send our prayers for relief and protection for Your saints in this conflict and ask that You would grant Sudan a Godly government of Your choosing. May those who continue this murderous rampage be removed for Your glory and their false religion be quashed to show the invincible power and sovereignty of the Only True God. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.

· "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep." (John 10: 10-11 NKJV)

4. Euro Breaks Through $1.60 As Dollar Slumps to Record Low - NewsMax

The dollar sunk to a record low Tuesday against the euro, which crossed $1.60 after a pair of European Central Bank governors said high inflation may cause the bank to raise interest rates. The U.S. currency also fell against the Japanese yen and the British pound.

The 15-nation currency euro rose as high as $1.6018, more than a penny above the $1.5916 it bought late Monday. The euro has risen 20 cents against the dollar in just five months and 10 cents in just two months. The dollar's slump is a boon for U.S. companies that rely heavily on exports, but it's the bane of travelers as worldwide inflation rises.

· We have faith, God, that you do hear our prayers for economic relief for America. May our dollar and economy be strengthened by Your right hand for Your glory. May there be none who would doubt that You have done these mighty miracles so that your saints here on earth will be encouraged and unbelievers be brought to faith in You as their Savior. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.

· In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried out to my God; He heard my voice from His temple, and my cry came before Him, even to His ears." (Psalm 18: 6 NKJV)

5. Pennsylvania Church-Goers Turn Their Backs on Obama While Whites, Blue-Collar Voters, Gun Owners Choose Clinton -CNSNews.com
Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) soundly defeated Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) among church-going voters in Tuesday's Pennsylvania presidential primary, exposing a potential weakness in the Democratic frontrunner among northern church-going voters, particularly Catholics, who have been a key swing vote in recent presidential elections.

Pennsylvania's working-class white voters helped Clinton on Tuesday, press reports said. According to exit polls, gun owners, people who attend church at least weekly, and rural residents supported Clinton by margins of about six in 10.

· Lord, You have continued to expose the agendas of both of these Democratic presidential candidates. Their views are not Your views on the sanctity of life, homosexuality and marriage to name a few. And most importantly, they do not support the Apple of Your Eye, Israel. We pray that somehow Mr. Obama, Mrs. Clinton and their supporters will seek Your Face and yield their lives to You. We humbly ask that You will grant America a president this Fall, who honors You. In Your Son's Name we pray these things. Amen.

· "I have called upon You, for You will hear me, O God; incline Your ear to me, and hear my speech. Show Your marvelous lovingkindness by Your right hand, O You who save those who trust in You from those who rise up against them. Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me under the shadow of Your wings, from the wicked who oppress me, from my deadly enemies who surround me." (Psalm 17: 6-9 NKJV)


The Middle East in Focus

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

"For thus says LORD; Sing with gladness for Jacob, shout among the chief of the nations: publish, praise, and say, O LORD, save Your people, the remnant of Israel." (Jer. 31:7)

1. Peace with Syria suicidal, MKs say - Ynet News

Prime Minister Ehud Olmert undoubtedly heard about the Syrian report saying he had agreed to cede Israeli control of the Golan Heights in exchange for peace with Syria, while on vacation.

2. 'Espionage case could seriously damage relations with US' - Ynet News

The prosecution of a second US citizen charged with spying on Israel's behalf is "like a Tomahawk missile to relations between the two countries" a top government official told Ynet on Tuesday evening following the arrest of Ben-Ami Kadish.

3. American accused of giving nuclear secrets to Israel - Ynet News

United States authorities arrested an American engineer on Tuesday on suspicion of giving military secrets involving nuclear weapons, fighter jets and air defense missiles to Israel during the 1980s, the Justice Department said. Investigators believe 83-year-old Ben-Ami Kadish took home secret documents and let the Israeli government worker photograph them.


Next Monday: "Day of Truth"
Students Encouraged to Stand Strong on Day of Truth

SUMMARY: 'We want to encourage Christian students to be salt and light and to speak the truth.'

On Monday, students from across the country will stand together on the fourth annual Day of Truth to support honest discussions about homosexuality. The event comes three days after GLSEN's (Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network) Day of Silence, which disrupts class by encouraging students to remain silent throughout the day in honor of homosexual people who feel silenced.

Mike Ensley, youth analyst for Exodus International, said the Day of Truth is about opening dialogue. "I would encourage Christian students to brainstorm what they want to do, how they want to respond," he said. "It's not about being adversarial to the gay- identified students or organizations on campus. It's about helping people understand what their attitude really is towards their fellow students." Students are asked to pass out cards after class and wear T-shirts that encourage honest conversation about homosexuality.

Douglas Napier, senior legal counsel for the Alliance Defense Fund, said Christian students should not be silent. "We'd like Christian students everywhere to understand that they have the same constitutional amendments and constitutional privileges as every other student," he said. "Their viewpoint should be accepted in the schools, like any other student's. "The First Amendment protects their right to speak out on this, and we want to encourage Christian students to be salt and light and to speak the truth."

FOR MORE INFORMATION

For an explanation of the Day of Silence and how you can respond, visit the Issue Analysis Web site.

(Source: CitizenLink)


Brownback Testifies on Abstinence

BROWNBACK TESTIFIES BEFORE HOUSE COMMITTEE
ON IMPORTANCE OF FUNDING FOR ABSTINENCE EDUCATION

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Sam Brownback today testified before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform about the need for continued funding of abstinence education. "Studies have shown that abstinence education is effective in decreasing the number of teen pregnancy and rates of sexually transmitted diseases among youth," said Brownback. "Clearly our current approach to sex education is not working; STD rates among teens are rising, and it is irresponsible of us to silence the abstinence message. We need more funding for abstinence programs, not less. Cutting funding to such valuable programs will only have negative results as we see teens, and even pre-teens, engage in risky sexual behavior."

Each year, 2.6 million teens become sexually active; in 2005, approximately one in seven youth had sex for the first time at age 14, or even younger. Approximately one in 13 adolescent girls in the United States becomes pregnant annually. The percentage of teen births outside of marriage has increased from 46 percent in 1980 to 80 percent in 2002. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 4 teenage girls in America has a sexually transmitted disease.

Brownback continued, "Parents want the best for their children, and have high expectations and goals for their futures. It is ironic that most of my colleagues agree that abstinence education is preferred but are not willing to fund such programs at the same level as 'comprehensive' sex education, the funding of which is weaved throughout our federal budget. We, as legislators, should not undermine parents' ambition to raise responsible, healthy children."

A 2007 Zogby survey found that fifty-nine percent of parents believe more funding should go to abstinence education. The survey also found that seventy-eight percent of parents think sex education classes in public schools should place more emphasis on promoting abstinence than on condom and other contraceptive use and ninety-three percent of parents think sex education should include a discussion about the limitations of condoms in preventing specific STDs. Over eighty percent support the message of abstinence only education, to abstain from sexual activity until they are in a committed adult relationship nearing marriage.

(Source: Office of Senator Sam Brownback; R-KS)

ACLU Runs into Judicial Roadblock

The 1.6 million Hoosiers with "In God We Trust" license plates can breathe a sigh of relief that they won't be forced to revisit their local DMV for new tags. Yesterday, a state judge dismissed a suit brought by the ACLU alleging that it was unconstitutional to put our national motto on license plates. Marion Superior Court Judge Gary Miller wrote a blunt opinion about the judicial branch's role in the dispute, which read, "Courts are not to second-guess the Indiana General Assembly when it comes to calculations of this sort." In part, the ACLU had claimed that Indiana was giving the motto "preferential treatment" and should charge the vanity plate fee for the "In God We Trust" message since it isn't the standard state plate. However, the legislation authorizing the plate in 2006 specifically directed the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to offer the plate for free. Although the ACLU vows to appeal within 30 days, we applaud Judge Miller for refusing to overstep his authority and let this group carjack our national motto.

(Source: Family Research Council)

The Church and Poverty: Mission Accomplished?

Is the church doing enough to help the poor? Sixty- seven percent of Americans think so. According to a recent national survey the majority of those polled said their "church already does enough to help the poor in [their] community." But is there more to do? Steve Haas, the vice president for church relations at World Vision, is using the research as a call to conscience for believers. According to Haas, Christians are just "scratching the surface" when it comes to helping the less fortunate. As Christians, we have a personal and corporate responsibility to engage in the war against poverty. It is, and has always been, primary to the Gospel message.

As Harry Jackson and I write in Personal Faith, Public Policy, Scripture makes it clear that our responsibility to address the plight of the poor is fundamental to living out our faith. Arthur Brooks points out in his book Who Really Cares? that liberals equate this responsibility with the call for more government programs. This effort to shift the responsibility to the government deprives the giver and the recipient of tangible and intangible benefits and studies also show it is very ineffective. For decades, this reliance on big government to care for the poor has done more to perpetuate American poverty than alleviate it. Instead of breaking the cycle of poverty by addressing the root causes--like the breakdown of the family--government programs are actually prolonging the problem with short-term fixes. This liberal approach to welfare is devastating to the poor and to the entire nation. The more the church does, the less our government will have to do. Local faith- based charities are not only more effective, but they have also proven more efficient.

If your church doesn't have outreaches to the poor, I encourage you to consider partnering with another ministry or starting one of your own. The more energy we put into meeting our neighbors' needs, the greater our opportunity for sharing the rich message of Jesus Christ. (Source: Family Research Council)

[Added note from CHPP: We praise the LORD that this information is coming out NOW, just when our Call to Repentance on Sunday focused on the issue of "poverty and the church." Praise God!]


PRESIDENT BUSH ISSUES NDP PROCLAMATION

THE WHITE HOUSE


Office of the Press Secretary

(New Orleans, Louisiana)


­ For Immediate Release April 22, 2008

National Day of Prayer, 2008


By the President of the United States of America


A PROCLAMATION

America trusts in the abiding power of prayer and asks for the wisdom to discern God's will in times of joy and of trial. As we observe this National Day of Prayer, we recognize our dependence on the Almighty, we thank Him for the many blessings He has bestowed upon us, and we put our country's future in His hands.

From our Nation's humble beginnings, prayer has guided our leaders and played a vital role in the life and history of the United States. Americans of many different faiths share the profound conviction that God listens to the voice of His children and pours His grace upon those who seek Him in prayer. By surrendering our lives to our loving Father, we learn to serve His eternal purposes, and we are strengthened, refreshed, and ready for all that may come.

On this National Day of Prayer, we ask God's continued blessings on our country. This year's theme, "Prayer! America's Strength and Shield," is taken from Psalm 28:7, "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped." On this day, we pray for the safety of our brave men and women in uniform, for their families, and for the comfort and recovery of those who have been wounded.

The Congress, by Public Law 100-307, as amended, has called on our Nation to reaffirm the role of prayer in our society by recognizing each year a "National Day of Prayer."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2008, as a National Day of Prayer. I ask the citizens of our Nation to give thanks, each according to his or her own faith, for the freedoms and blessings we have received and for God's continued guidance, comfort, and protection. I invite all Americans to join in observing this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.


GEORGE W. BUSH

The Daily Brief - Tuesday, April 22, 2008

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped." (Psalm 28:7)

Today's Daily Brief
1. Jordan: King Abdullah II to meet Bush in Washington on Wednesday - Jerusalem Post



Jordan's Royal Palace says King Abdullah II is traveling to Washington to meet US President George W. Bush on Wednesday.

· While we do not know the agenda of this visit yet, please pray that it includes good news and support for Israel. Pray for God's wisdom for President Bush.

· "The Lord trieth the righteous: but the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth." (Psalm 11:5)

2. North American leaders meet on NAFTA - AFP

The leaders of Canada, Mexico and the United States were meeting here Monday for an annual summit with the North American Free Trade Agreement taking center stage, amid criticism of the pact in the US presidential race.

· Pray that no foolish agreements were made at this annual summit. Declare null and void any invasions upon the sovereignty of the USA. Pray in the Spirit, for little media attention has been given to this summit, and we do not know any of the outcomes.

· " Say unto God, How terrible art Thou in Thy works! through the greatness of Thy power shall Thine enemies submit themselves unto Thee." (Psalm 66:3)

3. Al Qaeda No. 2: Attacks on Western nations in works - CNN

Al Qaeda still has plans to target Western countries involved in the Iraq war ; Osama bin Laden's chief deputy warns in an audiotape released Tuesday to answer questions posed by followers.

· Pray for the foiling of al-Qaeda's plans. Continue to pray for our intelligence departments to uncover and discover any plans of this violent group. Trust in the Lord and have confidence in His plans.

· " Keep not Thou silence, O God: hold not Thy peace, and be not still, O God. For, lo, Thine enemies make a tumult: and they that hate Thee have lifted up the head." (Psalm 83:1,2)

4. Feds want to require visitors' fingerprints when leaving US - AP



The Bush administration would require commercial airlines and cruise-line operators to collect information such as fingerprints from international travelers and send the information to the Homeland Security Department soon after the travelers leave the country, according to a proposed rule.

· Pray for wisdom over this proposal, for on the surface the measure sounds reasonable to protect our nation. However, if any part of the proposal impinges upon our liberties and freedoms, we might need to take another look.

· "All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes: but the Lord weigheth the spirits." (Proverbs 16:2)

5. Poll: Clinton leads Obama by 12 points in Pennsylvania. - Washington Times



Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton leads rival Sen. Barack Obama by 12 percentage points, enough for her to declare a major victory if she wins the crucial Pennsylvania primary by that much today in the bellwether districts of Pittsburgh and its Allegheny County suburbs, a new poll completed last night shows.

· We shall soon know the actual outcome. Please pray for the Lord's wisdom and purposes to be fulfilled in the Pennsylvania primary. God knows whom He wants as the next president of the USA. Pray for the salvation of both Senators Clinton and Obama.

· "He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honor." (Proverbs 21:21)

6. US: Hamas truce offer meaningless - Jerusalem Post



In Washington, deputy State Department spokesman Tom Casey brushed aside Hamas's offer, saying the group's past rhetoric contained "all this language about truces and other kinds of issues. But the bottom line is, Hamas still believes in the destruction of the state of Israel; they don't believe Israel has a right to exist," adding it was clear "that nothing has changed" in Hamas's attitude - including that the group still refuses to explicitly recognize Israel and denounce terrorism.

· Praise the Lord that America still stands as a strong supporter of Israel. Pray that we never abandon our Israeli friends, for our stand with Israel protects our country. Remember that in Islam, lying to the infidel is perfectly acceptable. The State Department is to be commended for its open and verbal stand.

· "Therefore, thus saith the Lord of hosts, Behold, I will punish them: the young men shall die by the sword; their sons and daughters shall die by famine." (Jeremiah 11: 22)

The Middle East in Focus

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

"For thus says LORD; Sing with gladness for Jacob, shout among the chief of the nations: publish, praise, and say, O LORD, save Your people, the remnant of Israel." (Jer. 31:7)

1. IDF thwarts Hamas attempt to storm Gaza crossing, then hits back hard - Israel Insider



The IDF foiled a well-planned car bomb attack on the Kerem Shalom crossing, but the cost was high. Thirteen IDF soldiers were lightly or moderately wounded Saturday morning as Palestinians detonated car bombs, fired mortar shells and opened fire on the troops, in what the IDF considers an attempted abduction attempt.

2. Hamas says accepts Palestinian statehood - Ynet News

Hamas accepts the establishment of a Palestinian state on within the 1967 borders but would not recognize the Jewish state, Hamas leader Khaled Mashaal said on Monday.

3. Temple Museum Built Near Western Wall - Ynet News



A grandiose museum featuring an elaborated massive replica of the Temple is currently being erected opposite the Western Wall.

4. Hamas Leader Vows Not to Recognize Israel After Carter Trumpets Terror Group's Willingness to Be Good - Fox News

Just hours after former President Jimmy Carter trumpeted Hamas' agreement to let Israel "live as a neighbor," the same terrorist leader he met with face-to-face vowed not to recognize the Jewish state.

House Committee to Gut Abstinence Funding

In February, FRC helped to host Abstinence Day on the Hill, where students and teachers came to D.C. to educate members and their staff about the benefits of abstinence programs. Now, proponents of teen sex are mustering their forces--led by House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Henry Waxman (D-Calif.) -- to gut abstinence programs.

This Wednesday Waxman is holding a hearing in his committee that is clearly a sham. Waxman is inviting seven witnesses to testify against abstinence education, but only two in favor! Indeed, some of those testifying against abstinence education support "comprehensive sex-education" programs, which often teach young teens to engage in highly risky sexual behaviors and fail to provide information on condom failure.

Waxman's witnesses support children's sexual and reproductive health services without parental consent, the use of emergency contraceptives over-the-counter, and the radical view that abstinence violates human rights. His target is the Community Based Abstinence Program and the Title V abstinence state grant program. The hearing could also undermine other abstinence programs. FRC is working hard to protect abstinence education on all fronts. Please urge members of the committee to support abstinence education programs.

(Family Reseach Council)


Good News for Stem Cell Research Funding

Senate Legislation Would Encourage Ethical Stem- Cell Research

Adult stem-cell research would get a boost under legislation introduced by U.S. Sen. David Vitter, R-La. The Ethical Stem Cell Research Tax Credit Act provides a federal tax credit to stem-cell researchers if their work does not endanger or destroy human embryos. The proposed tax credit is equal to 30 percent of research expenses. "It's a great, positive way to advance this cause and educate people about ethical stem-cell research," Vitter said.

Dr. David Prentice, senior fellow for life sciences at the Family Research Council, said adult stem-cell research already has led to human treatments. "It's showing success," he said. "There are lots of clinical trials already out there . . . showing that adult stem cells actually do help patients get better."

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Go here:
Adult stem cells have a proven track record.

(Citizenlink)

Birmingham's Mayor Calls City to Prayer and Repentance

CBNNews.com - Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford addresses the City Council to report on his recent Family Summit and his next step - a call for prayer and repentence. He says it's the latest in an effort to see the hearts and souls of Birmingham residents changed in order to bring peace to the city.

Langford believes city-wide repentence and prayer will bring the miracle the Magic City needs from God to see murder and others crime decline. Click on the player to watch more of what he said to city leaders.

The Mayor has strong words for residents including Christians and non-Christians alike regarding the root of Birmingham's problems.



America Being Enslaved By Islam

With oil prices shooting upwards toward $120 per barrel and the purchasing power of Americans declining just as rapidly, the United States may well be on its way toward coming into submission to Islam. King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia has said that his country has no need to increase oil production capacity. Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad says that non Muslim countries are not paying enough for oil. He said the price of oil as an essential commodity is not high enough and believes that oil should not be used as a political tool by opponents of countries that are "endowed" with oil.

Here you have the two most radical nations of Islam saying that oil prices are not high enough. Meanwhile, there are food shortages around the world, the cost of living is increasing at an alarming rate, and people are being squeezed financially because of longsuffering the continued increases in oil prices for artificial reasons. Whether Shiite or Sunni, Islam has a common enemy--Israel and all those who support Israel. And the goal of Islam is to foment the peace of Islam, which means that all the world comes into submission to Islam. Unless the rest of the world, especially the United States and Israel, quickly develop alternative energy sources, we will be in submission to Islam.

In a sense, the United States is already in submission to Islam. We cannot attend a sporting event without going through metal detectors. We cannot use mass transit without subjecting ourselves to personal searches. We are subjected to artificially high food, fuel, production and utility prices. All these are the result of Islam. Or are they? Islam is most certainly the tool, and had America and Israel dealt with Islam decisively and forcefully, perhaps Islam would have retreated, but Islam's persistence denotes that its will as a political system--not a religion--is stronger than the collective will of America's political system, which is a reflection of each American citizen.

From the days of Jamestown and Plymouth, America was bound in covenant with God Almighty. Throughout the Bible there are examples of how Israel, also in covenant with God, was allowed to be destroyed and hauled into captivity because its leaders allowed altars to other gods. Many of America's leaders believe that "allah" and "Jehovah" are one the same. God says in Leviticus 26:15-16, "And if you shall despise my statutes, of if your soul abhor my judgments, so that you will not do all my commandments, but that you break my covenant: I also will do this unto you; I will even appoint over you terror, consumption, and the burning fever, that shall consume the eyes, and cause sorrow of heart: and you shall sow your seed in vain, for your enemies shall eat it." Resist Islam at all cost.

Bill Wilson

Word of Life Ministry