This edition of The Daily Brief
is dedicated to those who mourn tonight
in Parkland, Florida
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The Daily Brief
"Praying for All in Authority"
Thursday, February 15, 2018
"Comfort ye, comfort ye, My people. . ." (Isaiah 40:1)
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"Standing United Together . . . Under the Cross of Christ"
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Tragedy in Parkland
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Tragedy in Parkland:
Headlines for Prayer
Our prayer for today's tragedy:
Father, it is so hard to even have the words to pray over this situation. Help us to groan in prayer for these lives taken and injured. Lord, help us intercede for our nation more effectively, to protect our children and reach the souls of the lost. We pray for Your Spirit to comfort and surround these families and community.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. (John 10:10)
1. Florida Shooting: Suspect In Custody, At Least 17 Dead - CBS Miami
Deputies confirmed 17 people have died and at least 14 people were injured in the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Broward Sheriff Scott Israel said 12 people died inside the school, 2 died outside of the school, 1 person died on the corner near the school and 2 people died at hospital. The suspected shooter, identified as Nikolas Cruz, 19, is in custody. Cruz, a former student, used an AR-15 rifle and had multiple magazines on him, Israel said. Israel said earlier he was not sure why Cruz was kicked out of the school.
Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL) said the shooter had a gas mask on, pulled the fire alarm then used smoke grenades as students ran out. As for where the suspected gunman might have gotten the weapons, Nelson said "I have no idea." A student who knows Cruz said nobody in the school would pick on him. "He always had guns on him and stuff like that," said a student who knew Cruz. "He was a little bit of a troubled kid." (Read more)
- Father God, tonight we lift up all those who have been impacted by this rampage in prayer. Lord, bring comfort to those who mourn; healing to those who have been wounded; and hope to all for the days ahead. We ask Your wisdom to guide our governing authorities, so that our schools are protected from harm. In Your Name, amen.
- "Comfort ye, Comfort ye, My people . . ." (Is. 40:1a)
2. Nikolas Cruz, identified as Florida high school shooting suspect, reportedly showed warning signs - Fox News
The suspected gunman arrested in connection with Wednesday's shooting at a Florida high school, which left at least 17 people dead, was identified by the sheriff as 19-year-old Nikolas Cruz.
Officials said the shooter was equipped with a gas mask and smoke grenades - in addition to an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle and multiple magazines - as he allegedly opened fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, which Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel said Cruz had been expelled from for disciplinary reasons.
Cruz, according to student Daniel Huerfano, "was that weird kid that you see" at school, "like a loner." His adoptive mother, according to the Sun Sentinel, died in November at age 68 from an "unspecific illness."
Another student, Victoria Olvera who's a junior at the school, said Cruz was expelled last year after fighting with his ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend. She said Cruz was abusive to his ex. "I think everyone had in their minds if anybody was going to do it, it was going to be him," Olvera said. (Read more)
- Father God, we do not understand why many students at this high school reportedly knew that Cruz was dangerous, while the authorities were clueless. Lord God, please help those in authority to wake up and to spy out others whose disturbed personalities would put fellow classmates at risk. Help us, O Lord, we pray, amen!
- " But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." (James 1:5)
3. Reports say Stoneman Douglas assistant football coach stepped in front of bullets - Miami Herald
When a shooter opened fire at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Broward County on Wednesday afternoon, reports emerged on Twitter of a football coach jumping in front of students to protect them from the shooter.
Coach Aaron Feis was initially said to be dead, eliciting tributes on social media. Subsequent posts, including by a fellow coach, said he was wounded but had survived the shooting.
"Coach Feis has not passed. He was shot but is not dead," Jordan May, the son of Stoneman Douglas High head football coach Willis "Peanut" May and himself a member of the coaching staff, said on Twitter. Willis May was in his office when the mass shooting occurred and escaped harm, his son said.
By 9 p.m., the hope that had been rekindled on Twitter was extinguished. Broward Sheriff Scott Israel announced that "a beloved football coach is dead." He did not name the coach. (Read more)
- Father God, tonight we honor the memory of this courageous man, who gave his life that others might be saved. We ask comfort for his family, and for all who knew and loved Coach Feis, in Your name, amen.
- ". . . weep with them that weep." (Romans 12:15)
4. This teacher thought it was a drill but then heard shooting. He kept students safe. - Miami Herald
. . . Ernest Rospierski was locked out of his classroom, so he pushed eight kids into a two-and-a-half foot alcove by the classroom door. He desperately tried to keep the students out of the line of fire. Rospierski saw the shooter approach wearing a helmet and a mask. He didn't know it at the time, but the gunman was a former student who had been in Rospierski's freshman World Geography class five years ago.
Then Rospierski felt a bullet graze his cheek. (To read this entire, gripping report, please go here.)
- Lord God, in the days ahead, we are sure to learn more stories of heroism that will emerge from today's tragedy. We ask that You cause these ones to become known and to be honored, accordingly, in Your name, amen.
- "Give to everyone what you owe them: . . . If you owe honor, then honor."
(Romans 13:7)
5. Florida AG Pam Bondi: State of Florida Will Pay for Funerals of High School Shooting Victims (VIDEO) - The Gateway Pundit
On Wednesday night Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi told the Parkside community the state of Florida will pay for all of the funeral expenses of the shooting victims. (View video here)
- Thank You, Lord, for this act of mercy, amen.
- "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. " (Matthew 5:7)
6. Politicians, officials react to Florida school shooting - Fox News
A former student at a Florida high school on Wednesday allegedly opened fire on his classmates and teachers, leaving at least 17 people dead, according to the Broward County Sheriff's Office.
Officials have described the scene at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland as an attack that "was designed & executed to maximize loss of life," "absolutely pure evil" and "catastrophic."
President Trump tweeted that his "prayers and condolences" are with the families of those affected by the shooting, and said: "No child, teacher or anyone else should ever feel unsafe in an American school." Trump confirmed he's spoken to Florida Gov. Rick Scott, and said the White House is "working closely with law enforcement" regarding the shooting.
Politicians, lawmakers, and local officials have responded to the incident.(Read more)
- Lord God, we ask that, today, our governing officials would set aside politics and unite to comfort those who grieve and to pray for the victims of this tragedy. Use this for good, O Lord, we pray, amen.
- "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)
7. U.S. Figure Skaters Dedicate Olympic Routine To Florida Shooting Victims - Huffington Post
American figure skater Alexa Scimeca-Knierim broke down in tears following her routine at the Winter Olympics final in Pyeongchang, South Korea, on Wednesday, saying she and husband Chris Knierim skated for the victims of the Florida school shooting earlier in the day.
"We wanted to skate for the 17 children that died in the Florida shooting. And today was much more than about us," Scimeca-Knierim said in an interview following her performance, Time reported.
Scimeca-Knierim also published a tweet about the Florida shooting, sending sympathy to the victims and their families:
May the hearts of those who are mourning the loss of victims in the shooting today be lifted up. You are on my mind and on my heart. God bless you all. (Read more)
- Shalom . . .
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Focus on Israel
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1. Netanyahu blasts 'biased' police, attacks Lapid for testifying against him - Times of Israel
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday slammed the police recommendations that he stand trial on a slew of corruption charges as "biased" and "extreme," and attacked Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid, who is a witness in one of the cases against him.
Lapid, a former finance minister who has become a bitter political rival of Netanyahu, reportedly gave police critical evidence that the Israeli leader pushed to extend a law that would have given his benefactors millions of dollars in tax breaks.
In a statement about what has come to be known as Case 1000, police on Tuesday said that in return for gifts from Israeli Hollywood mogul Arnon Milchan and others, Netanyahu sought legislation to extend by a further decade an existing 10-year tax exemption for returning Israelis on income earned abroad - which could have saved Milchan millions of dollars.
Police, in a summary of their findings, said that and other political favors were granted in exchange for some NIS 750,000 in pricey gifts - including cigars and champagne - lavished on the Netanyahus by Milchan for years, and recommended the prime minister stand trial on bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. They also recommended similar charges in a second investigation, Case 2000.
(Read more)
2. Right rallies around PM, accuses key witness of being a 'snitch' - Israel Hayom
After the Israel Police announced Tuesday that it had collected enough evidence to warrant indicting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on corruption charges, reactions quickly fell along partisan lines.
On Wednesday, Habayit Hayehudi Chairman Naftali Bennett criticized the prime minister for not "living up to the standards that Israelis expect," but stressed that Netanyahu is "presumed innocent until proven guilty." "A prime minister doesn't have to be perfect, but he should serve as a role model, and unfortunately, this is not commensurate with accepting gifts on such a large scale," Bennet said after the police concluded that Netanyahu had accepted a million shekels worth of potentially illicit gifts. Bennett said he would make a decision on whether his party will remain in Netanyahu's coalition only after the attorney general decides whether or not to adopt the police recommendation and indict.
(Read more)
3. Israel Defense Minister: Iran Declared War On Us Long Ago - Jerusalem Post
Israel will do everything necessary to prevent Iran from consolidating themselves in Syria, Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman said Wednesday.
"Iran declared war on us long ago. The highest echelons in Tehran want to erase the Zionist entity, they do not hide the fact that they want to wipe the State of Israel off the face of the earth" Liberman said at the annual conference organized by the Federation of Local Authorities and Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael held at the Tel Aviv Convention Center.
"Iran is also fighting us through their proxies: Hezbollah, Islamic Jihad and now Hamas and of course the Syrian regime.Therefore it is a daily war not only in the military aspect but also in the realm of international terrorism and we do everything in order to preserve Israel's security," he continued, adding that Israel maintains absolute freedom of action.
"Everything we need to do has been done."
(Read more)
4. Israel said to fear Assad chemical weapons spillover into Golan Heights - Times of Israel
The Foreign Ministry fears poison gas may leak into Israel if the Assad regime uses chemical weapons against rebels near the Golan Heights, and has reported warned of a punishing response should such a situation unfold.
The ministry sent a classified cable to 15 Israeli ambassadors around the world, providing the envoys with guidelines for sending strong messages against Iran, Syria and Hezbollah to their host countries, following last week's infiltration of an Iranian drone and subsequent downing of an Israeli F-16, Channel 10 news reported Wednesday.
In acknowledging Jerusalem's fear of chemical spillover into the Golan Heights, the cable directed the envoys to convey that "it must be made clear that such an incident would require Israel to respond in the strongest possible terms."
(Read more)
5. Israeli President Rivlin supports annexation of Judea and Samaria, giving Arabs full rights - World Israel News
Everyone who has followed Reuven "Ruby" Rivlin's political career is aware that the President is a lifelong Betari, a student of Zionist pioneer Zev Jabotinsky, a Likudnik and a true believer in Jewish political rights to all of the Land of Israel, including Judea and Samaria. Nonetheless, since becoming president, Rivlin has largely avoided partisan political issues. That's why it came as a surprise to some when the president reiterated his views on Sunday, at a time when Knesset legislation is being raised calling for the annexation of Judea and Samaria.
Rivlin stated that he "was born into the belief that the Land of Israel belongs to the Jews," and supports the annexing of Judea and Samaria. But before completing the sentence he added, "and all residents must have full rights."
"Everyone must know that when we extend sovereignty on our country, all of its residents will become citizens of the state." Rivlin added.
(Read more)
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The Daily Brief
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1. Third White House official resigns after being told he wouldn't qualify for full clearance - The Hill
National Economic Council official George David Banks departed amid increasing scrutiny of the Trump administration's decision to let multiple staffers work on interim clearances. A senior official on the National Economic Council says he resigned on Tuesday after being informed that he would not receive a permanent security clearance, as the White House faces increasing scrutiny over the number of high-ranking officials allowed to work on interim clearances.
George David Banks, who had served since February 2017 as special assistant to the president for international energy and environmental policy, told POLITICO that he was informed by the White House counsel's office Tuesday that his application for a permanent clearance would not be granted over his past marijuana use. Like an estimated three dozen others in the White House, Banks had been working on an interim security clearance while the administration determined the status of his full clearance. The White House did not respond to a request for comment. (Read more)
- Father, we pray for the brave men and women who choose to work for President Trump and our federal government. Help them endure this persecution for the good of our nation.
- Give us gladness in proportion to our former misery! Replace the evil years with good. (Psalm 90:15)
2. Adam Schiff Confirms Democratic Memo Contains 'Sources and Methods' - Daily Caller
White House problems with the Democrats' "rebuttal memo" on the surveillance of Trump associates are genuine and the document could disclose "sources and methods," California Rep. Adam Schiff, the ranking Democrat on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence confirmed. His comments constituted a direct rebuke to his party's top boss in the House of Representatives, Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi.
White House counsel Don McGahn said in a statement Friday that Trump was "inclined" but "unable" to declassify the Democrat's 10-page memo because it "contains numerous properly classified and especially sensitive passages," according to Politico. Schiff's conciliatory statement could embarrass Pelosi. In a stinging comment following the McGahn statement, Pelosi said, "President Trump's refusal to release Intelligence Committee Democrats' memo is a stunningly brazen attempt to cover up the truth about the Trump-Russia scandal from the American people."(Read more)
- Lord, how long must we bear the treachery of these people?
- Surely they intend to topple me from my lofty place; they take delight in lies. With their mouths they bless, but in their hearts they curse. Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. (Psalm 62:4-5)
3. Federal abuses on Obama's watch represent a growing blight on his legacy - The Hill
In all of the discussions about the political weaponization of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI, alleged corruption at the highest echelons of those agencies and serial abuse of the secret FISA process surrounding the 2016 election, one name has been conspicuously absent: President Barack Obama. High-ranking officials and other major players in those agencies - which Obama oversaw - are increasingly embroiled in the growing scandal: James Comey, Loretta Lynch, Andrew McCabe, Andrew Weissmann, Sally Yates, Peter Strzok, Lisa Page, Bruce Ohr. Given the tight control Obama exercised over every part of his administration and agenda, the idea that any of these appointees and loyalists freelanced their activities without at least his tacit approval or that of his White House strains credulity.
These kinds of abuses of power were nothing new, given the Obama team's long history of this type of misconduct on everything from the Benghazi terror attack to the political misuse of the IRS. They weaponized the most fearsome government agencies to target, monitor and presumably illegally unmask political opponents, including members of Congress, journalists reporting unfavorable stories, Trump allies and average Americans. It's increasingly apparent that these recently exposed abuses of power served two ostensible purposes: to secure Hillary Clinton's candidacy by shielding her from prosecution stemming from the use of her unauthorized private server, and to derail the candidacy and presidency of Donald Trump. (Read more)
- Father, it is great encouragement to see this story accurately reported in The Hill. We pray other mainstream outlets will give these federal abuses of power the attention they deserve.
- In this way, you may know the truth and take an accurate report to those who sent you. (Proverbs 22:21)
4. Federal Judge Temporarily Blocks Trump Efforts to End DACA Program - FreeBeacon
A federal judge ruled Tuesday that DACA participants are likely to succeed in their challenge to President Donald Trump's ending of the program, temporarily blocking the Trump administration from ending it. This ruling by Judge Nicholas G. Garaufis of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District Court of New York, combined with a ruling from a California judge in January, means the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program could end past its planned March 5 date, CNN reports.
The judge said the decision to end the program was based on the "plainly incorrect factual premise" that the program was illegal. "The question before the court is thus not whether defendants could end the DACA program, but whether they offered legally adequate reasons for doing so," wrote Judge Garaufis, a Clinton appointee to the court, according to the Washington Times. "Based on its review of the record before it, the court concludes that defendants have not done so," he said. The Supreme Court is set to meet behind closed doors this week to decide whether to take up the Trump administration's appeal with the related California case. (Read more)
- Father, we pray for a return to Constitutional balance between our branches of government, including a way to discipline and remove judges who overstep their authority.
- Sometimes mere words are not enough-discipline is needed. For the words may not be heeded. (Proverbs 29:19)
5. House Republicans Move Forward On Goodlatte-McCaul Immigration Bill - Daily Caller
House Republicans are throwing their weight behind an immigration bill widely supported by conservatives that would provide a legislative fix for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program Wednesday. House Speaker Paul Ryan's decision to back the bill - which was crafted by House Judiciary Committee Bob Goodlatte, House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Mike McCaul, GOP Reps. Raul Labrador of Idaho and Martha McSally of Arizona - signals he plans to deliver on his promise to the House Freedom Caucus he would bring the measure to the floor if it garnered enough votes for passage.
The bill has received pushback from Democrats and moderates for being crafted along party lines, with many coming out against it citing its handling of "chain migration," funding for a wall along the southern border, its language on sanctuary cities and the elimination of the visa lottery program in favor of a merit-based system. House Majority Whip Steve Scalise said the bill addresses the requirements laid out by the Trump administration while providing certainty for DACA recipients fearing they will lose their protections if the Congress doesn't pass something in coming weeks. "I remain encouraged by developments in the House toward advancing legislation from Chairmen Goodlatte and McCaul that also enshrines our four pillars," Trump said in a statement Wednesday.(Read more)
- Father, we pray for the Goodlatte-McCaul Immigration Bill to move through the House quickly and receive the support it needs to pass.
- The whole assembly agreed to this, for the people could see it was the right thing to do. (1 Chronicles 13:4)
6. Schumer Finally Confirms Federal Rail Administrator After Horrific Run Of Amtrak Crashes - Daily Caller
The Senate confirmed the nation's top railroad safety administrator Tuesday after a number of Amtrak crashes increased pressure on Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who had repeatedly blocked the confirmation in an admitted effort to secure federal funding to revamp a rail tunnel linking New York and New Jersey. Ronald Batory, a 40-year railroad industry veteran, was finally confirmed to lead the Federal Railway Administration after initially being voted out of committee without objection in August. Schumer blocked his confirmation at the time, and again in December, in the wake of the tragic Washington State Amtrak derailment that resulted in three dead, 70 injured, and cost more than $40 million in repairs. Schumer was joined in his opposition by Senate Democrats from New York and New Jersey, who were also invested in securing funding for the railroad tunnel project, commonly referred to as the Gateway Project.
Deputy Secretary of Transportation Jeff Rosen sent a letter to Schumer Jan. 31 urging him to confirm Batory after a train carrying a group of senators crashed into a garbage truck in Virginia, killing the driver. Rosen told The Daily Caller News Foundation that Schumer's behavior was unacceptable considering the scourge of recent rail accidents. "At that time, Sen. Thune, who chairs the Commerce committee, said months have gone by and now were dealing with the aftermath of this tragedy, it's time to confirm Ron Batory, and he asked for unanimous consent," Rosen recounted, and congressional records confirm. "Senator Schumer stood up and just said 'I object' and then he walked away and didn't elaborate."(Read more)
- Father, we thank You for this important confirmation and pray Your blessing of wisdom upon Ron Batory as he works to improve the safety and reliability of our rail system.
- Wisdom strengthens a wise man more than ten rulers who are in a city. (Ecclesiastes 7:19)
7. Keith Ellison Attended Multiple Meetings With Farrakhan While In Congress - Daily Caller
Democratic Minnesota Rep. Keith Ellison, the deputy chair of the Democratic National Committee, has attended multiple meetings with Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan while in Congress, The Daily Caller has learned. Ellison's past ties to Farrakhan are well known: he admitted to The Washington Post during his first congressional campaign in 2006 that he worked with the Nation of Islam for approximately 18 months ahead of Farrakhan's 1995 Million Man March. Since he ran for Congress, Ellison has repeatedly promised the public that he left Farrakhan in the past. But Ellison's associations with Farrakhan continued even as he served in Congress, TheDC has found.
Ellison attended at least three meetings where Farrakhan was present - including a private visit to Farrakhan's hotel room - according to photos and videos reviewed by TheDC and Farrakhan's own statements. Ellison has publicly responded to questions about one of those meetings - a private dinner for American Muslim leaders hosted by Iranian President Hassan Rouhani in 2013 revealed by the Wall Street Journal on Friday - but his office declined to return a phone call and multiple emails from TheDC regarding the other two meetings. Johari Abdul-Malik, then director at Dar Al Hijrah Islamic Center in Virginia, uploaded a YouTube video in 2013 that shows Ellison casually chatting among a crowd of men, including Farrakhan. The video is short - just 28 seconds -- but what it shows is indisputable: Ellison comfortably socializing in the same group as Farrakhan, decades after Ellison supposedly cut ties with him. (Read more)
- Father, we pray these revelations will open the eyes of Jewish supporters of the Democrat party. Help them understand what their leaders truly believe and insist on changes to protect Jewish interests, including Israel.
- "Like a lion, Israel crouches and lies down; like a lioness, who dares to arouse her? Blessed is everyone who blesses you, O Israel, and cursed is everyone who curses you." (Numbers 24:9)
8. Intel Chiefs Sound Alarm on China Threat - FreeBeacon
U.S. intelligence leaders warned Congress Tuesday that China poses a major security threat by stealing and buying sensitive American technology. Chinese companies linked to the Beijing government are using a variety of methods, including cyber attacks and acquisitions of American companies to gain access to cutting edge know-how, Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Daniel Coats said during an annual threat briefing for the Senate Intelligence Committee. Coats said countering covert Chinese technology acquisition remains a top priority of intelligence agencies and addressing the problem will require greater efforts than in the past.
He also supports congressional legislation now pending in both the Senate and House that would strengthen the Treasury Department-led Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) that reviews foreign acquisitions of American firms with an eye to the national security risks. "The Chinese are pervasive on this," Coats said, "and we've seen it happen throughout both the public and the private sector." In his prepared statement to the committee, Coats singled out China for covert and overt efforts to obtain "proprietary technology and early-stage ideas through cyber enabled means." (Read more)
- Father, we pray our legislators will authorize the necessary changes to protect American businesses and interests.
- He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him. (Proverbs 2:8)
9. "Christianity Is NOT a Mental Illness!" Vice President Pence Blasts ABC's 'The View' for Mocking His Faith - CBN
On Tuesday, the panelists on the talk show discussed former White House staffer Omarosa Manigault Newman's recent comment on the reality TV show "Celebrity Big Brother" about Pence's faith. She said, "I am Christian, I love Jesus, but he thinks Jesus tells him to say things."
On "The View," Joy Behar commented, "It's one thing to talk to Jesus. It's another thing when Jesus talks to you. That's called mental illness, if I'm not correct, hearing voices."
Pence said during a broadcast with Axios journalist Mike Allen, "I actually heard that ABC has a program that compared my Christianity to mental illness. And I'd like to laugh about it, but I really can't."
"It's just wrong," Pence continued. "And it's an insult not to me, but to the vast majority of the American people who, like me, cherish their faith. My Christianity is the most important thing in my life."
Pence also stated during the Axios interview, "I try to start everyday by opening the Good Book. My wife and I try to have a prayer together before I leave every morning. I can honestly tell you my faith sustains me in all that I do and it's just a regular part of our lives. But I'm not unusual. I think I'm a very typical American, whatever your faith tradition, people understand that."
"But I just think it demonstrates just how out of touch some in the mainstream media are with the faith and values of the American people that you could have a major network like ABC permit a forum for invective against religion like that," Pence continued. "And I call them out on it. Not because of what was said about me. But it's just simply wrong for ABC to have a television program that expresses that kind of religious intolerance."
"We're better than that. Our country's better than that," Pence concluded. "I'd like to be light about it, but I really can't. Not for my sake, but for the tens of millions of Americans who cherish their faith, I can't be silent." (Read more)
- Father, we thank You that Vice President Pence has directly confronted these egregious lies and accusations with statements of truth. May he continue to be "bold as a lion" in the days ahead if and when he is so confronted again.
- "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and celebrate, because great is your reward in heaven; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you."
(Matthew 5:11,12)
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The Daily Jot
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The Daily Jot
Wednesday, February 14, 2018
Prophecy mistranslated--Rosh and Grecia
There seems to be a lot of confusion in the Christian community about the role Russia and America play in the end times. Neither country is mentioned in the Bible, but many Christian Americans tend to examine prophecy from a Western-centric, non-Jewish worldview. In reality, prophecy's timepiece is Israel and how it is impacted by the nations found in and emanating from the table of nations in Genesis 10. For example, Noah's grandsons from Japheth-Gomer, Magog, Meshech, Tubal are specifically mentioned in the end time prophecy of Ezekiel 38 as part of a coalition led by Gog of Magog against Israel. These nations are located in what is now modern Turkey-not Russia as is widely taught.
The assertion of Russia in the Bible is a mistranslation of the word "Rosh." The Ezekiel 38:2 King James translation says, "Son of man, set thy face against Gog, the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him." Whereas the New American Standard errs in its translation, "Son of man, set your face toward Gog of the land of Magog, the prince of Rosh, Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him." The Complete Jewish Bible translation is: "Human being, turn your face toward Gog (of the land of Magog), chief prince of Meshekh and Tuval, and prophesy against him." The mistranslation is such: "Rosh," or "Ros" in Hebrew, translated correctly is always "Chief" or "Head," never "Russia" (i.e., Rosh Hashana, meaning "Head" of the year).
Another misinterpretation of prophecy is found in the translation of "Grecia" in Daniel 8. In Daniel 8:19, Gabriel says, "Behold, I will make thee know what shall be in the last end of the indignation: for at the time appointed the end shall be. The ram which you saw having two horns are the kings of Media and Persia. And the rough goat is the king of Grecia." Strong's Concordance interprets the word "Grecia" in Hebrew as "Yavan, a son of Japheth (the third son of Noah), his descendants and their land." The Genesis 10 table of nations indicates this area was not only Greece (as Bible interpretations imply), but also the Eastern Mediterranean, including parts of modern Turkey (Magog, Tubal, Meshech).
Gabriel's interpretation of Daniel's vision of "what shall be in the last end" and "for at the time appointed the end shall be" is clearly an end-time prophecy, which, therefore, was not completely fulfilled by Alexander the Great and his generals as is widely taught. These events are yet to occur for the little horn (antichrist) to rise to power. Neither America nor Russia are mentioned in the Bible. The context of symbols such as the eagle and the bear does not align with the events. The prophets knew the Table of Nations and the descendants of Noah's sons. From them, we find the line of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, as well as the enemies of God's people descending from Ishmael and Esau. I'm not saying that Russia and America do not play a role in the end times. Obviously, they do. They're just not the players that some teach them to be.
Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!
Bill Wilson
www.dailyjot.com
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News from PrayerSurgeNow
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Prayers for Revival on College Campuses, and more!
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- The Persecuted Church
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Prayers for the Persecuted Church
"Remember the prisoners, as though in prison with them, and those who are ill-treated, since you yourselves also are in the body." (Hebrews 13:3)
Please visit the website for International Christian Concern to lift up prayers for the persecuted around the world, every day. Their link is: www.persecution.org -- or go here to connect. Thank you for interceding for our brothers and sisters who are suffering in Asia, the Islamic World, and the Far East.
> > > NEW FEATURE! New Coalition to Wage Global Fight to Save Persecuted Christians - Newsmax
A powerful coalition involving leading faith-based and humanitarian organizations marked Ash Wednesday by launching a major new campaign to spotlight the epidemic, unprecedented persecution of Christians around the world. The Save the Persecuted Christians Coalition is asking concerned citizens to visit
SaveThePersecutedChristians.org, where they can learn more about the campaign and get involved. They can also order a free banner to post in front of their places of worship that declares "Save the Persecuted Christians."
Retired Gen. William G. "Jerry" Boykin, the executive vice president of the Family Research Council, tells Newsmax the Coalition's objective is "to raise awareness that Christians are being persecuted in every part of the world, and then give them ways of getting involved to reduce the persecution of Christians around the world."
Boykin notes that while the media and international agencies have been quick to come to the aid of other religious minorities, Christians always seem to get short shrift.
"The UN has been in many cases downright anti-Christian," he says, "Not just oblivious or unconcerned - they've been outright anti-Christian."
Boykin urges anyone concerned about the plight of Christians to explore the resources available at SaveThePersecutedChristians.org. "As Christians, we need to recognize that we have really a biblical mandate to stand with our fellow Christians against the evil that has come against them," he says.
He encourages readers to visit the website to learn how they can get engaged. (Read more)
> > > SaveThePersecutedChristians.org.
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Classic Hymns
IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL
"Praise the Lord, O my soul." (Psalm 146:1)
IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL
"Praise the Lord, O my soul." (Psalm 146:1)
Lyrics
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Refrain
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
Refrain
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
Refrain
For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.
Refrain
But, Lord, 'tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh trump of the angel! Oh voice of the Lord!
Blessèd hope, blessèd rest of my soul!
Refrain
And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.
Refrain
Melody
As we pray for those who suffer tonight in the wake of the school shootings in Florida, we dedicate this hymn.
About the Author:
Words: Horatio G. Spafford, 1873.
Melody:Philip P. Bliss, 1876
The tune is named after the ship on which Spafford's children perished, the S.S. Ville de Havre. Ironically, Bliss himself died in a tragic train wreck shortly after writing this music.
About the Hymn:
This hymn was written after two major traumas in Spafford's life. The first was the great Chicago Fire of October 1871, which ruined him financially (he had been a wealthy businessman). Shortly after, while crossing the Atlantic, all four of Spafford's daughters died in a collision with another ship. Spafford's wife Anna survived and sent him the now famous telegram, "Saved alone." Several weeks later, as Spafford's own ship passed near the spot where his daughters died, the Holy Spirit inspired these words. They speak to the eternal hope that all believers have, no matter what pain and grief befall them on earth.
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Signs and Wonders
Solar storm could strike Earth Thursday: What you need to know
A solar storm is forecast to hit Earth early Thursday after the sun unleashed a powerful solar flare - a burst of high-energy radiation - Sunday night.
NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory Satellite captured a solar flare on the sun releasing a coronal mass ejection (CME) around 8:25 p.m. ET Sunday.
"[CMEs] are huge explosions of magnetic field and plasma from the Sun's corona," the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC) explained in a post online. "When CMEs impact the Earth's magnetosphere, they are responsible for geomagnetic storms and enhanced aurora."
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOA) issued a G1 (minor) geomagnetic storm watch for Thursday.
Here's what you need to know about solar storms - and how they can impact the Earth - before one hits the planet on Thursday. (Fox News)
> > > For details, go here.
"I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke." (Acts 2:19)
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The Good News Corner
South Korea: One of the 'Biggest Exporters' of the Gospel in the World
[CBN News] It may come as a surprise to many that South Korea, host of the 2018 Winter Olympics, is one of the "biggest exporters" of the Gospel around the world.
Experts who study the global missionary movement say the impact South Korean missionaries have had on the spread of Christianity in that last half-century is impressive.
"24 missionaries were officially sent out by the Korean churches in 1974," writes Jae Kyeong Lee, a leader in the Korea Baptist Convention. "Their number grew exponentially, and 40 years after Korea sent out its first missionaries, 27,436 Korean missionaries from various denominations were serving in 170 countries."
One reason South Korea's missionary movement has been so successful is because Christianity has thrived in Korea since the turn of the 20th century.
Read more
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Worship With Us Today!
Chris Tomlin - "Amazing Grace"
To worship with us today, please go here . . .
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About CHPP
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About Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
Our Mission Statement
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners (CHPP) is a ministry which is positioned on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., helping members of the Body of Christ to "pray for those in authority over us" in our federal government. Our primary purpose is to offer intercession on site for the members of Congress and their staffs each day that the Senate and the House of Representatives are in session; and our chief prayer focus is that "God's will be done in earth, as it is in heaven." [Matthew 6:10].
Because Jesus Christ has shed His blood for all, we, too, pray for ALL, in a nonpartisan manner. Also, because the scriptures indicate that "the effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much" (James 4:17), we are confident that fervent prayer, offered in the halls of the highest chambers of government in our land, can avail much for America. Capitol Hill Prayer Partners welcomes those who feel called to join us, engaging in this strategic work of intercession for our nation: "For there is no power but of God; the powers that be are ordained of God." [Romans 13:1]
Friends may participate by receiving our daily prayer alerts. You may contact us at chpp1994@gmail.com for more information. CHPP is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt ministry. Thank you and God bless you!
Note: You may also learn more about CHPP by going here to visit our blog. Thank you!
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We Welcome Your Gifts
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We Welcome Your Gifts
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners (CHPP) is a 501(c)(3), tax- exempt, faith-based, ministry, dedicated to praying for our leaders (1 Tim. 2:1-4). CHPP relies solely on the gifts of our readers to continue this work; thus we greatly appreciate your help in supporting this publication. Offerings may be sent to: Capitol Hill Prayer Partners, P.O. Box 5152, Herndon, VA 20172-1970. Please make checks payable to: CHPP. THANK YOU!
DONATE ONLINE!
Now you can also donate online by going here. Or . . . if you prefer, simply paste this link into your browser to access our secure online donor system:
https://www.egsnetwork.com/gift/gift.php?giftid=3B77E058-983E-4415-AA4E-2F82ED1A4DEA#
"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit." (Philippians 4:23)
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Join our Bible Readathon!
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Our Bible Readathon Continues
"Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." (Psalm 119:105)
Our numbers of readers continues to grow over time. All are welcome to join!
Our conference number is: 712-770-4340.
The access code is: 350430#. Please call at any time from midnight to 6:00 a.m. EST. WELCOME!
[Note: we are reading from these versions of the Scripture: King James, New King James, New American Standard, and NIV.]
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Pray for America!
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New Feature!
Now you can join the Salt & Light Council, praying for our nation six days each week on a conference line!
Repentance and Restoration Prayer Line
For many years now, the Salt & Light Council has sponsored this outstanding half-hour of prayer, six days per week, with additional time available for Bible reading and fellowship.
We are delighted to make this "hidden treasure" available to all of you who make up our CHPP family.
You can also view their daily prayer calendar by going here.
The following press release was issued by the Salt and Light Council. Praise the Lord!
This is a 30 minute national conference prayer call offered Monday through Saturday. We pray daily for our President, Cabinet, Supreme Court, one or two state legislatures, preambles, plus a moral topic and Israel. All are welcome to participate in prayer for our nation. Fellowship and Bible reading is optional for those who would like to remain on the line. The call is hosted by The Salt & Light Council.
605-468-8015 / Access Code 338083#
Monday - Saturday
8:30 am PT 9:30 am MT
10:30 am CT 11:30 am ET
