Elisha Vision - Commentary | Les Lawrence – Voice of Christian Zionists

Iron Sharpens Iron

26 02 2021

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Would like to know three secrets of our happy and blessed marriage of 53+ years? There are more reasons, but these three are non-negotiable: Faith, Equality, and Honesty. This post came out of a discussion Doreen and I had this Wednesday about this verse.

“As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” Proverbs 27:17

I always thought of that verse as “brother to brother” in a spiritual sense, which is true. But now I have seen a deeper meaning when it applies to the relationship of husband and wife. On the “brother” level, it certainly describes the value of rubbing or sharpening off the rough edges between two believers. But, when applied to marriage, it is life and death. A blessed and successful marriage must embrace the “iron.” Doreen and I rejoiced to see this new understanding from the Lord on Wednesday. And just to make sure we “heard” the Holy Spirit, Doreen’s verse for the day popped up Thursday morning with Proverbs 27:17. How cool is that?

When we first started dating in October of 1964, at Berkshire Christian College, we sort of “stumbled” into three personal commitments that we now know were straight from the Throne of Heaven. We were married June 11, 1967 at the end of Israel’s Six Day War. These three foundation stones of our now nearly 56 years of friendship were laid during a few walks together in 1964.

FAITH – Somehow, I am not even sure how it started, we began to say often: “You and me and Jesus.” We still say that in words and/or action virtually ever day since. We also say “I love you!” multiple times a day. We chose to make Jesus the most important One in our relationship, more important than each other.
EQUALITY – From the beginning we saw the Ephesians order of relationships. Many study husband and wife starting with Ephesians 5:23 about wives submitting to their husbands. However, to start there is a colossal error. The previous verse is the start point of our marriage: “submitting to one another in the fear of God.” We are equal before God. Jesus speaking through her has more authority than my own opinion, and Him speaking through me has more than hers. Once that is clear, we can proceed to the hierarchy of family structure that follows. It is in this functional equality that “iron sharpens iron.” One of the first things that attracted me to Doreen was her strength of character and confidence is her beliefs. When we “discussed” anything it was with 100% conviction both ways and we still enjoy these free “discussions” today. We have never shrunk back from standing strong for our opinions. I value that highly in a person. How we reconcile the times we disagree is another story, but we started by agreeing to never go to bed mad. “Be angry, and do not sin” Do not let the sun go down on your wrath. Ephesians 4:26
HONESTY – We had a third revelation on our walks. The armor of God in Ephesians 6 starts with: “Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth,” Ephesians 6:14 We mistakenly thought that referred to true doctrine, but it instead means honesty. Be honest. Tell the truth to one another. That is the preeminent piece of armor. If you don’t have truth, you are completely vulnerable to the enemy. On our second walk we vowed to be honest with each other. We even share our thoughts with each other when asked. Wow! That has been pure gold for a living relationship. Thank you, Jesus!

These three accidental vows have guided our marriage consistently. It helps that we had the godly examples of our own parents. My folks dated four years and were married 68 years. When Doreen and I celebrated 34 years, I turned to her and said: “Well, we are half way!” That long view is part of what I hope you get from these musings. One of my biggest heartbreaks is that we have not been better at helping others to find what we have found in our Jesus marriage. It is never too late. Follow Jesus!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for Israel rain (and the March 23 election).

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: equality, faith, Honesty, Israel, Jerusalem, marriage, Marriage keys
Categories : Israel Commentary

If I Perish, I Perish

23 02 2021

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Purim around the world this year is sundown Thursday to sundown Friday. Jews and Christians remember the great courage of Esther, Queen of Persia, who laid it all on the line to stand for the Jews. Her Jewish family and all the Jews of the Persian Empire were to be killed. That included twenty provinces, the whole know world at the time. That genocide was stopped by Esther’s great personal risk. The King did not even know she was Jewish. She was only one person, but was placed in position to save a nation. Please read the Book of Esther this week. It is one of the greatest stories of the Bible. Here is the short passage telling of her decision.

And Mordecai told them to answer Esther: “Do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king’s palace any more than all the other Jews. For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai: “Go, gather all the Jews who are present in Shushan, and fast for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will fast likewise. And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish!” Esther 4:13-16

Four Take-aways From Esther’s Courage:

She came to the kingdom for “such a time as this.”
The Jews fasted three days and nights.
It was against the law for her to approach the king.
Esther was willing to die if necessary.

What is the timing of your life right now? Is there a cause greater than your appetite? Is your obedience to Yehovah God higher than all else? Are you willing to lay down your life, if necessary, for God’s purpose? We are living in grand and awful times. We must listen to the Holy Spirit now more than ever. The Messiah Yeshua is asking us for full attention and obedience in these perilous times. As for me and my house, we will serve Yehovah.

Esther’s enemy was Haman, an Amalekite, a people who were perennial enemies of God’s people. The demonic spirit of Amalek is still after the Jews today. But, that is a story for another time. Read Esther this week for a word for our times.

Finally, I noticed that the great movie about Esther, ONE NIGHT WITH THE KING, is on TBN television this Friday night at both 8pm and 10pm Eastern. Enjoy! It is well worth a couple hours. ONE NIGHT WITH THE KING is also available on livestream from PureFlix.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain in Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: Amalek, Courage, Esther, genocide, Israel, Jerusalem, Purim
Categories : Israel Commentary

Yes Virginia, It Snows in Jerusalem

20 02 2021

Snow rejoicing

Israel Snow Part 2: So many people think of Israel as a desert, but this week they enjoyed a beautiful snowfall. From two feet on Mt. Hermon, to several inches in Jerusalem, Israelis rejoiced and played in the snow. It was a welcome break from the virus lockdowns, which are finally being lifted. Here is a link to some great snow pictures from this week. There was also abundant rain and another rise in the level of the Sea of Galilee. (Previous post: Snow in Israel?)

Yehovah gave specific instructions for us in the 21st Century to pray for rain. That is why I always include it as I close my posts. Zechariah 10 is a powerful declaration of His Plan to restore and save Israel and Judah! Here is the Biblical command:

“Ask Yehovah for rain In the time of the latter rain. Yehovah will make flashing clouds; He will give them showers of rain, Grass in the field for everyone.” Zechariah 10:1

The context of this verse is amazing. When you read the rest of the chapter, you will find at least 12 references to saving them and “bringing them back” from having been scattered among the nations. We are living in the historic prophetic fulfillment of the great restoration of Israel! Here is a list of the promises:

Save them, bring back, have mercy, and heal them. v. 6
Gather them, redeem them, and they shall increase. v. 8
They shall return. v. 9
Bring them back, gather them, and bring them in. v. 10
Strengthen them. v. 12

“So I will strengthen them in Yehovah, and they shall walk up and down in His name,” Says Yehovah. Zechariah 10:12

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: Israel Rain, Israel snow, Jerusalem snow, regathering, Snow in Jerusalem
Categories : Israel Commentary

Arab Mayor Endorses Netanyahu

16 02 2021

Nazareth Mayor ali-salam-crop-750x402

This is no small story. Nazareth Mayor Ali Salam represents a breakout trend in Israel. Since the “circle of peace” normalization with Israel by several Arab/Muslim states, a new openness is emerging internally in Israel. Arab Palestinians have long secretly preferred being citizens of Israel but now they are free to be public about it. Nazareth, a city of 110,000 people, is the largest Arab city in Israel. Israel’s population is nearly 9 million, of which almost 2 million are Arab citizens. Pray for the March 23 Israel election.

Recently, an Arab member of the Knesset (Israeli parliament) came out in favor of Netanyahu and his conservative Zionist Likud party. That was a break from the anti-Israel Arab block in the Knesset. Netanyahu has even promised a ministerial post to an Arab member of Likud. Bloggers in Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia have spoken out for Israel. This trend will continue and expand as the Gulf states and other Muslim countries open embassies in Israel. Kosovo, a Muslim state in Europe has already announced it will open its embassy in Jerusalem. This is truly historic. Even Indonesia may normalize with Israel.

How does this fit with prophecy? For years now I have been quoting Psalm 83 regarding the Arab states around the Israel borders. I used to think the Psalm 83 War would end a victorious military victory for Israel, but I was wrong. It has ended with the circle of peace. The Arab “cousins” of the Jews will eventually be joined with Israel, some even by converting to Jesus (Yeshua ben Yehovah), the Jewish Messiah.

In that day there will be an altar to Yehovah in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar to Yehovah at its border. And it will be for a sign and for a witness to Yehovah of hosts in the land of Egypt; for they will cry to Yehovah because of the oppressors, and He will send them a Savior and a Mighty One, and He will deliver them. Then Yehovah will be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians will know Yehovah in that day, and will make sacrifice and offering; yes, they will make a vow to Yehovah and perform it.And Yehovah will strike Egypt, He will strike and healit; they will return to Yehovah, and He will be entreated by them and heal them. In that day there will be a highway from Egypt to Assyria, and the Assyrian will come into Egypt and the Egyptian into Assyria, and the Egyptians will serve with the Assyrians. In that day Israel will be one of three with Egypt and Assyria—a blessing in the midst of the land, whom Yehovah of hosts shall bless, saying, “Blessed is Egypt My people, and Assyria the work of My hands, and Israel My inheritance.” Isaiah 19:19-25

Really? Yes, really! God has spoken it and He will do it. Yehovah does not lie or fail to keep any of His promises. Wow! Stay tuned. It is going to get better. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and thank Him for this week’s big snow storm in Jerusalem!

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Why do I use God’s literal covenant Name: Yehovah? Here is a link to the explanation in my book: The Hebrew God Who Has No Name. And here is a link to a great visual from my friend Keith Johnson.

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Tags: Arab Likud, highway to egypt, Israel election, Jesus, Prophecy fulfilled, Yehovah, Yeshua ben Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Five Mistakes Caused by FEAR

11 02 2021

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Fear has torment. Many people today live in fear. The worst fears include the Covid pandemic, politics (like the impeachment fiasco), fear of financial ruin, and finally, the fear of death. Yet, to fear is a huge mistake, a major miscalculation of relative threats. Here is a simple chart revealing the five errors made by those who live in fear.

FIVE ERRORS OF FEAR:

Overestimating the power of evil.
Looking at the giants through natural eyes.
Underestimating the power of Yehovah God.
Forgetting our past deliverance.
Forgetting our future reward.

Now, let us look at the five corrections of faith. Reject the mistakes of fear. Look instead to Jesus and to Yehovah God for overcoming faith. Believe your beliefs and doubt your doubts. Most people make the mistake of believing their doubts and doubting their beliefs. Have faith in God! “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

FIVE CORRECTIONS OF FAITH:

God is greater than evil. Yes, evil exists, but God has the final victory. Fear overestimates evil. If we are with Him, we win. “Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world!” 1 John 4:4
Don’t look at the “giants,” as the evil report of the spies sent by Moses, but look instead at God’s power. Elijah prayed and his servant saw the spiritual angel victory. “Then the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw.” 2 Kings 6:17
Overestimate what God can do and underestimate Satan. Believe that nothing is beyond God’s ability to heal, provide, save, and deliver. He is able to save utterly. “For with God nothing will be impossible!” Luke 1:37
Remember all that God has already done in your life, and give thanks. “Remember the former things of old, For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me,” Isaiah 46:9
When the devil reminds you of your past, remind him of his future! Jesus paid for our total life eternal. Our future is settled in Heaven. JESUS is the Author and Finisher of our FAITH! “…looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain and snow in this season for Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: coronavirus, fear, Fear of death, Jerusalem, pandemic, political fear
Categories : Israel Commentary

Spiritual Gut Check Time

6 02 2021

Jonah in whale

DO YOUR WORDS and YOUR CHARACTER AGREE? How are you doing, as we navigate these troubled waters of 2021? Is there a difference between the words that you speak and your real character? Spiritual maturity is when your WORDS and your CHARACTER AGREE. Words are cheap; or so the saying goes. How do you do when you compare yourself to the fruit of the Holy Spirit? Have politics and the pandemic provoked you to release words and attitude that don’t compare well with the Holy Spirit?

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Galatians 5:22-23

Do you have loose lips? Or worse, are you a phoney Christian? Check your heart. It may be that the real you is a lover of God with a genuine sweet spirit. But have you let your guard down? You may have indulged in harsh words that are only of your flesh and not of your true spirit in Jesus. Which is the real you? It is time for that spiritual gut check. You can actually choose your ultimate character. If you choose the flesh, selfish human nature, you will surely go off the rails. But, if you choose to live in the Holy Spirit, He will grow the kind of character above. Character is not a gift; it is a fruit. It is not immediate. It takes time. The choice is yours as to how you will live. Live by the Holy Spirit and walk by the Holy Spirit. Then your words and character will agree. I pray that the gap both for you and for me will continue to narrow until we are one with God’s character.

Here is a great blog post about Jonah’s attitude against Nineveh that illustrates my point. Please read: When God Doesn’t Burn it All Down by Paige Puckett.

Now finish this little time of reflection by reading the full context of the fruit of the Holy Spirit.

“Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” Galatians 5:19-25

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: Character, fruit of the Spirit, Holy Spirit, Jonah, words and character, words matter
Categories : Israel Commentary

Muslim Nation Opens Embassy in Jerusalem

2 02 2021

Big Muslim/Israel News You Missed: Kosovo, a Muslim majority nation in Europe, is the first Muslim nation to have their embassy in Jerusalem. Thanks to the Trump peace negotiations, both Kosovo and Serbia (majority Christian) have agreed to recognition and relationship with the Jewish state.

Israel, Kosovo establish diplomatic ties; Pristina to open embassy in Jerusalem – Israel and Kosovo officially cemented their agreement to normalize ties on Monday, with the European state to become the first Muslim-majority nation to establish an embassy in Jerusalem.

These two European countries are technically not part of the Circle of Peace, but are certainly caught up in Yehovah’s plan to bless Israel with an expanding time of peace leading up to the Gog and Magog War of Ezekiel 38. A defining characteristic of that war is that Israel will be dwelling in such peace that they will tear down the miles of walls and fencing that now separate them from the Palestinian areas. This is such a profound declaration that we cannot ignore it, especially as we see it coming to fulfillment. Israel dwelling safely is mentioned in verses 8 and 14, but the clearest is verse 11.

“You will say, ‘I will go up against a land of unwalled villages; I will go to a peaceful people, who dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates’—” Ezekiel 38:11

This is certainly NOT the case in 2021. Israel still has walls all over the place, which have kept them safe from suicide bombers for 15 years. Because of the Circle of Peace that PM Netanyahu proclaimed, we are seeing this right before our eyes!

Another profound revelation from this chapter is the coalition of nations against Israel. They are led by Turkey, Iran, Sudan, and Libya. This is a totally different list than the Psalm 83 War, which has ended not in a final battle, but in the circle of peace process. Those Psalm 83 nations have fought Israel since 1948. They will be joined to Israel producing new borders reaching to the Ezekiel coalition. What an amazing day to be alive! Fasten your seat belts.

Keeping tabs on another potential participant in the circle, here is a new story from Indonesia.

“It’s time to make peace with Israel,” says vocal Muslim – exclusive with a very special Muslim woman who is inspiring others: “Glory be to Israel!” Israel Today

Pray for the growing circle of peace for Jerusalem and pray for seasonal rain and snow.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: Circle of Peace, Embassy, Embassy to Jerusalem, Israel, Jerusalem, Kosovo, Peace Plan
Categories : Israel Commentary

King David and the Color Purple

29 01 2021

Purple threads from Solomon

Proof of royalty from the time of King David and King Solomon has been confirmed. This piece of cloth dyed purple is dated at 1,000 BCE and was found at Solomon’s mines in southern Israel. Critics always try to debunk the Biblical accounts, but this is hard evidence. The purple dye comes from Mediterranean snails, and was more valuable than gold. Here is the first Biblical mention (of many) of the purple dye. It is in the instructions given to Moses for the Tabernacle.

Yehovah said to Moses, “Speak to the people of Israel, that they take for me a contribution. From every man whose heart moves him you shall receive the contribution for me. And this is the contribution that you shall receive from them: gold, silver, and bronze, blue and purple and scarlet yarns and fine twined linen, goats’ hair, tanned rams’ skins, goatskins, acacia wood, oil for the lamps, spices for the anointing oil and for the fragrant incense, onyx stones, and stones for setting, for the ephod and for the breastpiece. And let them make me a sanctuary, that I may dwell in their midst. Exactly as I show you concerning the pattern of the tabernacle, and of all its furniture, so you shall make it. Exodus 25:1-9 ESV

Here is another verse that connects the color directly to Solomon’s chariot.

King Solomon made himself a carriage from the wood of Lebanon. He made its posts of silver, its back of gold, its seat of purple; its interior was inlaid with love by the daughters of Jerusalem. Song of Songs 3:9-10 ESV

Ancient cloth with “royal purple” dye mentioned in the Bible discovered – Israeli archaeologists have just announced the discovery of samples of cloth dyed with that specific purple dating to the times of King David and King Solomon.

Who was wearing royal purple at King Solomon’s mines? – Archaeologists working in southern Israel find Bronze Age cloth fibers colored with purple dye that was so hard to produce that it sometimes cost more than gold, the first such discovery in Israel or the southern Levant.

Historic discovery provides glimpse into wardrobe of King David – For first time, fabric with royal purple from time of Kings David and Solomon found at ancient copper mine.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL ‘BREAKTHROUGH’: TRUE ROYAL PURPLE FABRIC WORN BY KING SOLOMON DISCOVERED IN SOUTH ISRAEL – What did a fashionable King in Israel wear 3,000 years ago? The color purple as well as red and blue were prominent in their wardrobes.

Every word that God has spoken is truth and will come to pass exactly as He has promised. Be encouraged!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: Jerusalem, King David, King Solomon, purple dye, royal robes
Categories : Israel Commentary

Circle of Peace Still Alive?

26 01 2021

Ethiopian Jews kissing the ground in Israel

Yes, the circle of peace is alive, not because of political changes, but in spite of the elections. It survives because it is Yehovah Himself who is doing it. Another nation to watch is Ethiopia. Israel has recently admitted another group of Ethiopian Jews as citizens. This is a progressive miracle of several decades. Here are Biblical indications of Ethiopia joining the circle of peace. Following the verses, I have reprinted my post from 10-24-20 which explains why this circle is Biblical and will stand the test of time.

“Envoys will come out of Egypt; Ethiopia will quickly stretch out her hands to God.” Psalm 68:31

“In that time a present will be brought to Yehovah of hosts from a people tall and smooth of skin, and from a people terrible from their beginning onward, a nation powerful and treading down, whose land the rivers divide— To the place of the name of Yehovah of hosts, to Mount Zion.” Isaiah 18:7

“For then I will restore to the peoples a pure language, that they all may call on the name of Yehovah, to serve Him with one accord. From beyond the rivers of Ethiopia My worshipers, the daughter of My dispersed ones, shall bring My offering.” Zephaniah 3:9-10

CIRCLE OF PEACE (from 10-24-20) — Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu refers to the snowballing Arab peace agreements as the “circle of peace.” Yesterday Sudan was added to the growing list, soon to be followed by Oman, Morocco, and even Saudi Arabia, as well as others. There are now five Arab nations at peace with Israel. Don’t forget that Serbia and Kosovo also agree to recognize Israel and open embassies in Israel. Kosovo is the first non-Arab Muslim nation to do so. This is truly historic.

Sudan is especially interesting because they are still technically at war with Israel from 1948, which is not true of the UAE and Bahrain. Sudan’s capitol, Khartoum, was the location of the infamous Arab League meeting after the 1967 Six Day War. That is where they adopted “the three No’s”: “No to peace with Israel, no to recognition of Israel and no to negotiations with Israel.” Also, please note that Sudan will end up against Israel in the Ezekiel 38 Gog & Magog War. But first, Israel must enter a period of total peace, such complete peace that they tear down their walls and bars and gates. They would have to have immense confidence in their security, which brings me back to the circle of peace.

“After many days you will be visited. In the latter years you will come into the land of those brought back from the sword and gathered from many people on the mountains of Israel, which had long been desolate; they were brought out of the nations, and now all of them dwell safely. — You will say, ‘I will go up against a land of unwalled villages; I will go to a peaceful people, who dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates’“ Ezekiel 38:8 & 11

Notice that the nations that now encircle Israel are not mentioned in Ezekiel 38. Those are the nations that will create the circle of peace, along with others (Gulf states, North African states and a few other Muslim states). We may also see agreements with other African states who want to get in on the economic benefits that are about to explode in this Middle East circle of peace. According to Isaiah 19, even Syria and Lebanon will join! Here is just one example of the economic opportunity.

Israeli firm signs deal to pipe UAE oil to Europe – “State-owned Europe-Asia Pipeline Co. says agreement, reached as part of normalization pact, will see much more oil pumped through major link between East Asia and Europe.”

To be sure, this peace may not last more than a decade or so, but in the meantime it is an earth shaking realignment of loyalties in the Middle East. Shifting sands will see the Arab nations working with Israel in unprecedented ways. This is right in line with our studies of Psalm 83, Isaiah 19 and Isaiah 60. Wow! What a time to be alive.

MY TAKE: What about the Palestinian Arabs? The people will be included, not with a new state, but in an option to become citizens of Israel. The PA (Palestinian Authority) and PLO will certainly reject every offer for peace, so there will come a separation between the people and their terrorist leaders. The land was given by Yehovah God to Israel and He has the final say. Therefore, Israel will ultimately prevail.

“On the same day Yehovah made a covenant with Abram, saying: “To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates.” Genesis 15:18

Pray for the “circle” of peace for Jerusalem and pray for more snow and rain for Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Circle of Peace, Elisha Vision, Ethiopia, Jerusalem, Peace Talks
Categories : Israel Commentary

Snow in Israel?

23 01 2021

snow in Israel 2

Most people think of Israel as a desert, but Israel has a complete variety of climates. Mt. Hermon is nearly 10,000 feet tall. This week several more inches of snow fell at the Mt. Hermon Ski area in the north part of Israel. There are now 27 inches on the upper slopes. The temperature at the peak of the ski lifts in 24F and 30F at the base. I should admit that they call that “extreme cold.” Okay, I never said Israel has Arctic weather. Occasionally there is even snow in Jerusalem. We were there in February 2015 when they had 10 inches in Jerusalem. But we were in balmy Tel Aviv (45 minutes away) at 60F. Unfortunately, the ski area is closed this week because of the pandemic, but here are some pics.

The Galilee area is almost always warm with date palms and bananas, beautiful green hillsides, and lots of flowers. The lake is nearly 700 feet below sea level. Then, if you travel south to the Dead Sea you will find yourself almost 1,400 feet below sea level in extreme dry conditions and very hot in the summer. The salt content is about ten times normal sea water. No wonder you can float and read a magazine.

The Bible talks about snow directly and indirectly. There are 23 verses with the word “snow.” It directly refers to times of snow, and God asks Job if he has entered the “treasuries” of the snow. But, the other use is comparison, where something is white like snow as with leprosy. But the best comparison is found in Isaiah.

“Come now, and let us reason together,” Says Yehovah, “Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.” Isaiah 1:18

Here is the link to all 23 verses in the Bible that mention snow. The forecast is for snow across the U.S. this week, so it is a good time see what the Lord says about snow. Enjoy!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain and even some more snow!

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: Dead Sea, forgiveness, Jerusalem, Jerusalem snow, Mt Hermon, snow, snow thougts, winter
Categories : Israel Commentary

Free Money = End of Democracy

19 01 2021

Monopoly for socialists

This statement below is a remarkably accurate observation of the demise of democracies when voters start voting money to themselves. It is a quote from Chapter Eight of my book, Speak to the Dirt! (available in Kindle or soft cover.) What stage of transition do you think the United States is in now?

“More than 200 years ago, while the original 13 colonies were still part of great Britain, Professor Alexander Tytler wrote of the Athenian republic, which had fallen 2000 years earlier: ‘A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover that they can vote themselves a largesse from the (public) treasury. From that moment on, the majority will always vote for the candidates promising the most benefits from the public treasury, with the result that a democracy always collapses over loose fiscal policy and is always followed by a dictatorship. The average age of the world’s greatest civilizations has been 200 years. These nations have progressed through this sequence: From BONDAGE to SPIRITUAL FAITH; from SPIRITUAL FAITH to GREAT COURAGE; from GREAT COURAGE to ABUNDANCE; from ABUNDANCE to SELFISHNESS; from SELFISHNESS to COMPLACENCY; from COMPLACENCY to APATHY; from APATHY to DEPENDENCY; from DEPENDENCY back again into BONDAGE.” (attributed to Tytler)

When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right hand, “Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” Matthew 25:31-34

Pray for our nation. Pray for repentance! Pray for the mercy of God and the outpouring of His Holy Spirit on our land.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for Israel rains.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: demise of democracy, democracy, Jerusalem, monopoly, prayer
Categories : Israel Commentary

The Secret Place

16 01 2021

Yehovah

Where is the secret place of safety spoken of in the Bible? Is it a geographical place, like Jerusalem? If it is a secret, how many people really know where it is? Let me share insight to the answer to this puzzle. The answer is hidden in plain sight. A friend this week urged all of us to get serious about Psalm 91. It is such a great encouragement in times of deep trouble, such as the events in today’s political landscape. I would like to touch on just one aspect: the secret place.

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of Yehovah, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.” Psalm 91:1-2

“Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name.” Psalm 91:14

Verse 14 explains two reason He protects us. First is because we choose to love Him. Second, we know His name. Let me suggest the secret is connected to knowing His name. His name is Yehovah, the Almighty Creator God, the eternally existent One. His name is above every other name and every other God. Yet, it is even more than simply being aware of His name as a fact of knowledge, it is knowing Him! He desires that we have a relationship with Him. The Kingdom of God is, first of all, relational. It is not about theology or religion, it is personal. When I first met the Messiah Yeshua as my own personal Savior, I was born again. My life began there at that moment with an actual relationship with Jesus. That was also true in an amazing sense when I found a personal relationship with God, the Father Himself. We can walk and talk with Him as with a friend. Have you discovered this secret? Here is another way of saying the same thing.

The name of Yehovah is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. Proverbs 18:10

This name, Yehovah, appears in the original Hebrew text over 6,800 times, but is miss-translated as “LORD” every time. Lord is a real word in Hebrew, Adonai, but it is not the name of Yehovah. He certainly is Lord, but there are many Lords in history, yet only one Yehovah. If you see “LORD” in all capital letters in your Old Testament, the real Hebrew word is Yehovah. If you see “Lord,” without all capitals, then the word is Adonai. This is part of the secret hiding place of His name. Start using His name, it will change your life. Some may pronounce it “Yahweh” or other slight variations, but still use it. Use His name. His name is the strong tower. The righteous (through the blood of the Passover Lamb, Yeshua) run into His name, Yehovah, and are safe!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain in this rainy season in Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: Jerusalem, Jesus, Psalm 91, secret place, Yahweh, Yehovah, Yeshua
Categories : Israel Commentary

Depression or Rejoicing?

13 01 2021

deer-by-pond

A CHOICE TO REJOICE! – We are living in unthinkable times of hypocrisy and contradictions. There is a pall of sadness and depression over the land. Those of us who have been around a few decades never imagined we would see our beloved country overtaken by Marxist socialist ideology. So, what now?

Believers have sure promises from God. His grace is sufficient. Jesus said He would never leave us or forsake us. The Bible is full of comfort for troubled times. But here is one of the best, because it declares that we can choose to rejoice in the worst of times.

“Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flock may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls— Yet I will rejoice in Yehovah, I will joy in the God of my salvation. Yehovah God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills.” Habakkuk 3:17-19

“As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?” Psalm 42:1-2

This is the time to “come and appear before God.” Are you thirsty for Him? My friend, Bill Taylor, shared a wonderful story recently. It is said that a deer in desperate thirst makes a breathing sound (of panting) that sounds very close to the Hebrew name of God: Yehovah. The “h” sounds in His name are very breathy and I can imagine that a panting deer could make those sounds.

It is also interesting to note the name changes God gave to Abram and Sarai. In both cases He added the “h” sound to their names: Abraham and Sarah! The Holy Spirit is the breath of Yehovah. I pray that we may have the added “h” sound to our lives at this perilous and pregnant time of history. Remember that history is His-Story. God is on the throne and has everything on target for His will to be done, and for His Kingdom to come on this earth, exactly as it is in Heaven. Choose to rejoice!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray and give thanks for Israel rain.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: deer panting, depression, Jerusalem, rejoicing, thirsty for God, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Pagan Invocation to 117th Congress

7 01 2021

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO), ordained United Methodist minister

The January 3 Invocation prayer launching the 117th Congress unmasked the true spiritual warfare in which we are now engaged.

Media missed it again. There is a lot of talk about the prayer ending with Amen and A-Woman. It is pure ignorance to think the word “Amen” refers in any way to gender. It simply means: “So be it.” But the far more serious offence was the blasphemous invoking of the name of a Hindu pagan god, Brahma. This was a direct assault on our American Judeo/Christian heritage and Yehovah, the God of the Bible. Here is the end of the prayer:

“We ask it in the name of the monotheistic god, Brahma, and god known by many names by many different faiths. Amen and a woman.” Daily Wire

He also repeated the lie that we all worship the same God. The first commandment requires that we worship only Yehovah and “have no other gods” before Him. What part of “no other gods” is unclear? At the exact time that God gave Moses the Ten Commandments, Israel was making the gold calf to worship the gods of Egypt.

“So all the people took off the rings of gold that were in their ears and brought them to Aaron. And he received the gold from their hand and fashioned it with a graving tool and made a golden calf. And they said, “These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt!” Exodus 32:3-4

“Then Yehovah sent a plague on the people, because they made the calf, the one that Aaron made.” Exodus 32:35 ESV

Yehovah revealed how serious He was about this command in the immediate incident of the golden calf. Blasphemy is attributing God’s action to another god. Yehovah delivered them from Egypt, not the gods of Egypt. There could not have been a more direct contradiction to Yehovah God’s glory than crediting pagan gods for Yehovah’s salvation.

Invoking another god in our 117th Congress was a rejection of the God of the Bible. It was a low point in the spiritual war over our country. Biden says he fought for the soul of this country, but we are fighting for the soul and the Spirit of this country, which is the Holy Spirit of the living God, Yehovah. He is the God worshipped by our forefathers. The battle is on; but I don’t believe God is finished with us yet. I am praying for a great awakening and return to the God of our fathers and His Son Jesus, King of kings and Lord of lords! Who is on Yehovah’s side?

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for more rain in Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

(Following is my Facebook post earlier today.)

MY TAKE on the mob riot in DC yesterday:

I am still a Trump supporter and believe he has a case about massive election fraud.

I believe his words at noon contributed to the situation.

His policy accomplishments will stand the test of time.

The bulk of the riot was led by proven anarchists who were in position before his speech.

Some Trump supporters were guilty of criminal trespass and other crimes by joining the frenzy.

I am glad the President today announced the Jan. 20 transition will be orderly.

Yehovah has the final say!

There is a bigger spiritual battle facing our nation which I will explain later today in my Elisha Vision Commentary blog post.

Finally, I stand by my 18-minute teaching of May 31, 2020: Protests, Riots, and the Bible.

Comments : 3 Comments »

Categories : Israel Commentary

Top Cause of Death – 2020

2 01 2021

fetus

FORTY-TWO MILLION BABIES DIED, globally, from abortion in 2020. That’s 42.7 million deaths from abortion killing babies in the womb, the safest place for the baby to grow and live. Compare that to 1.8 million who died from Covid 19. Did the world lock down because of abortion?

Abortion Leading Global Cause of Death in 2020 with 42.7 Million Killed – Globally, there were more deaths from abortion in 2020 than all deaths from cancer, malaria, HIV/AIDS, smoking, alcohol, and traffic accidents combined, according to Worldometer statistics.

Does the Bible say anything about life in the womb? Of course it does.

“For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them.” Psalm 139:13-16

“Then the word of Yehovah came to me, saying: Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5

For a longer list check out the page from Focus on the Family. Pray for deliverance from this scourge on the earth. Pray for the 48^th annual March for Life in the United States which will take place in Washington, D.C., on January 29, 2021.

Doreen and I pray that you will be blessed by the Holy Spirit of the living God Yehovah and His Son Yeshua this new year of 2021. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain in Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: 2020, 2021, Abortion, Jerusalem, Pro Life, womb
Categories : Israel Commentary

The Misty Flats – A Choice

28 12 2020

Fear not

As we wait between the holidays and the new year we face a choice, as always. Do not succumb to the doldrums of “the misty flats.” We must choose the heights of God’s purpose. The temptation is to surrender to mild or even serious depression as we view our world. But God is in control! Look to the Rock from which you were hewn. We are not meaningless blobs slogging through a meager existence, but beings created in the image of Yehovah God. Rise up! Follow the higher path upward to find your place in God’s Plan.

I was inspired by this early 20th century poem by John Oxenham. Consider the message and choose wisely.

THE WAY

To every man there openeth
A Way, and Ways, and a Way.
And the High Soul climbs the High way,
And the Low Soul gropes the Low,
And in between, on the misty flats,
The rest drift to and fro.
But to every man there openeth
A High Way, and a Low.
And every man decideth
The Way his soul shall go.

If you feel like you are in the misty flats during the holidays, it is time to stir up the Holy Spirit in your heart and trust Him completely. Here is an anchor scripture from Isaiah 51, to encourage you. I pray that the Lord Jesus will strengthen you with might in the inner man. Read the end of the book, we win!

A Call to Trust Yehovah

“Listen to me, all who hope for deliverance—

all who seek Yehovah!

Consider the rock from which you were cut,

the quarry from which you were mined.

Yes, think about Abraham, your ancestor,

and Sarah, who gave birth to your nation.

Abraham was only one man when I called him.

But when I blessed him, he became a great nation.”

Yehovah will comfort Israel again

and have pity on her ruins.

Her desert will blossom like Eden,

her barren wilderness like the garden of Yehovah.

Joy and gladness will be found there.

Songs of thanksgiving will fill the air. Isaiah 51:1-3 NLT

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for winter rains in Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

(Why do I use God’s literal covenant Name: Yehovah? Here is a link to the explanation in my book: The Hebrew God Who Has No Name.) and here is a link to a great visual from my friend Keith Johnson.

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Israel, Jerusalem, Misty flats, Yehovah, Yeshua
Categories : Israel Commentary

Merry Christmas, Timing is Everything

25 12 2020

Monday’s big event was the close view of Saturn and Jupiter forming “the Christmas Star,” for the first time in 800 years. Even though the wise men visited two years later; and Messiah’s birth was probably a different month; still, there was a message from God on Monday.

The astronomical oddity was exactly on December 21, the shortest day of the year. How appropriate that the day with the most darkness was visited by the heavenly sign of the star. The Messiah indeed came into Israel at one of its darkest hours to proclaim Himself as the LIGHT of the world!

Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” Luke 2:9-14 NLT

Doreen and I, and our entire family, bless you this wonderful season. May you day be full of joy, blessing and giving of thanks for Yeshua, the Messiah. He is the real reason to celebrate.

Also, please prayerfully consider an end of year donation to Elisha Vision Ministries. We so appreciate your prayers and support throughout the year. Shalom!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain!

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: Bethlehem star, Christmas star, Israel, Jerusalem, Messiah, Yeshua
Categories : Israel Commentary

Big News Israel – New Elections

22 12 2020

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Well, it is now official. One hour ago Israel time the Knesset (Parliament) was officially dissolved leading to March 23 elections for the fourth time in two years. This time, however, Prime Minister Netanyahu has a larger potential coalition of the right. The problem for him will be strong opposition for the top spot from two other conservative leaders, Naphtali Bennett and Gideon Saar. PM Netanyahu also still faces trial for three cases that have been brewing for years and may yet be dropped. Either way, the conservative right will almost certainly form the next government easily without needing a “unity” government that was anything but. So, fasten your seatbelts for a vigorous campaign the next three months. And PRAY for Yehovah God’s will to be clearly manifest.

23rd Knesset dissolved, Israel going to elections – Knesset’s term comes to an end after 2020 budget was not approved. In accordance with the law, election will be held in about 90 days.

As new election is called, PM blames Blue and White, predicts ‘huge win’

There was also good news announced today as the first ever Israeli flight to Morocco landed in Rabat, the capitol, to solidify a fourth normalization agreement in as many months.

Morocco and Israel to open diplomatic missions within two weeks – While in Rabat, the US and Israeli delegations were expected to sign the first documents that are part of the Israel-Morocco normalization deal.

Praise God for the inertia for new agreements with Arab countries as peace blossoms with the two ancient tribes of Jews and Arabs. These cousins are coming together because of the aptly named Abraham Accords brought to fruition by the Trump Administration. The real credit is Yehovah’s. He sees the end from the beginning and revealed His plan in Psalm 83, Psalm 102, Isaiah 19, Isaiah 60, Ezekiel 38, and many more references throughout the Bible. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for good rains this season.

Remember the former things of old, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying, “My counsel shall stand, and I will do all My pleasure,” Isaiah 46:9-10

Only I can tell you the future before it even happens. Everything I plan will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish.Isaiah 46:10 NLT

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: Abraham Accords, Israel Elections, Israel peace, Morocco, normalization
Categories : Israel Commentary

Election Limbo 3.0 The Furnace

18 12 2020

The overwhelming voices of media insist that the election is over, but there is only one voice that matters. And I have not heard God say that Biden will be President. Here is the word I have heard today.

“If it had not been Yehovah Who was on our side,” Let Israel now say— “If it had not been Yehovah who was on our side, when men rose up against us, Then they would have swallowed us alive, when their wrath was kindled against us; Then the waters would have overwhelmed us, the stream would have gone over our soul; Then the swollen waters would have gone over our soul.”

Blessed be Yehovah, Who has not given us as prey to their teeth. Our soul has escaped as a bird from the snare of the fowlers; the snare is broken, and we have escaped. Our help is in the name of Yehovah, Who made heaven and earth. Psalm 124

I have been meditating on Daniel and his three fellow captives in Babylon. They would not bow down to man or to pagan gods. But have you ever looked up the meanings of their Hebrew names? We know them as Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, but look at the Hebrew name and meaning of each.

Daniel = “God is my judge. “
Hanniah = “Yehovah has favored.”
Mishael = “who is what God is”
Azariah = “Yehovah has helped”

No wonder the King changed their names to political titles. Man’s rule always exchanges our God given placement and blessing with man’s false honor and flattery. Seriously? In which list would you like to be mentioned? As for me and my house, we will serve Yehovah!

Belteshazzar = “lord of the straitened’s treasure”
Shadrach = “royal” or “the great scribe”
Meshach = “guest of a king”
Abed-nego = “servant of Nebo”

Our help is in the name of Yehovah, Who made heaven and earth. Psalm 124

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 3 Comments »

Categories : Israel Commentary

Abraham Accords are Real Miracles

15 12 2020

UAE, Bahrain Delegations Join Western Wall Hanukkah Lighting Ceremony – A delegation from the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain joined a Hanukkah menorah lighting ceremony at the Western Wall in Jerusalem on Monday night, in what was hailed by the holy site’s chief rabbi as a “Hanukkah miracle.”

Israel is normalizing relations with Arab nations. Morocco has joined the “circle of peace.” This is the fourth Arab state, with Oman and Indonesia waiting in the wings. Can Saudi Arabia be far behind? Expect more announcements before the inauguration. Is this real peace or false peace? These agreements transcend Muslim religious issues. These are true Hanukkah miracles.

Some believe this is because of business opportunities, but there is a deeper reason here. Arabs consider themselves “cousins” of Jews from ancient times. This predates Islam. Many Arabs are beginning to look beyond the Islamic box. As I have reported, Biblical prophecy indicates this will occur after the Psalm 83 War and before the Ezekiel 38 Gog and Magog War. The latter war lists the confederacy of nations that noticeably omits the Arabs that border Israel. This suggests there has been peace and normalization with Israel. So, I believe we are right on track for God’s purpose and timing.

“The multitude of camels shall cover your land, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all those from Sheba shall come; they shall bring gold and incense, and they shall proclaim the praises of Yehovah. All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered together to you, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister to you; They shall ascend with acceptance on My altar, and I will glorify the house of My glory.” Isaiah 60:6-7

The locations in the above verse are all in Saudi Arabia. I am not making this up. It sure sounds to me like the Saudis will worship Yehovah, be accepted at His altar and thus bring Him glory. The Kingdom of God is relational. Before religion or politics there is family. This includes Abraham’s family. Remember to make a distinction between the natural descendants of Abraham and the subsequent religion of Islam, which is totally opposite of Yehovah God of the Bible. Both Jews and Christians worship Yehovah. I maintain that something is happening among Arabs that will open their hearts to the living God Yehovah. Here are recent headlines that illustrate my point.

Arab billionaire: Family unity before business – Entrepreneur Mohamed Alabbar says normalization with Israel is about more than business. “Can we meet each other first? I don’t think it’s about business. Business will come.” But first, he said, “I need to meet your mother, you need to come and meet my mother. I said, if you want to know what peace means, and what we Arabs and Muslims are all about, come to my mother’s house. You don’t need anything else except to see my mother, and I’m sure the same with his mother. I’m quite keen on this ‘family reunion,’ and for people to know each other. And for our kids to get introduced to our friends of from Israels’ kids and [to] create that unity,” Alabbar said.

Oman Welcomes Morocco, Israel Normalization – Oman welcomed Morocco’s announcement that it was establishing diplomatic ties with Israel and hoped the move would strengthen efforts towards a lasting and just peace in the Middle East, its foreign ministry said on Friday.

Many Muslim Indonesians Love Israel – Abraham Accords bring Israel-loving “Zionists” out of the woodwork in Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim country.

No matter the outcome of the U.S. election, Yehovah has the final say! The Kingdom of God is relational. All who have a heart for truth will find Yehovah and His Son, Jesus, who is Yeshua ben Yehovah. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Also, thank Him for the heavy rain this week in Israel which shows His blessing on the land.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Categories : Israel Commentary

Why is Hanukkah Happy?

12 12 2020

We are in the eight days of Hanukkah and many have no idea of the meaning, even though it is in the New Testament. The simple definition is “dedication.” That is how you discover it in John’s Gospel. You may be surprised to learn that Jesus observed this holiday.

“Now it was the FEAST OF DEDICATION in Jerusalem, and it was winter. And Jesus walked in the temple, in Solomon’s porch. Then the Jews surrounded Him and said to Him, “How long do You keep us in doubt? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.” John 10:22-24

Hanukkah is called the Feast of Dedication for a reason. About 150 years before Jesus came, the Greeks desecrated the Temple in Jerusalem and were going to destroy it. The Jew defeated them under Judas Maccabee, but then needed to rededicate the Temple. The special nine-candle menorah, called a Chanukkiah, commemorates that great victory.

In the year 168 BCE, the Temple in Jerusalem was desecrated and renamed for the Greek god Zeus. Antiochus had outlawed Judaism, banning the observance of Shabbat and holidays. He set up altars to Greek gods in the Temple, and gave Jews a choice that unfortunately would become familiar in future centuries: Convert or die. The Maccabees decided to resist instead — and won, despite facing overwhelming odds. Forward.com

Jewish tradition tells us they had only enough oil for one day, but needed eight days to consecrated more oil. Thus the miracle of the oil lasting eight days. Yet, the real miracle was the defeat of the Greeks. So, they have eight candles that are lit sequentially each day. But what about the ninth candle? The Jews call it the servant candle, used to light the others. What an amazing revelation for Christians of Jesus who is called the servant-king and is the light of the world!

“Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” John 8:12

There is one more thing about the context of Jesus in the Temple for Hanukkah. They asked Him if He really was the Messiah to tell them plainly. A bit further down in John 10, the answer comes when He says he told them and they did not believe, and ends the paragraph with this declaration:

“I and My Father are one.” Then the Jews took up stones again to stone Him. John 10:30-31

They did not kill Him this time. It was one of half a dozen times they tried to kill Him before His time. But why? They considered it blasphemy to equate Himself with God. The reason they drew Him into declaring as the Messiah was so they had an excuse to kill Him. Yet, that would only come in the appointed manner and time of God’s own choosing.

I hope you see the value as a Christian to lighting the Hanukkah candles. Yes, we identify with our Jewish roots, but more importantly we worship and proclaim Jesus as the Son of God, Yeshua ben Yehovah!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and continue to pray for seasonal rains in Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: Elisha Vision, Hanukkah, Jerusalem, Jesus, Light of the world, Yeshua ben Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Endowed by the Creator

9 12 2020

Declaration of Independence

This is bigger than the Biden gaff, where he famously fumbled “endowed by the Creator” and instead said: “the thing, you know, you know, the thing.” There is a war in the heavenlies between forces of darkness and the light of Yehovah God shining through His Son, Yeshua. Anti-God folks also like to leave out “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance. This is intentional, not accidental. Their beef is with God Himself. The current leftist anarchists attempting to overthrow the government echo the same motive we find in Psalm 83 where the attack against Israel is really the rejection of Yehovah.

“Do not keep silent, O God! Do not hold Your peace, and do not be still, O God! For behold, Your enemies make a tumult; and those who hate You have lifted up their head. They have taken crafty counsel against Your people, and consulted together against Your sheltered ones. They have said, “Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, that the name of Israel may be remembered no more.” For they have consulted together with one consent; they form a confederacy against You:” Psalm 83:1-5

Notice the words in bold emphasis. They try to destroy Israel because they can’t reach God, but it is He that they hate. In the foundation of the United States we have the Declaration of Independence. The context is critical. The fresh new country being established was directly opposing the “Divine right of Kings,” which was their issue with England and necessitated the “separation” from the monarchy. Thus, belief in God and His impartation of “certain inalienable rights” was the background producing this declaration. Please consider carefully the Declaration’s references to God in the first two paragraphs. (I have added numbers to emphasize the five self-evident truths.)

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America, When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident,

that all men are created equal,
that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights,
that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.–
That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, —
That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. National Archives

Now this brings us to the responsibility of free speech. By this I mean our necessary speech when government seeks to limit our God given rights. This is the over arching authority of God. When possible we submit to rule and authority of man with the understanding that they are ordained by God. But when the authority requires us to disobey God, we must disobey the authority. Free speech is not free if we are told not to preach. Here is the clear Bible basis for civil disobedience.

So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:18-20

Pray for our nation, speak the truth without fear of man. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Pray for Israel’s seasonal rains to come in abundance.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists, (Read more)

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Tags: civil disobedience, Creator, Declaration of Independence, free speech, Jerusalem
Categories : Israel Commentary

2020 Zionist Story – Kissing the Ground!

4 12 2020

The mother descending from the plane “kisses the ground and carries a baby named Yerushalayim, and another baby named Esther. Esther and Yerushalayim, come to Jerusalem – this is the essence of the Jewish story, this is the essence of the Zionist story,” – Prime Minister Netanyahu welcomes Ethiopian Jews to Israel as newest Israeli citizens. Israel Today

Operation Tsur Israel: First 316 Ethiopian Jews Arrive Home – By February 2021, over 2,000 members of the Falash Mura are expected in Israel. Defense Minister Benny Gantz stated that “we are realizing the Zionist vision in its purest sense – Kibbutz Galuyot [the reconvening of the diaspora]. You, who stand at the gates of this country, carry on your backs a wonderful tradition of thousands of years,”

Kissing the ground, hundreds of Ethiopian immigrants welcomed to Israel – Ethiopia-born Absorption Minister Pnina Tamano-Shato arrives with flight, greeted with fanfare at airport, as plan to bring 2,000 kicks off, with thousands more still waiting. Waving Israeli flags as they came down the steps of the aircraft, over 300 members of Ethiopia’s Jewish community arrived in Israel on Thursday in a special airlift from Gondar. Times of Israel December 3, 2020

“I will be found by you, says Yehovah, and I will bring you back from your captivity; I will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you, says Yehovah, and I will bring you to the place from which I cause you to be carried away captive.” Jeremiah 29:14

“Listen to this message from Yehovah, you nations of the world; proclaim it in distant coastlands: Yehovah, who scattered his people, will gather them and watch over them as a shepherd does his flock.” Jeremiah 31:10 NLT

“Therefore say, ‘Thus says Yehovah: “I will gather you from the peoples, assemble you from the countries where you have been scattered, and I will give you the land of Israel.” Ezekiel 11:17

“This is what the Sovereign Yehovah says: The people of Israel will again live in their own land, the land I gave my servant Jacob. For I will gather them from the distant lands where I have scattered them. I will reveal to the nations of the world my holiness among my people.” Ezekiel 28:25-26 NLT

These Ethiopian Israelis believe they are from the tribe of Dan. Also, there are immigrants from India from the lost tribe of Mannaseh, and immigrants from Nigeria who believe they are descendants of Ephraim.

God is certainly regathering His people from the far corners of the world. Hallelujah! Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain in Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: Aliyah, immigration, Israel, Jerusalem, Kiss the ground, Zionist
Categories : Israel Commentary

The Epic Spiritual Battle

1 12 2020

Lies and mixture confuse the news reports from major media. We are undoubtedly now engaged in spiritual warfare such as described in Ephesians 6. One such example is censorship of conservative voices as revealed in a legal win for Candace Owens. She was censored by Facebook’s “independent” fact-checker Politifact. She simply stated that Joe Biden is not the President-Elect, even though it is all over media. The truth is that a candidate does not legally have that designation until the Electoral College votes (Dec. 14).

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12

Last week, Rick Ridings, an Israeli Messianic leader, posted a vision he received on November 22. It involved a demonic spider queen spinning her web over the whole world, but which was defeated by the Lion of Judah. I quote the verses he used here because they accurately speak to the current confusion over the U.S. election. The overriding importance is how our government will treat Israel. This is so much bigger than our nation, but touches the eternal purpose of Yehovah to bless Israel.

“He thwarts the plans of the crafty, so that their hands achieve no success. He catches the wise in their craftiness, and the schemes of the wily are swept away.” Job 5:12-13 NIV

“Such is the destiny of all who forget God; so perishes the hope of the godless. What they trust in is fragile; what they rely on is a spider’s web. They lean on the web, but it gives way; they cling to it, but it does not hold.” Job 8:13-15 NIV

“They hatch harmful plots like snake’s eggs and spin their lies like a spider spins its web. Whoever eats their ‘eggs’ dies and a poisonous snake gets hatched! Their ‘webs’ cannot substitute as clothing, they cannot cover themselves with the lies they spin, nor can their works cover themselves adequately. Their actions are evil, and the wages of violence is in their hands.” Isaiah 59:5-6 TPT

“As a lion growls, a great lion over his prey – and though a whole band of shepherds is called together against him, he is not frightened by their shouts or disturbed by their clamor – so the Lord Almighty will come down to do battle on Mount Zion and on its heights. Like birds hovering overhead, the Lord Almighty will shield Jerusalem.” Isaiah 31:4-5 NIV

We must continue to pray and stand for truth and victory in the U.S. election for Israel’s sake. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Candace Owen, Israel, Lion of Judah, spider web of deceit, U. S. election, vidtory, web of deceit
Categories : Israel Commentary

Let it Rain!

27 11 2020

Click on photo for videos.

We have been praying for rain according to Zechariah 10:1 for Israel and our prayers are being answered. Thanks be to Yehovah, the faithful God of Israel, that even with the flooding there are no deaths reported.

“Ask Yehovah for rain in the time of the latter rain. Yehovah will make flashing clouds; He will give them showers of rain, grass in the field for everyone.” Zechariah 10:1

Massive Increase in Lightning Strikes Across Israel – Heavy rains bring flooding, in addition to welcome increase in Sea of Galilee water level.

Wettest November since 1994 causes flooding, damage in coastal cities – Storms expected to let up over the weekend.

“Therefore the showers have been withheld, and there has been no latter rain. You have had a harlot’s forehead; you refuse to be ashamed.” Jeremiah 3:3

Blessing or Judgement? – Giving or withholding rain is a sign that God uses to let us know our condition before Him. We may complain about the flooding, but it sure is better than drought. Israel is in restoration, which is why I have faith that the rains are being restored. One specific sign of the last days is the promise that the desert will blossom like a rose. That is happening on a very small scale through irrigation, but the real blessing comes with the restoration of full scale seasonal rains that will cause the seeds in the desert to sprout and grow and produce fruit. Hallelujah!

“The wilderness and the wasteland shall be glad for them, and the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose; It shall blossom abundantly and rejoice, even with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the excellence of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of Yehovah, the excellency of our God.” Isaiah 35:1-2

Keep praying for seasonal rains in abundance and pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Israel flooding, Israel Rain, Jerusalem, judgment
Categories : Israel Commentary

Israel + Saudi Arabia = Peace?

23 11 2020

Breaking News Today! – Dramatic secret meeting between Israel and Saudi Arabia with Crown Prince Mohammed, Prime Minister Netanyahu and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. This just happened last night. It has been officially confirmed by Israel that the meeting took place. This is very clear evidence of a brewing peace deal. Here are fresh reports:

‘Huge Drama:’ Israelis Excited Over Netanyahu Meeting in Saudi Arabia – Saudi officials confirm secret meeting, sparking new hopes of peace

Netanyahu discussed normalization with Saudi Crown Prince – Senior Saudi official says Israeli PM and Saudi Crown Prince discussed normalization but did not reach any agreement in last night’s meeting

PM secretly meets with Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman, Pompeo in Saudi Arabia – Mossad Director Yossi Cohen said to accompany Netanyahu on trip focused on Jerusalem-Riyadh ties, and possibly the signing of a peace accord with the Gulf power in the near future.

This major meeting has Israel and Saudi Arabia buzzing, as well as the rest of the Middle East. The possibilities are amazing as the Arab states choose to align with Israel to jointly resist Iran’s terror threats. The Iranian Shia Ayatollahs and Mullahs are sworn to the destruction of the Arab monarchies because of the ancient divisions of Islam between Shias and Sunnis. Naturally, there is opposition to the talks from Hamas in Gaza. Even the Arab members of Israel’s Knesset (Parliament) are exposed, as against peace.

Arab MKs condemn Netanyahu’s Saudi visit, warn it could spark war – Joint List lawmakers, who also opposed normalization with UAE and Bahrain, claim Trump and PM have ‘nothing to lose’; Hamas demands explanation from Riyadh

One final aspect is fascinating on a different level. This surprise talks were held in the new Saudi city of Neom on the Red Sea. This is a $500 BILLION project by MBS (Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman). But it happens to be right where Mt. Sinai is located. My theory is that MBS plans to use Mt. Sinai as the crown tourist attraction for his Neom project, and for this he needs peace and normal relations with Israel.

NEOM – AN ACCELERATOR OF HUMAN PROGRESS

For all of this we must be in much prayer. Remember what I have been saying about the future of Saudi Arabia according Isaiah 60. All the places in these two verses are in Saudi Arabia.

“The multitude of camels shall cover your land, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; All those from Sheba shall come; They shall bring gold and incense, and they shall proclaim the praises of Yehovah. All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered together to you, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister to you; they shall ascend with acceptance on My altar, and I will glorify the house of My glory.” Isaiah 60:6-7

If you can believe the Bible, it says they will be accepted on Yehovah’s altar! Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray and thank God for Israel’s rain.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

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Tags: Israel, Jerusalem, Mideast peace, Neom, normalization, Saudi Arabia
Categories : Israel Commentary

France Has a Muslim Problem

20 11 2020

M&Ms

I know my title is politically incorrect. Please allow me to explain. Not all Muslims are jihadists, but all jihadists are Muslim. Therefore the picture of the M&Ms is appropriate. How many would you eat if only 10 of 10,000 pieces of candy in a bowl were deadly? Following the beheading of a teacher for showing a cartoon of Mohammed, and then the beheading of a Christian woman in a church, French President Macron stood tall and strong.

Emmanuel Macron issues ultimatum to French Muslims – French president issues ‘republican values ultimatum’ to Muslim leaders, demanding they sign charter denying Islam is a political movement.

“We will behead you all” – France is the new Syria – “My father will behead you.” a student told a teacher at Pierre Mendes France school in Saumur, in front of everyone. One of many. – While French President Emmanuel Macron is working on the law against “Islamist separatism,” Islamists are threatening to separate many heads from the bodies of numerous mayors and professors.

At least 10% of France is now Muslim with much higher percentages in Paris (15% or more). This is a ticking time-bomb that will only get worse, unless Macron is successful with his ultimatum. (See my book, Simple Islam.) I bring this up because we understand that ethnic conflict is a sign of the last days.

Jesus was asked when He would return, in Matthew 24, and His answer had a hidden clue lost in translation.

“For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places.” Matthew 24:7

The hidden clue is the Greek word translated “nations.” When you read the verse it sounds redundant because nation and kingdom both mean countries. But the first one, nations, is the Greek word “ethnos” which is almost precisely the English word, ethnic.

Therefore, the rise of ethnic clashes in France is a marker that we are close to the return of the Messiah. The same is seen in the rise of racial divisions in other countries. BLM is an example in America. So what are we to be doing at this time?

“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing. Assuredly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all his goods.” Matthew 24:45:47

We are to be about our Father’s business even as the day approaches. Remember my last post; more are they that are with us than they that are with the enemy.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for Israel rains.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: BLM, ethnic, Israel Elections, Messiah, Prophecy, Prophecy of Jesus
Categories : Israel Commentary

Fear God MORE

17 11 2020

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Do you fear death? Do you fear the future? Do you fear man or the devil? The only antidote is to fear God more. It may sound odd, but I am not saying be in terror of God, but respect and revere Him above all. A major life verse for me is found in the story of Elisha, (thus, Elisha Vision Ministries). When they were surrounded by the Syrian army, Elisha’s servant was afraid until Elisha spoke.

So he answered, “Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” 2Kings 6:16

No matter how bad it looks MORE are they that are with us! Don’t fear. God is in control. He is greater than any adversary.

I’ve been in Daniel 2 a lot lately and heard a word from Yehovah. Last week I shared this quote:

That night the secret was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven. He said, “Praise the name of God forever and ever, for He has all wisdom and power. He controls the course of world events; He removes kings and sets up other kings. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the scholars. He reveals deep and mysterious things and knows what lies hidden in darkness, though he is surrounded by light.” Daniel 2:19-22 NLT

But, I heard more this week about the courage of Daniel and his three friends (the ones in the fiery furnace). They refused to bow or submit to the authority of the King because they served a higher authority, Yehovah God. My prayer is that for the sake of our nation and God’s purpose for America, we need Daniels to stand up and be counted for Yehovah and His Son, Yeshua. We must stand for the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. Prayer is our greatest weapon.

We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do. We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 NLT

Pray for the President, for America, and for the peace of Jerusalem! Also pray for seasonal rains in Israel.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: election fraud, Elections, Fear of death, Jerusalem, More with God, panic
Categories : Israel Commentary

Covid 19 Help from a Llama

13 11 2020

There is a very encouraging story from Jerusalem that has received little notice in America news. Wally the llama lives in Massachusetts, but analysis of his antibodies was conducted in a Hebrew University lab in Jerusalem.

Wally the llama’s antibodies, analyzed in J’lem, may help millions through COVID – “They are highly potent,” says Israeli researcher who scrutinized the Massachusetts llama’s ‘nanobodies’ to pave the way for an inhaler intended to help patients fight virus.

Antibodies from a single llama that were analyzed in a Jerusalem lab could be replicated and help “millions” of coronavirus patients, scientists say.

Dina Schneidman-Duhovny of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has examined the qualities of dozens of antibodies from a llama called Wally and identified which would best fight the coronavirus in humans.

The best candidates have been tested in vitro by her US-based colleagues with live coronavirus and human cells, and appear to significantly reduce the virus’s ability to infect cells.

As the llama antibodies are much smaller than human antibodies — they are often dubbed “nanobodies” — they are simpler and cheaper to replicate artificially. Researchers say they would not need to be taken intravenously, unlike human antibodies, and could be dosed via an inhaler, which is already being developed for clinical testing. (TOI / VFI News)

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says Yehovah, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

God continues to use Israel to be a blessing to the whole world. Thank you, Jesus!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for abundant seasonal rain. Also continue to pray for merciful and righteous judgement for the U.S. election.

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Covid 19, election, Jerusalem, Llama antibodies, nanobodies
Categories : Israel Commentary

One More Voter

9 11 2020

Barr

Attorney General William Barr Authorizes DOJ to Look into Voting Irregularities

ELECTION LIMBO 2.0 – As we continue waiting for litigation and final results, remember that there is only one vote that counts, but not AG Barr. Yehovah God has the final say. His “vote” is all that matters now. Please allow me to stay on the subject of this election. It is the most important issue of our day. It is not over, and we must pray for God’s mercy. Also, we must pray for President Trump. He is the one referenced in this verse:

“Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.” 1 Timothy 2:2 NLT

The only authorized President today is Donald J. Trump. We continue to pray for him that we can live “peaceful and quiet lives.” Mr. Biden has no authority over this country unless every legal vote is counted and he is certified by the regular means established by the U.S. constitution. I am praying that all that is hidden in darkness and corruption will be revealed by God Himself!

That night the secret was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven. He said, “Praise the name of God forever and ever, for He has all wisdom and power. He controls the course of world events; He removes kings and sets up other kings.He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the scholars. He reveals deep and mysterious things and knows what lies hidden in darkness, though he is surrounded by light.” Daniel 2:19-22 NLT

Therefore I wait on Yehovah God alone. He will choose. I may be wrong, but I totally believe God is not yet done with President Trump for America and for Israel and the Middle East. There are bigger issues than our own wishes. In my previous post I declared: The judgments of Yehovah are true and righteous altogether. Psalm 19:9 Today I stand by that fact and pray that the God of Heaven will show His mercy and His righteous judgement on our nation. May His will be done in earth as in Heaven!

Pray for the President, for America, and for the peace of Jerusalem!

Les Lawrence, voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: election fraud, election interference, Elections, Elisha Vision, U.S. Election
Categories : Israel Commentary

After We Have Done Our Best

4 11 2020

flags

ELECTION LIMBO – What do we do now while the election is being litigated? While the various appeals go through the courts, we are allowed to appeal to the Highest Court. We appeal to Yehovah God and to His Son who sits on the throne. Yehovah has the final say!

This morning, after reading the latest news reports and social media opinions, I still did not have peace. Then the Holy Spirit reminded me of this declaration by King David of ancient Israel: “The judgments of Yehovah are true and righteous altogether.”

The fear of Yehovah is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of Yehovah are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them Your servant is warned, and in keeping them there is great reward. Psalm 19:9-11

After we have done our best – I believe President Trump did his best (Fourteen rallies in three days). I also believe I did my best in prayer (more than ever), speaking out (more than ever), and voting. When things are beyond our control, we can rest in the righteous decision of God. We now lay the final decision of the Presidency before the God of Heaven. His will be done!

Here is the full context of the Psalm 19 quote. Enjoy!

1 The heavens proclaim the glory of God.

The skies display his craftsmanship.

2 Day after day they continue to speak;

night after night they make him known.

3 They speak without a sound or word;

their voice is never heard.

4 Yet their message has gone throughout the earth,

and their words to all the world.

God has made a home in the heavens for the sun.

5 It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding.

It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race.

6 The sun rises at one end of the heavens

and follows its course to the other end.

Nothing can hide from its heat.

7 The instructions of Yehovah are perfect,

reviving the soul.

The decrees of Yehovah are trustworthy,

making wise the simple.

8 The commandments of Yehovah are right,

bringing joy to the heart.

The commands of Yehovah are clear,

giving insight for living.

9 Reverence for Yehovah is pure,

lasting forever.

The laws of Yehovah are true;

each one is fair.

10 They are more desirable than gold,

even the finest gold.

They are sweeter than honey,

even honey dripping from the comb.

11 They are a warning to your servant,

a great reward for those who obey them.

12 How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart?

Cleanse me from these hidden faults.

13 Keep your servant from deliberate sins!

Don’t let them control me.

Then I will be free of guilt

and innocent of great sin.

14 May the words of my mouth

and the meditation of my heart

be pleasing to you,

O Yehovah, my rock and my redeemer. Psalm 19 NLT

Verse 14 is my prayer today. How about you?

Pray for the the peace of Jerusalem, pray for President Trump, and pray and thank God for the seasonal rain now falling in Israel.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 4 Comments »
Tags: court battle, election, media, US election
Categories : Israel Commentary

The God Who Reveals Secrets

30 10 2020

TOP BUTTON? My priority in this election is Israel. If you get the top button on your shirt in the wrong buttonhole, each succeeding button will be wrong. Israel is the top button.

Today’s pundits always start at the bottom or randomly in the middle. No wonder they usually get it wrong. Yehovah God is working in this world (and in this election) from the top down. He is working to reveal the Messiah of Israel as the Savior of the world. Israel is the key.

Is Trump counting on God to put him back in the White House? – Trump’s recent moves are seen by Evangelicals as manifestations of the Bible.

We are in a day where Yehovah is revealing hidden secrets, which will turn the course of history as it did in Daniel’s day:

Daniel answered in the presence of the king, and said, “The secret which the king has demanded, the wise men, the astrologers, the magicians, and the soothsayers cannot declare to the king. But there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets, and He has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will be in the latter days.” Daniel 2:27-29

Confused, broken-hearted, lost people find it difficult to believe in God, let alone believe His promises. Israel, resurrected and restored against all odds, is proof of God’s faithfulness. His word and His character are unchangeable, immutable. (Some of you may recall my illustration of the mute button on a remote control: “You can’t mute God, He is immutable!”

For when God made a promise to Abraham, because He could swear by no one greater, He swore by Himself, saying, “Surely blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply you.” And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. For men indeed swear by the greater, and an oath for confirmation is for them an end of all dispute. Thus God, determining to show more abundantly to the heirs of promise the immutability of His counsel, confirmed it by an oath, that by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us. This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil, where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus, having become High Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. Hebrews 6:13-20

The two immutable things are God’s word and His character. What He promises cannot fail because His character is perfect.

“God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good? Behold, I have received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot reverse it.” Numbers 23:19-20

Therefore, because God is blessing, favoring, and restoring Israel, I believe the most pro-Israel President in U.S. history will be re-elected. Israel is the top button and that is why I voted for Donald J. Trump.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Pray for Israel rain. Pray for our elections.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: Donald J. Trump, Elections, Elisha Vision, Israel, secrets, top button
Categories : Israel Commentary

America’s War with America

27 10 2020

American Presidential election 2020, and the whole world is watching.

We are in the final week of the chaos election. I don’t need to list examples. But this cartoon really captures a profound reality. The American republic with 231 years of representative government, is at war with the utopian socialist dreams of actual Marxists. They dominate media, the Democrat Party, and public education. I am not saying all people in those categories are Marxists. I am saying they are dominated by Marxist theory.

Similarly, the other side, while not largely Christian or Jewish, is highly influenced by the historic American heritage based on the Judeo/Christian standard derived from the Bible. In a certain sense we see ideas that have worked amazingly well for centuries strongly resisted by those who hold ideas that have never worked in practical application.

In the vast middle we have people who do not hold either idea intentionally. They go along with various winds of social change that appeal to random feelings at the time. That is why media is so powerful to influence the masses. The only defense against this onslaught is to think for yourself. Be well read, especially in history and Bible knowledge, which was normal for not only our founding fathers, but their families and indeed the wider population.

And oh, by the way, there is one other antidote. VOTE!

This election is in Yehovah God’s hands. He has the final say. However, in our republic, He will hold us individually accountable for our vote. The America of history is always “we the people.” God is on the throne, but He uses each of us in His Plan. We each have a place, a roll to fulfill, even as simple as one vote. I encourage you to read all of Revelation 5 at the link below.

He stepped forward and took the scroll from the right hand of the one sitting on the throne. And when he took the scroll, the four living beings and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp, and they held gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of God’s people. And they sang a new song with these words: “You are worthy to take the scroll and break its seals and open it. For you were slaughtered, and your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. And you have caused them to become a Kingdom of priests for our God. And they will reign on the earth.” Revelation 5:7-10 NLT

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, rain in Israel, and the U.S. election.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: 2020 Election, America, Elisha Vision, Jerusalem, Jesus, vote
Categories : Israel Commentary

Circle of Peace

24 10 2020

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu refers to the snowballing Arab peace agreements as the “circle of peace.” Yesterday Sudan was added to the growing list, soon to be followed by Oman, Morocco, and even Saudi Arabia, as well as others. There are now five Arab nations at peace with Israel. Don’t forget that Serbia and Kosovo also agree to recognize Israel and open embassies in Israel. Kosovo is the first non-Arab Muslim nation to do so. This is truly historic.

“After many days you will be visited. In the latter years you will come into the land of those brought back from the sword and gathered from many people on the mountains of Israel, which had long been desolate; they were brought out of the nations, and now all of them dwell safely. — You will say, ‘I will go up against a land of unwalled villages; I will go to a peaceful people, who dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates’“ Ezekiel 38:8 & 11

Israeli firm signs deal to pipe UAE oil to Europe – State-owned Europe-Asia Pipeline Co. says agreement, reached as part of normalization pact, will see much more oil pumped through major link between East Asia and Europe

“On the same day Yehovah made a covenant with Abram, saying: “To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates.” Genesis 15:18

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, pray for rain, and pray for the U.S. election.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: Circle of Peace, Elections, Israel, Mideast peace, Oman, Sudan, Trump peace plan
Categories : Israel Commentary

What are you voting for?

21 10 2020

I Voted With Stars Clipart

I voted for the First Amendment and freedom of speech.

I voted for the Second Amendment and my right to defend my life and my family.

I voted for the next Supreme Court Justice to protect the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

I voted for the continued growth of my retirement 401K and the stock market.

I voted for a return of our troops from foreign countries and the end to America’s involvement in foreign conflicts.

I voted for the Electoral College & the Republic in which we live.

I voted for the Police to be respected and to ensure Law & Order.

I voted for the continued appointment of Federal Judges who respect the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

I voted for our jobs to remain in America and not be outsourced all over again to China, Mexico and other foreign countries.

I voted for secure borders and legal immigration.

I voted for the Military & the Veterans who fought for this Country who gave the American people their freedoms.

I voted for the unborn babies that have a right to live.

I voted for continued peace progress in the middle east and in support of Israel.

I voted to fight against human/child trafficking.

I voted for Freedom of Religion.

I voted for the American Flag that is disrespected by the Democratic Party.

I voted for the right to speak my opinion & not be censored.

I voted not just voting for one person. I’m voting for the future of my Country.

I voted for my children and my grandchildren to ensure their freedoms and their future.

What are you voting for?

(Source unknown, but it makes sense to me.)

Today I voted for policies that continue this great American experiment of representative government with checks and balances that control to some extent the natural sinful nature and rebellion of humans. Our republic is based on the Bible, without which we are doomed to fall.

I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior. 1 Timothy 2:1-3 NLT

Pray for the United States election. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rains to begin Israel’s rainy season.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: Elections, Israel, Jerusalem, Pray for elections, Pray for President Trump, Trump election
Categories : Israel Commentary

American Jewish Test

17 10 2020

The 2020 U.S. election poses a serious test for American Jews. Will they choose to stand with their historic relationship with Yehovah, God of Israel, or follow secular gods of man? This election is a clear choice between the party that stands with Israel and the one that opposes just about every Biblical standard of holy life and purpose.

There is a little known passage in Ezekiel that refers to America in a profound warning. All believers need to consider God’s revelation about American Jews in these verses.

“What you have in your mind shall never be, when you say, ‘We will be like the Gentiles, like the families in other countries, serving wood and stone.’

“As I live,” says the Lord Yehovah, “surely with a mighty hand, with an outstretched arm, and with fury poured out, I will rule over you. I will bring you out from the peoples and gather you out of the countries where you are scattered, with a mighty hand, with an outstretched arm, and with fury poured out. And I will bring you into the wilderness of the peoples, and there I will plead My case with you face to face. Just as I pleaded My case with your fathers in the wilderness of the land of Egypt, so I will plead My case with you,” says the Lord Yehovah.

“I will make you pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant; I will purge the rebels from among you, and those who transgress against Me; I will bring them out of the country where they dwell, but they shall not enter the land of Israel. Then you will know that I am Yehovah.” Ezekiel 20:32-38

There is so much to say about this passage, but I will just do a simple list.

They are always tempted to “be like the other nations,” but this is not God’s plan.
God scattered them among the nations.
God will bring them out of those nations, not initially to Israel, but to “the wilderness of the peoples,” which I believe is America.
God will plead with them “face to face” as He did in Egypt, which speaks of direct intervention.
He will cause them to “pass under the rod” which speaks of separation of two types as in the story of Jacob and Laban.
He will separate the rebels who sin against Him.
The rebels will not be allowed to move to Israel.
Those who know and love Yehovah God will move to Israel.

Two different Jewish tribes choose different candidates – Many liberal Jews still care deeply about Israel and its security, but it is not their top priority.

Editor of Israel Hayom: American Jews should vote for Trump – Arutz Sheva interiewed editor of Israel Hayom Boaz Bismuth who called on US Jews to help re-elect ‘the best President Israel has seen’.

70% of Jews plan to vote for Biden, Pew study finds – 27% of American Jews plan to vote for President Trump, new poll finds, up slightly from 2016.

So, my conclusion is that this election is the beginning of this process of God’s separation. I steadfastly believe that Yehovah is speaking directly “face to face” by His Holy Spirit to each Jew in his/her heart. They will choose either to follow Him or to rebel.

By the way, I also believe this same principle applies to Christians. This is crunch time in history. Multitudes are choosing whether to serve God or man. Choose wisely, eternity is on the line.

Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of Yehovah is near in the valley of decision. Joel 3:14

Pray for American Jews, for the peace of Jerusalem, and pray for rain in Israel.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

(Why do I use God’s literal covenant Name: Yehovah? Here is a link to the explanation in my book: The Hebrew God Who Has No Name.) and here is a link to a great visual from my friend Keith Johnson.

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: American Jews, face to face, Jerusalem, valley of decision, vote
Categories : Israel Commentary

Do. Not. Faint.

13 10 2020

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My last post was Do. Not. Fear. Today let’s take it up a level. Do. Not. Faint. You have overcome fear by your faith that God’s got this. Now is the time to buckle up and push forward. I know it’s been a long year getting to the most important election of our lives. Louisiana Senator Kennedy said if 2020 would just slow down a bit, he “would get off and walk.” Make no mistake, we are in big time spiritual warfare. Candidate Biden says he is fighting for the soul of the nation. But we are standing for the Spirit of America, which was founded on Biblical Judeo/Christian values and principles. This was always taught in our schools until recent history. It may sometimes appear that we are losing the battle, but Yehovah has the final say. I do not believe He is done with the United States. I don’t think God raised up Trump to stop halfway. Bible believers are awakening all over the country.

Here are four reasons God is not finished with the United States yet:

We and this Administration are faithfully standing with Israel.
There are yet millions of true Christians “who have not bowed the knee to Baal. Sixty million abortions is more than enough evil to deserve righteous judgement, but God moves on behalf of the righteous believers who love and follow His Son, the Messiah Yeshua Jesus.
The Bible says if we cast our bread (Jesus) on the waters (nations), it will return to us. This nation has cast the bread of life like no other in history. God is merciful and faithful to keep His promise to bless us.
We are seeing deep personal repentance because of these great trials, and also a national turning back to God. Haters are louder than ever, but God’s people are speaking out more than in a long time. You even hear it from the President and other officials. Even believers from the media are more open about their faith.

Therefore, we must not give up, don’t quit now; we are too close to the victory. Lift up your eyes to the heavens where our help comes from. Hear the Word of Yehovah!

“When you go out to battle against your enemies, and see horses and chariots and people more numerous than you, do not be afraid of them; for Yehovah your God is with you, who brought you up from the land of Egypt. So it shall be, when you are on the verge of battle, that the priest shall approach and speak to the people. And he shall say to them, ‘Hear, O Israel: Today you are on the verge of battle with your enemies. Do not let your heart FAINT, do not be afraid, and do not tremble or be terrified because of them; for Yehovah your God is He who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.’” Deuteronomy 20:1-4

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow WEARY while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. Galatians 6:7-10

Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, Yehovah, The Creator of the ends of the earth, Neither FAINTS nor is WEARY. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, But those who wait on Yehovah shall RENEW their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and NOT BE WEARY, They shall walk and NOT FAINT. Isaiah 40:28-31

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain, pray for national repentance, and pray for our election.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 4 Comments »
Tags: do not faint, Faith Over Fear, Jerusalem, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Do. Not. Fear.

7 10 2020

Why is such a simple idea so hard for some? We live in a day dominated by fear, not fear of a pandemic, but a pandemic of fear. DO. NOT. FEAR. Why is such a simple idea so hard for some? This basic Bible admonition is seemingly impossible for many. The answer is that we have moved so far from FAITH that we are ruled by fear. Those who read their Bible and practice their faith in Yehovah God, find the release valve from all the gloom and doom now living in the media.

When President Trump said “Do not fear Covid” this week, he was not ignoring the virus, he was declaring the Bible way of overcoming. For many, it is a real battle, and many succumb to fear. The media and some leaders even shame you if you do not cower before the virus. “We’re all going to die! The sky is falling!” Yet, the data is in. 99.9% of people under 65 will live and not die. 95% of those over 65 will live. Is it serious? Of course, but not as bad as the initial projections of 2.1 million U.S. deaths. We have seen one-tenth of that. Be encouraged that you and your loved ones will make it through. If you are a Christian, even if you die, you look forward to eternity with Jesus.

Faith is not a crutch, as critics claim, it the very foundation upon which we stand. Trusting our holy God really does shield us from the fiery darts of fear.

“In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.” Ephesians 6:16 NLT

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

“The name of Yehovah is a strong tower;
The righteous run to it and are safe.” Proverbs 18:10

Our Father God has sent His Son, Yeshua (Jesus), to show us His unfailing love and bring us into His perfect peace (shalom, shalom). Believers need to stand up in faith and overcome fear. Have mercy on us O Lord!

(Disclaimer: I am not against masks and distancing as a practical matter. We show our Christian love and respect for others in so doing. However, be sure that love is your motive and not fear.)

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for the coming rainy season.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: covid, faith, Faith Over Fear, fear, Jerusalem, virus
Categories : Israel Commentary

Amy Means Beloved

3 10 2020

Should we always demand justice? I have a few words today about justice in general and Amy Coney Barrett in particular. Yes, I know the President has the virus, but I trust the Lord to raise him up. The Supreme Court vote is even more critical now.

Since we have a daughter named Amy, I know that the name means “beloved.” But I believe the Lord spoke to me that He has a special love for Amy Coney Barrett and that she has been raised up for this hour like the Bible hero Esther.

“For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14

Should we always demand justice? To answer the question simply: No. The world today is clamoring for “justice” and they do not know what they are demanding. The Bible is clear that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Also, that “the wages of sin is death.” (See Romans 3:23 and 6:23). Therefore, when we demand justice we demand death. May I suggest that it is better to ask for mercy and forgiveness which has been offered to all through the blood sacrifice of Yeshua the Messiah as the Lamb of God.

Sometimes, after explaining this, I ask an audience to raise their hands if they want justice. Then I ask how many want mercy. Of course it is unanimous for mercy, when put that way. I only wish we could get through to the confused protestors about the mercy of Yehovah God.

Yet, in society there must be swift judgment for evil doers. That is where our court system comes into play. We need righteous justices to rule according to our constitution and our Judeo/Christian Biblical heritage. Please pray for Amy Coney Barrett’s soon confirmation.

And pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain in season in Israel.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Amy Coney Barrett, Jerusalem, Justice, Justice or Mercy, Mercy
Categories : Israel Commentary

Beyond Politics

29 09 2020

2020 platforms

The world is about to focus squarely on the first U.S. Presidential debate, but what should we look for? The pundits blab incessantly about style or bloopers or personality, but they are wrong. The only consideration is the clear substantial differences in the future policies of the candidates and their party platforms. In my lifetime there has never been a greater gap in moral/immoral and Biblical/anti-Biblical issues.

The chart I posted does not emphasize strongly enough the most important Biblical/moral points:

The Republican party is pro-Israel. Need I list President Trump’s actions?
His party is pro-life.
His party is pro-marriage and family on the Biblical model.
His party is pro-freedom of religion.
His party is pro-constitution, which is based directly from our Biblical Judeo/Christian heritage. Three supreme court justices!

President Trump’s most effective slogan: Promises Made. Promises Kept. He is in pretty good company there…

Understand, therefore, that Yehovah your God is indeed God. He is the faithful God who keeps his covenant for a thousand generations and lavishes his unfailing love on those who love him and obey his commands. Deuteronomy 7:9 NLT

You may mistakenly believe I am being political. But I am not choosing by party, but by policy. My belief is that if any sincere Christian prays about Biblical values and compares the two opposite platforms, he or she will easily conclude which is truly Bible based. Please rise up and vote according to your own Bible and your listening to the Holy Spirit.

Also, did I mention that I am voting for Dan Forest for North Carolina governor? He is a friend, a lover of Israel, and a solid Christian family man with impeccable qualifications to lead our state.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for seasonal rains.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (Read more)

Comments : 4 Comments »
Tags: 2020 debate, Biden, Jerusalem, promise keeper, Promises kept, Trump, vote
Categories : Israel Commentary

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