Israel Commentary | Elisha Vision

The Royal Law of the Bible

27 01 2023

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Do you know the royal law of Scripture? Did you know there is such a thing? I did not realize how important it is, that it is called “the royal law.” I have been thinking a lot about mercy and judgement which I will share with you today. But first let’s start with this:

If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you do well; James 2:8

This is the context of judgement. We judge others harsher than we judge ourselves. This is wrong. What if you thought of it like this: Judge your neighbor as you judge yourself. We tend to be pretty lenient with ourselves until we are genuinely convicted of our sin by the Holy Spirit. Then we get it!

Judgement Is Mercy – Do you know there are times when judgement is actually merciful? Sometimes judgement saves us from going over edge. It may even be painful. If we are already in the fire of the consequences of our bad choices and sins, it may hurt to be yanked back to safety. It may hurt but we are thankful for the mercy.

And Yehovah said to Satan, “Yehovah rebuke you, Satan! Yehovah who has chosen Jerusalem rebuke you! Is this not a brand plucked from the fire?” Zechariah 3:2

Many Christians know the promise that mercy triumphs over judgement, but it is not true for everybody. Someone who has no mercy, and shows no mercy will be judged without mercy. Mercy wins only for those who show mercy themselves.

“For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” James 2:13

A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet – At a time of great judgement and even the wrath of Yehovah God, Habakkuk prayed a critical request to God. He knew two things. He saw the severity of God’s judgements on the wicked. But, he also knew of the mighty works of God on behalf of Israel over many years. He prayed that Yehovah would revive His mercy shown in the past show it again in the present day!

“O Yehovah, I have heard Your speech and was afraid; O Yehovah, revive Your work in the midst of the years! In the midst of the years make it known; In wrath remember mercy.” Habakkuk 3:2

In wrath remember mercy! Rather than jumping on the judgement train, perhaps it would be better to remember mercy and judge our neighbors as we judge ourselves. Thus we will keep the Royal Law: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,”

Pray for peace (and mercy) over Jerusalem; and pray for rain.

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

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Tags: Biblical Zionist, Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Israel, Jerusalem, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Jesus Touched People’s Feet

20 01 2023

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The famous story in John 13, of Jesus washing His disciples feet at the Passover (Last Supper), was an awesome example of humility and a servant’s heart. How many times have you washed someone’s feet? My most precious time was washing my Dad’s feet when he was around 65. We both wept and were healed of past issues. Here is another example from our family that I remembered recently from my book: Generation Life.

Oscar’s Story – Our Passover in 2012 was an intimate dinner with family and friends. My second youngest grandson, Oscar, was three and a half. He was beginning to pick up words in church. During the evening I explained that the time of Ur’chatz or washing of the hands was probably the time in the Last Supper (Passover) that Jesus washed the disciple’s feet. Oscar picked up on that thought and asked his Daddy Jerry why Jesus did that. Jerry explained that Jesus loved them and wanted to serve them. About 10 days later his Mommy (my youngest daughter, Andrea) had this conversation with him:

Oscar always makes me smell his feet when we take off his shoes. He played in the sand box so I decided to wipe them off with a wipe. Then I got curious and asked if he remembered something he heard at Passover.

Me – Do you remember who washes feet?

Oscar – (hmmm) Jesus!

Me – Yeah! That’s right! Jesus washed Peter’s feet!

Oscar – Why did Jesus wash Peter’s feet?

Me – Because when you wash someone’s feet it means that you love them and you want to take care of them.

Oscar – Oh! I need to wash your feet! …And then he did. 🙂

As the Grandpa, it overwhelms me to realize the precious little lives that our daughters and sons-in-law are raising (and have raised) to know Jesus, the perfect lover and friend. I am reminded of Jesus’ words of warning to his ambitious disciples.

“At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:1-4

On another occasion Jesus emphasized it again, which motivates me to bless my children and grandchildren and the whole family. Lord, help us not to be childish, but to be childlike in our faith toward God. Amen!

“Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it?” And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.” Mark 10:13-16

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and abundant rain.

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

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Tags: childlike, Christian Zionist, foot washing, humility, Israel, Jerusalem
Categories : Israel Commentary

The Greater Exodus

17 01 2023

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Many Jews have returned to Israel in the last generation from over 160 countries. And yet there are millions still to come, especially from the United States. The doubling of anti-Semitic incidents here is fueling a new surge of immigration to Israel that will continue to expand. Most are still unaware of this trend, but it will become clear as more make the move. Inflation is also a factor as Israel is prospering and inflation is not as bad there. All of this is simply our faithful God fulfilling His promises to restore His people to their land. The result is a greater exodus than the deliverance from Egypt.

“Therefore, behold, the days are coming,” says Yehovah, “that they shall no longer say, ‘As Yehovah lives who brought up the children of Israel from the land of Egypt,’ but, ‘As Yehovah lives who brought up and led the descendants of the house of Israel from the north country and from all the countries where I had driven them.’ And they shall dwell in their own land.” Jeremiah 23:7-8

The transition to a new Israeli government headed by Benjamin Netanyahu is a big boost to the trend and timing of God’s purpose to regather His people. The nations oppose it, but they are impotent in the face of the living God! Yehovah is the number one Zionist. That is why I refer to myself as a Christian Zionist. I am among the millions of evangelical Christians who see what God is doing and stand foursquare in agreement with Him. In Israel there are many liberals who are not Zionists and even oppose accepting more land as Yehovah has promised. But as for me and my house, we will serve Yehovah and Yeshua ben Yehovah, His son, Jesus the Messiah!

Netanyahu Predicts Massive Increase in Western Aliyah – “Israel’s economy is getting stronger; we will outpace the United States, and we have already outpaced Europe,” the Israeli prime minister said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told cabinet ministers that Israel will experience a massive increase in Aliyah (immigration) from Western countries, including the US.

A Second Exodus! – Pressure mounts on Christian teams helping Jews make Aliyah. Apocalyptic scenarios involving war and climate have captured the attention of the media. But rather less focus has been trained on Jewish refugees attempting to flee Russia and Ukraine after nearly a year of gruesome hostilities there.

Don’t be distracted by “apocalyptic scenarios” and miss the wonderful works of God in the earth. Even awful wars can be used by Him to regather His Chosen ones. Hallelujah, God is faithful!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, and for the regathering, and for abundant rains to water the land!

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

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Tags: Aliyah, Christian Zionist, Exodus, Greater Exodus, Israel, Prophecy, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Get Over It! Calm Down

13 01 2023

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My title comes from the new Israeli government and Prime Minister Benjamin (Bibi) Netanyahu. There is a lot of noise since the new government was sworn in. The opposition, now led by Yair Lapid, is accusing the new government of ridiculous things such as “the end of democracy!” Where have we heard that before? The left in Israel and the U.S. use the same playbook, same slogans, and same methods of public protests. They even suggest “civil war!” is possible. The truth is that a conservative government will bring stability, security, and prosperity. The left does not fight fair, but they will lose. Israel is not in the hands of man’s arrogance, but in the hand of Yehovah God. For instance, will Bibi extend sovereignty to areas of Judea and Samaria (West Bank)? Yes, because God is doing it. He promised the land to Israel. We are in the prophetic time of favor and restoration. The arrow is pointing in only one direction. There may be small setbacks along the path, but end is certain. Israel will control the land from the Nile to the Euphrates.

And it came to pass, when the sun went down and it was dark, that behold, there appeared a smoking oven and a burning torch that passed between those pieces. 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 15:17-18

Here are several current headlines making the point of my title. The Biden White House is pressuring Israel to freeze the settlements again, just like Obama did. They also oppose reforms of the judiciary which presently can independently cancel laws enacted by the Knesset. The reforms will bring needed balance to the branches of government in Israel. (Remember to click on the blue links to read the full article.)

Get Over It: Israel Tells US That Jewish Settlement Will Continue – New Netanyahu gov’t informs American ambassador it will push forward with “necessary” building in biblical heartland. Israel’s new government has openly rejected the Biden administration’s demand that it refrain from expanding Jewish settlements and extending Israeli sovereignty over the biblical heartland of Judea and Samaria.

Likud MK drafting plan to apply Israeli sovereignty to Jordan Valley – Opposition parties Yisrael Beytenu and National Camp considering backing bid by MK Danny Danon to extend sovereignty over Jordan Valley. MK Danny Danon is drafting a plan to apply Israeli sovereignty over the Jordan Valley, a move which would become the first move by Israel to extend its laws over parts of Judea and Samaria since the expansion of Jerusalem’s boundaries shortly after the Six Day War in 1967.

PM defends judicial overhaul: Amendments will be made responsibly, everyone calm down – Netanyahu says when opponents ‘say the smallest reform is the destruction of democracy, this is not only false but also doesn’t allow the possibility of reaching understandings’ The premier said, “When they say that the smallest reform is the destruction of democracy, this is not only a false claim, but it also does not allow for the possibility of reaching understandings… through substantive dialogue in the Knesset.”

“But You, O Yehovah, shall endure forever, and the remembrance of Your name to all generations. You will arise and have mercy on Zion; for the time to favor her, Yes, the set time, has come.” Psalm 102:12-13

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain in season.

Les Lawrence, a 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: Annex Judea & Samaria, Israel, Jerusalem, Jordan Valley, Netanyahu, West Bank
Categories : Israel Commentary

More Fruit of Abraham Accords

10 01 2023

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We wait for the inevitable joining of Saudi Arabia to the Abraham Accords, but even now there is much fruit. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) are one of the original signers to the Accords, and have just made a truly remarkable announcement. They will begin teaching the Holocaust in both elementary schools and high schools. This follows the first Holocaust Museum in an Arab country in 2021 in Abu Dhabi, the UAE capitol.

United Arab Emirates to Become First Arab Country to Teach Holocaust History in Schools – Holocaust history will be added to the UAE school curriculum — making it the first Arab country to offer such an education. The UAE embassy in Washington credited these developments to the Abraham Accords, the landmark agreement negotiated by the Trump administration and signed by Bahrain, Morocco, and the UAE in September 2020. Bilateral trade between the UAE and Israel increased tremendously after the Abraham Accords, building strong economic ties on top of normalized diplomatic relations. UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al Nahyan visited the Yad Vashem World Holocaust Remembrance Center in Jerusalem in September with three other Emirati ministers. Yad Vashem Chairman Dani Dayan called it a “momentous occasion.” The Times of Israel (TOI) reported in November that work on a Holocaust curriculum for Emirati primary and secondary schools was underway after bin Zayed’s visit to Yad Vashem, completing a remarkable evolution for a country that once “blacked out Israel from world maps and globes.”

More than all the immediate benefits and accomplishments of the Accords, ultimately I believe this is part of Yehovah’s plan to include Arabs in the salvation of Yeshua, our Messiah. When Arabs get saved they usually recognize God’s favor in the restoration of Israel. They are so blessed to find that they are “grafted in” to Israel. This is exactly Yehovah’s plan.

“Did God’s people stumble and fall beyond recovery? Of course not! They were disobedient, so God made salvation available to the Gentiles. But he wanted his own people to become jealous and claim it for themselves.” Romans 11:11 NLT

This effect is seen world wide, but is most provocative when Israelis see their own neighbors entering into the blessings of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob through Jesus. Ultimately its leads to the salvation of the Jews themselves. This is the “one new man” of Ephesians 2:11-18. Hallelujah!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for abundant rain.

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

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Tags: Abraham Accords, Christian Zionist, Holocaust, Holocaust Denial, Israel, Jerusalem, Prophecy, UAE
Categories : Israel Commentary

Female. Muslim. Arab. IDF Major.

3 01 2023

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This story may surprise you. A Major in the Israel Defense Forces who is a female Muslim Arab. Major Ella Waweya has an amazing story growing up in central Israel and transforming from living in a propaganda bubble to world famous spokesperson for the IDF. I encourage you to click on the headline below and enjoy the heartwarming true story (a two-minute read).

The Trailblazing Female Muslim Arab IDF Major – Known as “Captain Ella,” Ella Waweya from Qalansawe had to conceal her service from her family when she joined the military. An army officer who has received both the President’s Award of Excellence and that of the minister of defense, she is the first Muslim Arab woman to publicly become a major in the IDF. Meet Ella Waweya, 33, internationally known as “Captain Ella” (even after her promotion), the IDF’s deputy spokesperson for the Arabic media.

“Until I turned 16, I was in sort of dilemma as to what was my identity. It was as if I was in a type of bubble and I was coming out of a cave to a different, very strange world.” A clarity of sorts came at age 16 when Waweya received her own Israeli ID card and with it felt that she got an answer to her question: You are Israeli.

Please read the short account of her keeping it secret from her family until much later. After her family and her village accepted her choice, everything changed; and she is now viewed as a hero. Her mother’s acceptance of her choice is especially moving. My view is that she is a precursor to the coming phenomena of what the Bible calls: “ONE NEW MAN.” She is still a Muslim as far as I know, but I believe she is on a trajectory to recognize and accept the Messiah Yeshua. I believe many Arabs will leave Islam and follow Jesus. Pray for her and others who will have open hearts to Yehovah, the God of Israel. Isaiah 19:19-25 and Isaiah 60:6-7 are just two prophecies which indicate Arab salvation. The middle wall of partition between Jew and Gentile is coming down!

“Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh—who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands— that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself ONE NEW MAN from the two, thus making peace, and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity. And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near. For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.” Ephesians 2:11-18

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, for rain, and for the ONE NEW MAN!

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

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Tags: Coexistence, IDF, Israel, Israeli Arabs, Jerusalem, Muslim IDF, one new man
Categories : Israel Commentary

Netanyahu Sworn in as Israel’s Prime Minister

30 12 2022

Benjamin Netanyahu at the swearing in ceremony of the new Israeli government at the israeli parliament on December 29, 2022. photo by Yonatan Sindel/FLASH90

Finally, Bibi is back! After 18 months of the cobbled coalition of the left, Israel welcomes back a stable Zionist government. The world is in a panic because this government intends to restore Biblical principles and extend Israeli sovereignty to parts of Judea and Samaria (West Bank). Don’t be deceived by the media propaganda against Yehovah’s revealed purpose. He will complete the restoration of Israel and Jerusalem, either with us or without us. Who is on Yehovah’s side? The battle is spiritual.

Prime Minister Netanyahu to Make Bible Priority – Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu is back and eager to lead Israel including making the Bible a central part of Israeli society. Included in the list of subjects to be integrated in public school curriculum is the Bible, the history of Zionism and the history of all of the Jewish communities.

BIBI IS BACK – Congrats to Netanyahu for his dramatic return to power – now, how will he handle these 3 enormous challenges? Never before has an Israeli prime minister come back from the political wilderness – not just once but twice.

“Therefore prophesy concerning the land of Israel, and say to the mountains, the hills, the rivers, and the valleys, ‘Thus says the Lord Yehovah: “Behold, I have spoken in My jealousy and My fury, because you have borne the shame of the nations.” Therefore thus says the Lord Yehovah: “I have raised My hand in an oath that surely the nations that are around you shall bear their own shame. But you, O mountains of Israel, you shall shoot forth your branches and yield your fruit to My people Israel, for they are about to come. For indeed I am for you, and I will turn to you, and you shall be tilled and sown. I will multiply men upon you, all the house of Israel, all of it; and the cities shall be inhabited and the ruins rebuilt. I will multiply upon you man and beast; and they shall increase and bear young; I will make you inhabited as in former times, and do better for you than at your beginnings. Then you shall know that I am Yehovah.” Ezekiel 36:6-11

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and abundant rains during this rainy season.

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

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Tags: Christian Zionist, Israel, Israel election, Jerusalem, Netanyahu, Zionism
Categories : Israel Commentary

Big Jerusalem Tourist Site to Open

27 12 2022

Pool of Siloam

My recent tours to Israel have included the City of David, south of the Temple Mount and the Pool of Siloam. Only a small part was excavated. You can see the steps in this picture, but notice the wall of dirt. It has been that way for years. However, Israel has just announced the intent to finish uncovering the pool. The visible part is only a few square yards, but the full pool will be one and a quarter acre. This is great news. Future visitors will start at the pool and walk up newly discovered road to the Mount. This pool was built by King Hezekiah 2,700 years ago!

“Now the rest of the acts of Hezekiah—all his might, and how he made a pool and a tunnel and brought water into the city—are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah?” 2 Kings 20:20

First Temple-era Pool of Siloam in Jerusalem to be excavated, opened to the public – “2,700-year-old water system built during reign of King Hezekiah to be excavated and opened up to the public. The Pool of Siloam served as the reservoir for the waters of the Gihon Spring, which were diverted through an underground water tunnel, and it was thus already considered one of the most important areas in Jerusalem in the First Temple period. Due to its location and importance, the Pool of Siloam was renovated and expanded some 2,000 years ago at the end of the Second Temple period. It is believed that the Pool was used during this time as a ritual bath (‘mikveh’) by millions of pilgrims who converged at the Pool of Siloam before ascending through the City of David to the Temple. In 1880, the Siloam Inscription was uncovered in the water tunnel, just a few dozen meters from the Pool. The Inscription, currently located at the Istanbul Archaeology Museum, is written in ancient Hebrew script and records how the Gihon Spring’s water was diverted to the Pool during the reign of King Hezekiah. The Pool of Siloam went through multiple stages of development, and at the height of its glory, was approximately the size of 5 dunams (1¼ acres), and inlaid with impressive flagstones. For the first time in modern history, the excavation by the IAA will enable the complete exposure of the Pool of Siloam, within the context of an official archeological excavation.”

What a wonderful spot to visit on your next tour to Israel. Jesus once mentioned stones talking and I think this is a good example. The people were praising Him and then rebuke came from the Pharisees.

“But He answered and said to them, “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.” Luke 19:38

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain in season.

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

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Tags: Israel, Jerusalem, Pool of Siloam, Temple Mount
Categories : Israel Commentary

Israel’s Flying Car

22 12 2022

An employee of Israeli startup AIR sits in a prototype of AIR ONE, an electric vehicle designed to fly commuters on short trips far above streets overcrowded with cars in Beersheba

Here is a fun story over the holidays. It is another example of God’s blessing on Israeli innovation. May you and your family be blessed and prosper as you celebrate Hanukkah and the birth of our Messiah! Shalom, shalom.

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s Israeli startup’s ‘flying car’ – What was once considered a futuristic science fiction concept might soon be commonplace as an Israeli-made vehicle designed to fly commuters on short trips far above the traffic-laden streets has made its maiden crewless flight. It may look like simply another drone takeoff featuring a propellered aircraft rising vertically off the ground and then thrusting forward high in the sky. But soon, this one – made by Israeli startup AIR – will be able to carry two people.

Israeli Startup Makes Inroads With Personal Flying Vehicle – Beersheva, Israel (Reuters) – An Israeli-made electric vehicle designed to fly commuters on short trips far above streets overcrowded with cars has made its maiden unmanned flight, a milestone the developer says will help it reach the market in the next two years.

God has promised Israel that He would bring favor to them at an appointed time. We now see that it is our generation. For eighteen hundred years Israel suffered the judgement of God. But, in 1948 after the Holocaust, God turned the page from judgement to favor and blessing. We have seen the miraculous rebirth of a nation and a people. Israel is enjoying unprecedented blessing and growth. And it is because of the faithfulness of Yehovah God.

“You will arise and have mercy on Zion; For the time to favor her, Yes, the set time, has come. For Your servants take pleasure in her stones and show favor to her dust. So the nations shall fear the name of Yehovah, and all the kings of the earth Your glory. For Yehovah shall build up Zion; He shall appear in His glory.” Psalm 102:13-16

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

Les

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Tags: Israel, Jerusalem, Les Lawrence, Prophecy, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Evidence of the Maccabees for Hanukkah

16 12 2022

Coins

These coins are 2,200 years old, from the time of the Jewish revolt against the Greeks. (link to 2min. video) The coins were discovered in a desert cave near the Dead Sea. The Greek King Antiochos IV Epiphanes (known as “the Wicked”) ruled the Seleucid Empire at that time. Epiphanes means: “God manifest”, which tells us he was worshipped as a god. No wonder the Jewish Maccabees would not submit to him. He had already defiled the Jewish Temple and would have destroyed it. When he was defeated in the revolt of the Jews, the Temple was saved. My wife, Doreen, wrote a children’s book explaining How Hanukkah Saved Christmas. The Messiah was prophesied to enter the Temple. If the Greeks had destroyed it, the prophecy could not have been fulfilled.

Archaeologists Find Silver Coins in Judean Desert; Evidence from Maccabean Revolt Era Coincides with Hanukkah Celebration – The Jewish Maccabean revolt against the Greek Seleucid Kingdom more than two thousand years ago is one of the most stirring events in Jewish history. The revolt and the miracle of the provision of oil in the Temple led to the Jewish celebration of Hanukkah, which is the festival celebrating the uprising against the Greek Seleucid kings and the restoration of the Jewish Temple. Last May, archaeologists discovered a wooden box containing 15 silver coins dating back 2,200 years to the time of the Hellenistic ruler Antiochus IV, who desecrated the Temple and persecuted the Jews.

The blasphemy of the Greek King, claiming to be a god, was a typical copycat example of Satan co-opting Yehovah’s plan for Jesus, who really was God in human form. The incarnation of Jesus was the real fulfillment of the prophecy of Immanuel, God with us! Isaiah saw it and Matthew reported it.

“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” Isaiah 7:14

“Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” Matthew 1:18-23

Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas, overlapping this year. Hanukkah starts at sundown Sunday.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain.

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

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Tags: Antiochus, Christmas, Hanukkah, Jerusalem, Jews, Maccabees, Temple
Categories : Israel Commentary

Israel Safe for Tourism

7 12 2022

Fam by Old City Jerusalem

Contrary to public opinion, Israel is #5 in Safe Nations for Tourism. Israel is #5 safest out of the 50 top tourism nations. When someone plans a trip to Israel they are inevitably asked or warned about safety. However, actual statistics in the Jerusalem Post contradict the propaganda narrative. As antisemitism rises in all western countries, Israel’s tourism is expanding.

Israel is 5th safest country in the world for tourists – study – According to this study, Israel is the fifth safest among the 50 countries in the world most widely visited by tourists. No, you didn’t read that wrong. The fifth safest, not the fifth most unsafe country to visit. Turns out that the question that many first-time visitors to Israel are asked by friends and relatives when they reveal their plans to visit – “Are you sure it’s safe?” – is misplaced. Not only is it safe, but it is very safe; safer, in fact, than visiting the US (ranked 30), Canada (21), Australia (18), France (15) and the United Kingdom (10). Israel’s overall safety index was -60.22, giving it a grade of A. Only Switzerland, the Netherlands, Denmark and Singapore were considered safer, with the last two countries earning an A+ grade.

One explanation for the confusion is the media propaganda against Israel, a sort of soft anti-Semitism. The narrative in U.S. universities is overwhelmingly pro-Palestinian. The most common slogan heard is “From river to the sea, Palestine will be free!” This literally means the end of Israel. They demand that all of Israel, not just the “West Bank”, be given to Arab Palestinians. A second heavy influence on the narrative is the continual resolutions streaming out of the UN against Israel. Keep in mind that there are 56 Muslim nations to one Israel. Anytime there is a vote in the UN General Assembly it is stacked against Israel. These resolutions are picked up by the media supporting the anti-Israel narrative. Thirdly, anti-Semitism is blowing up around the world as the anti-Christ, and anti-God demonic spirit is spreading exponentially.

In light of this, what should we do? Where are we to stand? Once again we conclude that we will stand with Israel. Praise God for the occasional good report. So visit Israel when you can, but especially pray for the peace of Jerusalem and bless Israel. Pray that our nation will bless Israel. Remember the boomerang effect: Those who bless Israel will be blessed. No wonder Israel is the 5th safest country for tourists to visit. We live and stand in victory in the Holy Spirit realm!

The Whole Armor of God – “A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:10-12 NLT

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and seasonal rains.

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

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Tags: Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Israel, Israel tour, Jerusalem, safe tourism
Categories : Israel Commentary

70,000 New Israelis

1 12 2022

Aliyah Day 2022

Today is ALIYAH DAY in Israel, celebrating 70,000 new immigrants in the past year! That is the most in twenty years. Aliyah means “ascent” or the act of going up. It is used in the Bible in reference to going up to Jerusalem for the Feasts of Yehovah, three times a year for Passover, Pentecost (Shavuot), and for Tabernacles (Sukkot). No matter where you live in Israel you have to go up to get to Jerusalem on the mountain ridge.

Aliyah (Hebrew: עֲלִיָּה ʿălīyyā, lit. ’ascent’) is the immigration of Jews from the diaspora to, historically, the geographical Land of Israel, which is in the modern era chiefly represented by the State of Israel. Traditionally described as “the act of going up” (towards the Jewish holy city of Jerusalem), moving to the Land of Israel or “making aliyah” is one of the most basic tenets of Zionism. Wikipedia

This year approximately 35,000 Russian Jews and 20,000 Ukrainian Jews made aliyah. This is an example of how God advances his purpose even in war times. He is calling His people back to Israel from all over the world. It is one of the great miracles of our day! After 1800 years of scattering among the nations we are now seeing the regathering. “Hear the word of Yehovah, O nations, and declare it in the isles afar off, and say, ‘He who scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him as a shepherd does his flock.’ “ Jeremiah 31:10

Yom Ha’aliyah: Israel welcomes over 70 thousand immigrants since November 2021 – Over the past decade 6,440 physicians, 2,552 nurses, and 22,400 engineers moved to Israel and 22,000 immigrants enlisted in the IDF. In honor of the holiday, the Ministry of Immigrant Absorption released some interesting data about immigration to Israel. Over the past decade, over 22 thousand immigrants enlisted in the IDF; 15 thousand of them were considered lone soldiers whose parents are not in the country. In the past decade 6,440 physicians, 1,448 dentists, and 2,552 nurses made aliyah. In addition, around 22,400 engineers immigrated to Israel and 2,140 workers joined Israeli hi-tech with the Ministry’s help. 11,537 teachers immigrated to Israel.

“Fear not, for I am with you; I will bring your descendants from the east, and gather you from the west; I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’ and to the south, ‘Do not keep them back!’ Bring My sons from afar, and My daughters from the ends of the earth—” Isaiah 43:5-6

Hallelujah! God is keeping His word to His people in this time of restoration. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and abundant rains this season.

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

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Tags: Aliyah, Aliyah Day, Israel, Jerusalem, Prophecy, Prophecy fulfilled
Categories : Israel Commentary

Two Plus Two Equals Five

17 11 2022

Our culture is on a rampage rejecting absolute truth. Instead of searching for the truth, now everybody get to have their “own truth.” This is the direct result of rejecting Yehovah God and His guidebook, the Bible. Christians know that truth is a person, the Messiah and Son of God, Jesus. Destroying truth is just another way of crucifying Jesus.

“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6

There is an old joke about defining someone who is neurotic: “A normal person knows 2+2=4. A crazy person says 2+2=5. A neurotic person knows that 2+2=4, but it bothers him.” However, in our post-Biblical culture, no one knows what is true. By rebelling from God’s truth, our “enlightened” age reverses and redefines reality to our great eternal loss. This is particularly evident in politics. Here are just three examples of reversing reality in rebellion to God’s truth.

Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 – It is all about spending for climate change and actually increases inflation.
Vice President Harris: ‘The Border Is Secure’ – Over two million illegal crossings this year! FBI Director Contradicts Mayorkas’ Claim That Border Is ‘Secure’
The Respect for Marriage Act Is a Win for Equality – This bill rejects God’s definition of marriage and should be called the Disrespect for Marriage Act.

Perverting truth creates a lie. The reason it is so difficult to prove lies today is that we live in an altered reality where truth has been reversed. We have abandoned absolute truth from God. Therefore we live in darkness and confusion. As this verse concludes, we end up with bitterness.

“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” Isaiah 5:20

Our nation needs to repent to Yehovah God. We need to pray for the third Great Awakening. We need to invite Messiah Jesus into the hearts of our nation and beg for His forgiveness. He died for us all and loves the whole world. Invite Him in!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for abundant rain this season. Also, pray for the new Netanyahu government to be sworn in next week.

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

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Tags: Biblical Zionist, Israel, Jerusalem, Truth, truth and lies, Truth in politics
Categories : Israel Commentary

Remember or Mention God’s Mighty Deliverance?

12 11 2022

Michael Masambu of Kenya has blessed us this week in the Raleigh area concluding tomorrow (11-13-22) at Grace Assembly of God Wake Forest at 11am and again at Issachar Forum at Milton’s Restaurant Wake Forest at 6pm.

“How often they provoked Him in the wilderness, And grieved Him in the desert! Yes, again and again they tempted God, and LIMITED the Holy One of Israel. They did not REMEMBER His power: The day when He redeemed them from the enemy,” Psalm 78:40-42

Michael taught that Israel failed because they limited God. Psalm 78:40-72 tells of God’s judgement against Israel because they did not “remember” His great deliverances from Egypt, the wilderness and the Red Sea. But, more than memory, the Hebrew meaning includes “to mention” or “give witness” of His mighty acts. They certainly had the memory of His acts, but failed to connect His past power to His present or future deliverance. They limited God to the past! We make the same mistake. We must speak of His past works with the belief that He will do the same now. The Bible is full of teaching about the power of the tongue, confessing our faith verbally. Memory is only helpful if it informs our present faith. The purpose of memory is far more than history. It is the foundation of our present and future confidence in Yehovah God.

Let us not only remember His glory, but declare, proclaim, give witness, and testify of our mighty miracle working God.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for rain.

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

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Tags: Christian Zionist, Israel, Jerusalem, limited God, remember
Categories : Israel Commentary

Blood Moon, Israel, and the U.S.

4 11 2022

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Election day morning in the U.S. is a blood moon total eclipse. Does this mean anything prophetically? The next total eclipse is not until March 14, 2025. Israel has just elected a new solid conservative Zionist government with Benjamin Netanyahu as Prime Minister. Israel will not see the eclipse, but we will. I believe Israel has come out of the shadow of the moon which symbolically refers to the influence of Islam, which worships the moon god. A Muslim Brotherhood party was part of the failed “unity” government of the past year and a half, for the first time in modern Israel. This is over.

TWO TRENDS

I see two trends in the election victory for Biblical Zionists who believe the Land of Israel was given to the Jews by Yehovah God Himself. First, it fits with the global trend toward conservative values, and nationalism versus globalism. Second, young people voting conservative was a big part of the victory.

Israel election 2022

Both of these trends apply to the United States as well. I hope that the blood moon eclipse indicates that we are also coming out of the darkness and depression of the pandemic, corruption, and political strife. Does the timing of the blood red moon coincide with a red wave election here? Conservative family and national values are certainly the platform of one party. The divide between Republican and Democrat policy vision has never been more stark and clear. I am encouraging and urging everyone I know to get out and vote. It is our Biblical duty, as I shared last week.

“He who is often rebuked and stiffens his neck Will be destroyed suddenly, with no remedy. When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; But when the wicked rule, the people groan. … The king by justice makes the land stable, But he who takes bribes tears it down.” Proverbs 29:1-2, 4 HNV

A few months ago I heard the Lord say He was raising up Samsons, who had been removed from their position by judgement, but through repentance and heart change were being restored. Netanyahu was one of those and I believe Trump is another, pending his response to the deep work of God in his heart. Pray for them both. They each have a place in God’s last day’s purpose.

Oh, and one more thing. Please listen to the Holy Spirit and then VOTE!

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

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Tags: Christian Zionist, Elections, Israel, Jerusalem, Prophecy, Vote!, voting
Categories : Israel Commentary

The God Who Raises Up Kings

28 10 2022

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Yehovah is the God who not only raises up kings but also removes kings. Israel will elect a new government in four days. America will do the same on November 8. It is our privilege and sacred duty to vote. Yet, even in our system, God is the One who decides who rules over us. He uses our votes or lack of voting in giving us the government He chooses. It is not fatalism, but Divine Providence. The mystery is that God’s will is somehow interlaced with our choice of who we vote for and indeed whether or not we vote at all.

“And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.” Daniel 2:21

For Bible believers, it is shameful to not vote. Every cycle there are millions of believers who fail to vote. It would literally turn the tide for righteousness if we would seek God and vote accordingly. It is higher than politics. It is our obedience to God. We know to pray for our leaders, but after prayer we must walk out our faith with the courage of our convictions. We do not live in a monarchy or dictatorship. Praise God! But, since we carry the power of the vote, we also carry the responsibility of the results. Here is the Scripture principle.

“When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan.” Proverbs 29:2

The choice has never been more stark between light and darkness, between righteousness and evil. One stands for death, child sacrifice, perversion, and licentiousness. The other, although not perfect, at least stands for family, God, and country. Furthermore one party is rapidly turning against Israel while the other has taken the lead in supporting Israel.

“Now when Moses saw that the people were unrestrained (for Aaron had not restrained them, to their shame among their enemies), then Moses stood in the entrance of the camp, and said, “Whoever is on Yehovah’s side—come to me!” And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together to him.” Exodus 32:25-26

Please vote!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and abundant rain.

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

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Tags: Christian Zionist, Israel, Jerusalem, vote, Vote!, voting
Categories : Israel Commentary

Israel Election Zionist Wave in One Week?

24 10 2022

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Israel will form a new government after November 1, possibly with Benjamin Netanyahu as Prime Minister. We pray for a Biblical Zionist wave in Israel. As we watch the U.S. midterm elections in two weeks, there seems to be a red wave building for the Republicans. There is a somewhat global trend of conservative victories and potential ones. Italy is one of most recent victories, along with the conservative Bolsonaro of Brazil who made it the final election, scheduled for October 30. The global trend is about God and country, family and nationalism. The call for “America First” applies in other countries as well. There is a recoil from globalism and the push for one-world governance. As I have said before: God is a nationalist, not a globalist. Nations are His idea. He sets the times for their existence and even their national boundaries.

“And He has made from one blood every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings,” Acts 17:26

I pray that this trend will appear in Israel also. Netanyahu and the right wing are not simply conservative, but they are Zionists. They believe God has given them the Promised Land with the boundaries defined by Him. Shockingly, and surprising to many Christians, the liberal left in Israel does not believe God is doing it. They are perfectly okay with dividing up the land for “peace” with the Palestinians. This is wrong on two counts. Historically, every time they have given up land they get more rockets, not peace. Secondly, God Himself will judge those who divide the land.

“I will also gather all nations, and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat; and I will enter into judgment with them there on account of My people, My heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations; They have also divided up My land.” Joel 3:2

The latest new poll in Israel from Channel 14 News shows the right with 62 seats of the 120 members of the Knesset (parliament). Another new poll shows exactly 60. That is why we pray for a Zionist wave election. Please pray, only one week!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and plentiful rains this season.

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

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Tags: Christian Zionist, Israel, Israel Elections, Jerusalem
Categories : Israel Commentary

What is Jesus’ Last Name?

15 10 2022

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This is not a trick question. I challenge you to give this some thought based on the Bible. Most people would probably say His last name is Christ, and they would be wrong. Christ means Messiah, the anointed, promised One. It describes His calling, His qualification to be our Savior. The name Jesus means salvation, but it is still His actual name.

“And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21

Do you know His last name? Did you know He has a last name? Do you know the Father’s name? Is it possible there is a “family name”? Here is the verse that changed my whole perspective.

“Who has ascended into heaven, or descended? Who has gathered the wind in His fists? Who has bound the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is His name, and what is His Son’s name, If you know?” Proverbs 30:4

Most people know the name of the Son, Jesus, but relatively few people know the Father’s name. I have taught much on the subject and wrote a book about the name of God, The Hebrew God Who Has No Name. Here is the optimum verse declaring His name. Note that I have changed the mistranslation of “LORD” to Yehovah. Jews traditionally do not pronounce His name, and Bible translators yield to that custom. But, the actual word in Hebrew is His name, Yehovah. That name occurs 6,828 times in the Hebrew text. Wow! We have really missed something critically important.

Moreover God said to Moses, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel: ‘Yehovah God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. This is My name forever, and this is My memorial to all generations.’” Exodus 3:15

Do you realize that the name Johnson came from a man named John who had a son who came to be called John’s son? Thus, the family surname was passed to their descendants. Let me suggest that the same is true with Yehovah. His Son, Jesus, has a first name and a last if you follow me. You might say His name is Jesus Yehovahson. Or, in Hebrew: Yeshua ben Yehovah, which is Yeshua, Son of Yehovah. Jesus carries “the family name.” He had laid it is aside, with His deity, according to Philippians 2.

“Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Yehovah, to the glory of God the Father.“ Philippians 2:9-11

Again, I have changed Lord to Yehovah. I believe this verse is connected to Isaiah 45:23 where the exact phrase is used by Yehovah concerning Himself. After Jesus had obeyed His Father to the extreme point of His death on the cross, Yehovah then exalted Jesus back to His place in the family. The name of Jesus is exalted because the Father restored Jesus to the family name, Yehovah. Pray about this and see if the Holy Spirit (of Yehovah) confirms it your own heart.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain on the land of Israel.

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

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Tags: Israel, Jerusalem, Jesus, Yehovah, Yeshua, Yeshua ben Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Feasting, Celebration, and Hope

9 10 2022

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The Biblical Feast of Tabernacles starts at sundown tonight, October 9th. Jews all over the world remember the sojourn in the wilderness after deliverance from Egypt. Even in 2022 many Jews will sleep outside tonight in little makeshift tabernacles, called sukkahs in Hebrew, as a reminder. But, is there a future meaning? Yes. Are Christians obligated to keep this feast? No, we observe it in solidarity with the Jews voluntarily, rejoicing that we have been grafted in to the commonwealth of Israel. We are not required to keep the Mosaic law, (see Acts 15).

Christians believe Jesus fulfilled the spring feasts of Passover and the summer feast of Pentecost (Shavuot). The fall feasts will also be fulfilled by His Second Coming. How specifically does He fulfill Tabernacles? Since it is the harvest feast, it speaks of the great end-time harvest of souls. But, it also speaks of the marriage supper of the Lamb. The most wonderful feast of all history is when we sit down with Him after He establishes His Kingdom on earth. The book of Hebrews calls this the “blessed hope.”

“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.” Titus 2:11-14

Tabernacles is a seven day feast ending next Sunday at sundown. Let your week be filled with hope of the soon return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Yeshua the Messiah! Celebrate the coming Kingdom!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for the watering of the Land of Israel.

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

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Tags: Feast of Tabernacles, Israel, Jerusalem, Jesus, marriage supper, Yeshua
Categories : Israel Commentary

The Lamb on the Mercy Seat

2 10 2022

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The Day of Atonement begins this year on Tuesday October 4, at sundown, and ends Wednesday at sundown. After the sounding of trumpets, we are now in the ten days of awe, which is a time of repentance leading up to Yom Kippur or Atonement. It is the time of the sacrifice for the nation of Israel. I would also like to think it can apply to the U.S. as well. As we approach the November 1 Israeli election, it is quickly followed by the mid-term election here. Repentance is in order for both nations. Two thoughts are stirring in my heart regarding the prophetic timing of these events.

Passover was fulfilled by Yeshua as the Passover Lamb, but Atonement, Yom Kippur, is fulfilled by Yeshua as the Great High Priest. He was the Lamb on earth, but in Heaven He is the priest who approaches the Mercy Seat and presents the blood of the Lamb, His own blood, as the eternal payment for our sins and the sins of the world. Yehovah God has provided the Lamb and the Mercy Seat as the righteous resolution to the sin problem for all who look on the Messiah with acceptance.
Yom Kippur occurring right before the election emphasizes the need for national humility and national repentance. This is a sober time indeed, as we face daunting threats from every side. Remember that the battle is not on the human level, but spiritual wickedness in high places.

“A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:10-12 NLT

Pray for a great harvest of souls in both nations and around the world. Also, pray for humble repentance for all leaders and the people, that Yehovah would show His mercy and turn our lands from evil. He is always looking for any opportunity to extend His mercy and forgiveness to all who ask. Pray for a visitation of God of epic Biblical proportions!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain in the new rainy season.

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

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Tags: Christian Zionist, Day of Atonement, Israel, Jerusalem, Yeshua, Yom Kippur
Categories : Israel Commentary

Is Your Lamp Filled With Oil?

24 09 2022

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Sundown tomorrow is the feast of Trumpets, Yom Teruah, the beginning of the final feasts. The last feast is Tabernacles, a seven day feast beginning on October 9th this year. The whole world is shaking right now with the birth pangs of a new Kingdom. Wake up and prepare for the coming of the Lord! There are many Bible scholars who believe that the Messiah will come on the Day of Trumpets. So, the question of the day is: Is Your Lamp Filled With Oil? Here are the words of Jesus the Son of God, Yeshua ben Yehovah:

“Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. The five who were foolish didn’t take enough olive oil for their lamps, but the other five were wise enough to take along extra oil. When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight they were roused by the shout, ‘Look, the bridegroom is coming! Come out and meet him!’ All the bridesmaids got up and prepared their lamps. Then the five foolish ones asked the others, ‘Please give us some of your oil because our lamps are going out.’ But the others replied, ‘We don’t have enough for all of us. Go to a shop and buy some for yourselves.’ But while they were gone to buy oil, the bridegroom came. Then those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was locked. Later, when the other five bridesmaids returned, they stood outside, calling, ‘Lord! Lord! Open the door for us!’ But he called back, ‘Believe me, I don’t know you!’ So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return.” Matthew 25:1-13 NLT

Will you be celebrating the final feast, the marriage feast? It is the marriage supper of the Lamb of God. Not all will be admitted. Of course, the unrepentant will not enter, but even many who claim to serve Him will not enter. This is consistent in Jesus’ teaching as recorded earlier in Matthew.

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name? ’And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’” Matthew 7:21-23

The Ultimate Preppers – There are many preppers around the world today who are saving up food and water and more. Some have bomb shelters or they move into the wilderness because of the things that are about to come on the earth. Preparedness is wise, but the question remains: Is Your Lamp Filled With Oil? This oil is the Holy Spirit, and the lamp is your life. Are you full of the Holy Spirit? Do you know His voice? His assignment from Yehovah is to prepare the bride for the Heavenly Bridegroom and the great wedding feast of eternity. As Abraham sent his servant to find a bride for Isaac, so God sent the Holy Spirit to prepare a bride for the Messiah. I am glad you have plenty of freeze-dried food for the next hurricane, but, Is Your Lamp Filled With Oil?

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and abundant rains for the land.

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

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Tags: Christian Zionist, Holy Spirit, Jerusalem, Messiah, Oil lamp, Trumpets, Yeshua, Yom Teruah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Never Able to Know Truth

15 09 2022

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What a concept! There are some people who are unable to grasp truth, even if it is right in front of them. It is a condition that predictably results from a certain lifestyle. Those who practice specific behaviors will inevitably be blinded to truth. Have you been frustrated by people who see current events but draw completely illogical conclusions bearing no resemblance to the truth? It seems common sense to understand, but they have really weird interpretations of what should be obvious.

“always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” 2 Timothy 3:7

This is a condition that is the end result of resisting God, resisting truth. Rebellion from God is resisting truth since He is truth. Jesus is “the way, the truth, and the life.” The way of rebellion leads to a total inability to recognize truth. Someone who has reached that condition simply cannot know truth. What a terrible place to be! Here are a few of the behaviors that lead to that blind condition. These are drawn from the larger context of 2 Timothy 3.

“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” 2 Timothy 3:1-5.

You do not want to see yourself in that list! Lord help us to love truth!

“these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, disapproved concerning the faith; but they will progress no further, for their folly will be manifest to all,” 2 Timothy 3:8-9.

Yes, those who are deceived will be exposed, but those who love the truth will be established in God and His righteousness through the Messiah Yeshua, Jesus Christ. Hang in there in faith. Don’t give up. Stay true to the Person who is truth. All of this faith walk is on the sure foundation of the Bible revelation of who Yehovah God is and who the Messiah is. Keep the faith!

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 316-17.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain as Israel enters the rainy season.

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

This is a link to my YouTube prophecy update, new every Tuesday.

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Categories : Israel Commentary

Casting Crowns

10 09 2022

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“Whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying: “You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created.” Revelation 4:9-11

One of the chaplains of her Majesty, had been preaching on the Second Coming of the Lord, and afterward, in conversation with the chaplain, the Queen exclaimed: ” Oh! how I wish that the Lord would come in my lifetime! ” ” Why,” asked the chaplain, ” does your Majesty feel this very earnest desire? The Queen replied with quivering lips, and her whole countenance lighted up by deep emotion- ” I should so love to lay my crown at His feet.” – Queen Victoria

Queen Elizabeth placed her crown there this week. Giving thanks. (Copied from Facebook, Tom Melzoni)

“We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the Christians who have died will rise from their graves. Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. So encourage each other with these words.” 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 NLT

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem! Pray for rain in the time of latter rain.

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

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Tags: Jerusalem
Categories : Israel Commentary

Vote for Anyone You Choose

1 09 2022

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This is not an endorsement of any one person or party. It is a challenge to you to vote responsibly. If you are uninformed, please don’t vote. If you do your own research. then vote for whoever you think is best. But, please do your due diligence. Today I am quoting a list from A to Z of actual accomplishments of President Trump. Please compare these to the current president’s list. Really. The media talks a lot about him. If anyone can create a similar list to Trump’s, please do. Here is the A to Z list for President Trump from American Spectator.

a) The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act — a massive tax reduction that largely remains in place

b) A 21 percent top-corporate tax rate, down from 35 percent

c) Eight regulations erased for every new one imposed

d) School voucher program for Washington, D.C., reauthorized and funded

e) Three constitutionalist justices added to the U.S. Supreme Court

f) Some 200 conservative judges placed in lower federal courts

g) Keystone XL Pipeline approved

h) Oil drilling in a small, specific portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge authorized

i) U.S. energy independence achieved

j) Critical race theory in federal programs dumped

k) Paris Climate Agreement abandoned

l) Iran Nuclear Deal ditched

m) Chinese Communist Party confronted and discredited

n) Islamic State group caliphate obliterated

o) U.S. embassy in Israel moved from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem

p) Four Middle Eastern peace deals with Israel and its neighbors signed

q) About 500 miles of southern-border wall constructed

r) Some 8,000 Opportunity Zones to revitalize low-income areas through market incentives activated

s) Planned Parenthood partially defunded

t) National Right to Life March addressed in person — a presidential first

u) Executive order requiring that new federal buildings be designed in classical Greco-Roman style

v) North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) replaced with the U.S.–Mexico–Canada Agreement — a new-and-improved free-trade pact

w) Free trade agreement with South Korea launched

x) Right to Try law allowing terminally ill patients access to experimental drugs signed

y) American military prowess restored and funded

z) Operation Warp Speed’s three COVID-19 vaccines delivered in record time via White House collaboration with the private sector

Donald J. Trump enjoyed enough victories to match the number of letters in the English alphabet. These 26 policies and achievements are all conservative. And there are many more (Space Force! Record-low black and Hispanic unemployment!).

Americans are free to vote their choice. My advice is to seriously compare party platforms in light of the Bible. There are major differences on issues such as support for Israel, Biblical marriage, sanctity of life, Biblical gender truth, Biblical sexual standards, parental rights in schools, free speech, and even such things as nationalism vs. globalism. These are all only favored by one party. Please study the issues and listen to the Holy Spirit before you vote.

Finally, please vote! Many Christians stay home every election. Get out and vote. It is the American system of choosing our leaders. Do not shirk your privilege and duty. VOTE! Only two months to go.

“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, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.” 1 Timothy 2:1-4 NLT

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and seasonal rains.

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

This is a link to my YouTube prophecy update, new every Tuesday.

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Categories : Israel Commentary

Hypocrisy, Coffee, and My Life Verse

26 08 2022

Quoted from Twitter

This is from our “You can’t make this up” Department. Starbucks promoted mail-in ballots for politics, but view them as untrustworthy for their own union elections. Starbucks is not even faithful to their own stance, but two-faced when it affects the bottom line. What hypocrisy! My emphasis for decades has been the faithfulness of God. He is always the same, immutable, unchangeable. You cannot separate faith from faithfulness. If you truly believe God, you will live like you believe; that is faithfulness.

“If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself.” 2 Timothy 2:13

He cannot deny Himself! He is always faithful no matter what we do. He does not follow us, He leads us by example. He is the model; we are not. This brings me to my main point of my life verse.

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6

There are two requirements of faith here. First, we must believe God exists. That’s easy. Even the demons know He exists, and they tremble. That is not enough!

“You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?” James 2:19-20

My life verse has guided me for over sixty years. God is a rewarder! He who comes to God must believe that He exists AND secondly; we must believe that He is a REWARDER of those who really seek Him. Have you ever accused God of letting you down? Are you tempted to believe the fault for your failures lies with Him? Do you project your own unfaithfulness onto God?

The wonderful news is that He is always faithful, even when we are not! If you keep seeking Him, He will never let you down. He is faithful. Yehovah God is faithful. Jesus is faithful. Holy Spirit is faithful! Repent. Trust Him. Believe that He will absolutely reward your seeking of Him. Live for Him!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for seasonal rain.

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

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Tags: Elisha Vision, faith, faithfulness, Israel, Jerusalem, Jesus, Les Lawrence, rewards, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Pay to Slay Still in Force

13 08 2022

fbi

The Palestinian Authority has paid nearly $1.5 million to terrorist murderers in the “pay to slay” scheme of rewarding terrorists for murdering Jews. Most of this comes from western nations grants for the “two-state” idea, which is a complete non-starter because both sides claim the entire land of Israel. Trump stopped the U.S. payments but Biden restored the money pipeline. The truth must prevail. God Himself has already spoken about who owns the land. The following is an excerpt from several news accounts.

The PA Has Already Paid $1,421,940 to the Terrorists Who Blew Up the Sbarro Pizza Shop – August 9, 2022, marked 21 years since the attack on the Sbarro pizza restaurant in Jerusalem. Fifteen people were murdered, including five members of one family, and 130 people were injured.

As a reward for carrying out the attack, the Palestinian Authority (PA) pays a total of $8,937 (27,800 shekels) each month to the five imprisoned terrorists and the families of the three dead terrorists who were involved in the attack. The current total paid to the terrorists is $1,421,940. The monthly payment to each terrorist will continue to rise the longer the terrorists are in prison.

Every month, the PA pays terrorist Abdallah Barghouti 7,300 shekels ($2,347).Every month, the PA pays terroristJamal Abu Al-Hija 8,300 shekels ($2,668). Having now completed 20 years in prison, this month Abu Al-Hija’s will rise to 8,300 shekels from 7,300 shekels. More details at: “the Algemeiner”

The evil unrighteousness of that system must be exposed and stopped. It is the sin of Judas who betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.

Then Judas threw the silver coins down in the Temple and went out and hanged himself.

The leading priests picked up the coins. “It wouldn’t be right to put this money in the Temple treasury,” they said, “since it was payment for murder.” After some discussion they finally decided to buy the potter’s field, and they made it into a cemetery for foreigners. That is why the field is still called the Field of Blood. This fulfilled the prophecy of Jeremiah that says,

“They took the thirty pieces of silver—the price at which he was valued by the people of Israel, and purchased the potter’s field, as Yehovah directed.” Matthew 27:5-10 NLT

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and seasonal rains.

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

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Israel, Jerusalem, murder for hire, Terror in Israel, Terrorism
Categories : Israel Commentary

Terrorism on the Ninth of Av

6 08 2022

Western-Wall-Flags-930x520

361 rockets fired from Gaza since Friday. 70 of them fell in Gaza. (Now 936 rockets, 160 landed in Gaza – updated Sunday 5pm Eastern) Tonight Jews in Jerusalem are mourning in observance of the Ninth of Av (Tisha B’Av), which remembers the destruction of both Solomon’s and Herod’s Temples. Many other Jewish catastrophes occurred on the same date. But this day is a new attack from the age-old enemy.

One of the misfired rockets landed in a Gaza refugee camp, killing at least four children. When 20% of Gaza rockets never get out of Gaza it is bound to happen. Israel has released video proof. This also reveals the priority of the terrorists. There “calling” to kill Jews and destroy Israel is more important than civilian deaths. They intentionally target civilians. In fact, that is the very definition of terrorism. By terrifying civilians they accomplish more than engaging in a military against military attack which they will lose. They count killing civilians as “courageous” victories, and those who die trying our “holy martyrs.”

The Temple and Terrorism – A Dangerous Mix – Conditions are ripe, on the eve of a Temple-centred Jewish commemorative day, for an eruption of violence from Islamist terrorist groups, Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

Israel strikes and kills another top Islamic Jihad commander in Gaza – After assassination of terror group’s north Gaza commander, IDF kills southern counterpart Khaled Mansour; senior officer says Israel believes it has taken out entire PIJ top brass.

IDF: All senior Islamic Jihad officials in Gaza eliminated – The IDF confirmed on Saturday night that senior Islamic Jihad operative Khaled Mansour had been eliminated by an IDF airstrike and that to the best of their knowledge, all senior Islamic Jihad officials in Gaza had been taken down as well.

This would be a good time to pray the Psalm 83 prayer that I explained in my recent post, Pray Psalm 83 For God’s Victory

“Do to them as you did to the Midianites and as you did to Sisera and Jabin at the Kishon River.” Psalm 83:9

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!

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

Here is the link to my YouTube:

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Tags: 9th of Av, Elisha Vision, Gaza, Israel, Jerusalem, Temple Mount, Terrorism
Categories : Israel Commentary

Parent and Senior Adult Challenge

29 07 2022

e1e1d5270972f345260f1f09b606e3ef

If you use a computer or a smartphone you can have a blessing ministry to your children. When Michael Masambu was with us a month ago, he challenged us to speak God’s words into our children and grandchildren with God’s blessing. We can all do that.

Well, today I began my blessing project for my own family. It is just a simple group text with a short word of wisdom, a Bible verse, or even just a “Grampa joke.” I won’t do it so often that it gets old for them, but try to keep it interesting. Even though I have authored eight books, they may not read them. But a sentence or two is enough to sow a seed. Here is the link to “The Blessing” by Kari Jobe & Cody Carnes.

Here is the first one I sent today: This text is GT#1 of random Grampa texts of wisdom and humor that I will be sending just to family. I hope you like them, but even if you don’t, I am still “the Grampa!” (sung like “Tra-di-tion!” from Fiddler on the Roof.) There is no set order or timing. You will get one when you least expect. Here is the first one, a very important truth. – If you want to understand God, you need to learn to “stand-under” God.

This affords us the opportunity to share a legacy with our posterity. Anyone can do it. You may not have great financial wealth to leave, but what is greater than the wisdom of Yehovah from many years? Why not start your own legacy blessing for your family?

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, But the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous.” Proverbs 13:22

“Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.” Proverbs 17:6

“Only take heed to yourself, and diligently keep yourself, lest you forget the things your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. And teach them to your children and your grandchildren,” Deuteronomy 4:9

“But the mercy of Yehovah is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children;” Psalm 103:17

“All your children shall be taught by Yehovah, And great shall be the peace of your children.” Isaiah 54:13

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for your children!

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

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Adult challenge, Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Israel, Jerusalem, Legacy, The Blessing
Categories : Israel Commentary

Pray Psalm 83 For God’s Victory

23 07 2022

008-gideon-midianites

THE PSALM 83 PRAYER – Over the years I have often referenced “The Psalm 83 War.” But today let us look at the specific prayer of that prophetic Psalm. It shows us how to pray in light of today’s headlines. The war prophesied is now clear in modern Israel’s history where the nations listed have been at war since 1948. But the specific prayer request of Psalm 83 is that Yehovah would defeat their enemies through confusion and panic.

Do to them as you did to the Midianites and as you did to Sisera and Jabin at the Kishon River. Psalm 83:9

This verse refers to two victories of Israel. One was with Gideon over the Midianites and the other was of Deborah and Barak over Canaanite kings. Both instances involve the enemy in panic and confusion. In Gideon’s case the Midianites rose up and killed each other in the confusion. I believe this is the prayer we should use today for Israel’s enemies and for our own enemies.

This even applies politically. As we pray for mercy on our nation, God is bringing panic and confusion to the enemies of truth and justice. Biblical morality is rejected by our cultural elites. But it’s not over. I pray for a great awakening of the Holy Spirit of God. Those who love the truth will awake and see God’s plan. Those who lie will be consumed in their lies.

“And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming. The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.“ 2 Thessalonians 2:8-12

NOW THE GOOD NEWS

“But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle. Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work.” 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17

For several years I taught that it would end in a final victorious battle for Israel. However, I now see that I was wrong. It is ending with the Abraham Accords. Peace is coming through mutual interests of Israel and their Arab neighbors for self defense and for economic reasons. As Arab leaders make peace for their countries with Israel, pray that the terrorists will meet the same fate prophesied in Psalm 83.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for seasonal rains.

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

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Tags: Abraham Accords, Gideon, Israel, Jerusalem, Midianites, Psalm 83 Prayer, Psalm 83 War
Categories : Israel Commentary

You Are Not Good, You Are Stubborn

18 07 2022

stubborn-post

Why did Yehovah God give the land of Canaan to Israel? Was Israel righteous? As a matter of fact, they were not. There are two reasons Yehovah blessed Israel with the Holy Land. He revealed these reasons just as Joshua led them across the Jordan River into the glorious land! 1. The previous inhabitants were so wicked they lost their right to the land. 2. God had made an unconditional promise, an oath, to their ancestors and He does not lie. Therefore they would receive the promised Land.

“After Yehovah your God has done this for you, don’t say in your hearts, ‘Yehovah has given us this land because we are such good people!’ No, it is because of the wickedness of the other nations that he is pushing them out of your way. It is not because you are so good or have such integrity that you are about to occupy their land. Yehovah your God will drive these nations out ahead of you only because of their wickedness, and to fulfill the oath he swore to your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. You must recognize that Yehovah your God is not giving you this good land because you are good, for you are not—you are a stubborn people.” Deuteronomy 9:4-6 NLT

You Are Not Good. – Have you notice the popularity of the phrase: “I’m good?” We say it all the time when a waiter asks if we want anything else. I like to good naturedly contradict my friends once in awhile when they say it. “Only God is good!”

“Why do you call me good?” Jesus asked. “Only God is truly good. “Mark 10:18 NLT

You Are Stubborn. – Why do we fight so hard against yielding to Jesus? It is because we are born with the sin nature of selfishness. We are naturally stubborn. Only by being born again in Jesus by the Holy Spirit are we empowered to overcome our old nature. This verse is more profound than we realize:

“Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols. So because you have rejected the command of Yehovah, he has rejected you as king.” 1 Samuel 15:23 NLT

This judgement was spoken to King Saul, but it applies to all of us about our own rebellion and stubbornness. Here is the profound revelation. How is stubbornness like idol worship? It is because we worship our own will and opinion above God’s. We make ourselves the idol in place of Yehovah God! Praise Yeshua our Messiah that we are forgiven and given new life through Him!

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

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

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Goodness, idolatry, Israel, Jerusalem, Jesus, righteousness, stubbornness, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

3 Quick Updates

14 07 2022

My first reaction to President Biden’s Israel visit is good. He generally said the right things other than still holding out for the “two state” idea, which is virtually dead by all accounts. His joint Jerusalem Declaration with Interim Prime Minister Lapid confirmed Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and neglected any idea of dividing the city. He even said his visit to a Palestinian hospital did not indicate any change of status for the U.S. position on Jerusalem. He had a very warm handshake with Netanyahu and a short meeting. We pray now for good news tomorrow in Saudi Arabia. Perhaps against his personal wishes, President Biden is clearly promoting the Abraham Accords. I have stated all along that God is in these Accords and man cannot block what Yehovah is doing.
“We made a mistake walking away from US influence in the Middle East” – “No change in policy implied” by American-only visit to eastern Jerusalem, says Biden.
I was recently interviewed on a popular podcast by my friend and Messianic leader Myles Weiss. We spoke of the Abraham Accords and other prophetic fulfillments. You can listen Here: To Life! The Hope Behind the Headlines
I apologize, but we have to change Issachar Forum: A Prophetic Think Tank back to Tuesday nights. Milton’s Restaurant reversed their announced plan to open Sunday nights. Therefore we will convene at 6pm each Tuesday beginning July 19th. The YouTube version will also be uploaded on Tuesdays from that date. You can always click on the YouTube logo for the link.

Please pray for the peace of Jerusalem, especially this week!

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

Comments : 4 Comments »
Tags: Biden Israel, Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Israel, Jerusalem
Categories : Israel Commentary

In the End, It is About Character

6 07 2022

Amy Israel 1

I believe in the supernatural gifts of the Holy Spirit, but they are His means to an end. The end is reproducing in us the nature and character of God Himself. Jesus came to show us the Father.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV

If this character of God is not happening in your life, you are missing the boat. (And, yes, that is a reference to Noah and the Flood.) Love is not an act, it is His nature, and our character conforming to His. Divine love is not a gift, it is a process. The Holy Spirit is here to enable that transformation. Don’t diminish the power of the Holy Spirit. Move in the gifts and listen to His voice. He is changing us from selfishness to selflessness. Jesus had this same love, and He gave us the Holy Spirit to finish the work in us!

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Philippians 2:5-8

“These things I have spoken to you while being present with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” John 14:25-26

BECOME LOVE.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain in season.

Les Lawrence, a voice of Christian Zionists. (Read: “Gog and Magog? …Nope.”)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: God is love, Jerusalem, LOVE, Love of God, Selflessness
Categories : Israel Commentary

Gog and Magog? …Nope.

2 07 2022

28 mile wall

This picture is a new 28 mile long wall (27 feet tall) being built right now, in Israel, to keep out terrorists from the West Bank. It is not on the border, but within Israel. This is proof that the Gog & Magog War of Ezekiel 38 cannot happen at this time. It is impossible, even though many prophetic buffs are excited that Gog & Magog is about to start. In addition to this wall, there are many other walls, fences, barriers, and checkpoints controlling access to Israel. Those who ignore the literal language of Ezekiel’s prophecy are making a mistake.

“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 ascend, coming like a storm, covering the land like a cloud, you and all your troops and many peoples with you.”

‘Thus says the Lord Yehovah: “On that day it shall come to pass that thoughts will arise in your mind, and you will make an evil plan: 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

Seven different phrases that do not apply in 2022. During Ramadan six weeks ago, five terrorist attacks murdered 19 Israelis. Is that the peace of the above verses? I think not.

The error of overlooking this extraordinary time of peace leads to other errors of prophetic interpretation. Some are missing the significance of the Abraham Accords because they are looking for imminent war. On the contrary, they should expect imminent peace. Even next week when President Biden is in Israel and Saudi Arabia there will be new announcements of agreements between Israel and the Saudis. I don’t believe the Saudi’s can join the accords until the expected passing of King Salman. But after that expect MBS (the Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman) to fast track many different reconciliations with Israel. Tourism and mutual defense against Iran are the main drivers of this unfolding peace. MBS is making massive investments in tourism, especially in ancient Midian on the Red Sea. This is the most compelling location of Mt. Sinai. Talk about a tourism magnet!

Mt. Sinai in Saudi Arabia | FULL EPISODE – Enjoy!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, rain, and a Yehovah fearing new Prime Minister after the election November 1.

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

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Abraham Accords, election, Israel, Jerusalem, Middle East, Walls
Categories : Israel Commentary

Israel Government Falls

27 06 2022

Samson

My prediction was off by one week. The coalition has decided to disband and go to new elections in Israel, which will be around November 1. Even today they are debating how to proceed. The opposition led by Netanyahu are attempting to form a new government from the current Knesset. They only have a day or so to before the final vote to dissolve the Knesset and go to elections.

It is changing hour by hour. My prayer is that God will raise up His leader for Israel. I still favor Netanyahu, but we will see if God favors him. The Lord recently spoke to me that He is raising up Sampson’s in these days to fulfill their original callings that were short circuited by sin and disobedience. Samson did not deserve to be restored for his final victory, but God’s word had to be vindicated because God does not lie.

“Then Samson called to Yehovah, saying, “O Lord Yehovah, remember me, I pray! Strengthen me, I pray, just this once, O God, that I may with one blow take vengeance on the Philistines for my two eyes!” And Samson took hold of the two middle pillars which supported the temple, and he braced himself against them, one on his right and the other on his left. Then Samson said, “Let me die with the Philistines!” And he pushed with all his might, and the temple fell on the lords and all the people who were in it. So the dead that he killed at his death were more than he had killed in his life.” Judges 16:28-30

Some “Samsons” are unrepentant, but for those who repent, God is able to raise them up once again to fulfill their purpose. We need to pray for God to restore the Samsons in our nations. We need all hands on deck for the spiritual warfare of these momentous days of shaking. Perhaps even now the house of God’s enemies will fall in a mighty deliverance. It may be that both Trump and Netanyahu were set aside by God for personal reasons. But He is able to raise them up again if they deal with the issues of their own hearts. We pray for Yehovah God’s divine purpose to be accomplished above all.

“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of Yehovah our God.” Psalm 20:7

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

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

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Tags: Israel, Israel Elections, Jerusalem, Netanyahu, Samson, Trump
Categories : Israel Commentary

I Was Wrong; But it’s Inevitable

17 06 2022

So, Israel’s coalition government is still standing after one year. I was wrong. I was wrong. I was wrong. A mishmash collection of conflicting parties beat my prediction. A year ago I predicted it would collapse in the first year (not “thus says the Lord”). But even now its end is near. Even the Prime Minister says it will probably not last two weeks.

Bennett warns coalition will collapse within a week or two unless MKs end rebellion – On 1st anniversary of taking power, PM says ruling bloc members ‘haven’t internalized’ importance of the hour; Netanyahu claims premier fighting for his job, not the country.

Shaked pressuring Bennett: Agree to right-wing government in the current Knesset – If his government disintegrates, Bennett will consider joining a right-wing government led by Netanyahu.

The current eight member coalition includes a Communist party, a Muslim Brotherhood party, other liberals, and a couple conservative parties who betrayed their own voters by linking with the extremists. Therefore its collapse is still inevitable. We pray for a new government that will listen to the God of Israel in all of its decisions. It’s not over. Yehovah has the final say!

Why did I stand on a chair? As a young father (and rookie Pastor) of three young girls, God spoke to me very clearly one evening as I was washing my hands before supper. It was not audible, but nevertheless quite clear in my spirit. He said I was to stop burping at meals with my family. He pointed out that I would never do that at a dinner with the Mayor. He said I was dishonoring and disrespecting my wife and girls with the nasty habit. He said I should tell them what He had spoken. He then told me I was to stand on a chair and say: “I was wrong.” Three times! To say they were shocked is an understatement, but I have obeyed that instruction ever since.

I later realized how important it is for fathers to own up to their mistakes and failures. The example for my girls 40 years ago has born life-long fruit. Even today, in family gatherings, if I say something wrong, they will say: “On the chair, Dad!” It is now a warm memory and occasion for laughter and love. But, this is important for any leader. Don’t be so full of yourself. Walk in proper humility before all. We have the privilege of showing Jesus to the world. When some people see Jesus in us, it may be the first time they ever see Him.

“I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you.15 For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16 Therefore I urge you, imitate me. — Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” 1 Corinthians 4:14-16 and 1 Corinthians 11:1

“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus,who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.” Philippians 2:5-8

“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.” James 4:10

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

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

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Christian Zionist, I was wrong, Israel, Jerusalem
Categories : Israel Commentary

War Zone!

10 06 2022

J 6 war zone carnage

Give me a break. Does this picture look like a war zone? A witness at the January 6th “insurrection” hearing yesterday testified that she thought the Capital riot was “a war zone” with “carnage.” Coming four days after D-Day, I wonder how WW2 vets would compare what they witnessed in the actual war with the “carnage” of Jan. 6. Also, how many residents of Uvalde, Texas would agree that “carnage” or “war zone” was an apt description of the Capital riot.

The only death that day was an unarmed young female protester who was shot by a Capital policeman. No guns were seen among the 2,000 rioters. Not. A. War Zone.

Yes, it was a riot. It was illegal. It was wrong. In fact, it actually stopped the legal proceedings of Congress which were attempting to challenge the certifications of a few specific electors. The riot was counter productive to the Republican legal challenges. But still, it was not a war zone. That description is terribly dishonoring to the life sacrifices of our heroes of real war zones. I don’t like the cheap words.

My lane is Israel and prophecy. So, why am I bringing this up? Because lying and exaggerating for political propaganda has been used against Israel and the Jews throughout history. Even now, Israel fights lies and propaganda every day. Where are the reporters who only speak the truth? The Bible explains the age we are now experiencing.

We know we have rebelled and have denied Yehovah. We have turned our backs on our God. We know how unfair and oppressive we have been, carefully planning our deceitful lies. Our courts oppose the righteous, and justice is nowhere to be found. Truth stumbles in the streets, and honesty has been outlawed. Yes, truth is gone, and anyone who renounces evil is attacked. Yehovah looked and was displeased to find there was no justice.” Isaiah 59:13-15 NLT

The best way to defeat lies is to speak truth. In fact, truth is a person. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain in season.

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

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: carnage, insurrection, Israel, J6, J6 hearings, Jan 6 riots, Jerusalem, war zone
Categories : Israel Commentary

Upward in Idaho

30 05 2022

Living Waters Ranch from above

Michael Masambu of Kenya, my brother Ken, and I just arrived in Sandpoint, Idaho. which is 60 miles from Canada, thus “upward.” The ministry at Living Waters Ranch in Challis, Idaho was powerful and anointed. Many thanks and blessings to Christopher and Debbie James who hosted with godly love and hospitality. It was a great honor to share in the ministry.

Our 400 mile drive to Sandpoint was some of the most gorgeous scenery on the planet and the fellowship was rich. Tomorrow, Michael will join the pastor’s lunch and then preach at a joint meeting at New Life Church (formerly Christian Center) at 7pm. All are welcome. Wednesday Michael moves on to the Tri-Cities in Washington.

Friday night at 7pm I will be ministering at River of Life Church in Sandpoint, concluding with Cocolalla Cowboy Church Sunday morning. Hope to see you there.

“This is what Yehovah of Heaven’s Armies says: You can be sure that I will rescue my people from the east and from the west. I will bring them home again to live safely in Jerusalem. They will be my people, and I will be faithful and just toward them as their God.” Zechariah 8:7-8 NLT

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and seasonal rains.

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

Comments : 5 Comments »
Tags: Elisha Vision, Idaho, Israel, Jerusalem, Sandpoint Idaho
Categories : Israel Commentary

God is with Israel

21 05 2022

Aliyah 2019

The time is coming when ten people will grab the sleeve of one Jew and beg them to walk together with Yehovah God. Is this a proportional (10 to 1?) prophecy? I don’t know about that, but it tells a lot about the future of Israel. We know that He was with them in the past, but He is also with them in the future.

“This is what Yehovah of Heaven’s Armies says: In those days ten men from different nations and languages of the world will clutch at the sleeve of one Jew. And they will say, ‘Please let us walk with you, for we have heard that God is with you.’” Zechariah 8:23 NLT

Remember what Rahab, the prostitute, said when Joshua was entering the Promised Land? She immediately knew that God was with them and it was wise to join them in order to be blessed by their God.

and (Rahab) said to the men: “I know that Yehovah has given you the land, that the terror of you has fallen on us, and that all the inhabitants of the land are fainthearted because of you. For we have heard how Yehovah dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to the two kings of the Amorites who were on the other side of the Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom you utterly destroyed. And as soon as we heard these things, our hearts melted; neither did there remain any more courage in anyone because of you, for Yehovah your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath. Joshua 2:8-11

These are two examples the fame of God reaching the ears of unbelievers. The literal “fear of the Lord” brought wisdom to Rahab. In the end times people will clamor for God’s blessing by physically traveling to Israel. In order for this prophecy to be fulfilled, the world will need to see and acknowledge that God is truly with Israel. This has begun with the miracle rebirth of the nation in 1948 and the reclaiming of Jerusalem in 1967. Millions of Jews are returning to their roots in Israel. From 600,000 Jews there in 1948 to over seven million in 2022. Israeli tourism is amazing, fulfilling God’s promises.

“This is what Yehovah of Heaven’s Armies says: People from nations and cities around the world will travel to Jerusalem. The people of one city will say to the people of another, ‘Come with us to Jerusalem to ask Yehovah to bless us. Let’s worship Yehovah of Heaven’s Armies. I’m determined to go.’ Many peoples and powerful nations will come to Jerusalem to seek Yehovah of Heaven’s Armies and to ask for his blessing.” Zechariah 8:20-22

Even if you cannot travel to Israel, you can seek the blessing of the God of Israel. He has made it personal for each of us by offering the Messiah, His Son Yeshua. He loves us and wants to have a relationship with us that includes all His blessings. As the world watches God’s increasing favor on Israel and the Jewish people, they must recognize that God is with them.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and abundant rain in God’s timing. Also, please pray for my ministry in Idaho for the next two weeks.

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

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Christian Zionist, fear of God, Israel, Israel tourism, Jerusalem, Prophecy
Categories : Israel Commentary

What Time Is It?

14 05 2022

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Timing is everything. What time is it now? Bible prophecy is always dependent on timing. Everything does not happen at once. Sequences of events lead chronologically step by step. Contrary to popular opinion, history is not circular, it is linear. Genesis is the account of “the beginning.” God has a purpose that has a beginning and ending. The end is His perfect Kingdom of righteousness with no sin, sickness, sorrow, or death. Consider these examples.

Biblical Esther came for “such a time as this.” For her, it was a critical role in the literal saving of the Jewish race. She was willing to die, “to perish,” if necessary. As I prepare to speak in two weeks at the Arise and Shine Conference at Living Waters Ranch in Challis, Idaho, this theme is on my heart. “If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?” Esther 4:14 NLT
The tribe of Issachar “understood the times” and knew what Israel ought to do. How many Christians today know what time it is? Are Christians like the Pharisees?
“One day the Pharisees and Sadducees came to test Jesus, demanding that he show them a miraculous sign from heaven to prove his authority. He replied, “You know the saying, ‘Red sky at night means fair weather tomorrow; red sky in the morning means foul weather all day.’ You know how to interpret the weather signs in the sky, but you don’t know how to interpret the signs of the times!” Matthew 16:1-3 NLT
Jesus Himself even had to wait for the timing of His death. He is also waiting for the timing of His return, known only to the Father. He often said His time was not yet, until it became “the time.” “You go up to this feast. I am not yet going up to this feast, for My time has not yet fully come.” When He had said these things to them, He remained in Galilee.” John 7:8-9 But then later… Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives.” John 12:23-24 NLT
It is high time to wake up! “And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts.” Romans 13:11-14

So, where are we on this timeline? I believe we are at a crossroads for our nation. It is time to wake up, stand up, and speak up for the Kingdom of Yehovah God and His Messiah. He is our only hope. But through Him we are “more than conquerors.” More are they that are with us than they that are with the enemy, as Elisha told his servant when surrounded by the Syrian army.

It is time to open our eyes to the eternal purpose of God. You may feel surrounded, or even hopeless, but God is in control. Jesus is on the throne! His will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Don’t give up!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and rain for Israel.

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

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Israel, Jerusalem, Jesus, Les Lawrence, now is the time, such a time as this, time, timing
Categories : Israel Commentary

Sound the Shofar for Israel and America

7 05 2022

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It was my honor to blow the shofar at the National Day of Prayer here in Wake Forest at the Town Hall. I also prayed, not only for the peace of Jerusalem, but for mercy for the United States. The Bible is absolutely clear that those who bless Israel will be blessed and cursed if we curse Israel. Our government is hanging in the balance on the verge of cursing Israel with the new Iran Deal. God forbid!

We are also being measured by Yehovah God because of the MURDER of 62 million babies since the 1973 court decision. People are now demanding abortion with the twisted slogan: “Abortion is healthcare!” Pray, pray, pray, and speak up! This is a time of history that we, like Esther of old, have come for “a time such as this.”

Make no mistake. This is not about politics. It is genocide; and more black babies are murdered per capita than any other group. This is a boldfaced defiance of the living Creator God who instructed His creation to “Be fruitful and multiply.” Wickedness is fast reaching a “full cup.” There is a tipping point where God steps in to end the abominations. He will “not always strive with man”.

“For in the hand of Yehovah there is a cup, and the wine is red; It is fully mixed, and He pours it out; Surely its dregs shall all the wicked of the earth drain and drink down.” Psalm 75:8

“And Yehovah said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years.” Genesis 6:3

“Yehovah is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. He will not always strive with us, nor will He keep His anger forever.” Psalm 103:8-9

Some may think that sounds harsh, and so, they deny that God is Who He says He is. They reject Him because He does not give them permission for evil. Because He is longsuffering, they think He approves. But after many opportunities for them to turn around, God concludes they are incorrigible. You do not want to cross that line. Pray for mercy. Pray for forgiveness.

Our nation is RIGHT. AT. THAT. LINE.

Pray that we will turn back to God, support Israel, and follow the Good Shepherd.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem and pray for Israel rain. (There were a few more showers this week!)

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

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Abortion, forgiveness, Israel, Jerusalem, Mercy, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

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