Olympic Israel Snub

9 08 2012

Palestinian Flag Shows Bias 

This was a hard blog to title. In case you missed it, these Olympics are the 40th anniversary of the 1972 Munich Massacre of 11 Israelis. It would seem to have been a no-brainer to offer a moment of silence as requested by Israel during the opening ceremony. Yet, it was ultimately blocked by the Head of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Much has been written pro and con, but I wish to share a little known explanation. The biased decision by the IOC Head was not even subtle as you can see from this picture.

 

However, the story does not end there. American gymnast Alexandra Raisman had an appropriate response. By saying her gold medal-winning performance in the floor exercise was in part a memorial to the Israelis who perished long before she was born, Raisman gave us a genuine moment of Jewish pride that places the IOC’s shameful stand in perspective. Jonathan S. Tobin

In the end, it is not to be expected that the world will support Israel. The Bible is clear that the nations will be against Israel. Only God and God’s people will stand with Israel. I pray that we as a nation will be counted with those who bless Israel.

​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

Yehovah brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; ​​He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect. The counsel of Yehovah stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations. ​​Blessed is the nation whose God is Yehovah, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance. Psalm 33:10-12

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Beware the Leaven

4 08 2012

 

An ultra-Orthodox Jewish man checks a myrtle branch for blemishes at a Jerusalem market.  (REUTERS/Amir Cohen)

Then He (Jesus) charged them, saying, “Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” Mark 8:15

Two types of leaven are referenced by Jesus in this verse: leaven of Pharisees and leaven of Herod. We know the implication. Leaven is a yeast that spreads throughout the dough so it will rise when baked. But of what is Jesus warning us?

For years I have made the case that Communism failed to dominate the world because of one critical strategic mistake. Based on atheistic humanism, it had no spiritual component. Yes it was demonic in its character and goals, but it was not inherently spiritual at its core.

On the other hand, Islam is spiritual at its core. But Jesus said to watch out for two kinds of leaven. The leaven of the Pharisees is a “religious spirit.” They go about trying to establish their own righteousness, according to the apostle Paul. It also infects modern Christians, who try to earn salvation rather than receiving it as a totally free gift of God. There is a seduction to the idea that you must do something to qualify for it. This is the religious spirit. (Jesus further defines it as the traditions or doctrines of men and as hypocrisy. See quotes at the end of this commentary).

The leaven of Herod speaks of the other kind of leaven. It is a “political spirit.” Herod was the archetypical political animal. He double crossed, connived and deceived. He played both side against the middle. Jesus called him “that fox”. Herod reminds us of today’s politics in Washington, DC.

The debt ceiling crisis we have all just witnessed, was pure politics (an interesting oxymoron). Yet, there is a greater threat rapidly rising in this nation and the world. It is militant Islam. One main reason Islam is so powerful is that it combines the two leavens. Islam is both a religious spirit and a political spirit. Communism had only the political, but Islam has both. The lust for world conquest is not only in the core of sinful man, it is fueled and energized by the passionate religion of death. The true believers are actually convinced that salvation comes by blowing up infidels, Christians and Jews and yourself in the process. These are Muslims who are faithful to the Koran and other writings, who follow WWMD: What would Mohammed do?

How opposite is the motive from Jesus and Christians who follow WWJD: What would Jesus do? Jihadists die to save themselves. Jesus died so that we could live! Pray that Muslims all over the world will discover this great salvation offered through Jesus the true Messiah and Son of God, Yehovah. His Hebrew name is Yeshua ben Yehovah. He came because God loves the whole world. Yet, it is not automatic, one must receive Jesus as Who He is.

Pray for Muslims to be set free from that evil religious spirit of earning salvation. Also pray that they be released from the political spirit of pride and greed and arrogance driving them to conquer the earth in the name of their false god.

Pray for the Church to see the folly of religious hypocrisy and repent for political methods.

Beware the leaven of the Pharisees and of Herod!

In the meantime, when an innumerable multitude of people had gathered together, so that they trampled one another, He began to say to His disciples first of all, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. Luke 12:1

Then they understood that He did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees. Matthew 16:12

Great article on leaven by an Israeli pastor: BEWARE

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)

(Today’s post is a reprint, originally posted on February 8, 2011)


Comments : 4 Comments »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Hizbullah Not Terrorist Org

30 07 2012

Nasrallah – Not a Terrorist?

The European Union says there is no ‘tangible evidence’ that Hizbullah is a terror org. Today’s post is almost entirely quoted from a Gabe Kahn article at Israel National News. I quote from it here to expose the hypocrisy and willful ignorance of Israel’s enemies in the West, including the EU. Do you remember #3 on this list where 241 US Marines were killed in 1983? Pray for truth to triumph over lies.

 

Justice is turned back, And righteousness stands afar off; For truth is fallen in the street, And equity cannot enter. Isaiah 59:14

While Hizbullah claims it does not carry out terror attacks, Western and Israeli officials have long blamed Hizbullah for direct involvement in, or orchestrating by proxy:

  1. The 1982–1983 Tyre headquarters bombings.
  2. The April 1983 U.S. Embassy bombing.
  3. The 1983 barracks bombing that killed 241 US marines, 58 French paratroopers and 6 civilians at the US and French barracks in Beirut.
  4. The Hijacking of TWA Flight 847 in 1985.
  5. The Lebanon hostage crisis from 1982 to 1992, including the kidnapping and torture-murder of CIA Beirut station chief William Buckley.
  6. The 1992 Israeli Embassy attack in Buenos Aires, killing 29, in Argentina.
  7. The 1994 AMIA bombing of a Jewish cultural centre, killing 85, in Argentina.
  8. The 1996 Khobar Towers bombing, which killed 19 Saudi citizens, and 1 American.
  9. The 2000 cross-border kidnapping and murder of IDF soldiers Adi Avitan, Benyamin Avraham, and Omar Sawaidwere.
  10. In 2002, Singapore accused Hizbullah of recruiting Singaporeans in a failed 1990s plot to attack US and Israeli ships in the Singapore Straits.
  11. The 2005 assassination of Lebanese Prime Minister Rafiq Hariri for which 4 Hizbullah members were indicted by the Hague.
  12. The 2006 kidnapping and murder of IDF soldiers Ehud Goldwasser and Eldad Regev, which precipitated the 2006 Israel-Lebanon War.
  13. Indiscriminately targeting Israeli civilians with rocket fire during the ensuing 34 day conflict.
  14. The January 15, 2008, bombing of a U.S. Embassy vehicle in Beirut.
  15. In 2009, a Hizbullah plot in Egypt was uncovered, where Egyptian authorities arrested 49 men for planning attacks against Israeli and Egyptian targets in the Sinai Peninsula.
  16. A failed 2011 bombing in Istanbul targeting the Israeli consul, which left eight dead.
  17. A spate of bombings targeting Israeli diplomats in India, Georgia, and Thailand in early 2012.

Please think for yourself when you read the news. Mark Twain’s quote could be updated (with my humble apology). “If you don’t read the Internet, you’re uninformed. If you read the Internet, you’re mis-informed.”

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists       (READ MORE)


Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Peace That Doesn’t Make Sense

26 07 2012

For decades we have made deposits in our “faith account” We believe in storing up faith more than anything else for future times of need. There will be times for all of us when we need to “withdraw from our faith account.” April 11, 2001 Doreen and I had finished preparations to travel in a motor home, and preach in support of God’s purposes for Israel. It was the final day of our rental house and we would drive away the next morning. As I positioned the motor home for the last minute loading, it caught fire which jumped to the wooden porch of the home and within minutes the whole house was burning. It was a total loss. As the firemen fought the 40 foot flames, Doreen and I watched (with a hundred of our closest friends and neighbors). Doreen leaned over to me and said: “I’m sure glad I wore my comfortable shoes.” And I was just thinking to myself: “Wow Lord! I didn’t see that coming. What are You going to do now?” Honestly, we had some sort of real supernatural faith withdrawal from the transcendent grace and peace of the Holy Spirit of God.

Some of our friends said we were in shock and it would hit us the next day. When it didn’t, they said it would be the next week or month. Well, it has now been over 11 years and it still hasn’t hit us. Yes I boast, but not in our faith, but in God’s faithfulness. We actually experienced what I call “peace that doesn’t make sense.” We should have been in shock. We should have panicked or collapsed or had any other normal reaction. But we did not. We had peace. Thank you Jesus! The Apostle Paul said it another way:

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7

Last year, my good friend Doug Walton, shared a gem from the Hebrew text of this verse:

You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You. Isaiah 26:3

One would be right to assume that “peace” here is the Hebrew word “shalom”. What I did not know before Doug shared, was that the word “perfect” is also “shalom” in the Hebrew text. The concept of perfect peace is really shalom-shalom, or shalom squared! So the perfect peace (that doesn’t make sense in the human circumstance) is really a double shalom from our loving Heavenly Father, right at the time we need it most. Hallelujah!

When we face tragedy, reversal, uncertainty or anything unexpected, we stand at that choice again of two roads as mentioned in the introduction of this book. Do we choose LIFE in Jesus or self-will? Do we stick with Him or deny Him in blasphemous rebellion? Joshua said it best for all generations:

And if it seems evil unto you to serve Yehovah, choose for yourselves this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve Yehovah. Joshua 24:15

So then, we will walk by faith, live by faith and stand in faith. It takes courage to stand in faith in the face of insurmountable odds. Yet, as someone said: “You and God are not a majority, you have a monopoly.” Paul reminded the Romans that if God was for them, no one could stand against them. I do not diversify my Heavenly hope; my total trust is invested in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of Israel. All my eggs are in one basket. (This post is an excerpt from my newest book, Generation LIFE, available soon.)

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

If Guns Were Outlawed Only Outlaws Would have Guns

21 07 2012

Demands for gun control are coming out of the woodwork in the aftermath of the Colorado movie massacre. This utterly predictable response has brought into focus several otherwise unrelated events of this past week.

1. Doreen and I had the distinct honor of attending John Hagee’s Christians United For Israel annual Washington, DC Summit. It was thrilling to sit with 5,000 Christian and Jewish Zionists. CUFI now has over 1,250,000 members making it the largest Christian Zionist organization in the world. The keynote speaker was US Representative Michelle Bachman.

2. Next day, Michelle Bachman was publicly and dishonestly attacked  by Senator John McCain. She was accused of personally attacking Huma Abedin (Hillary Clinton Deputy Chief of Staff). McCain was dead wrong. Bachman (member of the Intelligence Committee)  only raised the question of vetting, since Abedin’s father, mother and brother all have proven connections to the Muslim Brotherhood.

3. This week a suicide bomber killed five civilian Israeli tourists in Bulgaria.

4. Yesterday’s movie massacre has led to wall to wall news coverage and demands for gun control.

So, how do I see a common thread between these events? The Bulgaria bombing illustrates a couple of things. Murderers don’t play fair and they usually attack civilians, so-called “soft” targets. This was likewise true in Colorado. The question is: Who is getting on our “bus”? Or, who is sitting in our theater? Or, who is advising our government?

Here is a typical demand for gun control from a New York Times op-ed on the very day of the Colorado tragedy: That James Holmes is insane, few may doubt. Our gun laws are also insane, but many refuse to make the connection. The United States is one of few developed nations that accepts the notion of firearms in public hands. In theory, the citizenry needs to defend itself. Not a single person at the Aurora, Colo., theater shot back, but the theory will still be defended. [emphasis added]

The only trouble with this quote (as pointed out on Breitbart.com) is that: The Cinemark theater chain has a “gun-free zone” policy.

The truth is that the rate of similar shootings has remained constant for decades in the U.S. And in Israel you don’t see a lot of street crime because many Israeli’s carry guns openly. It is an amazing deterrent to gun violence. Had there been  a legal gun in that Colorado theater, the cowardly gunman would have been brought down before he could complete his plan, saving many wounded and presumably even several lives. Therefore, it becomes a classic proof of the much mocked and maligned fact: If guns were outlawed, only outlaws would have guns.

Finally, what does the Bible say on the subject? Exodus 22:2 If the thief is found breaking in, and he is struck so that he dies, there shall be no guilt for his bloodshed. This stipulates it not a crime to defend your home from a thief, even if he dies. 1 Samuel 25:13 reveals that every man owned his own weapon when David led them into battle.

Judges 5:8 reminds us of what happens to a foolish nation that chooses to disarm: They chose new gods; then was war in the gates: was there a shield or spear seen among forty thousand in Israel?

The answer to the rhetorical question is clear: No. The people had rebelled against God and put away their weapons of self-defense. (Full article here.)

Les Lawrence, Voice off Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)

 

Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Plowman Overtakes Reaper

14 07 2012

One of the surest signs that we are in the last generation is the fulfillment of Amos 9:13-15. We can now see the plowman overtaking the reaper with our own eyes. After pronouncing severe judgment on Israel, he turns to the time of restoration. Some would say this was fulfilled in the past, but that is not possible due to the last sentence of verse 15. Today is the hour that the prophet foretold. Only today can we see history lining up with prophecy.

“Behold, the days are coming,” says Yehovah, “When the plowman shall overtake the reaper, and the treader of grapes him who sows seed; the mountains shall drip with sweet wine, And all the hills shall flow with it. I will bring back the captives of My people Israel; They shall build the waste cities and inhabit them; They shall plant vineyards and drink wine from them; They shall also make gardens and eat fruit from them. I will plant them in their land, and no longer shall they be pulled up from the land I have given them,” Says Yehovah your God. Amos 9:14-15.

“No longer” removed from the land can only apply to these last days. Every previous time, Israel was scattered again. In the end, Israel will reach the point where it is never uprooted again. The final condition of Israel is supported by multiple prophecies.

The main point in this quote is the phrase: “the plowman shall overtake the reaper.” This promise indicates a time of such fruitfulness (as in Vine, Branches, Fruit) that the crops will be so plentiful and the soil so fertile that they don’t wait till next year to plant another crop. They plow right behind the reapers. When Doreen and I and our daughter, Andrea, lived in Israel for three months in the mid-nineties, we visited a valley near Mt Hermon in the Golan Heights called the Hula Valley. Doreen is from Maine where they get one and a half cuttings of hay a year. In Georgia, they can get three or four cuttings of hay in a year. But in the Hula Valley of northern Israel they get eighteen cuttings of hay per year. That is fertile land with Yehovah’s blessing of abundance.

The text continues to say that “the mountains will drip with sweet wine”. Grapevines are not usually grown in the rocky soil of Israel’s mountains. But this era of Israel’s resurrection will see miraculous conditions allowing grape vines in the mountains. It goes on to describe gardens with fruit that they plant and enjoy for themselves, no need of imports. Again, finally, no longer will they be removed from the land. Just like they plant and reap the fruit, God will plant them again in their own land, never again to be pulled up. Thank you Father, for allowing us to live in this day of favor and restoration of your covenant people Israel. (An excerpt from my newest book, Generation LIFE, available in August, Lord willing.)

Will the Palestinian flag ever fly over a legitimate state within the Biblical boundaries of Israel? No, it will never happen because God is faithful to keep His covenant with His Land and His people Israel. Will there be more war in Israel? Yes, sadly, Psalm 83 (my 9 minute YouTube video) describes today’s buildup to a regional war. We stand on the threshold of that war, but Israel will triumph through Yehovah God’s faithfulness.

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

Please continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and for the return of abundant rains that will cause the earth to bring forth fruitfulness. We now see the plowman overtaking the reaper! Thank you, Jesus.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


Comments : 14 Comments »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Hollyhocks

7 07 2012

Around 1935 my Dad and Mom took a trip from Illinois to the West Coast to visit friends and it may have been to celebrate their fifth anniversary. It was about that time in their marriage. While on the coast, Dad contracted a life-threatening case of typhoid fever. It appeared to all that he would die a young man without any children.

He told me the story himself many times as I was growing up. He faced the end of his life lying in a hospital bed in a strange land far away from all but his loving wife. That last night he said goodbye to her, and made His peace with God. He said he faced the reality that he would probably not wake up the next morning. He was ready to “give up the ghost” as they say. Just before he closed his eyes for what he expected to be the last time in this life, his eye caught a slight movement outside the open window near his hospital bed. He saw the wind gently moving some hollyhock buds growing right outside his window. At that moment, he thought: “I wonder if those buds will open and bloom in the morning? Maybe I will just wake up early and see if they bloom.” With that he fell asleep. During the night, his typhoid fever broke and he woke up to the morning light and fully blooming hollyhocks. He was a new man. He was healed and lived a happy, blessed and thankful ninety years; with two sons, seven grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren and still counting great-great-grandchildren! Oh! And guess what became his favorite flower?

Just a twinkling moment, frozen in time, bought fifty-five more years. Would the hollyhocks bloom?  LIFE seduced my Dad. What wondrous ways are the works of Yehovah! Dad knew something about abiding in the vine. After you face death and win, there is nothing else that can threaten you. Your life is in God, it is His call. So you live LIFE. You serve Him, not to obtain anything, but out of gratitude. Thank you Jesus!

(An excerpt from my newest book, Generation LIFE, available in August, Lord willing.)

Dad’s favorite verse:

I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. John 15:5

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

The Voters Are Coming!

4 07 2012

Taxed Enough Already = TEA Party

Today’s Tea Party movement is the contemporary revival of the signal cause of the American Revolution. The original Boston Tea Party was a protest over an unfair tax on tea levied by the British on the fledgling American Colonies which eventually led to the Declaration of Independence. One of the most famous quotations of the era was “No taxation without representation.” It is ironic that nearly 240 years later that the largest set of taxes in history are to be levied through The Affordable Health Care Act, aka Obamacare. Also, it was enacted without having been read and with ignorance of its provisions.

REPLACE AND REPEAL – Following the disappointing ruling of the Supreme Court, the remaining remedy to avoid this catastrophic tax is to replace the government. Before we can repeal the law and replace it with a better plan (as in the Romney slogan: “Repeal and Replace”) we must first replace the Senators who were for it and elect a new President. My appeal is to all patriotic citizens to rise up now to aid our country’s liberty, regardless of your faith or political party.

Secondly, I appeal to Christians. There are some political issues that I may hold my nose and support out of party loyalty or ideology. However, there are certain red lines that violate my Biblical faith. I appeal to Christians to bring God into the voting booth, because our nation’s liberty is on the line.

1. I will not vote for one who opposes Israel.

2. I will not vote for one who supports abortion (see NOTE below.)

3. I will not vote for one who supports infanticide.

4. I will not vote for one who dismisses the Biblical view of homosexuality.

5. I will not vote for a liar, whether in campaigning or in autobiography.

6. I will not vote for one who violates the First Amendment (freedom of religion).

Finally, every vote counts. North Carolina was carried by Obama in 2008 by only 14,177 votes. It is time for Christians with a Biblical world view to stand up and vote. But before that, register. Some are not even registered! Please help encourage your family and neighbors to vote this November. It is time for Biblical believers to wake up, stand up and speak up for Godly leadership. We in America live in a representative republic, which means our actions (or inaction) affects our leadership. We must vote and pray!

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus. 1 Timothy 2:1-5

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)

(NOTE: Since 1973, 54 million American babies have been legally murdered in the safest place on earth, their mother’s womb. One hundred million have been born, leaving one-third of our posterity MIA! 27 million of those aborted were female. Talk about a war on women?!)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Mohammed Morsi’s Wife

1 07 2012

One year and one week ago we learned of the scandal of Rep. Anthony Weiner who is now disgraced and out of office. But the real revelation of that story was about his wife, Huma Abedin, Hillary Clinton’s Chief of Staff. It was the subject of my commentary then and is reprised below for your information.

However, there is breaking news now about a major connection between Huma Abedin’s mother and the new Egyptian President’s wife, Umm Ahmed. Both women are in the top 63 leaders of the Muslim Sisterhood, according to multiple reports. Walid Shoebat broke it first in his blog.

The question then arises as to a type of conflict of interest for Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State. Watch her proclamations about Egypt. Coupled with President Obama’s insistence that the MB attend his Cairo speech in 2009, no wonder this Administration has embraced the Brotherhood in Egypt. This is one to watch.

Anthony Weiner’s Wife June 21 2011 (Re-Posted)

Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them. It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret. But their evil intentions will be exposed when the light shines on them. Ephesians 5:10-13 NLT

I will not comment on the sins of former Congressman Anthony Weiner. The text above is enough said. However, in our sympathy for his new bride expecting their first baby, something has come to light that is not about immorality, but ideology. Walid Shoebat, a Christian ex-Muslim, has just reported that Huma Abedin, the offended wife, is more than simply the loyal “right hand woman of Hillary Clinton”. Born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, she was educated in Jedda, Saudi Arabia from age two to eighteen. Her father was an Islamic scholar of Indian descent while her mother is originally from Pakistan.

The plot thickens with the revelation that her mother is a member of the Muslim Brotherhood in Saudi Arabia, according to Arabic news sources cited by a former Palestinian Liberation Organization operative. Walid Shoebat, an ex-Muslim Brotherhood activist in the Holy Land, translated sources that say Huma Abedin’s mother, Saleha Mahmoud Abedin, a professor of sociology in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, belongs to the Sunni movement’s women’s division known as the Muslim Sisterhood. One of the Sisterhoods aims, reportedly, is “to spread the Brotherhood’s ideology by infiltrating universities, schools and homes.”

Please click on the blue links above, to read the full story. Thank you.

The burden against Egypt. Behold, Yehovah rides on a swift cloud, and will come into Egypt; the idols of Egypt will totter at His presence, and the heart of Egypt will melt in its midst. “I will set Egyptians against Egyptians; everyone will fight against his brother,  and everyone against his neighbor, city against city, kingdom against kingdom.the spirit of Egypt will fail in its midst; I will destroy their counsel,  and they will consult the idols and the charmers, the mediums and the sorcerers. and the Egyptians I will give into the hand of a cruel master, and a fierce king will rule over them,” Says the Lord, Yehovah of hosts.The waters will fail from the sea, and the river will be wasted and dried up. Isaiah 19:1-5

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists       (READ MORE)


Comments : 8 Comments »
Tags: , , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Thank You from Elisha Vision

28 06 2012

We give praise to God for His blessings in our Elisha Vision ministry. Today I am giving an account via this praise report. Three years ago we launched Elisha Vision to expand our life long commitment for Israel. The Lord gave me a voice representing Christian Zionists through speaking engagements, books, articles and, of course, this commentary site. One goal we have fulfilled was for Doreen and I to each author one book per year. We thank you for following this blog. We have received over 40,000 views in that time. This includes visits from 121 different countries. This year we began our YouTube Video Issachar Forum weekly news and prophecy report.

When we are home in the Raleigh area each week, I teach a Bible class at Covenant Church International, host Issachar Forum: A Prophetic Think Tank, and lead a home meeting. I also speak in various churches and clubs when invited.

Doreen’s third children’s book, A Three Strand Cord, is now available, continuing the story of Matt and Rachel, a Christian boy and a Jewish girl. This series explains the modern application of the Biblical feasts. It follows her first two, How Hanukkah Saved Christmas and A Lamb for Rachel. Doreen plans to conclude the story next year with her fourth title featuring the feast of Tabernacles.

My first book was published in the 90’s, Prophesy To The Land!, a Biblical primer on the restoration of Israel. In the last two years I have published Generation LAST, about why I believe we are in the last generation. Generation LIGHT is about Jesus the light of the world, indwelling, and shining out from His people.

My newest book, Generation LIFE, will be published in a month or so. We are praying for the remaining funds needed (approximately $1,000), we will not borrow  to pay for it. While it is based on Jesus as “the way, the truth, and the life”, it is also somewhat autobiographical, being full of personal stories illustrating real life in Him. The outline is below.

All of our books are available at our Books and Donations link here.  Please prayerfully consider a donation today. If you prefer to send a check, the address is: Elisha Vision PO Box 1601 Wake Forest, NC 27588.

Introduction: Circumcise Your Bible

Part I – JESUS IS THE VINE

Chapter   1: Jesus is Alive

Chapter   2: LIFE is in the Vine

Chapter   3: Why Jesus Wept

Chapter   4: LIFE is God

Part II – WE ARE THE BRANCHES

Chapter   5: Roots and Branches

Chapter   6: Joints and Marrow

Chapter   7: Truth and Hypocrisy

Chapter   8: Honor Your Father & Mother

Part III – WE BEAR MUCH FRUIT

Chapter   9: God of Elisha

Chapter 10: Prophesy!

Chapter 11: Holocaust Resurrection

Chapter 12: Generation LOVE

Epilogue

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

120 Invisible Rockets

21 06 2012

If you have to explain the punchline of a joke, it probably isn’t funny. That is Israel’s second problem when they are attacked with 120+ rockets in three days. The first problem is that the Western media did not cover it. I watched several major news channels in the US over the three days with not even the slightest report. This is how 120 rockets in three days become invisible.

But back to the second problem for Israel. When three days go by without proper news coverage, it is easy to blur the cause of the outbreak. That is where my analogy of needing to explain a joke applies. Hamas is able to claim that Israel is the aggressor simply because there is no timeline established. This week’s attacks started with a terrorist attack over the border from Egypt’s Sinai into Israel that killed one worker in Israel. Only then did Israel defend itself by a counter attack into Gaza. Without proper press coverage, Hamas makes claims that Israel started it, forcing Israel into “explaining the punchline”.

Then, the international media has a field day reporting Israel’s action without context. Now Israel again has to “explain the punchline”. Reuters offers a classic example of my point. After virtually no coverage in the two previous days, they finally have this headline and story on Wednesday: “Israel Kills 2 Gazans as fighting enters third day”. The story tells of Israel killing them as they are riding a motorcycle, as if they were just out for a drive. You have to keep reading five paragraphs into the story to hear that they were the ones who killed the Israeli worker on Monday. The story says 20 rockets were fired on Wednesday when the actual number was 70. They fail to mention the total of 120+ rockets since Monday’s incident provoked Israel’s defensive response, as reported by The Times of Israel site. Here is another example from Reuters (Thanks to Elder of Ziyon)

Another example comes from the BBC, reported in the Israel Hayom news site.

BBC: Hamas admits Gaza child was killed by Palestinian rocket Palestinians first blame Tuesday’s death on Israel Air Force strike, but a Hamas official later attributes incident to Palestinian rocket fire • Despite this credible report, Chinese and French media report child died in “mysterious” blast.

A Hamas official has admitted to the BBC that a Gaza child killed on Tuesday died as a result of Palestinian rocket fire, and not from an Israeli strike. While this is not the first time Gazans have been killed by misfired Palestinian munitions, the admission, made to BBC Gaza and West Bank Correspondent Jon Donnison, is unusual in its rarity.

Please click here to see the official graph of rocket attacks from Gaza since the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in 2005. Since Israel withdrew from the Gaza Strip in 2005, terrorists have fired over 8,000 rockets into Israel. Over one million Israelis are currently under threat of rocket attacks. The graph is from the IDF site.

Yehovah lives! Blessed be my Rock! Let the God of my salvation be exalted. It is God who avenges me, and subdues the peoples under me; He delivers me from my enemies. You also lift me up above those who rise against me; You have delivered me from the violent man. Therefore I will give thanks to You, O Yehovah, among the Gentiles, and sing praises to Your name. Great deliverance He gives to His king, and shows mercy to His anointed, to David and his descendants forevermore. Psalm 18:46-50

Let us pray this Psalm for Israel’s deliverance in the name the God of Israel, Yehovah, and in the powerful name of Jesus, His Son; Yeshua ben Yehovah!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Egyptians Against Egyptians 2.0

20 06 2012

Newsflash: 80 Rockets Fall on Israel in last two days – Hamas unleashed by Muslim Brotherhood Egyptian victory (my comments later this week)

Chaos is engulfing Egypt following the presidential election won by Mohammed Morsi, the Muslim Brotherhood candidate. Although the military candidate, Shafiq, also claims victory most reports agree that Morsi won. Last week the courts disbanded the new MB dominated parliament which was confirmed Sunday by the military leaders. Some called the actions a military coup by the military. No matter who is officially declared the winner tomorrow, the other side will likely riot in the streets. We truly have reached the prophesied point of God’s Isaiah 19 actions.

The burden against Egypt. Behold, Yehovah rides on a swift cloud, and will come into Egypt; the idols of Egypt will totter at His presence, and the heart of Egypt will melt in its midst. “I will set Egyptians against Egyptians; everyone will fight against his brother,  and everyone against his neighbor, city against city, kingdom against kingdom.the spirit of Egypt will fail in its midst; I will destroy their counsel,  and they will consult the idols and the charmers, the mediums and the sorcerers. and the Egyptians I will give into the hand of a cruel master, and a fierce king will rule over them,” Says the Lord, Yehovah of hosts.The waters will fail from the sea, and the river will be wasted and dried up. Isaiah 19:1-5

We know that the end of the chapter is redemptive, with Egypt joining Israel (after the Psalm 83 War), but before then will be civil war. Here are (linked) quotes from my previous commentary on Egypt outlining a timeline on how we reached this point.

January 15, 2011 – Lebanon and Tunisia Fall

The dominoes are falling. Can Jordan and Egypt be far behind? Even Saudi Arabia is not immune. The inmates are taking over the asylum. Hezbollah rules Lebanon. Hamas rules Gaza and is poised to take over the failed West Bank Palestinian Authority . Egypt is terrified of the Muslim Brotherhood. Turkey, Iran and Syria are rising to control all of Islam. They are willing to sacrifice the Arab Muslims for the advance of Islam.

February 1, 2011  – The Heart of Egypt Will Melt with Fear

Egypt has entered meltdown. It cannot be reversed. There are certain prophetic events which when once started will follow through to their inevitable end. Jesus spoke of the events in play at His Second Coming as similar to the birth pangs of childbirth. They have begun all over the earth, but especially in the Middle East. Only two weeks ago I wrote of dominoes falling. Little did I know in my intellect what was about to break out in Egypt. It is always about hatred of God at the bottom line. It will come back against Israel. Satan needs Egypt in his big Psalm 83 push against Israel. Their peace treaty must be broken to prepare for the destined Psalm 83 war. Yet the plans of man and devil will melt away before the presence of Yehovah.

February 19, 2011 – The Muslim Caliphate and The Psalm 83 War: The Domino Theory Ends Here

We are now seeing the dominoes falling at a dizzying pace. Where will it lead? Where will it stop? The final result will be the resurrection of the Islamic Caliphate. The entire Islamic Empire will be revived from Indonesia to Morocco, and from Turkey and the “stans” to the Sudan and Somalia. This will transpire in just a few years.

Radical Islam is above all else a spiritual movement. By this I mean that it is a political ideology on steroids. If Communism was not godless it may have conquered the world. Ideas are not enough. But ideas with fanatical allegiance to an apocalyptic deity will indeed threaten the entire world.

July 3, 2011 – Radicals Rising Leads to Sunset Over Cairo

Entire generations of young Muslims have been taught from pre-school to hate and kill Jews and Christians. That is when they were radicalized, not between weeks four and five of the Egyptian revolution (or fill in any other Muslim revolt). Koranic basic doctrine teaches that chaos and destruction are the means of overthrowing the infidels or as in Egypt’s case, the apostate Westernized Muslim states. The fundamental Islamic prophecy of the last days requires chaos and destruction to usher in the final Caliph and conquest of the whole world.

May 18, 2011 – Democracy Egyptian Style (Dry Bones Cartoon)

May 29, 2012 – Egypt Descends

Three weeks from now Egypt will elect the Muslim Brotherhood candidate for President. This completes the descent of Egypt from a functional member of the international community of nations to a pariah nation lined up for the Biblical prophecy fulfillment of Psalm 83. They will participate in that regional war in which Israel expands from the river of Egypt (the Nile) to the great river Euphrates in northeastern Syria.

The above quotations are from my Elisha Vision Commentary over the last 18 months. How amazing to see it all coming together just as God revealed it in Scripture.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : 5 Comments »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

A 21st Century Psalm

16 06 2012

Next week we will know the results of the Egyptian presidential elections taking place this weekend, expected to be won by the Muslim Brotherhood candidate. My commentary will follow the returns. In the meantime, here is a witty contemporary Psalm for your weekend enjoyment. My friend Steve is a North Carolina pastor/author married to my cousin, Robin. Thanks, Steve for permission to share your creativity with us.

A 21st Century Psalm – by Steve Ruberg

Of the mercies of the Lord I will tweet;

I will text of your faithfulness so sweet.

Your homepage proclaims Your status each day;

You’re available to message when I pray.

When I invited you to be my friend;

You confirmed your acceptance without amend.

I can link to you any time or place;

One click leads me to your space.

I can browse Your Word where’re I roam;

Your WI-FI connects when I’m not at home.

There’s never a dead space when I call.

Your bars are full; you’ll connect to all.

With your operating system program me;

Your memory “too low” will never be.

Your system will never crash nor stall;

Yet you let anyone penetrate your wall.

When I commit a fault or error,

Your auto correct function is always fair.

I can Google you in prayer each day;

Your logic anticipates whatever I say.

When my system is full of spam

You clean the malware from my RAM.

To my queries you always reply;

For whatever I search, you will supply.

My errors are deleted when my request is sent;

Your memory won’t restore once I repent.

I like my blessings, each one sublime;

You are online all of the time.

You Excel in all that You do;

Your Word is what I seek from You.

Thank you for access to your Domain.

May I always in Your network remain.

Selah.

copyright © 2012 Stephen M. Ruberg

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Arthur Burt of Wales at 100

13 06 2012

Arthur Burt, a traveling minister of Jesus for some 50 years, resides in Wales. He reached 100 years of age on May 12, 2012. We are so blessed to host him in North Carolina next week. For his full event schedule please see his website.

We first met in 1968 and I have hosted him an average of once a year wherever I have lived. He has been a friend and mentor to me as he has to many across the globe. Last year I published Generation LIGHT which was dedicated to Brother Arthur. Here is that quote:

This book is dedicated to my friend and mentor, Arthur Burt of Wales, a contemporary of Smith Wigglesworth. He continues to travel and preach around the world as he approaches his 100th birthday this year. He has imparted faith to me for over 43 years. Arthur exemplifies Christ in us, the hope of Glory. Thank you, Brother Arthur. His parting words are nearly always, “See you in the Plan, brother.”

Here is an example of Arthur’s heart, an excerpt taken from his website.

Why should I settle for less by hanging on to my identity, the right to myself? The fullness of God, – “the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ”, demands all ! It is not some rare, “to be hoped for” experience….it is my birthright. It is offered to me, it is open to me. I don’t want to settle for less by hanging on to the right to myself. Included in these “rights” are the strongholds in my life: my fears, my complaints, my pet dislikes, opinions and judgements……all needing to go on the altar to be burned up in the fire of God. The fire of God produces ashes and the wonder of it all is that in God’s brilliant plan, “He gives beauty for ashes.” The divine exchange! If I am willing to lose my identity in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Spirit will form and extend the image of the Son in me.(The Look of God..)

Please be in prayer for these North Carolina meetings even if you cannot attend. Pray for a continuous connection all the way back to the Welsh Revival.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists    (READ MORE)


Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Lovers of Death

9 06 2012

For whoever finds me finds life, and obtains favor from Yehovah; But he who sins against me wrongs his own soul; all those who hate me love death. Proverbs 8:35-36

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

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10

What a contrast between life and death is presented in the Bible. Could there be real people today who hate God so much that they love death? The answer, sadly, is yes. My point is clearly made by Hamas, in the Gaza Strip. Hamas speaks for all fundamentalist Islam in the following quote from Hamas leader, Fathi Hammad, in this speech:

“The enemies of All-h do not know that the Palestinian people has developed its methods of death and death-seeking. For the Palestinian people, death has become an industry, at which women excel, and so do all the people living on this land. The elderly excel at this, and so do the mujahideen and the children. This is why they have formed human shields of the women, the children, the elderly, and the mujahideen, in order to challenge the Zionist bombing machine. It is as if they were saying to the Zionist enemy: “We desire death like you desire life.” (Click for video)

This is the product of the Hamas culture of death. It is the opposite of the heart of the God of Israel.

For I have no pleasure in the death of one who dies,” says the Lord Yehovah. “Therefore turn and live!”  Ezekiel 18:32

Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, that you and your descendants might live! that you may love Yehovah your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days; and that you may dwell in the land which Yehovah swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them.  Deuteronomy 30:19-20

LOVE LIFE!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Clinton Demands Concrete

2 06 2012

Clinton: Iran must take concrete steps on nukes

(Jerusalem Post)

This headline has a double meaning. Secretary Clinton is calling for Iran to take serious steps to prove their intentions. They must show they will submit to international limits on their nuclear aims. However, I see a different use of concrete in Iran’s actions. While there have been two fruitless negotiations so far, Iran has meanwhile literally added more and more concrete to their underground nuke facilities.

I see a bit of inconsistency here. The only concrete Hillary Clinton is going to see from Iran is more of it poured into the fortified mountain nuclear hideout. Now let me ask a very simple question.

If Iran is only enriching uranium for peaceful energy and medical purposes, why the hidden fortified facilities?

Let’s review. Iran allows no nuclear inspectors to certain locales such as Parchin. They regularly threaten to blow Israel off the map. They threaten America and our Middle East bases. They support Syria, Hezbollah, Hamas and other assorted terrorists. They steadfastly maintain that nothing will stop their nuclear program. What could possibly go wrong?

So why are they coming to talks? The next is scheduled for the middle of this month.) There is only one answer to that question. They are stalling for time. They are very close to having a bomb. They already have enough partially enriched uranium for four or five bombs (when fully enriched). They may also already have other devices purchased from rogue states.

Do I believe they will nuke Israel? No, but not for lack of “concrete” intent. They will not, because this is not their prophetic timing. Their war against Israel comes up in Ezekiel 38 where they are mentioned by name (Persia). But the Psalm 83 War is first where a completely different list of countries is named. None of those are listed in Ezekiel 38. Therefore, I conclude that Israel wins the Psalm 83 War and expands Israel from Egypt to Syria fulfilling God’s promise to Abram (who became Abraham).

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

This promise has never been completely obtained. The closest was in Solomon’s day. Pray for God’s faithful protection of Israel in this soon breaking war.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists       (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Egypt Descends

29 05 2012

Three weeks from now Egypt will elect the Muslim Brotherhood candidate for President. This completes the descent of Egypt from a functional member of the international community of nations to a pariah nation lined up for the Biblical prophecy fulfillment of Psalm 83. They will participate in that regional war in which Israel expands from the river of Egypt (the Nile) to the great river Euphrates in northeastern Syria.

Who is Mohammad Mursi? The MB presidential candidate, and predicted winner of next month’s election, is totally committed to the Muslim Brotherhood whose motto is:

– All-h is our objective.
– The Prophet is our leader.
– Qur’an is our law.
– Jihad is our way.
– Dying in the way of All-h is our highest hope.

Mursi is committed to Sharia Law in Egypt. Mursi is reported to have answered a question about freedom of religion: “People have the right to leave Islam and we have the right to kill them.”

Egyptian cleric Safwat Higazi introduced Mursi at his May 1 campaign rally: Mursi will restore the “United States of the Arabs” with Jerusalem as its capital. Millions of martyrs march toward Jerusalem.

As someone said, the “Arab Spring” doesn’t lead to democracy, it leads to Jerusalem.

Mohammed Mursi’s view of the peace treaty with Israel: underlined the necessity for his country’s rapprochement with Iran and other Muslim states, stressing that Egypt will no more be an Israeli ally.

What does this mean for Egypt’s future? The entire chapter of Isaiah 19 is now coming into fulfillment. We need to be aware of this passage. Yehovah, God of Israel, will set Egyptians against each other, brother against brother. The destruction of Egypt under “a cruel master” will be complete. Even the Nile River will dry up!

“And the Egyptians I will give into the hand of a cruel master, and a fierce king will rule over them,” says the Lord, Yehovah of hosts. The waters will fail from the sea, and the river will be wasted and dried up. The rivers will turn foul; The brooks of defense will be emptied and dried up; The reeds and rushes will wither. Isaiah 19:4-6

In that day Egypt will be like women, and will be afraid and fear because of the waving of the hand of Yehovah of hosts, which He waves over it. And the land of Judah will be a terror to Egypt; everyone who makes mention of it will be afraid in himself, because of the counsel of Yehovah of hosts which He has determined against it. Isaiah 19:16-17

Yet, there is good news for Egypt’s future beyond this horrible time. Egyptians will turn to the God of Israel and be saved!

In that day five cities in the land of Egypt will speak the language of Canaan and swear by Yehovah of hosts; one will be called the City of Destruction. In that day there will be an altar to Yehovah in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar to Yehovah at its border. And it will be for a sign and for a witness to the LORD of hosts in the land of Egypt; for they will cry to Yehovah because of the oppressors, and He will send them a Savior and a Mighty One, and He will deliver them. Then Yehovah will be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians will know Yehovah in that day, and will make sacrifice and offering; yes, they will make a vow to Yehovah and perform it. And Yehovah will strike Egypt, He will strike and heal it; they will return to Yehovah, and He will be entreated by them and heal them. In that day there will be a highway from Egypt to Assyria, and the Assyrian will come into Egypt and the Egyptian into Assyria, and the Egyptians will serve with the Assyrians. In that day Israel will be one of three with Egypt and Assyria—a blessing in the midst of the land, whom Yehovah of hosts shall bless, saying, “Blessed is Egypt My people, and Assyria the work of My hands, and Israel My inheritance.” Isaiah 19:18-25

(By the way, look how nebulous this passage is with the generic “LORD” instead of His real name, Yehovah, as distinguished from all other gods.)

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : 4 Comments »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Islam Steals Golgotha

24 05 2012

There is a serious problem taking place at one of Christendom’s holiest sites. Muslims are encroaching on the site next to the Garden Tomb in Jerusalem, called “the place of the skull” or Golgotha. This post features the latest development, two new signs embedded in a new wall right on the top of the famous Christian site. This new wall circles a Muslim cemetery on the hilltop. Look very closely in the first picture at the wall above the place of the skull (taken from the Garden Tomb observation deck). The signs are in Arabic. What do  they say?

The left sign says “Islamic Cemetery for the Mujahideen (or Freedom Fighters)”.

The right sign says “No God but All-h and Muhammad is his Messenger”.

Mujahideen comes from the root word “jihad”: The modern phenomenon of jihadism, i.e., the movement within radical Islamism that presents jihad (offensive or defensive) as the casus belli for insurgencies, guerilla warfare and international terrorism (definition from Wikipedia).

There is a more complete picture of this encroachment available on the right most tab on the Menu bar at the top of this page. (or click here).

The implications of this go far beyond religious sensitivities. It exposes the agenda of radical Islam to obliterate all other religions in their relentless drive to dominate the entire planet. We must not be ignorant of their devices.

     lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices. 2 Corinthians 2:11 NKJV

     so that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes. 2 Corinthians 2:11 NLT

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem which can only come when the Messiah Jesus returns, Yeshua ben Yehovah.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: , , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Iran’s Bait & Switch

21 05 2012

In my distress I cried to Yehovah, and He heard me. Deliver my soul, O Yehovah, from lying lips and from a deceitful tongue. What shall be given to you, or what shall be done to you, uou false tongue? My soul has dwelt too long with one who hates peace. I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war. Psalm 120:1-3, 6-7

This Wednesday, the P5+1 convenes in Baghdad (the site demanded by Iran) for the second round of diplomatic talks with Iran. There is some dispute about their goal. Is it keep the nuclear bomb from Iran or is it to stop Israel from attacking Iran’s nuclear facilities?

The diplomatic “posturing” on both sides sounds a lot like the quote above from Psalm 120. To most of the world it is a political problem, but for Israel it is about their very survival as a people. Iran has repeatedly threatened to annihilate Israel and wipe them off the face of the map. Iran always offers verbal bait to the West for talks, but continues on relentlessly in pursuit of the bomb. The talks five weeks ago gave the West nothing, but gave Iran five more weeks without inspectors. Watch this week for the same old “bait and switch”.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu summed up Israel’s position on Sunday at the ceremony on Ammunition Hill marking 45 years since the city’s unification:

We will protect Jerusalem, because Israel without Jerusalem is like a body without a heart, On this hill, 45 years ago, the united heart of our people began to beat again, with full power. Our heart will never be divided again. (Jerusalem Post)

Don’t be deceived over this week’s Iran talks. Pray that everything hidden will be revealed, as I wrote about in my May 5 commentary, The President’s Hat.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem through Yeshua ben Yehovah!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)

5-23-12 Update link: Diplomats: Iran installed more enrichment centrifuges


Comments : 3 Comments »

Categories : Israel Commentary

Nakba Day Fizzles Again

15 05 2012

Today was the annual day the Palestinians observe Nakba Day, “the Catastrophe” which is how they refer to Israel becoming a state on this date in 1948. While dozens of Palestinians and four Israeli soldiers were lightly injured, overall it was not much of a protest.

A combination of IDF readiness and a weary and fractured Palestinian public helped ensure the day passed with relatively few clashes. Times of Israel (Nakba Day Defanged)

In addition in the same report, a Palestinian human rights worker named Bassem Eid, attributed the relative calm to the state of Palestinian society, which he described as frustrated, fractured, tired and hopeless. “The back of Palestinian society has been broken by the Hamas-Fatah separation,” he said, noting that within the West Bank, a region he referred to as “Fatahstan,” the rifts within Fatah were so deep there was no hope of any coördinated uprising. “There cannot be an intifada so long as we have an intrafada,” he said.

Meanwhile, Yaachov Kirschen, the Dry Bones cartoonist, made a great point with his cartoon and commentary about a Nakba observance at Tel Aviv University. His comparison to US universities each accepting millions of dollars from Saudi Arabia to endow Muslim Professors on campuses across this country is a sober reminder. Islam intends to rule the planet and as the cliché goes: “They are in it, to win it.”

Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man. Luke 21:36

Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:6

Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent. Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you. Revelation 3:3

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)

Dry Bones added a second cartoon on this theme:


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

FAVOR – 7

11 05 2012

Three years ago, Doreen and were driving back from a quick trip to Florida. However, the timing was tight because our good friend Anna May Hoffman was enduring an operation the next day back in Raleigh. Hurrying back before she came out of recovery Monday night, I was stopped on I-95 in South Carolina for speeding at 85 MPH, which was 15 over the posted limit. We still made it back in time, which proves my speeding was unnecessary. So, I faced the options of paying a large fine of nearly $200.00 and four points on my license, or going back three months later to appear in court, three hours south of my home. My hope was that by appearing I might find mercy and have the charge reduced to $100.00 and two points. I chose the latter option. When the time for court came, I was so blessed to have my dear friend and brother, Rob Brown, visiting us from Maine.

On the appointed day Rob and I headed back to South Carolina, (driving the speed limit). We had wonderful fellowship and were enjoying some great worship CD’s. In fact, we were really getting caught up in the Holy Spirit so deeply that we considered pulling over for a while. But as we continued Rob noticed a car that just passed us with a New York license plate that simply said: FAVOR – 7. Rob pronounced that the Lord was giving us favor, to which I heartily agreed. As we drove and talked and worshipped, we kept passing the FAVOR – 7 car; and he passed us, back and forth for an hour, till we were quite convinced that the Father was encouraging us with His favor. Just before our exit in rural South Carolina, FAVOR – 7 passed us one more time and then actually got off the same exit, going the other way at the end of the ramp. We knew God’s favor was with us, but never dreamed of what was about to happen in court.

When we arrived at the little simple court there must have been 160 other speeders, three months’ worth, I guess. The judge was an elderly black Southern gentleman who was alternately stern and understanding. He would lecture a reckless driver with attitude, and a young mother who he warned how she could have killed her dear children at that speed. All but one pled guilty and were fined accordingly. The one who claimed innocence was forwarded on to trial. When called before the judge, I also pled guilty. I told him I definitely was going 85 and had no excuse. He then asked me why and I told him the truth about the ministry in Florida and the hospital in Raleigh. He then paused a long moment and leaning forward said this: “Well, I want everyone to know that there are still a few folks in South Carolina who love Jesus.” He then pronounced the judgment:  “NOT GUILTY!” he said, with some force. I could not believe what had just happened. Not guilty, no fine, no points! If you thought we had worshipped on the way to court, you should have heard Rob and me on the way home.

FAVOR – 7 is the story of unmerited, undeserved favor. It was more than mercy. It was grace. Whatever word you choose, my sin of speeding was cancelled! What a great microcosm of standing before Jesus at that great day of eternal judgment. Because Jesus died for us and was then raised from the dead, our sins are forgiven. Jesus judges us Not Guilty! Not reduced or covered over for another year, our sins are gone! That’s a pretty good reason to follow Jesus, if you ask me.

This true story is an excerpt from my latest book Generation LIFE (just finished and available soon).

“Come now, let’s settle this,” says Yehovah. “Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool. Isaiah 1:18

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


Comments : 4 Comments »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Israel Shocker

7 05 2012

Late tonight (early Tuesday Israel time)PM Benjamin Netanyahu reversed course and canceled the just announced plan for early elections. Totally surprising everybody, he made a deal with Kadima, the opposition party to form a new coalition. The prime benefit of the arrangement is that Israel is now unified to deal with Iran.

Kadima, in party elections, had dumped Tzipi Livni, the outspoken liberal critic of the Prime Minister. It is now a whole new ball game in Israel. One benefit is that Israel will now be stronger resisting the leftist pressure coming from the US President Obama and his Administration.

Shortly after 2:30 a.m., Netanyahu and Mofaz arrived at the Knesset to brief their parties of the details of their agreement. Kadima joined the government in exchange for Mofaz’s appointment as a deputy prime minister, a minister without portfolio, and a cabinet member.

Additionally, the government will propose a replacement for the Tal Law on national service for the ultra-Orthodox, which is set to expire in August. There will be legislation on electoral reform, and the budget will be passed smoothly, the two agreed. Mofaz said that in the coming year Kadima will receive additional ministerial positions. Both parties have agreed that the 18th Knesset will complete its term and elections will be held on schedule in late 2013. (The Times of Israel)

Kadima, that unreliable, hard-to-define centrist faction looked to be disintegrating. The Netanyahu-Mofaz deal changes all that. And the anger on the left is only part of the reason for the pleasure Netanyahu must be feeling at what he and his supporters will doubtless depict as a political masterstroke. (David Horovitz)

These radical developments certainly call for passionate prayer for supporters of Biblical prophecy unfolding before our eyes in Israel. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. We ask Yehovah, the God of Israel to bless and favor Israel according to His covenant promise. We also pray for the revelation of Yehovah ben Yeshua, Jesus Son of God, to Jews everywhere and to all nations.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

The President’s Hat

5 05 2012

(Today’s guest post is from Bob Jones, a respected prophetic voice. This word resonates with me in our earnest prayers for mercy on our land.)

The President’s Hat Blows Away

The wind of the Holy Spirit will cause the hat of the President to blow away. The cover of the president and his administration will be blown. Then all things done in secret will be cast down and will not stand.

For they sow the wind and they shall reap the whirlwind. (Hosea 8:7a)

The truth is coming forth by the Spirit of God. It is the only thing that will have answers for this nation. It will come forth when we repent like Daniel did for the sins of his nation. The sins of our government will be revealed so repentance can be made and the Lord can release mercy to this nation. America is a great nation and God desires for her to survive. She can only survive when the truth is revealed to the people. This is the year the people will know the truth. If they seek the truth they will find it and the truth will set this nation free.

Nothing is [so closely] covered up that it will not be revealed, or hidden that it will not be known. (Luke 12:2)

The canopy of God is love and this nation must return to its first love. America must repent and return to her first love. When she does God will release His canopy of love to her.

End of excerpt.

“The Secret Service and the military are supposed to be above politics, dedicated to protecting presidents, their families and the nation. The Secret Service literally put their life on the line to cover and protect the president. I believe this incident is a clear indication that the president’s cover has been blown and those things done in secret are being revealed.” (This entire section is quoted from the Bob Jones website.)

To this I add my own observation that we are fast approaching the great time of decision for America’s Jewish community according to Ezekiel 20.

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

 “I will make you pass under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the covenant; I will purge the rebels from among you, and those who transgress against Me; I will bring them out of the country where they dwell, but they shall not enter the land of Israel. Then you will know that I am Yehovah.” Ezekiel 20:33-38

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists    (READ MORE)


Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Feckless

1 05 2012

Feckless:  feck·less/ˈfeklis/

Adjective: (of a person) Lacking in efficiency or vitality.

Unthinking and irresponsible.

Synonyms: powerless – ineffective – helpless

This word is being used more and more frequently lately to describe the quality of leadership coming from the US Administration. I just thought you would like to know the dictionary definition. It is our choice. That is why we hold elections.

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 1 Timothy 2:1-3

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)

 

 


Comments : 4 Comments »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

International Hypocrisy

26 04 2012

The grossly shameful international hypocrisy about Syria cuts three ways. First is within Syria, the second is compared to Libya and third is exposed toward Israel.

1. Syria has seen over 11,000 citizens murdered by the government in one year. That’s the UN estimate, but by my reckoning it is closer to 20,000. The US, the UN, and the West in general have completely failed to intervene. Just yesterday, the UN monitor report revealed that when UN monitors leave, Syrian forces resume killing the next day.

2. Libya by comparison was bombed and invaded by special forces when Gaddafi only threatened to kill the rebels before he commenced. Syrian refugees, now in Libya, question the hypocrisy. How can the nations fail to act in Syria?

3. Israel is the third example of international hypocrisy. If one Palestinian is killed by the IDF, the whole world is apoplectic. This contradiction is obvious to Syrians. Massacres continue daily in Syria, but Israel is the terrible “occupier” of the “poor” Palestinians. This is what I would call disproportionate media! Even when no deaths are involved the world condemns Israel. This week three outposts were approved by Israel with this reaction:

EU slams Israeli legalization of 3 outposts – Europe’s condemnation of Israeli move in West Bank joins international chorus which includes US, UN, PA, France, Jordan.

Where is the “chorus” about Syria?

Of course, all of this fits into the Psalm 83 War scenario prophetically, but what of the people dying? Pray for mercy for them. Christians are among the most persecuted there.

But now your brave warriors weep in public. Your ambassadors of peace cry in bitter disappointment. Isaiah 33:7 NLT

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : 4 Comments »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Jordan, Part 2 Follow-up

21 04 2012

My last post gave my reasons for Jordan teetering on the brink of its own Arab Spring. Another factor has come to light that needs understanding. Recently, an Imam in Jordan gave a militant mosque talk calling for the defeat of Jerusalem. This is the same mantra used in the other Arab revolutions of the past year.

Jordan’s army will destroy Israel and regain Jerusalem from the “killers of prophets” – that was the message a Jordanian cleric delivered in a Friday sermon on state TV, according to recently released video footage. (video and story, Jerusalem Post).

“The [Jordanian] army is invincible. Its units are filled with people who pray, with imams, and with people who memorized the Koran. This army will never be defeated, Allah willing,” Imam Ghaleb Rabab’a said in footage translated and released late last week by the Middle East Media Research Institute.

The danger of this call is that it directly contradicts the peace treaty between Jordan and Israel. This is a classic case of an irresistible force and an immovable object. Something has to give. These radical Muslim voices are effectively forming a shadow government in Jordan declaring the opposite course of the monarchy.

The Wall Street Journal published an expose’ on February 22, 2012: The Muslim Brotherhood in Jordan For the first time in decades, activists openly seek to end the monarchy.

All of these developments point to the inevitable clash coming soon in Jordan. The culture of hatred spawned by pagan Islam has set the Middle East on fire. It is a fire that is not easily quenched. It permeates the very fabric of Arab Muslim culture. In the Palestinian Authority it is against the law to sell property to a Jew punishable by death! Since its inception in 1993 and its coming to power in 1995, the Palestinian Authority has maintained old Jordanian laws that made it a capital offense to sell property to Jews. (israel today Magazine)

Pray the prayer of Psalm 83:

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

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists       (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Jordan On the Brink

18 04 2012

Jordan has banned the Muslim Brotherhood in the Kingdom as a political party. The King is also trying to forge a separation between Jordanians and Palestinians. Psalm 83 comes into sharper focus with Jordan’s latest moves. King Abdullah II is feeling the heat of the Arab Spring. After maintaining a low profile in the year since the Arab Spring blossomed and then exploded in the Middle East, Jordan is now in the cross-hairs of the Muslim Brotherhood.

The Jordanian Parliament did not ban the MB by name, but banned all political parties based on religion. This shrewd move cuts off the method of using a different name for the party as the Muslim Brotherhood did in Egypt, naming themselves the “Freedom and Justice Party”. In Gaza, the offshoot slowly became Hamas.

Some 70% of Jordan’s citizens are Palestinians, complicating the King’s dilemna. “In a surprise move, Jordan has decided to revoke the Jordanian citizenship of Palestinian Authority and PLO officials, sources in Amman disclosed Wednesday.” Will the Palestinian flag fly over Jordan?

In 2009, Amman quietly began revoking the Jordanian citizenship of thousands of Palestinians, triggering strong protests from human rights organizations and pro-Palestinian groups around the world. Over the past year, Jordan has witnessed increased demands for reforms and democracy. The “Arab Spring” that has been sweeping the Arab world has prompted thousands of Jordanians to take to the streets every week to demand real changes and freedoms. (Jerusalem Post)

Psalm 83 lists the countries attacking Israel in the next war, including Jordan. Since the King is pro-Western, something will happen to line up Jordan with the confederacy against Israel. This is another step in that direction. The King will do all he can to avoid it, but the Brotherhood will not take this ban easily. Expect more protests and increasing violence against the Kingdom of Jordan in the very near future. Pray for the safety and protection of King Abdullah and his family. He has been a good friend to the West.

In the end, however, it is Yehovah God and His plan that will prevail, as Daniel reminds us:

Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, for wisdom and might are His. 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. He reveals deep and secret things; He knows what is in the darkness,and light dwells with Him. Daniel 2:20-22

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)

 


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Is G-D L-RD?

12 04 2012

First I was ignorant, then I became annoyed. Now I am alarmed. Why do many Jews and some Christians put a dash in the place of the vowels in English words that refer to the God of the Bible? Why do they substitute generic terms such LORD in place of His knowable personal name?

The earthly reason is history. Jews, before Jesus, believed pronouncing the name of God could become blasphemy, so it was banned. I respect their intent and believe they will come around to using His name in the fulness of time, which is soon! (This is actually predicted in the Talmud.) Later, institutionalized Christendom gladly picked up the man-made tradition, intentionally obscuring the Hebrew roots of the faith.

The “under earth” motive is from satan’s wish to defeat Yehovah God and take His throne. He has opportunistically seized the moment today for further confusion through the rise of the false god of Islam. The name of that god is more well-known today than the name of Yehovah. I challenge you to notice the multitude of prophetic references to God “making His Name known” throughout the Bible. If He wants to make His name known, how come so few know His name?

Who but God goes up to heaven and comes back down? Who holds the wind in his fists? Who wraps up the oceans in his cloak? Who has created the whole wide world? What is his name—and his son’s name? Tell me if you know! Proverbs 30:4 NLT

Thirdly, the Heavenly plan seems to be the judgment of God. He has allowed His name to be obscured until now in the appointed last generation. His name has four Hebrew letters expressed in English as YHVH. This personal name of God is used 6,828 times in the Hebrew text. Yet, Jews will not utter it and Christians miss-translate it.

Most Bibles have His holy name simply as the generic terms, GOD and LORD. This is code for YHVH (explained in the Preface of most Bibles) from the translators who must think we cannot handle His real name. These mere titles are written in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS, and we are supposed to know it is His name. I have an idea. Why not actually use His name? Yehovah! It makes your Bible reading come alive. (I will not quibble with the correct way to say it, Yehovah, Jehovah, or Yahweh. Click here for more.)

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 Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:10-11

If we heard Paul say those names out loud in Hebrew, I believe it would be this: Yeshua ha Meshiach is Yehovah. Jesus, the Messiah, is Yehovah.

Finally, back to G-D and L-ORD. It is time folks! It is time for all Bible believers to start using His personal name. I call for all to prayerfully consider this appeal. Islam is the direct opposing force. What a surprise when folks find out that “the great satan” turns out to be the god of Islam. Choose this day where you will stand. The great cosmic  rebellion from eternity is about to end. We have read the end of the Book and we win! Satan is futilely pulling out all the stops to defeat Yehovah, but has already lost. It was over when Jesus died and rose from grave. His blood satisfied the price demanded by a just God. Jesus’ submission to His Father overcame the self-will model perpetrated by the devil.

The Hebrew Scriptures don’t say “praise the LORD”, they say Praise Yehovah! (Praise Yah!) There are many lords and many gods, but only one true Yehovah. Choose you this day which one you will serve. As for me and my family, we choose to serve Yehovah and Yeshua ben Yehovah who we know as Yehovah the Father and Jesus the Son of Yehovah.

For King Jesus and for His Kingdom!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: , , , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Messiah Died

7 04 2012

Sandpoint Sunrise by Ross Hall

(The following is an excerpt from my newest book, Generation LIFE Chapter 1 – Jesus is Alive, being published this summer.)

JESUS DIED

Do you believe in Him, I mean, do you really believe Him? Do you follow Him? Do you have a deep desire in your innermost being to be like Him? I want to know all I can know about Jesus. Getting to know Him personally is really possible. Do you know Him?

Do you believe He really died? Or do you think He just sort of passed out and then woke up a little later? If Jesus didn’t die, we are still in our sin. Guilty! I want to talk about His resurrection LIFE, but first we need to get this. Jesus really died. He was dead. He was so dead that He Himself could not come back to life. We need to understand this. It was not a charade. When He gave up His last breath, He was utterly dependent on the faithful true Promise of His Father to live again. That is why this chapter is named: Jesus is Alive. Of course He was eternally alive and existed with the Father before Creation, and He is alive now. But between, for three days, He was dead.

You may think it strange to begin a book about life with a dead Jesus. But, if you don’t know that He died and why He died, you are missing the best part. Yes, it is the resurrection, but it is meaningless if He did not die. Jesus died, and on the third day, rose again. Hallelujah! I really want to talk about His life. But we must understand His death to appreciate the all-encompassing glory of the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. Jesus did not then, nor does He now possess some super power called “resurrection power”. If it were up to Him, He would still be dead. As we will soon see, Jesus is LIFE, He is resurrection LIFE. It is His own personal experience of redemption from death. Here is a verse to confirm how He was raised back to life.

But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you Romans 8:11.

So Jesus was dead and was resurrected by the Holy Spirit of God. We know that Jesus lived by the Spirit and was raised by the Spirit. Therefore, through His ultimate trust in Yehovah, the Father, He qualified to die for all who believe in His finished work. I honestly believe in Him, do you?

He is no longer in the grave, He arose from the dead. Jesus is alive!

Therefore I will divide Him a portion with the great, And He shall divide the spoil with the strong, Because He poured out His soul unto death, And He was numbered with the transgressors, And He bore the sin of many, And made intercession for the transgressors. Isaiah 53:12

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists       (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Changing the Subject

3 04 2012

Seeing with Elisha’s eyes is the theme and the name of our ministry, Elisha Vision. Man always looks at the outward  while God looks at the heart. We are transitioning from the days of Elijah to the days of Elisha, as explained in my book, Generation LIGHT.

Satan, on the other hand, always changes the subject. Today in America one such example is the great healthcare debate over the Obamacare law, focused on insurance, medicine and money, and government control of each. But, seeing the spiritual scene is the real focus of the believer. What does Yehovah God want us to see?

One of my mentors, Arthur Burt of Wales, turns 100 years old next month. He still travels the world preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. He carries a vision for health. Let me explain. Man is looking at healthcare. Christians look at healing, but God is revealing a vision for health.

Do we need healthcare when sick? Sure. Do we believe Jesus can heal us? Yes, we do. But, what if our faith would expand as we grow from “faith to faith” to the degree that we walk in health? What if we could see our way through Yeshua haMashiach (Jesus, the Messiah), to simply be healthy and not even get sick? What a concept!

My prayer is that believers set our sights on the highest vision. Man is three parts: body, soul, and spirit. Most of the attention is on the body and soul, but God gives us eyes to see something far better. I am talking about this life. Of course we will all be healthy in heaven, but God gives us faith for today. Are you with me? It is time to mature our faith.

I will stand my watch and set myself on the rampart, and watch to see what He will say to me, and what I will answer when I am corrected. Then Yehovah answered me and said: “Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time; but at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. “Behold the proud, his soul is not upright in him; but the just shall live by his faith. Habakkuk 2:1-4

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Messiah, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:16-17

I see in this last generation, an explosion of faith in true believers. Yes, the world is sinking into a great darkness, but we are arising in the light of the glory of God. Candles are for dark places. The world needs to see light. Both Jew and Gentile will see the light of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The blind must open their eyes in this hour. Wake up! Stand up! Speak up! The Kingdom of God is at hand.

For King Jesus, and for His Kingdom!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Global March on Jerusalem

29 03 2012

Ok, so all the news from Israel is about the Global March to Jerusalem. Prayer vigils were held in the Holy City tonight for the onslaught expected tomorrow, March 30. There are calls from Hamas, Hezbollah, the PLO, most Arab countries, most Muslim countries and many more sympathetic countries and groups around the world. They are calling for one million people to simple walk across the Israel borders, all the way to Jerusalem. About 1500 are even staging a fly in flotilla. What could possibly go wrong? This has been planned for months as in the graphic (seen here) of a poster that is all over the Arabic speaking world.

Some of those are calling for non-violence, but some are for violence. Attempted last year, it ended in a fizzle. We are praying the same happens this time. Israel has made extensive preparations to minimize trouble, but will it be enough? The same old accusations are the basis of the march, which can be reduced to the desire to see Israel disappear.

In a case of interesting timing, this week the Obama Administration refused to call Jerusalem, Israel’s Capital. Was is co-incidental timing or subtle encouragement to the marchers?

How does this fit into prophecy? Surprise, surprise! It comes right out of Psalm 83, both the “tumult” and “that the name of Israel be remembered no more.” But, don’t forget, that the hatred is against Yehovah. They can’t get to God, so they attack the apple of His eye. If you want to know how to pray, then just open up your Bible to Psalm 83 and pray that Psalm! We normally read for devotion, or doctrine, or information; but the best way to read the Scriptures is as an intercessor. Pray for the exact outcome that God has already declared. What a concept!

Prayer to Frustrate Conspiracy Against Israel
Psalm 83 – A Song. A Psalm of Asaph.
Do not keep silent, O God!
Do not hold Your peace,
And do not be still, O God!
For behold, Your enemies make a tumult;
And those who hate You have lifted up their head.
They have taken crafty counsel against Your people,
And consulted together against Your sheltered ones.
They have said, “Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation,
That the name of Israel may be remembered no more.”
 
For they have consulted together with one consent;
They form a confederacy against You:
Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)

Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Fort Hood Double Standard

27 03 2012

It has been two and  a half years after the Fort Hood murders of 14 US soldiers and civilians (including a baby in its mother’s womb), and the wounding of 29 in Killeen, Texas. There has been no trial and they are still trying to decide if Major Hasan is sane. Meanwhile, a couple of weeks ago, a US solider snapped in the Afghanistan war zone killing 17 civilians and he is charged with the death penalty. This weekend our government has already paid $50,000.00 for each death which fulfills the requirement of Sharia Law.

What is wrong with this picture? The Muslim psychiatrist in Texas openly called for jihad against America and shouted A–ah Akbar as he systematically shot and killed unarmed people. Meanwhile, Sgt Bales who had a brain injury suffered in earlier combat has been tried, convicted and sentenced by the media in only weeks.

Make no mistake, I am not defending the actions of Sgt. Bales. But where is the justice in comparing the two situations? Isaiah 59 is quite to the point. The whole chapter is good, but here are a few selected quotes.

For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; Your lips have spoken lies, your tongue has muttered perversity. No one calls for justice, nor does any plead for truth. They trust in empty words and speak lies; they conceive evil and bring forth iniquity. (3-4).

Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands afar off; for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter. So truth fails, and he who departs from evil makes himself a prey.Then Yehovah saw it, and it displeased Him that there was no justice. He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor; Therefore His own arm brought salvation for Him; (14-16).

According to their deeds, accordingly He will repay, fury to His adversaries, recompense to His enemies; the coastlands He will fully repay. So shall they fear the name of Yehovah from the west, and His glory from the rising of the sun; when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of Yehovah will lift up a standard against him. “The Redeemer will come to Zion, and to those who turn from transgression in Jacob,” says Yehovah. (18-20).
Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

French Gunman

22 03 2012

(Disclaimer: Please recognize that I am attempting satire with this post to expose the ridiculous lengths the media will go to, trying to avoid any mention of radical Islam.)

Oh my! What a racist and sexist headline. Everyone knows it was a “European Citizen of the World Person” who gunned down three Jewish children and a Rabbi in France last Monday. Can you believe they actually included his gender and nationality in the news? Scandalous! (Later we find that he was of “Algerian descent”, and, oh by the way, he identified himself as part of al-Qaeda.) Now we must have years of analysis to discover his motive. Whatever could have possibly brought a decent 23-year-old Muslim al-Qaeda operative from the suburbs to randomly murder four people who co-incidentally just happened to be Jewish when he attacked a school that just randomly turns out to be a Jewish school. Why could he have done this? He must have had a troubled childhood, maybe he was bullied in school.

OK. Enough! Seriously folks, we face a serious media bias with radical Muslim anti-Semitic anti-Zionist terrorist murderers. But most media reporters just can’t get their finger to hunt and peck out those words on their keyboard. At least there were a few with courage.Consider this quote from Melanie Phillips:

And even when the perpetrator turned out to be an Islamic terrorist the media were still trying to spin it away, with Sky News stressing the deprivation of the killer and his family and interviewing a French female journalist living in London who claimed that this was ‘an attack against diversity’. (Jewish World Review)

Another problem is selective prosecutions. An example occurred recently at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. Jewish fraternity members had their tires slashed and Nazi swastikas keyed into their cars. However, the authorities are investigating it as vandalism, not as a hate crime.

Also, Christians are now being attacked in many parts of the world. Consider this headline:Destroy All Churches and the first paragraph:

Is it not news when Saudi Arabia’s leading religious authority meets with a terrorist group and says that? 

Again I say, it is time to wake up, stand up and speak up! This is not a time to slumber. The world is on fire. Be a watchman on the wall. Sound the shofar!

I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. John 9:4.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists    (READ MORE)

 


Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Israeli Spring

17 03 2012

Over 300 rockets and mortars rained down on Israel last week. Why isn’t this news in the Western media? With an on again, off again cease-fire, Gaza is again spreading terror in southern Israel. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister of Turkey incredibly says: Israel must stop ‘massacre’ of Palestinians in Gaza. We live in an upside down world, where evil is good and good is evil. Yet, Gaza in clearly in God’s focus. There is some unfinished business for Gaza in prophecy.

Thus says Yehovah: “For three transgressions of Gaza, and for four, I will not turn away its punishment, Because they took captive the whole captivity to deliver them up to Edom. But I will send a fire upon the wall of Gaza, Which shall devour its palaces.” Amos 1:6-7

An important key to understanding Gaza is given in Zephaniah 2:1-7:

Seek Yehovah, all you meek of the earth, Who have upheld His justice. Seek righteousness, seek humility. It may be that you will be hidden In the day of Yehovah’s anger.

The timing of this prophecy is repeated in verse 2 and 3, as “the day of Yehovah’s anger.” I have often proposed a response to the New Age bumper sticker: “Visualize World Peace.” My alternative bumper sticker is: “Visualize the Wrath of God!” This is not a mean-spirited or fleshly idea, but rather the real order of things. Before we will see true world peace, we will see the judgment of God against violence and evil. Israel will only know true peace when they recognize that Jesus (Yeshua Sar Shalom) is the only real prince of peace. They will surely one day say to Him: “Baruch ha ba hashem Yehovah! – Blessed is He who comes in the name of Yehovah.

Zephaniah 2:5, which identifies Gazans as “Cherethites” is literally: executioners, or assassins! It would seem a simple step to understanding this reference as an ancient way of describing the suicide/homicide bombers of today’s Hamas in Gaza. Remember that “hamas” is not only the acronym for Hamas, but is also the Hebrew word for violence.

Finally, Zephaniah pictures Gaza after the judgment as a place where shepherds tend their sheep and a place for the remnant of the house of Judah.

Woe to the inhabitants of the seacoast, the nation of the Cherethites! The word of Yehovah is against you, O Canaan, land of the Philistines: “I will destroy you; so there shall be no inhabitant. The seacoast shall be pastures, with shelters for shepherds and folds for flocks. The coast shall be for the remnant of the house of Judah; They shall feed their flocks there; in the houses of Ashkelon they shall lie down at evening. For Yehovah their God will intervene for them, and return their captives.  Zephaniah 2:5-7

Israel faces a very threatening Spring this year. We speak often about the Psalm 83 War. The judgement on Gaza is very likely a major component. We need to be faithful watchmen on the wall, calling on God to defend Israel His chosen as He fulfills His prophetic word.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Lost In Translation

14 03 2012

For some time now I have listened to the voice of Yehovah God regarding a bombshell controversy in the Bible translation business. Here is the issue in a nutshell. Three major translators today are substituting the name of the god of Islam for Yehovah in Bibles intended for Muslim countries in their own languages. Their rationale is to make it more acceptable to their readers. On the surface, it may sound like a good evangelistic plan.

However, if you trick people into reading the Bible by deceiving them about the nature of God, you confuse rather than convert. Many moderns think Islam is some great complex religion, impossible to grasp. Allow me to simplify. The god of Islam is not a father and does not have a son, according to all their holy books and writings. This is indisputable from their own sources. The God of the Bible is a father and has a son revealed in both the Old Testament and the New Testament.

What does this conclude? The god of Islam is a different god. Period. Full stop. Selah.

Therefore, we do not “all worship the same god” no matter how many people, how high their place (including pastors and presidents) say otherwise. It really is that simple. You need go no further. You do not need 20 hours of comparative religion classes to “understand” Islam. You need to read your Bible. What part of: “You shall have no other gods before me” don’t you get? Exodus 20:3

The translation deception is only possible, because for millenia translators have refused to translate the name of God, Yehovah, conforming instead to Jewish rabbinic tradition. They substitute the generic LORD (in all caps) for His name. Yehovah is His personal name, mentioned 6,828 times in the Hebrew text of the Old Testament. Try reversing the substitution in your own reading. Say Yehovah every time it says LORD. You will open up an artesian well of revelation through Scripture.

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

I will declare the decree: Yehovah has said to Me, “You are My Son, Today I have begotten You.” Psalm 2:7

Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, And you perish in the way, when His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him. Psalm 2:12

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. John 3:16-17

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Are We There Yet?

8 03 2012

The Point At Which Israel Bombs Iran

Misinformation is a big part of military action, especially when a “surprise attack” is best. A few weeks ago Leon Panetta, US Secretary of Defense and head of the Pentagon, announced that Israel would attack Iran’s nuke targets in April, May or June. At the time I thought: Why doesn’t he go ahead and release the target list with GPS coördinates so Iran can defend themselves? A few days ago an anonymous source from the Pentagon actually listed potential targets (without coördinates). We live in a world that has gone crazy. Most observers believe this is all part of the Obama Administration trying to block or at least slow Israel’s plans.

The good news is that Prime Minister Netanyahu made it quite clear Monday (full speech video) that Israel would not yield its security decisions to any other nation. We do not know the mind of God, but we must pray in accordance with His revealed Biblical purpose to restore and protect Israel. He has not regathered them from 180 nations just to kill them. That is satan’s false hope, it is not in the heart of the God of Israel. He has raised them up as a nation to make His name know to the entire world. In the end, God is God and the nations are mere mortals.

Make them tremble in fear, O Yehovah. Let the nations know they are merely human. Psalm 9:20 NLT

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists      (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Assad’s Boast

4 03 2012

The billboard in the 2006 photo above says: Al–h (the god of Islam) will protect Syria. So there is no mistake about the intent, it is on the old city wall of Damascus. I beg to differ. What we have here is a direct affront to the living God of Israel. The banner includes the picture of Assad, the dictator of Syria. Even dictators get religion when the chips are down. Yet, Yehovah made it quite clear in Isaiah 17 that the time will come when no one will save Damascus, it will cease from being a city!

This message came to me concerning Damascus: “Look, the city of Damascus will disappear! It will become a heap of ruins.” Isaiah 17:1 NLT

Assad is not the first arrogant dictator to lose a challenge to the living God Yehovah. At the end of the Age….it comes down to Yehovah, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; the living God of Israel against all false gods and philosophies of men. According to the immutable Word of the living God, we will soon see if the god of Islam can protect Damascus. Yehovah is a jealous God and He will have no other gods before Him. Period.

Not unto us, O Yehovah, not unto us, but to Your name give glory, because of Your mercy, because of Your truth. Why should the Gentiles say, “So where is their God?” But our God is in heaven; He does whatever He pleases. Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men’s hands. They have mouths, but they do not speak; eyes they have, but they do not see; they have ears, but they do not hear; noses they have, but they do not smell. They have hands, but they do not handle; feet they have, but they do not walk; nor do they mutter through their throat. Those who make them are like them; so is everyone who trusts in them. Psalm 115: 1-8

Exercise: For a deeper view of using the name of Yehovah, the one true God, please read Psalm 135 and notice that in only twenty-one verses, the personal name, Yehovah, is used nineteen times. (Of course, it is hidden because it says LORD in all caps, not honestly translating the actual name, Yehovah.) This is nineteen of the 6,828 times His personal name appears in the Hebrew text, but is diluted, obscured and hidden by using the vague terms LORD or GOD which could apply to any god. It is time to use His name again! Yehovah is the name of our God! It is amazing how the Bible comes alive when you make this slight correction in your reading. We do not all worship the same God. Don’t be deceived, brothers and sisters.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists    (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Don’t Feed the Animals

1 03 2012

The food stamp program, part of the Department of Agriculture, is pleased to be distributing the greatest amount of food stamps ever in its history.

Meanwhile, the Park Service, also part of the Department of Agriculture, asks us to “Please Do Not Feed the Animals,” because the animals may grow dependent and not learn to take care of themselves. (Thanks to Dave McCurdy for this.)

Does anyone notice a disconnect here?

This bothers me on three levels. First, is the obvious fact that our government is systematically creating total dependence on its services. Between welfare and government employees, 50% of Americans now depend directly on the government for their “daily bread”. The transfer from depending on God to man is breathtakingly arrogant, and is accelerating.

Second, this creates a “demanding spirit”. Derek Prince, Bible teacher and mentor, used a profound phrase: “You can never satisfy a demanding spirit”. A genuine, sincere request can be answered. But once people get something for nothing, they always want more. Hell and Destruction are never full; So the eyes of man are never satisfied. Proverbs 27:20 There is a satanic spirit behind the demands. It is also illustrated in the demands of terrorists. All attempts to meet their demands are only answered with more demands. Appeasement is a dead end.

Third, never cast your pearls before swine. Jesus taught, that not valuing your gestures, they would turn and attack you! Don’t waste what is holy on people who are unholy. Don’t throw your pearls to pigs! They will trample the pearls, then turn and attack you. Matthew 7:6

There is a place for food stamps for truly needy people, but it should have the goal of independence rather than unending dependence. The same can be said of nearly unlimited unemployment benefits. There are now operational plans where the benefits lead to actual employment. For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. 2 Thessalonians 3:10

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

Don’t Rock the Boat

25 02 2012

As I prepare to record this Sunday’s YouTube “prophecy in the news” update for Issachar Forum, I am struck by the great divide between news reports from Israel and the Western media. This great Dry Bones cartoon illustrates my point. Iran is threatening Israel, the US, and the West in general at every turn. They are building nukes, ICBMs and promising to close the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Our response? We tell Israel to cool their jets. The world is on fire and we are yanking on the reins of our greatest friend and Middle East ally. The Western “boat” really is sinking in fear and we cry out to Israel: “Don’t rock the boat!”

Another example was in today’s news coverage. I read several stories on the Jerusalem Post site detailing the murder of a US Colonel and a Major in Afghanistan by Taliban protesting the accidental burning of a Koran this week. Then I went over to the Fox News Live site for more info and only found a story with this headline: 2 NATO troops killed at ministry, Afghan officials say. The article only identifies them as “two high-ranking US military advisers”. Couldn’t somebody at Fox read the Jerusalem Post before writing their report? I warn you. If you only read American news sources, you will be ignorant of what is really happening in the world.

  I am reminded of the famous quote by Mark Twain:

  If you don’t read the newspaper, you’re uninformed.

  If you read the newspaper, you’re mis-informed.

Then she said to the king: It was a true report which I heard in my own land about your words and your wisdom. 1 Kings 10:6

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. Philippians 4:8

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists     (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

No Other Gods!

21 02 2012

Most Christians and Jews completely understand and respect the first commandment to have “no other gods” before Yehovah. Yet, many in the Western nations, including America, have opened up their thinking to other gods in the name of tolerance. This makes me want to ask, “What part of ‘no other gods’ don’t you get?”

It is only recently that I have found a more specific prohibition on the subject. You may have noticed by now that I refuse to say or write the name of the god of Islam. It is because the Bible prohibits it! What if we in America or at least believers were to obey the following four scriptures? Notice how the Holy Spirit progressively adds another component to the prohibition with each verse.

Here is the prohibition repeated in FOUR SCRIPTURES!

First, in Exodus: And in all that I have said to you, be circumspect and make no mention of the name of other gods, nor let it be heard from your mouth   (Exodus 23:13).

Then, secondly, Joshua adds three more conditions.

You shall not make mention of the name of their gods, nor cause anyone to swear by them; you shall not serve them nor bow down to them, but you shall hold fast to Yehovah your God, as you have done to this day  (Joshua 23:7).

The way a person converts to Islam is by standing in a public place and swearing allegiance to the god of Islam and his messenger, Mohammed. The next step is to serve that god and bow down to it. You have seen many examples of Muslims doing that even in public five times a day. I am ashamed to say that (in April 2009) in a widely publicized picture, President Obama, who professes Christianity, bowed down 90 degrees from the waist to the King of Saudi Arabia, who is the religious custodian/keeper of Mecca.

The third scripture introduces another aspect, blood,  which especially applies to Islam. This blood thirsty death cult delights in the shedding of blood in the name of their god. Hence, we hear the perverse oath proclaimed by every suicide bomber before detonation, that his god is the greatest.

Their sorrows shall be multiplied who hasten after another god; Their drink offerings of blood I will not offer, nor take up their names on my lips   (Psalm 16:4).

Fourth, Hosea adds a final point. Not only will we not speak their names, but eventually their names will not even be remembered.

For I will take from her mouth the names of the Baals, and they shall be remembered by their name no more   (Hosea 2:17).

Psalm 83:4 highlights an amazing contrast: They have said, “Come, and let us cut them off from being a nation, that the name of Israel may be remembered no more.”  Satan does not have an original creative thought in his head. He can only twist and pervert what God says or does. So his plan to remove the remembrance of Israel is nothing more than a copycat idea from the truth that satan and all his false gods face in eternity.

 Now therefore, fear Yehovah, serve Him in sincerity and in truth, and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the River and in Egypt. Serve Yehovah!    (Joshua 24:14)

(Today’s post is an excerpt from my book Generation LIGHT, Chapter 10: Islam, Candles Are For Dark Places. We note that Jesus died for the whole world and some from every tribe and nation and language are included in His forever family.)

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists    (READ MORE)


Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: , , , ,
Categories : Israel Commentary

« Previous Entries Next Entries »