The Political Pope

27 06 2015

Pope Francis exchanges gifts with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas during an audience at the Vatican Saturday, May 16, 2015.(Alberto Pizzoli/Pool Photo via AP)

I spoke of my preference for mercy over justice recently, but even justice has been redefined; and truth is now unknowable. Pope Francis says Palestine is a state and the Vatican has concluded a treaty with “the state of Palestine”. However, read my lips: “There is no state called Palestine anywhere on this planet.” The Pope is using the enormous force of the Vatican to declare a state that does not exist.

Vatican Signs Historic First Accord with ‘Palestine’ After recognizing PA as a ‘state,’ Pope Francis’s supposedly apolitical Vatican signs treaty with ‘Palestine’ before it does so with Israel. The accord, a treaty covering the life and activity of the Church in Judea and Samaria, was the first since the Vatican made the controversial step of recognition in February 2013. It also recognizes the PA as having authority in eastern Jerusalem, the undivided capital of the Jewish state.

There are a number of things wrong about this decision. Here are three:

1. It violates the Oslo accords. Signing international treaties unilaterally is a breach of the 1993 Oslo Accords which created the PA. Consider that Israel legally became a state in 1948, but the Vatican only began diplomatic relations in 1993. This was 45 years after statehood! Yet they give diplomatic recognition to “Palestine” before statehood! In contrast to its rush to sign accords with the PA, the Vatican has had diplomatic relations with Israel since 1993 but has yet to conclude an accord on the Church’s rights in the Jewish state which has been under discussion since 1999. Truth is lost.
2. It is unilateral, leaving Israel completely out of the discussion. “Israel cannot accept the unilateral determinations in the agreement which do not take into account Israel’s essential interests and the special historic status of the Jewish people in Jerusalem,” Israel’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Emmanuel Nahshon

By endorsing the “1967 borders” the Vatican joins the unjust attempt to rewrite history by ignoring Israel’s victory in the Six Day War. When the world talks about the ’67 borders they mean before the war. How convenient. Of course, there were never any legal borders at all in ’67, only the 1949 armistice lines. Truth is lost.

3. It ignores Palestinian persecution of Christians. The agreement appears to ignore the fact that Christians have been systematically persecuted under the PA, which has caused the Christian population in Bethlehem to nearly disappear from 60% in 1990 to 15% last year.

According to Justus Reid Weiner of Hebrew University, in July 2012, a court in Jericho sentenced a Christian to a month of imprisonment for eating in public during Ramadan. “Five other people were also arrested for the same conduct. The chairman of the PA Supreme Court for Sharia Law stated: ‘We have to monitor the streets, and severely punish anyone who eats in public during Ramadan. This is the responsibility of the security forces…I call upon other non-Muslims to be considerate of Muslims’ feelings.”

This is in sharp contrast to Western societies, where the majority is usually called upon to be considerate of the minority.

“The Palestinian Land Law prescribes the death penalty for selling land to Jews. Various Christians have testified that it is also enforced if land is sold to Christians. Several Christian owners have been extorted to give up their land to Muslims. In practice, the legal system in the Palestinian territories provides them no recourse,” said Weiner. Israel National News Truth is lost.

So what must we conclude from the Pope’s decision? (But for time and space, I could add recent US Supreme Court decisions.) We must conclude that truth is lost. Isaiah saw the problem over 2,500 years ago.

For our transgressions are multiplied before You, and our sins testify against us; for our transgressions are with us, and as for our iniquities, we know them: In transgressing and lying against Yehovah, and departing from our God,

Speaking oppression and revolt, conceiving and uttering from the heart words of falsehood. 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. Isaiah 59:12-15

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Israel, Palestinian Flag, Pope, Prophecy, Vatican
Categories : Israel Commentary

No Nukes 4 Iran

23 06 2015

The Iranian Parliament (photo credit: CC-BY Parmida76/Flickr)

Today I share why the Bible says Iran is rising prematurely. The deadline for the Iran nuclear deal is next week, and yet Iran’s Parliament just voted overwhelmingly against the inspections specified in the deal, which should collapse the negotiations. The world is becoming more aware of the Iranian menace, but it is not quite Iran’s time prophetically. To be sure, Iran (Persia) is specifically named in the Ezekiel 38 Gog and Magog War. However, it not time for that war. The Psalm 83 War is first and distinctly separate.

Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya are with them, all of them with shield and helmet; Ezekiel 38:5

(The name Ethiopia here is not the modern state. Ezekiel is referring to modern Sudan. The other names listed refer to modern Turkey.)

These two prophetic passages are usually conflated by prophecy scholars, if they use Psalm 83 at all. But there is growing recognition of Psalm 83 and its completely separate list of nations. All of the wars against Israel since 1948 have included primarily the Psalm 83 list’s modern counterparts. It is my view that this war must have a final conclusion before Ezekiel’s War. The combatants do not overlap at all. Isaiah’s prophecy of Damascus destruction may occur at this time as well. Also, Ezekiel describes the invasion during a time of real peace with no walls protecting Israel, which is certainly not the case today.

Thus says the Lord Yehovah: “On that day it shall come to pass that thoughts will arise in your mind, and you will make an evil plan: You will say, ‘I will go up against a land of unwalled villages; I will go to a peaceful people, who dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates’— to take plunder and to take booty, to stretch out your hand against the waste places that are again inhabited, and against a people gathered from the nations, who have acquired livestock and goods, who dwell in the midst of the land.” Ezekiel 38:10-12

Therefor, I conclude that Iran will not get nukes at this time and will perhaps even suffer a setback that diminishes their rising for a season. Israel may yet strike their nuclear facilities. So Israel will still have to deal with the conclusion of Psalm 83, but then will enjoy an unprecedented peace for a season before Ezekiel 38.

We presently see the prayer of Psalm 83 being answered daily in the civil wars all around them resulting in Israel’s enemies killing one another just as the historic defeat of the Midianites in the account of Gideon’s band of 300. The prayer of Psalm 83 was that God would deal with Israel’s present enemies as He did with Midian. We see the answer unfolding before our very eyes. (Read the background story of Midian in Judges 7:22 – When the three hundred blew the trumpets, Yehovah set every man’s sword against his companion throughout the whole camp.)

Deal with them as with Midian, as with Sisera, as with Jabin at the Brook Kishon, who perished at En Dor, who became as refuse on the earth. Make their nobles like Oreb and like Zeeb, yes, all their princes like Zebah and Zalmunna, who said, “Let us take for ourselves the pastures of God for a possession.” … That they may know that You, whose name alone is Yehovah, are the Most High over all the earth.Psalm 83:9-12, 18

Yehovah God is faithful to defend Israel! Hallelujah!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Ezekiel 38, Iran, Israel, Psalm 83 War, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Justice or Mercy?

16 06 2015

Pope Francis Call for Climate “Justice”

As I begin my last day in Sandpoint, Idaho, my meditations are on justice. Several times on this ministry trip I asked the folks a compelling question about justice. Before I get to that, let me explain why it is on my mind and my spirit.

Many of the radical Muslim organizations use “justice” in their titles, such as Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood. Their political name is: Freedom and Justice Party. Even though it was banned in 2014 it still functions as you can see from their website. They call for social justice.

Marxists also call for social justice. Liberation Theology also uses the term. The racial demagoguery rising from the Ferguson riots and other alleged “police brutality” incidents is known for demands for “justice“. The perception of injustice is sown into the masses with each new event.

Even the Pope has joined the clamoring for social justice. Today it’s reported that he has come out for the global climate change movement:

POPE FRANCIS ENCYCLICAL CALLS FOR CLIMATE ‘JUSTICE,’ FORMATION OF GLOBAL POLITICAL BODY

While his ominous call for a global political body is red meat for prophecy buffs, I want to stick with my theme of justice. The Pope is calling for climate “justice”.

Why is justice such a buzz word in today’s news? It is because it is effective in stirring up people who feel they are “victims” of injustice. Yet, we are living in the most amazing era of history. The poor people in America have more of life’s creature comforts than the rich of earlier generations of world history. I am not denying suffering, but want to move the conversation to a new level. Here is the questions I have asked folks in my meetings:

Question #1 – Who wants God to give you exactly what you deserve? Anyone who reads the Bible, understands this most basic truth:

“For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” Romans 3:23 NLT

I ask people to raise their hands if they demand this justice for God to give them what they deserve. Nobody raises their hands when I put it that way. Then, I ask a second question:

Question #2 – Who wants God to give you MERCY? Now we see the real choice. While the mob is fired up to demand justice, we know what we really need is God’s grace, His mercy, and His love. How ironic that Satan has managed to get people fixated on demanding justice. Thank God for sending His son, Jesus, to die in our place for our sins that we might have forgiveness and the joys of eternal life! Justice is not the Gospel message. Forgiveness, by the mercy of God, is our cry!

“But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.” Romans 5:8 NLT

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

While it is certainly true that God is perfectly just, His mercy is more important to us. I don’t want what I deserve! Have mercy on us, O God.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Elisha Vision, Jesus, Justice, LOVE, Mercy, Pope, social justice
Categories : Israel Commentary

Happy Anniversary Doreen!

11 06 2015

Honeymoon 6-11-67

How does one celebrate your 48^th wedding anniversary when the entire United States lies between you? I am in Idaho on a ministry trip and Doreen is home in North Carolina. So the best way is to dedicate my blog today to the most wonderful Proverbs 31 wife and love of my life.

I love you now more than ever!

Since that first hay-ride in October 1964 at Berkshire Christian College, I have never looked back. For over 50 years I have chosen you and you have chosen me. But the best part is that from the beginning we made Jesus number one: “You and me and Jesus!” It was the best decision we made together, what a blessing that we started that way.

Like a fine wine….vintage ’67

Here are two of our favorite clips from Fiddler On the Roof. The first one expresses my true opinion of the miracle that God brought us together for His purpose:

Wonder of Wonders (2 min. 9 secs)

The second one is our favorite love song, although for us, there was never any doubt!

Do You Love Me? (2 min. 35 secs)

Looking forward to our little train trip in July to celebrate together.

For all my readers, Doreen and I pray that you may find the kind of love we have in your own life. It really does start by putting Jesus first. Also, a big thank you to all our friends who blessed us today on Facebook, Twitter other media.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Jesus, Les Lawrence, LOVE
Categories : Israel Commentary

US Admin says Jerusalem Not in Israel

8 06 2015

US Supreme Court: Jerusalem-born Americans can’t list Israel as birthplace: WASHINGTON (AP) — The US Supreme Court struck down a disputed law Monday that would have allowed Americans born in Jerusalem to list their birthplace as Israel on their US passports in an important ruling that underscores the president’s authority in foreign affairs.

U.S. top court backs Obama, invalidates Jerusalem passport law

Supreme Court strikes down ‘born in Jerusalem’ passport law

This is a serious slap in the face to Israel, but even more to the God of Israel. I tremble when I think of the possible repercussions to America. This is as big in my eyes as the US pressure for Israel to withdraw from Gaza that led to Hurricane Katrina and the collapse of Ariel Sharon.

Last month I wrote several blogs about President Obama refusing to meet “face to face” with PM Netanyahu until after the Iran deal. It was about God’s judgments getting personal. That was followed by a serious humiliation to the President who called a major summit of six Arab Gulf states and four of the six refused to meet “face to face,” including Saudi Arabia. That was personal.

This action of the US Supreme Court siding with President Obama and overturning the Law of the US Congress is a national shame. Therefore I am very concerned that we will quickly see a national judgment. What audacity! What gives us the right to tell Israel where their capital should be? Since it is a governmental decision from our capital city rejecting Israel’s capital city (and God’s chosen city) it may come as a direct judgment on Washington, DC. Pray for mercy!

For thus says Yehovah of hosts: “He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; for he who touches you touches the apple of His eye. Zechariah 2:8 NKJV

After a period of glory, Yehovah of Heaven’s Armies sent me against the nations who plundered you. For he said, “Anyone who harms you harms my most precious possession.” Zechariah 2:8 NLT

“Since the day that I brought My people out of the land of Egypt, I have chosen no city from any tribe of Israel in which to build a house, that My name might be there, nor did I choose any man to be a ruler over My people Israel. Yet I have chosen Jerusalem, that My name may be there, and I have chosen David to be over My people Israel.” 2 Chronicles 6:5-6

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: Elisha Vision, Jerusalem, Netanyahu, President Obama, Pro Israel, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Heavens Declare the Glory of God

5 06 2015

This the Scripture the Lord gave me today on a glorious walk along the shore of spectacular Lake Pend Oreille at Sandpoint, Idaho. Thank you Father, for your wonderful voice heard in your creation!

The Perfect Revelation of Yehovah

To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David.

1 The heavens declare the glory of God;

And the firmament shows His handiwork.

2 Day unto day utters speech,

And night unto night reveals knowledge.

3 There is no speech nor language

Where their voice is not heard.

4 Their line has gone out through all the earth,

And their words to the end of the world.

In them He has set a tabernacle for the sun,

5 Which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber,

And rejoices like a strong man to run its race.

6 Its rising is from one end of heaven,

And its circuit to the other end;

And there is nothing hidden from its heat.

7 The law of Yehovah is perfect, converting the soul;

The testimony of Yehovah is sure, making wise the simple;

8 The statutes of Yehovah are right, rejoicing the heart;

The commandment of Yehovah is pure, enlightening the eyes;

9 The fear of Yehovah is clean, enduring forever;

The judgments of Yehovah are true and righteous altogether.

10 More to be desired are they than gold,

Yea, than much fine gold;

Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.

11 Moreover by them Your servant is warned,

And in keeping them there is great reward.

12 Who can understand his errors?

Cleanse me from secret faults.

13 Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins;

Let them not have dominion over me.

Then I shall be blameless,

And I shall be innocent of great transgression.

14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart

Be acceptable in Your sight,

O Yehovah, my strength and my Redeemer. Psalm 19

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

(I have taken the liberty to change the word “LORD” to Yehovah. Every single time you see LORD or GOD in all capital letters in the Old Testament, the actual Hebrew word is Yehovah. This name occurs 6,828 times in the Hebrew text, yet remains untranslated in most Bibles. His name, obscured for 2,500 years, is now being revealed. It is TIME to restore the name of Yehovah! (for deeper study click here.)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Generation LIFE, Les Lawrence, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Off to Idaho

1 06 2015

Sandpoint, Idaho is one of my favorite ministry destinations and for family and friends. For a decade or more I have ministered in the area including Spokane, Washington and Libby, Montana. It is a joy and an honor to have such a privilege. My base there is my brother Ken’s church, River of Life. I appreciate my relationships with some powerful marketplace ministers in Sandpoint, led by Ross Hall. One of my favorite stops is always the Cocolalla Cowboy Church with Pastor Steve Bradshaw.

For those of you who are led to pray for me, my request is always the Apostle Paul’s plea from Ephesians.

“…that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.” Ephesians 6:19-20 NKJV

The key need here is for “utterance” to be given. His (and my) prayer request is not just for boldness. Anyone can whip up some soul-ish boldness, from human personality. What we desperately need is that God-given utterance from above, the anointing of the Holy Spirit. I don’t want to just spout off my opinions, I covet to speak God’s words, His revelation. So please pray for me to that end if the Lord brings me to mind in the next two weeks of Idaho ministry. Thank you so much.

Here is another translation of that verse from the New Living Translation. I love this version.

And pray for me, too. Ask God to give me the right words so I can boldly explain God’s mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. I am in chains now, still preaching this message as God’s ambassador. So pray that I will keep on speaking boldly for him, as I should. Ephesians 6:19-20 NLT

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Cocolalla Cowboy Church, Elisha Vision, freedom of religion, Pro Israel
Categories : Israel Commentary

Amnesty Nails Hamas for War Crimes

28 05 2015

Now here is a refreshing story. In a departure from the usual media anti-Israel narrative, Amnesty International has finally exposed war crimes by Hamas in last summer’s Gaza war.

My good friend Daniel Karvonen, from Mankato, MN. tipped me off to what turns out to be quite a number of reports across media. In contrast to the normal drumbeat accusing Israel this is real news to Western media.

Amnesty accuses Hamas of ‘war crimes’ in Gaza conflict

© FRANCE 24 | A screen grab from a FRANCE 24 video shows children playing near a Hamas rocket launcher in Gaza.

Islamist militants from Hamas committed war crimes against fellow Palestinians in Gaza – including killings, kidnappings and torture – during the summer 2014 conflict with Israel, Amnesty International said in a report released Wednesday.

The London-based rights group detailed a “brutal campaign of abductions, torture and unlawful killings against Palestinians accused of ‘collaborating’ with Israel” by Hamas, which controls the Gaza Strip.

“In the chaos of the conflict, the de facto Hamas administration granted its security forces free rein to carry out horrific abuses including against people in its custody,” said Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director, Philip Luther.

“These spine-chilling actions, some of which amount to war crimes, were designed to exact revenge and spread fear across the Gaza Strip,” he said.

The report, entitled “Strangling Necks“, details the “extrajudicial execution of at least 23 Palestinians and the arrest and torture of dozens of others”. (Latest update : 2015-05-27)

Here are two more reports; one from CNN : Amnesty report says Hamas committed war crimes against Palestinians

and surprisingly, a report from Aljazeera America.: Amnesty finds ‘spine chilling’ Hamas crimes

Still, I have not seen it on TV News, but am glad the report is out there. Israel is always fighting an uphill battle in the propaganda war. We can pray for the truth to come out, but we must also speak up when we have an opportunity. Being a Christina Zionist is not a passive position. Let us speak truth to lies in every situation.

A favorite Scripture verse carries a profound truth and with it the responsibility to verbally declare righteous truth. If we do not, evil voices will prevail. The result will be the destruction of all we hold dear. A great way to be reminded to pray for Israel, for our city and for our country is when you see your digital clock with the numbers 11:11. It happens twice a day, and connects us to Proverbs 11:11. Use it as a boost of memory to pray and speak out loud a blessing.

By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted, But it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked. Proverbs 11:11

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Amnesty International, Hamas, war crimes
Categories : Israel Commentary

Two-State/One-State?

22 05 2015

I had a very good question yesterday on my YouTube video page about PM Netanyahu supporting the two-state plan for Middle East peace. His position certainly contradicts the Biblical promise that the whole land belongs to Israel. My answer may surprise you. I believe Prime Minister Netanyahu stakes his claim to the middle ground knowing that the Palestinians will never agree to recognize Israel as a Jewish state. Here is his statement:

“I don’t support a one-state solution – I don’t believe that’s a solution at all,” said the Israeli leader. “I support the vision of two states for two peoples – a demilitarized Palestinian state that recognizes the Jewish state.” Israel Today

You tell me. Do you believe the Palestinians will ever accept that simple statement? Absolutely not. Those two bold and underlined words are fatal to any agreement. Therefore Netanyahu gets credit for trying and the failure is on Abbas and the Palestinians. Abbas still claims he is also for two states when speaking to the West, yet his real position is clear when speaking in Arabic. Here is proof of my point.

For Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas, the idea of a “greater Palestine” – that would stretch from “the river to the sea” – is now an official policy….In a series of videos and images discovered and released by Palestinian Media Watch (PMW), the PA’s official propaganda ministry has made clear that when the PA says “Palestinian state,” it means not just Ramallah and Jenin, but also Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Beersheva. Israel National News

However, there is a third option. The Bible is clear that God will judge the nations for dividing His land (which they have already done).

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

So, the third option is actually the first and only Biblical plan, the prophetic promised “one-state” solution. The land was given by God to Israel. There will not be two states. God will ultimately settle the issue. More and more Israelis now realize this truth. Even the new Deputy Foreign minister of Israel is calling for the government to use the Torah (the Bible) to lay claim to God’s promised land for the Jews:

Hotovely Tells Foreign Ministry to Quote Torah to the World Deputy Foreign Minister Tzipi Hotovely (Likud) told Israeli envoys onThursday to reference the Torah in presenting the historical rights of theJewish people to the entire land of Israel while representing the state.

We must keep praying for God’s will to be followed by the leaders and the people of Israel and especially for Jews who are still exiled in the nations.

We bless Israel this weekend as they celebrate Shavuot (Pentecost) and the giving of the Torah . Shavuot begins at sundown Saturday through sundown Monday. Reading the Book of Ruth with family over a joyous meal is the way they observe this holiday. (Click here for my audio teaching on the feasts).

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Israel, Middle East, Peace Talks, Shavuot, Two state solution
Categories : Israel Commentary

Pope Recognizes “State of Palestine”

18 05 2015

Last week, the Vatican announced an agreement for Official Vatican recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state. The Vatican had earlier extended diplomatic relations with the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).

A declaration on the issue was formulated today with representatives of the PA, sources said, and is expected to be signed in the coming days. It will make clear that the Holy See has decided to change the diplomatic relations, which were so far with the PLO, and instead establish official relations with “Palestine” as a sovereign state…the first legal document which will constitute official recognition of the “Palestinian state.” Israel National News 5-13-15

This is in direct conflict with the fundamental basis for the Israel/PA peace talks which arrive at PA statehood only through mutual agreement. To add insult to injury from Israel’s point of view, the Pope even called Abbas “an angel of peace.” This in spite of the fact that Abbas has been linked to terror attacks, glorifies martyrs by naming soccer fields after them, pays them or their families twice the salary of PA officials and wrote his Doctoral thesis on the denial of the Holocaust.

Pope calls Abbas ‘angel of peace’ during Vatican visit Francis meets with PA chief after Holy See’s decision to acknowledge Palestinian state angers Jerusalem. The Pope gave Abbas a medallion that represents the angel of peace defeating the “bad spirit of war,” and said that it is appropriate because “you are an angel of peace.”

Welcome to bizarro world. We have reached the time prophesied where evil is called good and good is called evil.

PA Parliament: Jews Have No Right to Even ‘One Inch’ of Israel On Nakba Day, Palestinian parliament says that Jews have no right to the entire “land of Palestine”. The Palestinian parliament is continuing to reject any Jewish right to the “land of Palestine”, meaning the entire land of Israel, including the sovereign territory of the State of Israel.

This was at the same time the Pope was literally holding hands and hugging Mahmoud Abbas at the Vatican!

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

For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. 2 Corinthians 11:13-14

We must pray that Christians wake up to the linking of the Vatican more and more to Islam.

We do not worship the same God! Jews and Biblical Christians worship Yehovah, God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of Israel. He is our heavenly Father and He sent His Son as the Messiah. Islam worships a false god who is not a father and has no son, according to the Koran, and therefore is a different god: the pagan moon-god.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Biblical Zionist, Holocaust, Middle East, Palestinian Flag, Palestinian state, Pope and Abbas
Categories : Israel Commentary

God is Not Mocked

14 05 2015

Today, President Obama is hosting a humiliating “Summit of Arab Leaders” in Washington, DC. The problem is that six heads of government were invited and only two showed up. (This is a follow-up to my two-part commentary of March 28 and March 30 where I pointed out that by publicly dishonoring the Prime Minister of Israel, President Obama would reap what he sowed.)

Our President had petulantly announced to the world that he would not meet Israeli PM Netanyahu face to face again until the Iran talks were over because Netanyahu would always just “vent” about Iran. So today, the King of Saudi Arabia is not meeting face to face with President Obama. Experts attribute this to the Saudi displeasure with the Iran deal.

The most notable absence from the meeting is Saudi King Salman. On Sunday, Saudi Arabia announced that the king was skipping the summit, just two days after the White House said he was coming…The White House and Saudi officials insist the king is not snubbing Obama. But Salman’s conspicuous absence comes amid indisputable signs of strain in the long relationship between the US and Saudi Arabia, driven not only by Obama’s Iran overtures, but also the rise of Islamic State militants and a lessening US dependency on Saudi oil. Times of Israel

Leaders of Gulf nations to embarrass Obama, skip US summit; administration denies ‘snub’
Experts seem to agree that it is humiliating to the President. The White House tried to spin a different interpretation, but failed. I am amazed at how quickly this came back against President Obama. My point was simply that some of God’s judgments are national, but some are very personal. The personal dishonor directed against Israel’s Prime Minister indeed came back as personal dishonor to President Obama.

Therefore, I repeat this immutable truth of Scripture.

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. Galatians 6:7

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Arab Summit, Elisha Vision, Middle East, Netanyahu, President Obama, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Israel’s New Government

11 05 2015

View inside Israel by cartoonist Yaakov Kirschen.

In order to get a solid government in place, Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu needs to bribe support from various political parties! And the bribes he’s forced to offer is “Ministries”. Leaders of his potential partners, and members of his own Likud party are demanding that he appoint them to be a “Minister” in the new gov’t. So the list of government ministries is blowing up out of proportion. And each “Minister” gets a car and driver and an office and a budget , and, and… But hey, it’s the Israeli system!
BTW, the modern Hebrew word for a government Minister is the old Hebrew word for a Prince.

With less than 2 hours to spare, Netanyahu secures a coalition PM informs president he’s clinched a 61-seat government after 11th-hour talks with Jewish Home leader Naftali Bennett, expresses hope for an expanded coalition by next week.

Israel now has a new government with a narrow majority. We need to pray for Prime Minister Netanyahu to listen to wisdom from above to lead Israel forward in blessing and security. Here is a very accurate Biblical standard for our prayers.

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his worksare done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. James 3:13-18

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Elisha Vision, Israel, Israel Elections, Les Lawrence, Netanyahu
Categories : Israel Commentary

Thoughts on Texas Massacre

8 05 2015

Oh, that’s right, it was not a massacre. One security guard was shot in the leg. And a traffic cop took out two jihadists with a handgun…while they were firing A-K 47s. Otherwise it could have been a massacre of hundreds of people.

The private, ticketed free speech event was held in response to a radical Muslim event in the same venue on January 17. Most Americans do not have a clue about creeping Sharia in our country. Sharia requires the death penalty for “slandering the Prophet.” And it can be carried out by any Muslim with a knife or a gun, anytime, anywhere. Should America be paying better attention to this threat? Don’t judge Pamela Geller until you thoughtfully read her case for free speech.

Our Secretary of Homeland Security, Jeh Johnson, made this strange statement about Muslims in America facing discrimination: We in the administration and the government should give voice to the plight of Muslims living in this country and the discrimination that they face. And so I personally have committed to speak out about the situation that very often people in the Muslim community in this country face. The fact that there are 1.6 billion Muslims in the world and the Islamic faith is one about peace and brotherhood.

The claim that Islam is about peace and brotherhood would be hard to embrace for those beheaded in the name of Islam. Sharia condemns women to second-class status, supports slavery and imposes many other anti-freedom laws. Proponents believe it is higher law than the US Constitution.

Johnson’s claim of Muslims facing discrimination is also misleading. Every year the FBI statistics on religious hate crimes shows that Jews are targeted four to one compared to Muslims. Jonathan Tobin wrote an excellent article in Commentary Magazine:

FBI Statistics Belie Islamophobia Hysteria It has become an accepted trope of contemporary journalism that American Muslims are under siege and beset by hatred and prejudice. But the evidence for this conventional wisdom is lacking. The story line of Muslim persecution in the United States has always been a matter of anecdotes and perception, not facts.

So how should a Christian Zionist react to threats of “slandering the prophet”? I will comment on two levels. First is the instruction of Jesus to “love your enemies.” Forgiveness, grace and salvation are offered to every human who receives and obeys Jesus as the Son of God. I believe God grieved over the death of the two jihadists because they died without knowing Jesus and were condemned to hell. Jesus died for all who will trust Him, and we should love our enemies right into the Kingdom!

The second level is also Biblical. We owe no respect or tolerance to pagan gods. As I have asked before: “What part of ‘You shall have no other gods before Me’ don’t we get? America is confused by conflating these two levels. We should love individual Muslims, but expose the anti-Christ cult of Sharia Islam.

Free speech is a God-given liberty that is completely non-existent under the domination of Sharia law. The more faithful a Muslim becomes, the more he submits to and demands all submit to Sharia. It is not optional. Sharia is a system of world conquest, nothing less. Sharia is now here in America. What are you going to do?

He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, Colossians 1:13

Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed. John 8:36

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Attack, creeping Sharia, Elisha Vision, Jesus, Pamela Geller, Radical Islam, Texas attack
Categories : Israel Commentary

When God’s Judgments Get Personal #2

30 04 2015

Time Magazine’s new cover story highlights the comparison with today’s riots in Baltimore, Ferguson and elsewhere with the race riots in 1968. But this has been spiritually decreed by President Obama. For several years now he has demanded that Israel accept the “1967 borders” via a two-state solution. (I wrote about it in 2011, here.)He demands that Israel go back to the borders BEFORE the June ’67 Six Day War. Those were not borders then, but the armistice lines from 1949 at the end of Israel’s Independence War.

In decreeing a return to 1967, President Obama spoke the actual judgment, not on Israel, but on the United States. In my previous post I quoted Genesis 12:3. By demanding Israel accept the indefensible lines of 1967, he has opened the door for the US to face racial violence not seen since 1967-68.

But there is an even more serious personal consequence. By declaring he will not see Netanyahu face to face until after an Iran agreement, the President has sounded perilously close to the Pharaoh of Egypt during the Exodus. Consider this text:

But Yehovah hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not let them go. Then Pharaoh said to him, “Get away from me! Take heed to yourself and see my face no more! For in the day you see my face you shall die!” So Moses said, “You have spoken well. I will never see your face again.” Exodus 10:27-29

I am not making this up. Will President Obama ever meet face to face with Prime Minister Netanyahu again? Read it for yourself. Does it apply to the present standoff? I don’t know, but it is eerily similar, and we need to pray for mercy!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 6 Comments »
Tags: Baltimore Riots, Elisha Vision, Israel, Netanyahu, President Obama
Categories : Israel Commentary

When God’s Judgments Get Personal

28 04 2015

President Obama has gone beyond the pale in his personal vendetta against Israel and Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Obama Refuses to Meet Netanyahu Until Iran Talks End Telling Jewish leaders that Netanyahu would just vent about Iran during a meeting, Obama says he will only see PM face-to-face after June. Israel National News

For years I have understood a principle of God’s judgments on America. We know that God promised to defend Israel:

“I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” Genesis 12:3

Since the US is a democracy, we are responsible for those whom we elect. When our officials stand against Israel, the entire country reaps the consequences. This has been itemized quite clearly in an excellent book, Eye T0 Eye, by William Koenig.

However, there is a different standard when it gets personal. President Obama has gone beyond the pale in his personal vendetta against Israel and Prime Minister Netanyahu. Our President is not observing international protocol in his personal attacks. How ironic that he accused the Prime Minister of violating protocol by accepting the invitation to speak to Congress. Now the hypocrisy is exposed.

Because President Obama has made it so personal, I believe he will personally suffer God’s displeasure.

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. Galatians 6:7

Please understand that I am not cursing anyone! There are simply Biblical truths that play out by themselves, like gravity. What goes up, must come down. You don’t apply gravity, you experience it. So it is with sowing and reaping. Three facts are clear with sowing.

1. You always reap what you sow.

2. You always reap later than you sow.

3. You always reap more that you sow.

I am genuinely concerned about the fruit of our President’s anger with Benjamin Netanyahu. We need to pray for God’s mercy and understanding. Don’t be caught off guard by truth.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Elisha Vision, Iran Talks, Israel, Netanyahu, President Obama, Sowing and reaping
Categories : Israel Commentary

Israel’s Transformation

22 04 2015

View from Yad Vashem

Our recent trip to Israel spotlighted the epic transformation of the land. We first visited Israel in 1984 and Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial, was a highlight. But, the contrast between 1984 and 2015 could not be more spectacular. I wish we had a picture of the barren rocky hills that year, because this year it is full of trees and pastures. The above photo was taken this February at the exit of Yad Vashem. Israel has planted more than 240 million trees in the last 100 years. It is a miracle of restoration and reclamation of the land. The barren rocky hills are indeed transformed!

I will say to the prisoners, ‘Come out in freedom,’
and to those in darkness, ‘Come into the light.’
They will be my sheep, grazing in green pastures
and on hills that were previously bare. Isaiah 49:9 NLT

My good friend and brother, Doug Walton, sent me a text yesterday pointing me to Isaiah 49. The vivid promises of our faithful God are now before our eyes! You need to take a few minutes and read the whole chapter. Here are a few more choice verses.

See, I have written your name on the palms of my hands.

Always in my mind is a picture of Jerusalem’s walls in ruins.

Soon your descendants will come back,

and all who are trying to destroy you will go away.

Even the most desolate parts of your abandoned land

will soon be crowded with your people.

Your enemies who enslaved you will be far away.

The generations born in exile will return and say,

‘We need more room! It’s crowded here!’ Isaiah 49:16-17, 19-20 NLT

God has turned the page from the exiled judgment of His people. We are now living in the historic fulfillment of prophecy! This is the time of Israel’s restoration, favor and blessing. Thank you, Jesus. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Israel, Israel Rain, Jerusalem, Jesus, Yad Vashem
Categories : Israel Commentary

Holocaust Remembrance Day

15 04 2015

Today is the day everything stops in Israel for two minutes once a year. Please read this post from Israel National News and the Times of Israel; to touch, even briefly, the gripping personal testimony of this survivor. I appreciate her credit to “providence” in the face of the very embodiment of evil.

A Survivor Recounts: Defying Death in the Holocaust for a Sister: Suzanna Braun was told to save her little sister as she was herded away to the gas chambers – and she did at all costs. Suzanna Braun recalls the efforts to keep her father’s last wish during the war, with a little help from ‘divine providence’. by Jonah Mandel

(AFP) – Suzanna Braun, who experienced the horrors of the Holocaust and defied death at least three times, believes she survived because of her determination to save her sister – and some divine intervention.

The first time she beat death was sheer luck.

Suzanna was just two weeks shy of 16 when she, her sister Agi and her parents were rounded up in their hometown of Kosice, in what is now Slovakia, and sent to the Polish death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau.

There, the women were separated from the men. As her father was taken away to the gas chambers, he shouted his last words to her: “Take care of your sister!”

Agi, four years older than her sister, was already in ill health.

Now 86 and living in a retirement home in Shoresh, a small village west of Jerusalem, Suzanna recalls every detail of how the women were stripped and herded into the “showers” where there was a faint odor of gas.

Locked behind a steel door with soap in their hands, some women waited for water. Others, who had heard the rumours, began panicking.

It was only when the doors opened they realized they had cheated death.

“They were out of gas,” she told AFP in an interview as Israelbegan marking Holocaust memorial day and 70 years since the end of the war.

Wearing dresses from gypsies killed before them, they were loaded onto trucks and driven to Estonia to join thousands of other women on a death march aimed at killing or weakening as many as possible.

After her mother was shot dead during the march, Suzanna did not speak for a month.

But it hardened her resolve to look after her only surviving relative.

“I didn’t think about anything, only how to save my sister. Because father asked me to take care of her.”

Lethal injection

At one point, they were forced to cross a wide river but Agi could not swim so Suzanna made makeshift wooden floats to carry her to the other side.

They survived the march but were taken to Stuffhof camp in Poland where Agi was put into the infirmary and Suzanna would sneak in food for her at night.

When the Nazis realised Russian forces were heading toward the camp, they attempted to kill as many inmates as possible with lethal injections containing strychnine and gasoline.

As the Nazi orderly was going from woman to woman injecting the poison, Suzanna told her sister and three other women to turn their arms over so the injection would hopefully miss a vein.

The poison took effect quickly.

“My hand stopped working,” she said showing a pale, rounded scar.

Looking around, Suzanna seized a wad of hay from their bedding andbegan putting pressure on her arm, she recounted.

“It exploded like a geyser.”

Quickly she started digging into the flesh with stalks of hay to gouge out the poison. She managed to do the same for her sister and another woman.

“It was like providence,” she said.

Covered in blood, she dragged her sister to a nearby hill and rolled her down it. A Nazi officer was passing so she played dead, and he kicked her down the same hill.

She then got her sister to an abandoned cowshed where she nourished her with leftover milk until Russian forces arrived the next day.

For love of a sister

Not long after, at a hospital in Danzig, Agi’s life was once again saved by medical staff who amputated her gangrened feet.

“The whole time, not my brain but rather divine providence worked for me,” Suzanna said of her survival. “And I cooperated with that providence, with the sixth sense.”

The two eventually immigrated to Israel where Suzanna married, had a daughter and now has two grandchildren. Agi, who married but remained childless, eventually died in 2013, aged 88.

That was when Suzanna decided to go public with the sisters’ story by going back to her hometown along with filmmaker Yarden Karmin to document her story.

The documentary, called “In The Third Person”, is being given its first private screening on Wednesday, as Israel marks 70 years since the liberation of the camps and the end of the war.

“This entire story is being told because since I wanted to commemorate her,” she said.

“My last task is not to live well, go to the cinema and other frivolities – but to tell the story.”

All along it was about saving her sister.

“I wasn’t afraid to die. It wasn’t about me,” she said, explaining that the film was a way of preserving her memory. “I wanted something to remain after her.” Israel National News

Selah…

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists

Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Holocaust, Israel, Yehovah, Zionism
Categories : Israel Commentary

Golgotha Collapse

8 04 2015

BEFORE

AFTER BRIDGE OF NOSE FELL

An important section of rock has fallen from Golgotha, the Place of the Skull, in Jerusalem, where many believe Jesus was crucified. It happened the next day after our small tour group had communion at the Garden Tomb. We marveled at the clearly visible eyes and nose on February 19. Just a few hours later the bridge of the nose fell off the face of the cliff. Look closely at the before and after pictures to see the difference.

And when they had come to a place called Golgotha, that is to say, Place of a Skull, they gave Him sour wine mingled with gall to drink. But when He had tasted it, He would not drink. Then they crucified Him, Matthew 27:33-35

Samuel Cravotta, Executive Director of Golgotha Foundation, has suggested the possibility of repairing the nose. It may even be possible to find the actual pieces or pieces that fell. Our group was scheduled to be there that day, the 20th, but Sar-El Tours, our land operator, moved us to Tel Aviv Thursday night with good reason. Ten inches of snow fell in Jerusalem on Friday. It was likely that the rain and heavy snow dislodged the rock, that had formed the bridge of the nose.

Mr. Cravotta has been working passionately to preserve and restore Golgotha for several years. He has established good relationships with the Mayor’s office, the Ministry of Tourism, the Garden Tomb and with the Israel Antiquities Authority. The need now is for funds for a study and then the restoration. The bridge of the nose is first, but further preservation is desirable to prevent further crumbling of the stone. If you would like to help, the Golgotha Foundation is a 501-3c tax exempt organization. Please visit the Golgotha tab above, or click here for more details, including Samuel Cravotta’s excellent recent book: Evidence of the Crucifixion, the Place of the Skull and the Resurrection Tomb.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Israel, Jerusalem, Jesus
Categories : Israel Commentary

Passover and the Third Blood Moon

3 04 2015

Tonight is the beginning of Passover and also the third blood moon in the holy tetrad of four blood moons on Jewish feast days. Last year saw the first two on Passover and Tabernacles. The third is actually tomorrow morning in the US Eastern Time Zone (April 4). The finale is a super/blood moon on September 28, visible in Israel during the Feast of Tabernacles.

Major historical events impacting Israel have occurred each time period that sees this holy tetrad (four consecutive blood moons on Jewish holy days). It was observed around the time of the crucifixion of Jesus, the expelling of the Jews from Spain (500 years ago), and then not again until the birth of Israel following the Holocaust. There have been others, but not on Jewish feast days. In a real astronomical anomaly, three sets of these tetrads occur in a space of 70 years from 1948 to 2015, and then not again for over 500 years.

The first tetrad was around the time of the birth of Israel and the War of Independence in ’48 and ’49. The next one was near the recapture of Jerusalem at the Six Day War in ’67 and ’68. We are now in the last cycle which finishes this Fall. Some critics find fault that each cycle only finished after the historical event linked to it. My answer to that is that it is close enough to deserve our attention. Yet, there is one great difference this time.

This is the first and only time in history when science and technology have reached the point where we can actually chronicle these events astronomically. This time we knew about it ahead of time! At the very least we should look up and ask the Lord for His intention in this revelation.

“And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.” Luke 21:25-28

As Christian Zionists celebrating Passover this year, we see all three feasts fulfilled in Jesus, the Messiah; Yeshua haMashiach! He is the Passover Lamb that takes away the sins of the world for all who believe in Him. He is the Unleavened Bread who was sinless. He is the Firstfruit from the dead. Jesus died, was buried and He rose from the dead on the third day. (Listen to my ten minute teaching on each of the seven Feasts of Yehovah here.)

His last Passover with His friends will be renewed in the restored Kingdom of Israel with millions of new blood-washed followers in the Messianic Kingdom coming soon!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Blood Moons, Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Jerusalem, Jesus, Passover
Categories : Israel Commentary

Rise of Arab Army!

28 03 2015

Acceleration: While you were watching basketball, the Middle East has turned a new dark corner. Saudi Arabia has attacked Yemeni rebels and now Egypt is joining along with Jordan. This might be a good thing if it was just about Yemen, but the next turn could be deadly for Israel. The armies that are massing will be getting good practice that could turn against Israel. Look at this headline from Nasrallah, the leader of Hezbollah in Lebanon and Syria.

Nasrallah: Israel Should be Targeted, Not Yemen Hezbollah leader blasts Saudi Arabia for launching airstrikes against Houthi rebels, saying it should lead a campaign against Israel. Speaking in a televised speech, Nasrallah said the military campaign should be directed at Israel, not Yemen, adding that if the warplanes were directed towards Israel, Hezbollah would join in.

This could be the trigger that leads to the end of the Psalm 83 War. Stay tuned! Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is now openly talking about getting nukes because of Obama concessions to Iran.

The Israeli elections concluded with a stunning victory for PM Benjamin Netanyahu. The last polls had him behind by four or five seats and he won by six, a swing of 10 seats! This was despite (or perhaps because of) President Obama’s attempt to influence the vote toward the liberal Herzog. Even the New York Times reported the growing acrimony toward not only the PM, but Israel itself.

White House Antagonism Toward Netanyahu Grows The White House is stepping up its antagonism toward Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu despite his victory in this week’s elections, signaling that it is in no rush to repair a historic rift between the United States and Israel.

Obama-Netanyahu Hostility is ‘Unprecedented’ in History Historian reveals the key clashes between US presidents and Israeli prime ministers, and why none have been as bad as the ‘new low.’

In just two weeks, major shifts have occurred that may accelerate the timing of prophetic fulfillment regarding God’s promises of Israel’s restoration and favor.

The Remnant of Israel Saved “At the same time,” says Yehovah, “I will be the God of all the families of Israel, and they shall be My people.” Thus says Yehovah: “The people who survived the sword found grace in the wilderness—Israel, when I went to give him rest.” Yehovah has appeared of old to me, saying: “Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving kindness I have drawn you. Again I will build you, and you shall be rebuilt, O virgin of Israel! You shall again be adorned with your tambourines, and shall go forth in the dances of those who rejoice. You shall yet plant vines on the mountains of Samaria; The planters shall plant and eat them as ordinary food. For there shall be a day when the watchmen will cry on Mount Ephraim, ‘Arise, and let us go up to Zion, To Yehovah our God.’ ” Jeremiah 31:1-6

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionism (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Attack, Israel, Israel Elections, Prophecy, Psalm 83 War, Saudi Arabia, Yehovah, Yemen
Categories : Israel Commentary

NOT MY WILL!

24 03 2015

Gethsemane Feb 2015

Florida is a great place to minister in March. There is still snow in New England while temps in the 80’s here. I try to come back to Florida once a year. We lived here 30 years and raised our daughters in the Sunshine State. Now that we live in North Carolina it is great to renew our relationships with the Florida family. After Melbourne, Brandon and Dunedin, I look forward to Gulf Coast Church Wednesday night in Indian Rocks. I finish my Florida swing next Sunday in my home church, Flowing River Church, formerly Maranatha Chapel.

Our recent Israel tour has been one topic, along with the Israeli election and other MidEast events. However, the word the Lord has given me is from Jesus’ temptation in the Garden of Gethsemane. Most folks don’t understand that Jesus was really tempted to refuse the Cross.

For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Hebrews 4:15

This is a critical point. He was tempted but did not give in to the temptation. Contrast this with the nature of Lucifer (Satan) that God reveals in Isaiah.

“How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground, You who weakened the nations! For you have said in your heart:

‘I will ascend into heaven,

I will exalt my throne above the stars of God;

I will also sit on the mount of the congregation on the farthest sides of the north;

I will ascend above the heights of the clouds,

I will be like the Most High.’

Yet you shall be brought down to Sheol, to the lowest depths of the Pit.” Isaiah 14:12-15

Five times he exalts his own will against God. So when Jesus was faced with His greatest temptation, He reversed the curse of self-will. Jesus asked the Father for “any other way”, but each time concluded: Not my will but Your will be done!

He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” Matthew 26:39

Three times Jesus resisted self-will and triumphed with self-denial and submission to the Father’s will. That is our charge. That is our challenge. You, too, can refuse self and submit to our loving Heavenly Father.

Help us Lord Jesus to follow in your steps!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Elisha Vision, Garden of Gethsemane, Generation LAST, Jesus, LOVE
Categories : Israel Commentary

Israel Election Crunch Time

16 03 2015

Today is a mega prayer day for Israel. Tomorrow, Israel chooses its next government. The choice has never been clearer. Netanyahu’s conservative camp will hold onto the land. The liberal camp of Herzog will divide Israel to establish a Palestinian Muslim state which will immediately be overtaken by terrorists. If you are a watchman on the wall; or if you just like the view from the top of the wall, Pray! Pray today! Pray NOW!

I don’t mean hope. I mean pray that the God of Israel will act to defend her. Pray with the prophetic confidence of agreement with His covenant. Here is the scriptural foundation for our prayer of faith.

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

This means God will choose whom He wants to lead Israel. I am praying that the Holy Spirit will touch the hearts of the Israeli voters and move them toward His choice.

My faith is not in the people, but the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob!

Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps. Psalm 121:4 NLT

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Elisha Vision, Israel, Israel Elections, Netanyahu, Pro Israel
Categories : Israel Commentary

Iran Means Aryan

10 03 2015

Following Netanyahu’s speech to Congress, we are only a couple of weeks away from a decision on the negotiations about Iran’s nuclear ambitions. It is fitting to consider a deeper view of Iran/Persia’s roots.

When did Persia become Iran? The Bible refers to the second great world empire, after Babylon, as the Persian Empire. The Western countries who followed the Bible still used Persia until Hitler’s rise to power in the 1930’s. “That Western tradition continued into the last century until the reign of Iranian king, Reza Shah, founder of the Pahlavi dynasty. In 1935 CE, Reza Shah asked those countries with whom Iran had diplomatic relations, to stop using the name Persia and to formally refer to his country as Iran.” Heritage Institute

“Germany was our age-old and natural ally, Love of Germany was synonymous with love for Iran. The sound of German officers’ footsteps was heard on the shores of the Nile. Swastika flags were flying from the outskirts of Moscow to the peaks of the Caucasus Mts. Iranian patriots eagerly awaited the arrival of their old allies. My friend and I would spin tales about the grandeur of the superior race. We considered Germany the chosen representative of this race in Europe and Iran its representative in Asia. The right to life and role was ours. Others had no choice but submission and slavery. We discarded the old maps and remade Iran into a country larger than what it was in Achaemenian times.” Reza Shah

In 1933, the year Hitler came to power, the Third Reich began to publish a racist magazine titled lran-e Bastan (The Ancient Iran). The journal was financed by Siemens-Schukken and pro-Nazi Iranian intellectuals. It referred to Hitler as “one of the greatest men in the world.” It depicted him as the man who ended the alleged 200 year old plot by Jews against the nationalities of the world, especially the Aryans. The journal also claimed that the swastika was a symbol of Iranians from 2000 years before Christ and they rejoiced over its use as a symbol of German pride and of unity between the Iranian and German peoples. Iran’s Unholy Alliance

Our prayers are based on Biblical and historic understanding. Generic prayers are too generalized. We need to be specific. Iran/Persia today is an avowed enemy of Israel and the West. Prophetically, we know that this will continue until the great war of Gog and Magog of Ezekiel 38 & 39.

“Persia, Ethiopia, and Libya are with them, all of them with shield and helmet;” Ezekiel 38:5

As I have explained before, the next war is the Psalm 83 War which lists the specific countries attacking Israel (using their ancient names). But Ezekiel 38 & 39 has a totally different list of countries which confirms it is a separate and distinct war. Also, the passage clearly states that Israel is living in peace at that time with un-walled villages. This is certainly not true now.

So, we will line up our theology and prayers with Scripture. Yehovah God is in control. We do not fear, but stand with His purpose for Israel and all those who put their trust in Him and His beloved Son, Jesus. His Hebrew name is Meshiach Yeshua ben Yehovah, Messiah Jesus, Son of God!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Attack, Elisha Vision, Iran, Israel, Jesus, Yehovah, Yeshua ben Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

After the Dust-Up Settles

4 03 2015

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech was a grand-slam home run yesterday at the Joint Session of the US Congress. Many observers compared it to Winston Churchill. They are right in the sense of the historic timing of this warning of world-wide catastrophe if Iran gets the bomb.

There are moments in life when a leader acts not to win votes — but for the sake of the children. There are moments when a leader is not measured against an American president or media pundits. These are moments where only history can be the judge. Boaz Bismuth in Israel Hayom

The similarities between now and 1939 are clear and portend earth-shaking implications to follow any failure to face the facts. The soberness of the speech properly underscored the choices. We face far more than a trivial breach of protocol, we are looking right down the payload of intercontinental ballistic missiles headed our way. It is not only Israel being threatened and the rest of the Sunni Middle East. The entire Western world is in Iran’s sights and goals. Remember the Iranian mantra that Israel is the little Satan and America is the big Satan.

My only comment about the “dust-up” manufactured by the White House is that it was not worthy of the Office of the President of the United States. It was shameful and embarrassing.

So we pray. We pray hard. We pray often. We pray for the real peace of Jerusalem. We stand for Israel, confident that there is One Who watches over Israel, Who neither slumbers nor sleeps. Yehovah, God of Israel is the ultimate watchman on the wall.

Thank you Prime Minister Netanyahu for giving voice to the truth from God’s voice to our ears.

The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Iran, Israel, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Netanyahu, Pro Israel, Winston Churchill, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Netanyahu Addresses Congress

27 02 2015

We are fast approaching an existential deadline for Israel regarding Iran’s nuclear program. Next Tuesday the Prime Minister of Israel speaks to a joint session of Congress. Incredibly, some Democrats and Vice President Biden are boycotting the speech for petty partisan politics. George Will on Obama and Bibi: “We have a community organizer dealing with a commando; they’re not on the same wavelength”

There is time to take action. Please contact you Senators and Representatives. Appeal to them to consider seriously the case made by Netanyahu. Israel’s very existence is at stake. Ignore the political hype and divisive threats from the White House. Act now! This is a critical time for the U.S. as well as Israel.

Please read the following appeal from a Floridian and then watch the short video of Senator Rubio clearly declaring the issue.

Dear Friends,

Set aside 20 minutes to watch Senator Rubio on the floor of the Senate, pleading with his peers on behalf of Israel. The link is below. Whatever your political persuasion, please, please take the time to contact the senators and representatives for your areas and request they not boycott Bibi Netanyahu’s speech which is to be March 3rd before both houses of congress. There is still some time to do this. Maybe I feel the urgency because I see the faces of the Holocaust survivors all around me where I live and recall how the world stood by while millions perished or were tortured. The synagogue near where I live has it’s own holocaust memorial for the many holocaust survivors who attended there. I think of the growing anti-Semitism in the world and hear Bib’s words to my Jewish people who are still being persecuted to come home to their land. They are welcome there. This is no small thing and I am thankful for the passion of people like Senator Rubio who is not Jewish but understands the seriousness of what is happening. Again, please take the time to make your voice heard in this matter. It is interesting that Netanyahu’s address to Congress will be given the day before Purim starts, which celebrates the failure of an attempt to wipe out the Jews of Persia (modern day Iran) in 721 BC. Some things never change.

Please forward if you can so others may join in this effort and never forget the power of prayer.
http://www.c-span.org/video/?c4527881/senator-marco-rubio-us-foreign-policy
If you need a little more background on the issue please read these articles:

Off the Deep End?

New Tensions Erupt

Netanyahu Furious

Poll: Israeli’s Don’t Trust Obama on Iran Nukes

Pray for truth to triumph next Tuesday at Congress!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)
 

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Elisha Vision, Israel, Jerusalem, Middle East, Netanyahu
Categories : Israel Commentary

Back from Israel

23 02 2015

This wall in Megiddo has stood for over 3,000 years. It was part of the northern Israel palace of King Solomon. Israel itself is still standing after 3,000 years. Our trip was a joyous discovery of the foundations of the land and the people who Yehovah God chose as His own. We saw with our own eyes the incredible restoration and even resurrection of Israel. Only one hundred years ago it was a desolate “God-forsaken” desert land, as witnessed by Mark Twain in Innocents Abroad. This was the result of 400 years of Muslim Ottoman Turk rule where they even taxed trees, leading to the deforestation of the land. Since the Ottoman defeat in WWI, Jews have planted over 240 million trees. Today Israel again shows signs of the Garden of Eden.

We prayed and proclaimed Yehovah’s purpose everywhere we traveled, from the coast to the Golan and Mt. Hermon, where we played in the snow. We worshiped on the Jesus boat on the Sea of Galilee and held a Mikvah (baptism) as the “preparation of the bride”. We even visited the site where John the Baptist immersed Yeshua, the necessary “preparation of the bridegroom”.

We saw Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. We ascended Masada and walked down the Roman ramp. We rode camels in a Bedouin camp, visited Abraham’s well in old Beersheva, and even picked up smooth stones in the stream near David’s victory over Goliath.

Our four days in Jerusalem had too many highlights to list here, but walking on the Temple Mount was unforgettable. We were harassed by Muslims somewhat, but understood the significance of the holy location for Jews and Christians. The Dome of the Rock now dominates the skyline, but check out this scale model of the Temple compared to the scale model of the Dome. What a wonder of the world the Temple would have been.

We read Psalm 133 on Mt Hermon as a declaration of God’s purpose today to bless Israel and Zion with life forever!

A Song of Ascents. Of David.

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious oil upon the head, running down on the beard, the beard of Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments. It is like the dew of Hermon, descending upon the mountains of Zion; For there Yehovah commanded the blessing—Life forevermore. Psalm 133

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Israel, Jerusalem, Jesus, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Commander of the Straw Man Army

6 02 2015

President Obama is adept at using a “straw man” to shift an argument, from the real issue to one he can easily refute. It is a form of sleight of hand. He has made an international incident over the invitation for Israel’s Prime Minister to address a joint session of Congress on March 3.

A straw man is a common type of argument and is an informal fallacy based on the misrepresentation of an opponent’s argument. To be successful, a straw man argument requires that the audience be ignorant or uninformed of the original argument. The so-called typical “attacking a straw man” argument creates the illusion of having completely refuted or defeated an opponent’s proposition by covertly replacing it with a different proposition (i.e., “stand up a straw man”) and then to refute or defeat that false argument (“knock down a straw man”) instead of the original proposition. Wikipedia

Perhaps my thoughts will inspire someone to produce an analysis of the President’s use of the straw man. Today I want to use the example of PM Netanyahu’s speech to Congress. Speaker Boehner is accused of some horrific “breach of protocol” for inviting the PM without informing the White House. Even if conceding a breach occurred, it certainly did not rise to the level of an international incident (which the President has created). Leaving aside the contentious relationship the President has developed with our closest Middle East ally, there is a simple answer to why he chose this battle at this time.

It is not about protocol. It’s about Iran. The US is forcing a bad agreement that will allow Iran to still end up with nuclear weapons. This threatens the very existence of Israel. Netanyahu will make the case to Congress. Given their recent advances in ICBM technology, now the US is in range.

Congress wants to vote more sanctions against Iran. The Democrats want to postpone the vote till after the negotiations on March 24. The President does not want Congress or the American people to hear the Israeli objections till after the deal is done.

A second straw man was also used. The President says the speech is too close too Israel’s elections. Yet, the National Field Director of the President’s 2012 re-election campaign is now working for the Israeli opposition, in an effort to unseat Prime Minister Netanyahu. The hypocrisy is breathtaking.

Top Obama Aid Working to Defeat Israeli Right

President Obama, VP Biden and Secretary Kerry all refuse to even meet with the Prime Minister while he is in Washington. Now, Vice President Biden will not even attend the speech, because “The Vice President’s office expects that the vice president will be traveling abroad during the joint session of Congress,” a US official said.

UPDATE! Biden Meets Herzog in Munich A day after announcing he would boycott PM Netanyahu’s speech, Vice President Joe Biden met Israeli opposition leader MK Yitzhak Herzog in Munich. Not influencing the election???

Finally, there is a growing boycott of the speech by Democrats. What in the world is going on with this Administration? Is the Democratic Party turning against Israel?

Dems confront Israel, raising Netanyahu speech stakes

“Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of drunkenness to all the surrounding peoples, when they lay siege against Judah and Jerusalem. And it shall happen in that day that I will make Jerusalem a very heavy stone for all peoples; all who would heave it away will surely be cut in pieces, though all nations of the earth are gathered against it. In that day,” says Yehovah, “I will strike every horse with confusion, and its rider with madness; I will open My eyes on the house of Judah, and will strike every horse of the peoples with blindness. And the governors of Judah shall say in their heart, ‘The inhabitants of Jerusalem are my strength in Yehovah of hosts, their God.’ In that day I will make the governors of Judah like a fire-pan in the woodpile, and like a fiery torch in the sheaves; they shall devour all the surrounding peoples on the right hand and on the left, but Jerusalem shall be inhabited again in her own place—Jerusalem.” Zechariah 12:2-6

Is Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that “fiery torch”?

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Congress, Iran, President Obama, Pro Israel, Prophecy, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Israel, Here We Come!

2 02 2015

Doreen and I are so excited to bring a small group of 14 to Israel for our 2015 Tour next week! I hope to post updates while we are there. If I am not able to post on this blog, I will try to use Twitter for an occasional Tweet of our progress. You can follow me on Twitter at this address: @TNCLes

We plan to “prophesy to the Land” according to Ezekiel 36, and my first book.

We also plan to visit the Garden Tomb and Golgotha. Please see the updated press release at the “Golgotha” tab on the menu bar above this blog.

Your prayers will be appreciated as we travel throughout the glorious Land of Promise!

For Yehovah has chosen Jerusalem; he has desired it for his home. “This is my resting place forever,” he said. “I will live here, for this is the home I desired. I will bless this city and make it prosperous; I will satisfy its poor with food. I will clothe its priests with godliness; its faithful servants will sing for joy. Here I will increase the power of David; my anointed one will be a light for my people. I will clothe his enemies with shame, but he will be a glorious king.” Psalm 132: 13-18 NLT

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Golgotha, Golgotha Foundation, Israel, Jerusalem, Prophecy
Categories : Israel Commentary

Jesus in the Middle

30 01 2015

2011-10-21_12-40-43_148 I was inspired this week by the teaching of Ed Silvoso on Jesus’ promise to be in our midst with two or three. I used to think of that as a convenient excuse for having a small church. It was used somewhat apologetically. “We may only have a few here tonight, but at least Jesus showed up.”

However, I ask you: When are your greatest experiences of church?For me, most of the best have come in the smaller groups. In fact, you could make a case that the more people gathered, the less true church fellowship, communion and connection to God.

Of course it is wonderful to worship with thousands in one accord, but you don’t really have much personal “church”. Let me put it another way. If you had to choose between being at the feeding of the five thousand or having lunch with Jesus and a few disciples, which would you choose?

We need large meetings for teaching and encouragement. Jesus did it. But the real shared life comes with intimacy. The good news is that we don’t have to choose, we can have both. Just make sure you know the difference. My guess is that most Christians are completely missing the best part.

Two or three is not some inadequate minimum or quorum for Jesus to show up. It the optimum situation that Jesus is longing for: real intimacy in fellowship and love with us! He especially loves those times.

“For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” Matthew 18:20

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Christian Zionist, church fellowship, Elisha Vision, Jesus, Les Lawrence, LOVE
Categories : Israel Commentary

Jesus is a Jew

27 01 2015

Today is Holocaust Memorial Day January 27, 2015. Please take at least a moment to remember all those who perished at the hands of the Hitler death machine. Six million Jews and at least five million others were murdered. Yet, God will redeem and has redeemed their suffering as recorded in Psalm 102 (see below).

Yad Vashem, the Jerusalem Holocaust Museum now has an exhibit by Jewish artist Moshe Hoffman that must be seen. It is the picture above this article. His message is profound for Jews and Christian alike. Jesus was a Jew. If Jesus had lived His earthly life during World War II in Europe, Hitler would have dragged Him down off the cross and taken Jesus to the gas chamber and incineration furnace. Jesus was a Jew. He is still a Jew. Christians believe He is the Messiah and is coming soon. When He comes, He will still be a Jew. He is the seed of David of the tribe of Judah.

Please take a moment to meditate on the first half of Psalm 102, the Holocaust Psalm:

A Prayer of the afflicted, when he is overwhelmed and pours out his complaint before Yehovah.

1 Hear my prayer, O Yehovah,

And let my cry come to You.

2 Do not hide Your face from me in the day of my trouble;

Incline Your ear to me;

In the day that I call, answer me speedily.

3 For my days are consumed like smoke,

And my bones are burned like a hearth.

4 My heart is stricken and withered like grass,

So that I forget to eat my bread.

5 Because of the sound of my groaning

My bones cling to my skin.

6 I am like a pelican of the wilderness;

I am like an owl of the desert.

7 I lie awake,

And am like a sparrow alone on the housetop.

8 My enemies reproach me all day long;

Those who deride me swear an oath against me.

9 For I have eaten ashes like bread,

And mingled my drink with weeping,

10 Because of Your indignation and Your wrath;

For You have lifted me up and cast me away.

11 My days are like a shadow that lengthens,

And I wither away like grass.

12 But You, O Yehovah, shall endure forever,

And the remembrance of Your name to all generations.

13 You will arise and have mercy on Zion;

For the time to favor her,

Yes, the set time, has come.

14 For Your servants take pleasure in her stones,

And show favor to her dust.

15 So the nations shall fear the name of Yehovah,

And all the kings of the earth Your glory.

16 For Yehovah shall build up Zion;

He shall appear in His glory.

17 He shall regard the prayer of the destitute,

And shall not despise their prayer.

18 This will be written for the generation to come,

That a people yet to be created may praise Yehovah.

The correct Hebrew translation of “generation to come” is actually “generation last”, which is the title of my second book. We are the generation that can understand Psalm 102. Selah!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Elisha Vision, Holocaust, Israel, Jesus, Prophecy, Psalm 102
Categories : Israel Commentary

Eyes to See

23 01 2015

What in the world is God doing? Or, more exactly: What is God doing in the world? Can we expect to see from His perspective. Is it possible to see His Hand in the affairs of men? Or are we blinded to His actions?

Today I want to explain why my heart burns for God’s people to have their eyes and ears opened to see and hear what He is doing. I am not speaking of life after death, but being spiritually alive in a world that is dying.

Why do I blog and do video updates every week? The answer is in the name of our ministry: Elisha Vision Ministries. This blog is called Elisha Vision Commentary. My YouTube video is Issachar Forum, but it is under the name of “Elishasees”. I lead a meeting at a local restaurant every Sunday night called: Issachar Forum: A Prophetic Think Tank. But it is all about “seeing”. And it is based directly on the Biblical account of Elisha, his servant, and the Syrian Army.

The Syrian King’s attacks on Israel were known ahead of time and he learned that Elisha was telling Israel where the Syrians would attack. So the King sent his army to capture Elisha. When Elisha’s servant saw them he was afraid until Elisha prayed for his eyes to open:

So he answered, “Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” And Elisha prayed, and said, “Yehovah, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.” Then Yehovah opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. 2 Kings 6:16-17

This is why I am in ministry. My prayer is for God to open our eyes to see His mighty Hand in the affairs of men. Do not look down in fear and discouragement. Look up to Yehovah God and His Son, Yeshua ben Yehovah. We have read the end of the Book, and we win! If we see the world through God’s eyes and take our stand with Jesus, we will see the victory. God is the one who sees “the end from the beginning”. Don’t get caught in these last days with blind eyes. I pray God will open your eyes and your ears to His purpose in every situation. Shalom, shalom!

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

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Elisha Vision, Eyes to See, Israel, Jesus, Yehovah, Yeshua ben Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Israel Attacks Hezbollah in Syria

20 01 2015

While You were Watching Football

Israel Attacks Hezbollah in Syria

While America was watching football last Sunday, Israel hit two vehicles on the Syrian side of the Golan Heights in northern Israel. The implication could be grave for the Middle East. It could be the spark that detonates the Psalm 83 War. But there are four aspects to this event of particular interest.

1. First, Hezbollah claims they are not in the Golan Heights at all. Yet, one of their top commanders died, along with several members. You have heard little, if any, news of this attack on Western media because of football and the US President’s State of the Union speech calling for taxes on the rich to create more entitlement program giveaways.

2. Second, a very senior Iranian Revolutionary Guard General was also killed with several of his men. What were they doing on the Israeli border? Some reports suggest they were working on a missile launch site. A riddle wrapped in a mystery inside a strike on Hezbollah

3. Third, “An Israeli security official said on Tuesday that an alleged Israeli helicopter missile strike on the Syrian side of the Golan earlier this week that killed a top Iranian general was aimed at what was believed to be a caravan of low-ranking Hezbollah fighters.” Why would Israel say that? They are trying to defuse the inevitable response from Hezbollah and Iran.

4. Fourth, the plot thickens: Amid Rising Tensions, IDF Closes Roads Along Lebanon Border : “Tanks join Iron Dome batteries along Israel’s northern border, following airstrike which killed senior Hezbollah, Iranian commanders.” The threat is so serious that the IDF has closed roads, sent Iron Dome (defensive missile) batteries along with IDF tanks. Time to PRAY!

But do not fear, O My servant Jacob, and do not be dismayed, O Israel! For behold, I will save you from afar, and your offspring from the land of their captivity; Jacob shall return, have rest and be at ease; No one shall make him afraid. Jeremiah 46:27

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Attack, Christian Zionist, Golan Heights, Hezbollah, Israel, Psalm 83 War, Syria
Categories : Israel Commentary

Duke University Debacle

15 01 2015

Debacle:[dey-bah-kuhl ] – noun

a general breakup or dispersion; sudden downfall or rout:

a complete collapse or failure.

Breaking news this week at Duke University, Durham, NC

Muslim call to prayer to sound at Duke University

UPDATE! Just as I posted this commentary, it was announced that Duke has rescinded its decision. Praise God for this, but you may still see a need for prayer in the explanation here in this article.

A Muslim call to prayer will now sound from the Duke Chapel Bell Tower every Friday for three minutes at 1 pm. This has become a national story because of last week’s Paris radical Muslim massacre of cartoonists who had “offended the prophet.” I offer this background data for awakened Christians desiring prayer points with a punch.

There is a part of the story I have not heard anywhere else. This decision by Duke is a direct contradiction with their historic stated reason to exist as an institution. While the official sanctioning of a religious activity may land them in legal trouble, my interest is the departure from the Christian mandate of Duke University. Let’s compare the 1924 version with the 2014 version of Duke’s aims according to the official by-laws.

Here is the complete 1924 version: (Emphasis mine)

“The aims of Duke University are to assert a faith in the eternal union of knowledge and religion set forth in the teachings and character of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; to advance learning in all lines of truth; to defend scholarship against all false notions and ideals; to develop a Christian love of freedom and truth; to promote a sincere spirit of tolerance; to discourage all partisan and sectarian strife; and to render the largest permanent service to the individual, the state, the nation, and the church. Unto these ends shall the affairs of this University always be administered.”

Here is the complete 2014 version: (Emphasis mine)

The aims of Duke University (the “University”) were originally set forth in a statement that President John C. Kilgo wrote for Trinity College in 1903. Kilgo’s statement, which grounded the University’s purposes in the Christian tradition of intellectual inquiry and service to the world, was adapted for Duke University upon its establishment in 1924. Recognizing its origin in this tradition, its continuing relationship to The United Methodist Church, and the diverse constituency that has developed since its founding, the University is committed to creating a rigorous scholarly community characterized by generous hospitality towards diverse religious and cultural traditions. The University therefore pursues the following aims: to foster a lively relationship between knowledge and faith; to advance learning in all lines of truth; to defend scholarship against all false notions and ideals; to develop a love of freedom and truth; to promote a respectful spirit of dialogue and understanding; to discourage all partisan and sectarian strife; and to further the advancement of knowledge in service to society. The affairs of the university will always be guided by these ends.

So, they have eliminated Jesus Christ, the Son of God, in favor of diverse religious and cultural traditions. Therefore, we should not be shocked by the welcome for the Muslim declaration of faith every Friday blasting over the campus.

If you need more clarity, just look at the actual words in the Islamic call to “prayer.” It is nothing less than Muslim evangelism.

(I remind you that I don’t speak the name of the god of Islam because of four Scripture verses [see below]. However, in this case you need to know they do not say “god is greatest”, but specifically use the personal and unique name of their god. Therefore I make the translation to read as they say it. It is a deadly error to insert the generic “god” in place of the name. Millions of Muslims consider it blasphemy for Christians to say that name.)

Here is a translation of the main part of the Muslim call, the Adhan: “Allah is Greatest. I bear witness that there is no deity except Allah. Come to pray. Come to success. Allah is Greatest. There is no deity except for Allah.”

Duke University has fallen from saying that Jesus is the Son of God to now proclaiming publicly that there is no god except for the god of Islam.

Since the Bible many times refers to Yehovah as the Father, and the Koran adamantly denies that their god is a Father, we are clearly talking about two different deities. Derek Prince taught that if Jesus is a Prophet, then Mohammed is a false prophet. Now let me close with pertinent Scriptures.

Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son. (1 John 2:22)

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)

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).

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).

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).

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).

Pray that Duke University will repent and return to her Biblical foundations!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Duke University, Jesus, Radical Islam, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

The Attack on Civility

13 01 2015

ci·vil·i·ty : noun \sə-ˈvi-lə-tē\

polite, reasonable, and respectful behavior

a : civilized conduct; especially : courtesy, politeness

b : a polite act or expression

bar·ba·rous : adjective \ˈbär-b(ə-)rəs\

a: not polite or proper : very rude or offensive

b: very cruel and violent

Synonyms: atrocious, barbaric, cruel, brutal, brute, butchery, fiendish, heartless, inhuman, inhumane, sadistic, savage, truculent, vicious, wanton

Antonyms: benign, benignant, compassionate, good-hearted, humane, kind, kindhearted, sympathetic, tender-hearted

Who was the first barbarian? I submit to you that Cain was the first barbarian.

And He said, “What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood cries out to Me from the ground. So now you are cursed from the earth, which has opened its mouth to receive your brother’s blood from your hand. Genesis 4:10-11

Chicken or egg? Contrary to revisionist history, I believe God created Adam and Eve as civilized beings. The first murder was the birth of barbarism. Cain refused the civil order instituted by God. I answer the age-old question of which came first, chicken or egg, very simply. God created the creatures and then ordered them to multiply.

Today we watch as barbarians try to take over the world. This is not a clash of civilizations, it is a clash of civilization and barbarity, order and disorder, law and lawlessness. Two reports in today’s headlines show the utter depravity that has befallen this generation:

‘Russian Spies’ Executed by Child Soldier in Shocking ISIS Video (story only, video not shown)

More Young Teenage Girl Suicide Bombers in Nigeria (one or more of these girls may be from the 200+ Boko Haram captives from 2014)

If the battle for civilization comes down to the wimps versus the barbarians, the barbarians are going to win. Thomas Sowell

An article on Daniel Pipes Middle East Forum made this point as early as 2007:

It’s Not a Clash of Civilizations, It’s a Clash between the Civilized World and Barbarians

So my point is that we must awaken to true definitions, not only to name the main source of barbaric behavior as radical Islam, but also to define the big picture. This really is good vs. evil. It is a cosmic level fight that will not be won only in physical battles, but must see final triumph of righteousness. Truth is not relative: “your truth and my truth.” Truth is absolute. Our founding fathers understood this and conveyed it clearly in the Declaration of Independence:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed,

Two phrases are particularly powerful here. These truths are “self-evident” and they are “endowed by their Creator.” These are absolute truths, above discussion or modification. To deny these points would be to reject civility and choose barbarism and lawlessness.

Civilization depends on mutual agreement and recognition of universal truth, the self-evident obvious observance of absolutes. Most of such truths are recorded in the Judeo/Christian Scriptures. But not only the reading, but the practice of these principles has yielded the progress of civilization. Those nations and Peoples who have followed this heritage have prospered. Those who reject this truth suffer national consequences. Even those who earlier believe and then suspend the practice of the same will equally suffer the dire effects.

These truths have been endowed (gifted) to us by the God of the Bible. He has established order, and we reap the benefits of his benevolence. If pagan faith believes that cows and rats are gods, there will be no meat and the rats infest the granaries. Famine results. It matters what you believe.

Rescue me and deliver me from the hand of foreigners,

Whose mouth speaks lying words,

And whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood—

That our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth;

That our daughters may be as pillars,

Sculptured in palace style;

That our barns may be full,

Supplying all kinds of produce;

That our sheep may bring forth thousands

And ten thousands in our fields;

That our oxen may be well laden;

That there be no breaking in or going out;

That there be no outcry in our streets.

Happy are the people who are in such a state;

Happy are the people whose God is Yehovah! Psalm 144:11-15

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 : 2 Comments »
Tags: Attack, Barbarians, Christian Zionist, Civility, Radical Islam, Truth, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

God of the Possible

10 01 2015

Here is a recent devotional from Billy Graham’s daughter, Anne Graham Lotz.

Change Is Possible

Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You.

Psalm 63:3, NKJV

No means of measure can define God’s limitless love . . .

No far-seeing telescope can bring into visibility the coastline of His shoreless supply . . .

No barrier can hinder Him from pouring out His blessings . . .

He forgives and He forgets.

He creates and He cleanses.

He restores and He rebuilds.

He heals and He helps.

He reconciles and He redeems.

He comforts and He carries.

He lifts and He loves.

He is the God of the second chance, the fat chance, the slim chance . . .

Just give me Jesus! He makes change possible!

Blessings,

Anne Graham Lotz (Angel Ministries)

I love this! And there is one more dimension to her closing: “He is the God of the second chance, the fat chance, the slim chance . . .” Our God is also the God of no chance!

So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 5 Comments »
Tags: Anne Graham Lotz, Attack, forgiveness, Jerusalem, Jesus, LOVE, nothing is impossible
Categories : Israel Commentary

Red Sea Sunrise

5 01 2015

Turquoise water — tan sand — and a tangerine sun! It was without question one of the most beautiful and indescribable sights of my 45 years. Words fail to adequately portray the splendor on that exquisite shore of the timeless Red Sea. My friend, Duane Trochessett, and I had just come from Jerusalem in January 1990. We had participated in the most powerful prayer conference we had ever attended. After speaking to a congregation in Tiberias on Shabbat, Israel’s Sabbath, we traversed Israel from Galilee in the North, to the southernmost Israeli seaport of Eilat. This modern city is located at the northern tip of the Red Sea. From there, we endured a rickety Egyptian public bus ride five hours further south through the Sinai Peninsula to a spot near its southernmost point. We lugged a two-man tent with us, which we pitched on a deserted stretch of Red Sea beach, a few miles north of Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt.

We heard that the Red Sea had some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world along these shores and we were not disappointed. We walked up the pristine beach two or three miles, seeing no one else and feeling alone in the world. We then drifted and snorkeled, swimming with the current back to our tent location among picturesque rocks on the tan beach. The underwater beauty of the Red Sea had never occurred to me before. The Bible does not refer to it, except for Pharaoh’s chariots and army ending up there.

Our greatest sight occurred the next morning at first light. The setting was already surreal; just being in such an exotic location at a time of personal renewal with God. We opened the flap on our eastward facing tent and were stunned with the view. Rising out of the turquoise sea was the largest sun we had ever seen, almost close enough to touch. It was the most incredible shade of color; the closest I can come is tangerine! It was perfectly round as it rose on the horizon, resurrecting out of the water. The lack of pollution in the cloudless blue sky eliminated the sun’s rays, making the stark contrast more amazing between that brilliant reddish-orange sun, the blue sky and the turquoise sea. The only slight comparison I can make, is to the occasional beautiful orange harvest moon I have seen a few times in New England. But this was the sun, a thousand times deeper in that surreal tangerine color, and a million times more radiant! Duane and I worshipped the Creator on that beach in a depth of personal connection with Him unlike any previous experience. We were not worshipping the creation, but the One Who had created. As you read this book, please try to rise above the history and logic of the words to see the God of the Bible Who is the Faithful God of history. Modern Israel has risen out of the sea of nations like that tangerine sun. (Excerpt from the Introduction to my first book: Prophesy To The Land!)

Pray for the complete restoration of Israel.

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists

(READ MORE)

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

Psalm 83 Answer to Prayer

29 12 2014

For years I have proclaimed the truth of the Psalm 83 War. The first section of the Psalm describes the circumstances leading up to the war, which we can see is now the case in real-time. This is the next war in Israel and the countries attacking are specifically named in middle third of the Psalm. This war is distinct from the Gog and Magog War of Ezekiel 38-39 which also names countries involved. These two lists are of different countries with no overlapping. These are two separate wars. Once you grasp the difference it will settle the issue very easily. Another difference is that Ezekiel says Israel is living in peace in un-walled villages at the time of that invasion, which is certainly not true today.

“You will say, ‘I will go up against a land of unwalled villages; I will go to a peaceful people, who dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates’— “to take plunder and to take booty, to stretch out your hand against the waste places that are again inhabited, and against a people gathered from the nations,” Ezekiel 38:11-12

So what is the answer to prayer from Psalm 83? You will find it in the last third of the Psalm.

Deal with them as with Midian,

As with Sisera,

As with Jabin at the Brook Kishon,

Who perished at En Dor,

Who became as refuse on the earth.

Make their nobles like Oreb and like Zeeb,

Yes, all their princes like Zebah and Zalmunna,

Who said, “Let us take for ourselves

The pastures of God for a possession.” Psalm 83:9-12

The prayer request was simple, that God would deal with Israel’s enemies the same way He did with the Midianites in Gideon’s victory. Yehovah God caused the enemy of 135,000 soldiers to fight and kill each other till they were routed by only 300 men of Israel.

This is exactly what is happening today in the Middle East. Shia fight Sunni, Egyptian against Egyptian (Isaiah 19), civil war in Syria and Yemen, and of course the ISIS barbarians in Iraq and Syria.

ISIS executes 100 of its own foreign fighters

ISIS executes “Extremist members plotting rebellion”

Therefore, we must live the lesson of Gideon. This battle will be won, not by our might or power, but God Himself will fight for Israel. We must pray to Him for the victory. He is the victory!

Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem!

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Attack, ISIS, Israel, Jerusalem, Prophecy, Psalm 83 War, Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Why Christmas? or, I Feel Your Pain

23 12 2014

This is a well-worn cliché, but allow me to expand the concept to its maximum meaning. There is no pain known to man compared to this pain. Physical pain in a workout or a sport doesn’t register. Sickness, psychosis, famine, war and even death are each experienced singly by each of us. But imagine taking all that pain, heartbreak and death and then internalize it into just one person who literally feels all of that pain at one time.

Now you begin to grasp what it was for Yehovah God Himself to be formed in the human body of a Jewish carpenter. But not as an adult, rather starting miraculously, supernaturally as a tiny totally Divine sperm uniting with the egg of a natural young Jewish woman. This tiny union then kept dividing and growing and multiplying cells for nine months inside a vulnerable womb. It has always amazed me that this Messiah, both God and man, was birthed through the normal birth canal process of any human. This was complete with the blood and the water and the pain, and then the utter dependence of a new-born infant. (This is known as the incarnation, God in flesh.) Thirty years would pass before the full purpose of His visitation would begin. Then after only three more years or so it would end, or more precisely, it would be finished!

Yeshua haMeshiach, Jesus the Messiah, came with a purpose. It was not His purpose, but the Father’s. He came to reveal the Father, Yehovah. He said: “If you have seen me, you have seen the Father.” (John 14:9)

So, when Jesus died on the cross, He then felt the ultimate pain as He literally experienced our sins and sicknesses in His own human body. He submitted to His eternal place in God’s Plan, that Jesus would take all of our pain and sin on Himself, as the sacrificial LAMB OF GOD. He defeated not only death, but sickness and pain for all eternity for every single person on this planet who looks to Him for salvation.

So the next time you hear someone say they feel your pain, lift up your eyes and heart to the ONE who truly bore all of it for you and for me. Praise God. Thank you Jesus!

(I just quoted one verse from John 14 please read the rest at this link.)

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: God became man, incarnation, Jesus, LOVE, Yehovah, Yeshua ben Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

Why Hanukkah?

16 12 2014

Hanukkah begins today at sundown. Why should this be of interest to Christian Zionists? Protestant Christian tradition usually says the 400 years between the Old and New Testament are the “Silent Years”. That is a shame because the entire account of the Maccabees happened during that period. Whether you believe their story is Scripture does not eliminate the historical value of the documents. Did you know Jesus went to Jerusalem during Hanukkah just a few months before His death and resurrection?

Now it was the Feast of Dedication, and it was winter. John 10:22

Most people relate Hanukkah to the miracle eight-day supply of oil for the Temple menorah, but the reason for the season was the re-dedication of the Temple after the victory over the Greeks. That is where the real name came from. When Jesus was there that year, He had just earlier proclaimed Himself as the Light of the World during the Feast of Tabernacles. His full Hebrew name is Yeshua ben Yehovah. Here is an excerpt from my book, Generation LIGHT:

Jesus and Hanukkah

There was a moment in the life of Jesus when He sent his disciples from Galilee to Jerusalem for one of the feasts. This period of ministry is found in John’s Gospel, chapters 7-10. After they had gone up, He also went up, but secretly. This was for the Feast of Tabernacles. This particular year was His last during His earthly ministry. He apparently stayed and ministered in the Jerusalem area from the Fall Feast all the way to winter. The next Passover would be His last. John 7:2 identifies Tabernacles as the beginning of His last autumn visit to Jerusalem, and John 10:22 reveals the extent of His stay.

There is good evidence that Jesus went up to the temple in Jerusalem for the three major feasts of Yehovah every year. These feasts (from Leviticus 23) are still observed today in Jerusalem. They are not called the Feasts of Israel or the Feasts of the Jews. They are the Feasts of the LORD (Yehovah). Passover is in the spring, Pentecost (or Shavuot) in the summer and Tabernacles in the fall. Jesus went up to these feasts in peril of His life which is validated in the first few verses of John chapter seven. Indeed, it would be the Feast of Passover, the following spring when Jesus would be crucified. This was not hidden from Jesus; He knew the times and He knew the appointed time. So it is no small thing that He chose to go up to the Feast of Dedication.

It is very meaningful that He stayed for the Feast of Dedication, the one we now call Hanukkah. While it does not elevate that feast to the level of the prescribed Feasts of Yehovah, it does lend credibility to Hanukkah. Why is this timing interesting? Throughout this two or three month period there was a particular recurring theme of Jesus’ ministry. Over and over He had declared Himself to be the Light of the world.

Yes, it was Hanukkah that was observed at this particular point in Jesus’ ministry. This feast is also called the Festival of Lights, because of the story in the Book of Maccabees when the temple was saved from destruction, dedicated after being defiled and the miracle of the oil occurred. The proclamation kept ringing in the ears of the Jews as they prepared to celebrate once again the miracle of light, an event that had occurred only some 200 years earlier. At the dedication, although there was only enough oil for the temple menorah for one day, it lasted eight days until more oil could be sanctified for temple use. This explains why a normal menorah has seven candles while the Hanukkah candelabrum (called a Chanakiah) holds nine candles. Eight candles represent the eight days it took to sanctify the temple. The ninth is the servant candle and is used to light the other eight. One of the eight is lit the first night and then one and two the second night, and so on until all eight are lit on the eighth night. Christians recognize the servant candle as Jesus. The ninth candle is the source of the light. It is no stretch to see this ninth candle as Jesus the servant and source of all Light.

For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many. Mark 10:45

My wife, Doreen, has published a children’s book telling the story of the Festival of Lights in the context of two young friends, one Jewish and one Christian. How Hanukkah Saved Christmas makes the point that if Jerusalem and the temple had been destroyed during the time of the Maccabees, Jesus could not have literally fulfilled many

prophesies. If the Jews had been utterly destroyed there could have been no legitimate King to reign on David’s throne. Only a Jew, a true descendant of David could be the Messiah King. Jesus fulfilled that requirement. If the temple had been destroyed, Jesus could not have entered the Temple as the Messiah must, and Jesus could not have entered Jerusalem on a colt as declared in Zechariah 9:9. We must be truly thankful to God and celebrate the courage of the Maccabees.

It was during the Feast of Tabernacles that year leading up to this unique Hanukkah Feast (according to John 10:22) when Jesus stood and gloriously proclaimed twice that He was the Light of the World.

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

“I must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world” John 9:4-5

This is one of many claims that sounded clearly like blasphemy to the Pharisees. Every time Jesus claimed attributes of Deity, it further convinced the Pharisees of His guilt and their obligation to kill Him. Even today, we must come to grips with this seemingly outrageous claim. Jesus was either the most egotistical liar ever, or He actually is the Light of the world!

Happy Hanukkah! (however you want to spell it.)

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 2 Comments »
Tags: Christian Zionist, Hanukkah, Jerusalem, Jesus, Middle East, Yehovah, Yeshua ben Yehovah
Categories : Israel Commentary

I Am a Wealthy Man

9 12 2014

Today I will proclaim the abundance of my faithful God. I am a wealthy man. My bank account is modest, but my cup runs over with the abounding grace of Jesus. My Dad’s family was following a false god in the 1920’s when he was saved and charted a new path for himself and now three subsequent generations. I was raised to know Jesus from birth as have my children and grandchildren. In each one of them I see the light of Jesus.

Good people leave an inheritance to their grandchildren, but the sinner’s wealth passes to the godly. Proverbs 13:22

My father and also Doreen’s father left us indescribable spiritual wealth. It was the best inheritance one could receive. We live by faith for our finances, but walk in daily peace and security of our salvation. If you did not have believing parents, I encourage you to chart that new path for your future generations. Each of our three daughters show the faith of Jesus in their own life and family. Our youngest daughter, Andrea Updyke, expresses her faith in words that often make me envious (in a good way). Here is her latest offering from her popular blog.

Joy has risen. Hope has come.

December 9, 2014 by Andrea

The other day I was feeling particularly whiny. I couldn’t really put my finger on it, but as I talked through some things with Jerry, I realized that I just needed to let some air out of the tires, so to speak. It’s the holiday season, which I fully embrace, but it can be full of opportunities for stress. And not just because of the ever-present gift buying and over scheduling.

There’s a darker side of the holiday season that forces us to see the bad things, the loss, and those who are hurting. It’s hard to see those things in the face of all the jolly music and happy themes, but they are still there whether we take the time to see them or not. I have been there and in those difficult times and all I wanted was to be seen and heard by people. But I realized that what I really needed to do was focus on God’s promises to me. He never promised me a life of justice and ease. But he did promise to love me, to be the hope and joy that I couldn’t find in this world.

Angry and forgotten, I would cry myself to sleep wondering what I had done wrong, asking why me? But in this searching for why me, I lost the meaning. Instead of saying, “why are these things happening to me?” I realized the real question was, “why does God care about even the smallest joys in my life?” Because He did. And he does. And it’s not just the joys in my own life. It’s all joy. He is joy. We just need the eyes to see it.

Joy has risen. Hope HAS come.

I spend a lot of my life on the internet. It’s where I do my job, where I socialize, and where I learn. And I have some pretty hard and fast rules for the way I behave. Looking through my feeds, my content may seem pretty light and silly. That is entirely by design. It doesn’t mean I don’t hurt or think about hard things. But when I contribute to the noise, I want to lift people up, not tear them down. Not out of some self-righteous mission, but because my joy, my hope has come and that is what I want to focus on. When I’ve had a bad day at work or the kids are fighting or I get some really bad news, or someone says something hurtful to me, I have to guard my heart. The only thing I can control is my response.

The truth is, joy has always been there.

It came in the form of a baby born in a barn. It came in the form of a living God walking among His people. It came in the form of a revolution transforming thousands of lives with nothing but word of mouth to light an unquenchable fire. It came as a grandfather broke from his family religion and forged a new path of Jesus-following that would be passed down for generations. It comes daily in the lives of those all around me who point me back to truth when I am feeling low and unloved.

My search is not for justice or importance. It’s not for retribution against those who hurt me. My search is for joy. My search is for the ability to love the unlovable. My search is to live it and not just say it. My prayer is that my heart does not harden against the very life God has given me. My hope is that when I am faced with impossible struggle, I would not cry, “why me?” but instead, “God how will you use me here?” It’s when I gave in to anger and hurt that I did the most damage to that heart, slowly and steadily building walls around my joy.

But those who die in the LORD will live; their bodies will rise again! Those who sleep in the earth will rise up and sing for joy! For your life-giving light will fall like dew on your people in the place of the dead! Isaiah 26:19

I will stand for joy and for God’s love, His truth, and His faithfulness as long as I live. Because He is faithful and will never give up on me, even when I feel forgotten. For those who are in the trenches this holiday season, my prayer is that you will see that glimmer of joy through the dark times and be able to cling to it and receive life.

This is the joy. This is the hope. This is the promise. (from Andrea’s blog: Just is a four letter word)

Les Lawrence, Voice of Christian Zionists (READ MORE)

Comments : 1 Comment »
Tags: Andrea Updyke, Christian Zionist, Jesus, Just is a four letter word, Les Lawrence, LOVE
Categories : Israel Commentary

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

ci·vil·i·ty : noun \sə-ˈvi-lə-tē\

bar·ba·rous : adjective \ˈbär-b(ə-)rəs\

Share this:

Change Is Possible

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Blog Stats

The Hebrew God Who Has No Name

NEW PROPHETIC YOUTUBE VIDEO every Sunday night

Love Offering

Author Les Lawrence

Simple Islam

Blessing Israel

Free Email Subscription

Egyptians Against Egyptians

Archives