SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 170

 

Jerusalem, Israel

 

JUNE 15, 2021 PRAYER UPDATE

 

Israel and the Nations

 

PRAISE THE LORD because He is our: refuge, tower of strength, fortress, steadfast love, and we trust Him! (Psalm 91:2; Psalm 144:2; Psalm 61:3; Psalm 62:7; Proverbs 18:10; Joel 3:16).

GOD’S RULE:

Psalm 103:19: “The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His Kingdom rules over all.”

 

Psalm 47:2: “How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth!”

Daniel 4:17: “This decision is the decree of the watchers. For this has been decreed by the messengers.  The verdict is commanded and declared by the holy ones. So that the living will know that the Most High rules over the kingdom of mankind. He is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth. He is ruler over human kingdoms. And, he gives them to anyone He wants, and sets the lowliest of people over them.”

 

The Lord shows to all who lives that God Most High controls all kingdoms and chooses for their ruler’s persons of humble birth.

PRAY FOR THE TRANSITION OF POWER – THE “CHANGE” GOVERNMENT:

Anchor Scriptures:

Daniel 2:21-22:  “He changes times and seasons. He controls the course of world events. He removes kings and sets up other kings. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep, hidden mysterious, and secret things. He knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with Him.”

1 Timothy 2:1-2: “I urge then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people. Ask God to help them. Intercede on their behalf. Give thanks for them.

 

Pray this way for kings and all those who are in authority; those who are in high positions; so that we may live peaceful and quiet lives, marked by godliness, reverence, dignity, and honesty.”

PRAY FOR THE HEARTS OF MEN IN THE NEW GOVERNING COALITION:

 

Pray for Benjamin Netanyahu to release his anger and bitterness to the Lord, and not curse and work against this new government. Pray for Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Alternative Prime Minister Yair Lapid to respond in graciousness and mercy.

James 4:10: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.”

Luke 14:11: “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled; and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Luke 1:52:  “He has brought down rulers from their thrones, but has exalted the humble.”

Proverbs 25:27: “It is not good to eat too much honey, or to search out one’s own glory.”

Proverbs 29:23:  “A man’s pride will bring him low, but a humble spirit will obtain honor.”

Luke 1:51:  “He has performed mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.”

GOD IS DOING A NEW THING! A MAJOR SHIFT; NEW WINESKINS:

Isaiah 48:6:  “You have heard; look at all this. And, you… will you not declare it?  I proclaim to you, new things from this time. Hidden things which you have not known.

Isaiah 42:9: “Behold, the former things have happened, and now I declare new things. Before they spring forth, I proclaim them to you.”

Isaiah 43:19: “Behold, I am about to do something new; even now it is coming. Do you not see it?  Indeed, I will make a way in the wilderness and streams in the desert.”

Jeremiah 33:3: “Call to Me, and I will answer and show you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”

Psalm 107:43:  Who is wise, and will observe these things; even they shall understand the lovingkindness of the LORD.”

 

WHO IS IN CHARGE? WE NEED A HEAVENLY PERSPECTIVE:

 

Declare that this new government will rule and reign according to the Lord’s plans and purposes: 

Isaiah 14:24: “The Lord of Heaven’s Armies, the Lord of Hosts, has sworn: ‘As I have planned, so shall it be, and as I have purposed, so shall it stand.’ ”

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

Psalm 115:3: “Our God is in heaven; He does as He pleases.” 

PRAY THAT THERE WILL BE NO FEAR IN THE “CHANGE”:

 

There is already great threats and intimidation towards this new government. But, according to Acts 5:39, “if it is from God, you will not be able to stop them. You will not be able to overthrow them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God. You may even be found opposing God!”

 

We proclaim that this government will be strong in the Lord, and in the strength of His might. According to Proverbs 29:25-26:  “Fearing people is a dangerous trap. Ungodliness causes a man to stumble. But, trusting the LORD means safety. Whoever trusts in the Lord is set securely on high. They will be protected. They will be exalted.”

 

May this government be made up of ministers who choose to walk in a Godly way, who trust the Lord, and who do not fall into a snare. May their confidence in God prevail!

 

Many seek the ruler’s favor (in this case Prime Minister Naftali Bennett). They love praise from men more than praise from God (John 12:43). But, a man receives justice from the LORD.

 

In Deuteronomy 1:17, we read that we should not be intimidated by anyone, for judgement belongs to God.

 

PRAY FOR ISRAEL’S RELATIONS WITH THE U.S., THE EU, THE UN, AND OTHER NATIONS:

Psalm 47:8: God reigns over the nations; God is seated on His Holy throne.

 

Anyone who touches the Lord’s nation, Israel, touches the Apple of His Eye:

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

Micah 4:13:  “Rise and thresh, Daughter of Zion, for I will give you horns of iron; I will give you hooves of bronze, and you will break to pieces many nations.” You will devote their ill-gotten gains to the LORD; their wealth to the Lord of all the earth.”

Psalm 89:18: “Indeed our shield belongs to the LORD, our King; to the Holy One of Israel.”

 

PRAYING FOR ISRAELI SECURITY – BORDERS AND DETERRENCE:

 

May Israel’s government have a “zero” tolerance policy with its enemy – Hamas. May the new role of Egypt, which is to reconstruct Gaza, not turn into a snare for Israel. May there be no unholy alliance between Egypt and Hamas that becomes destructive towards Israel in the future. May Hamas be held responsible for its wicked ways during the 11 days of the “mini-war” with Israel in May 2021.

 

We also pray, according to Psalm 55:9, that You, Lord, confuse the wicked, confound their words, for the violence and strife between Jews and Arabs that was caused in Israel’s mixed cities during the recent conflict. May all who hate Zion, and all who hate Jerusalem, be turned back in shameful defeat. (Psalm 129:5)  For they do not speak peace. But, they devise deceitful matters against the quiet ones in the land. (Psalm 35:20)

Psalm 140:6:  “I say to the LORD, ‘You are my God.’ Hear, LORD, my cry for mercy.”

 

Though some of Israel’s military leaders said that Hamas was only set back about a month, we proclaim before You, Lord, that You have defeated Israel’s enemies. You have created a wall of protection surrounding this nation, during this recent military operation called, “Guardian of the Walls.”

 

Rescue Israel, LORD, from evildoers, and protect the land from violent men who plot evil in their hearts and stir up trouble all day long. Guard Israel, O LORD, from the hands of the evil one. Keep Israel safe from people who are violent, who scheme to make Israel stumble.

 

Sovereign Lord, you shield Israel’s Defense Forces in the day of battle. O God, do not let wicked people have their way. Do not let their plans be successful, or they will become emboldened.

 

Release the tension and worry we see on the face of Defense Minister, Benny Gantz.

 

This is the first time Israel has had a Security Cabinet with two woman present. May Israel’s new Security Cabinet function well, with everyone in unity about how to move forward in preparing for future battles. May they seek Your wisdom and understanding, and your plans to overcome evil forces on Israel’s borders. Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. (Psalm 124:8)

Ecclesiastes 4:12: “A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”

 

With Hamas in the south, and Hezbollah in the north, and Iran backing both of these terror groups with money, weapons, and rockets, Israel is surrounded by demonically-inspired men. Give Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz supernatural military strategies to keep the enemy at bay.

Proverbs 21:31: “The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD.”

Chronicles 20:29:  “The fear of God came on all the surrounding kingdoms when they heard how the LORD had fought against the enemies of Israel.”

Psalm 44:4:  “You are my King and my God. You command victories for Israel.”

ANTI-SEMITISM:

 

Jew-hatred increased by 500% among Islamists in May 2021, and there was over a 70% increase in overall global anti-Semitism during that month. Much of the anti-Semitic rhetoric is on social media. While Facebook is cooperating, somewhat, in getting offensive material off its site, Twitter is not. Pray for the social media giants to be more cooperative and stop the violence on their platforms.

 

There has been a stronger alliance between the far-left and Islamic groups than before. Israel is working on new strategies to combat this unholy alliance of anti-Semitism. There is a pattern of a surge in anti-Semitism that happens when Israel goes to war with its enemies. But, war is necessary when Israel cannot achieve deterrence in order to protect its borders. Pray that God gives Israel’s Public Diplomacy program and advantage in being able to control the public narrative during times of crisis and conflict.

 

Pray for Israel’s new Foreign Minister, Yair Lapid, who sees the importance of all forms of diplomacy, and wants to strengthen Israel’s Foreign Ministry in the future.

 

Pray that young people who are pro-Israel take to social media to combat anti-Semitism in an effective and efficient way.

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 169

 

Jerusalem, Israel

MAY 18, 2021 PRAYER UPDATE

Israel and the Nations

 

Israel is in the midst of a “mini war”. Millions of Israelis are being targeted by rockets launched from Gaza by Hamas, an arm of the Sunni Moslem Brotherhood, and a military proxy of Shiite Iran. Hamas is a terrorist organization, recognized by the U.S. and EU and other countries. It’s responsible for killing Israelis and Palestinians.

 

Hamas’ ideology calls for the killing of Jews all over the world, just for being Jews. This is not only a terror organization, but considered an anti-Semitic organization.

 

Under the international rules of military engagement, Hamas is committing a double war crime: (1) Targeting civilians in Israel. (2) Launching terror attacks from the center of their own civilian population located in the Gaza Strip.

 

Hamas leaders are using their own people as human shields. And, they want Islamic casualties on the Israeli side of the border and the Palestinian side of the border!

 

According to the MFA, 20-40% of the terrorist rockets launched from Gaza are misfired and end up in Gaza. It’s a high number when you compare it to similar operations in recent years. Another issue the IDF has been seeing is that it has caused a lot of damage in the Gaza Strip and a lot of casualties.

 

PRAYER POINT:

It’s a spirit of death operating through Hamas; also, it involves demonic trickery; Hamas is looking for a way to get the international community to blame Israel for deaths and damage in the Gaza Strip that is NOT caused by Israel!

 

DECLARE: Psalm Chapter 35 and Psalm Chapter 37. See Acts 13:10.

 

One of the reasons that Hamas started this military operation is because of an internal conflict within Palestinian society. The Palestinians living in Jerusalem, and the West Bank (Judea and Samaria), and those living in Gaza (mainly terrorists who represent the Gazans), are trying to show themselves as “guardians” of Jerusalem and the holy places.

 

Israeli leaders have called this IDF military operation: “Guardian of the Walls”. In Hebrew, it’s “Shomer Al Hachamot.” 

 

The Palestinians, in wanting to REPLACE the calling and destiny of the Jewish People, see this land as their land; see Jerusalem as their city; and, see the Jewish People as taking over land that they perceive belongs to them. They are currently trying to take what has been given by God to His Chosen People… the Jews.

 

PRAYER POINTS:

 

An interpretation of Israel’s military operation would be, “watchmen on the walls”.

 

Who are the “watchmen on the walls”?  God’s intercessors!  See Isaiah 62:6-7.   

 

The Palestinians are trying to usurp Israel’s place of serving God in His covenantal relationship with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. It’s about the “land covenant” which God made with Israel, which extends from “the Euphrates River to the Great Sea.”

 

The Jewish People (not the Palestinians) are the guardians of Jerusalem’s holy places! See Romans 9:4:  “The People of Israel: Theirs is the adoption to sonship; theirs is the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the Temple worship, and the promises.”

 

So, stand, in prayer, on the land covenant promised to the Jewish People: Deuteronomy 11:24; Exodus 6:8; Exodus 23:31; Exodus 32:13; Psalm 147:19-20).  

 

A very important part of this we can learn from the book of Isaiah, but also from the book of Nehemiah -- about being guardians on the walls. We are to give the Lord no rest until He establishes, until He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth. (Isaiah 62:6-7).  Yet, we also must seek wisdom from God how to protect the walls we are guarding! And, know who our opponents are -- those who want to disrupt the peace and cause the kind of conflict happening today in Israel!

 

See Nehemiah 4:1-7. Even while Israel is guarding the walls today, its enemies are looking for ways to disrupt God’s work.

 

In the day of Nehemiah, the Israelites had to overcome discouragement in order to finish the work on the walls of Jerusalem.  They had a strategy. They posted a guard against their enemies day and night. Their enemies were set on defeating them. The Jewish laborers on the walls were afraid. So, Nehemiah was a great strategist. He stationed the wall-builders at the most vulnerable places. He armed them and put them near families to protect them.

 

How do we apply this to what is happening in Israel today?  The IDF is placing the Iron Dome system near cities that are receiving a barrage of rockets. However, the Iron Dome is reportedly, only 90% accurate. There are also not enough Iron Dome systems operating throughout the country. Financially, every time the Iron Dome anti-missile defense system tries to intercept Hamas rockets, the cost is very expensive. Israel’s enemies know how costly this war is!

 

When the rockets hit the outskirts of Jerusalem on the first night of the current conflict, only 1 out of 7 rockets were intercepted by the Iron Dome. Along the coastal front today, about 1 out of 4 rockets are intercepted by the Iron Dome.

 

Therefore, the Iron Dome needs to be more accurate; able to intercept more rockets fired; and more Iron Dome systems are needed in Israel.

 

As believers, we also have to do better at being the Guardians of the Walls, and of the people!

 

Nehemiah says in Chapter 4:14: “After I had made an inspection, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials, and the rest of the people, ‘Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.’ ”

 

These are your brothers and sisters that you are fighting for in the Spirit realm!

Nehemiah 4:15-23: When our enemies heard that we were aware of their scheme and that God had frustrated it, each of us returned to his own work on the wall. And from that day on, half of my servants did the work while the other half held spears, shields, bows, and armor. (Are you getting strategy here?)

 

The officers stationed themselves behind all the people of Judah, who were rebuilding the wall. The laborers who carried materials worked with one hand and held a weapon with the other. And, each of the builders worked with his sword strapped at his side. But the trumpeter stayed beside me.

 

(Note, the position of the Trumpeter, and the calling of the trumpeter to rally the troops when necessary).

 

Then I (Nehemiah) said to the nobles, the officials, and the rest of the people: ‘The work is great and extensive, and we are spread out far from one another along the wall. Wherever you hear the sound of the horn, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us!’

So we continued the work, while half of the men held spears from the break of dawn until the stars came out. At that time I also said to the people, “Let every man and his servant spend the night inside Jerusalem, so that they can stand guard by night and work by day.”

 

This is a call to intercessors. What will be your strategy?

 

(Nehemiah continued): “So neither I nor my brothers nor my servants nor the guards with me changed out of our clothes; each carried his weapon, even to go for water.”

 

We read in the scriptures that follow, that after this, the Jews started fighting among themselves, and in a way it became a “house divided that cannot stand.”  Israel became vulnerable because of the infighting!  This is what is happening today in the land!

 

Nehemiah addresses the issue, and the people repent.

 

Today, the nation of Israel is not able to stand, very well, as a nation, through this unleash of violence.

 

Part of this division is among the politicians who can’t form a new government. Part of this division is an ancient conflict between the sons of Isaac and the sons of Ishmael… forced to live in the same house…. the house of Israel.

 

The Palestinians, which represent Ishmael inside the land, also feel rejected by the Arab Gulf nations that passed over them to make peace with Israel through the Abrahamic Accords. At the same time, those peace agreements were a needed alliance with Israel, as described in Ezekiel 38:13.

 

Hamas is causing the destabilization of Israel right now, including Jerusalem and the West Bank (Judea and Samaria). But, who is behind Hamas?  Iran. Iran supplies Gaza terrorists (including Islamic Jihad) with rocket parts and supplies. And, Iranian money and training fuels conflicts with Israel.

 

The Israeli government has said that if Hamas would succeed in taking over the leadership of the Palestinians in the West Bank, and of the Palestinian Authority, this would be a huge damage to the possibility of ever reaching regional stability. And, ever reaching an agreement to end the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.

 

To confirm: In the past few days, Palestinian terrorist groups backed by Hezbollah have launched rockets into Israel from Lebanon. Iran is trying to not only destabilize Israel from within, but also from the north.

 

PRAYER POINTS:

 

In prayer, release into the atmosphere a breakthrough in diplomacy for the cause of Israel. The message to the nations must be clear and strong; military partnerships with Israel must be strong and secure.

 

Most importantly, this is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities and powers of the air; against spiritual forces in heavenly places. Call upon the Lord of Hosts, the Commander of the Armies of Heaven to intervene with “breakthrough” spiritual forces at this time. May He station more and mightier angels on Israel’s borders to stop the missiles from infiltrating the country; to stop the rioters (who are cursing Israel) from infiltrating across the borders, especially Israel’s northern border!

 

When over 2,000 rockets were launched against Israel from Gaza, the IDF reported that Hamas has two months’ worth of rockets stored…. 14,000 in its arsenal at that time. This continues to need prayer!

 

Pray for the IDF to conquer Israel’s enemies:

1 Samuel 17:45-47:  “Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have taunted. This day the Lord will deliver you up into my hands, and I will strike you down and remove your head from you. And I will give the dead bodies of the army of the Philistines this day to the birds of the sky and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel; and that all this assembly may know that the Lord does not deliver by sword or by spear; for the battle is the Lord’s and He will give you into our hands.’ ”

 

 

Israel has taken measures to de-escalate the tensions. There was a decision by Israel’s High Court not to hold the court hearing about the Sheikh Jarrah issue. There was a decision from the Chief of Police not to allow Jews to enter the Temple Mount on Jerusalem Day -- the day to commemorate the reunification of Jerusalem in 1967. Jerusalem Day activities occurred on the same day as the Jerusalem Flag March, which is a traditional celebration in the Old City. The Israeli Police had to change the route to avoid tension. The March ended up being cancelled.

 

Each and every moment Israel took to deescalate the situation, the answer from Hamas was more terrorism and more violence.

 

PRAYER POINTS:

 

What is wrong with this picture? The Jerusalem Flag March was cancelled because of the police restrictions due to the tensions. Meanwhile, the Palestinians were waving Hamas flags on the heights of the Old City and the Temple Mount on Jerusalem Day!

 

When Israel compromises its earthly authority to appease its enemies and the international community, that compromise is costly in the spiritual realm. Israeli leaders continue to fear a regional war will happen over Jerusalem and the Temple Mount. So, they give up what has been rightfully theirs, given to them by God…. that is, the earthly jurisdiction and authority over the high and holy places.  Here are some scriptures to proclaim about God's spiritual authority:

 

TEMPLE MOUNT/WORSHIP:  Psalm 48:1-2:  “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, in the city of our God, His holy mountain. Beautiful in elevation, the joy of the whole earth, is Mount Zion in the far north, the city of the great King.”

Psalm 87:1-3:  “His foundation is in the holy mountains. The Lord loves the gates of Zion. More than all the other dwelling places of Jacob. Glorious things are spoken of you, O city of God.”

Ezekiel 20:40:  “For on my holy mountain, the high mountain of Israel, declares the Sovereign LORD, there in the land all the people of Israel will serve Me, and there I will accept them. There I will require your offerings and your choice gifts, along with all your holy sacrifices.”

Also, Israel compromising its given earthly authority over Jerusalem is a sign of weakness to the Arab nations, as those nations answer best to a sign of strength.

God promises that if the nations dare to move the rock of Jerusalem, those nations will suffer!  See Zechariah 12:3.

 

Pray for courage and boldness on the part of Israel’s leaders to stand strong on what has rightfully been given to them by God, Himself! Pray for born-again believers to lift their voices together and claim the worship of the Lord, our God Almighty -- to be proclaimed from that high mountain, the Temple Mount -- and not worship by Muslims to the god of Islam! Declare: 1 Peter 2:9).

 

Regarding the military operations that the IDF has conducted: A lot of misinformation is going on in public forums, and mass media outlets are disseminating questionable information. Journalist are not sourcing it properly. Also, former IDF generals have admitted that, while the IDF is hitting thousands of military targets in Gaza, it doesn’t seem like Israel is winning the battle. Journalists are also looking at “collateral damage” Israel has done in Gaza.

 

PRAYER POINT:

 

Proclaim Habakkuk 2:2-3 over the traditional and social media; declaring they will write the truth with accuracy!

 

The terrorists are scattered all over the Gaza Strip. On purpose, they imbed themselves deeply behind or within the civilian population. They use civilians as human shields. As a result, there are injuries to Gazans.

 

 

Israel is very careful and mindful and trying not to hit the civilians. Israel does everything to limit collateral damage.

 

Also, military components of Hamas are directly imbedded into the civilian Gaza population.

 

Israel is committed to the international rules of engagement, to the values of moral fighting, and to the moral conduct of the IDF. When the IDF is about to attack a military target, which has been proven by Israel’s intelligence, they go to real lengths to make sure there are no civilians within the targets.

 

Israel is currently focused on getting rid of the deep tunnel network Hamas has set up in Gaza where they still have command and control centers, and where they can still operate from.

 

The IDF says there is a large red question mark above figures of the health ministry in Gaza. It’s run by Hamas who is lying, manipulative, and falsifying numbers of casualties.

 

Some more background information here:

 

Civilians in Sderot have 15 seconds to get to bomb shelters. In Ashkelon they have 30 seconds. In Beersheva they have 45 seconds. When Hamas fires towards Tel Aviv, civilians have 1.5-2 minutes. In this recent period, there were direct strikes to areas within the heart of Israel – Rishon L’tzion and Holon – large areas where rockets hit.

 

There is a full scale of incidents taking place throughout Israel. The Israeli national police who were in Jerusalem saw that the Ramadan period was different this year than last year. During Covid 19 it was quiet. This year, there was a surge of unrest and a lot of tension within Israeli Arab communities. Instead of respectable people breaking fasts during Ramadan, there were full scale riots. The Israeli police wanted to provide security for those Muslims who were fasting during the day, and celebrating at night. The interest of the police was to allow people to celebrate, but at the same time, to make sure there were not violent incidents in Israel. 

 

The activities in Sheikh Jarrah were being used by the Palestinians and other factions as a trigger to incite violence in Jerusalem, and to bring it into the current situation.

 

There have been wide scale riots in the north of Israel, especially in Lod (lynching’s; car bombings), and Akko, (a hotel on fire; a restaurant on fire) There are clashes in Jewish-Arab communities; in East Jerusalem; and, in Bedouin communities in the south.

 

The Minister of International Security and the Police Commissioner decided that the city of Lod had pogroms going on in the streets, and imposed a full curfew and lockdown. This has not happened in decades.

 

The Israeli police realized the situation and Israeli border police moved in. Local Israeli Arabs were throwing petrol bombs, trying to pull Jews from their houses, and wanting to kill them! The Israeli police could not accept that behavior.

 

PRAYER POINTS:

 

It’s very important that the “dual communities” continue to function and work together.

 

In the natural, there will be great assessments that take place once quiet returns to these mixed cities. The assessments will be to figure out why these extreme violent clashes took place in these cities (Jews and Arabs. Please PRAY for reconciliation on a deep level!

 

As far as the Temple Mount, the Israeli police saw Israeli Arab youngsters gathering rocks and stones for a full scale riot on the Temple Mount. There are thousands of people working in that area. Muslim celebrations were going on. Jews were visiting the area on Jerusalem Day. The Israeli police had to respond using weapons. People were scared and went to the hospital even without physical injuries. Many had psychological dysfunction.

 

PRAYER POINTS:

This was a perfect storm!  Ramadan, and then, Jerusalem Day. The police had to allow the Muslims up on the Temple Mount. At the same time, they had to allow the Jews to celebrate Jerusalem Day in the city. That meant the possibility of clashes, which happened on a larger scale than anticipated. The uptick in violence could have been caused by pent-up anger on the part of Muslim youth who had been on lockdown for so long during Covid. But, the deeper, spiritual issue here is:  Ephesians 6:12.

 

Something was unleashed spiritually, and there is fighting in the heavenlies over who has authority on earth over the Temple Mount and Jerusalem. We know Who!

 

 

Rishon L’Tzion, south of Tel Aviv, was struck with a 120 kilometer range rocket. It’s called the A-120. These are much larger rockets than in previous times. Hamas used FAJA-3 rockets before. Now, Hamas is taking out their larger scale weapons; not the smaller rockets Israel has been used to dealing with. The warheads now are much stronger. These are much more deadly rockets, therefore more devastation and people getting killed.

Israel allows freedom of religion and freedom of worship for Jews, Christians and Muslims. However, stones were thrown towards the Western Wall, preventing Jews from exercising their freedom to worship at the Wall. The Israeli police and the government of Israel will not allow freedom of religion for one side, without allowing it for the other side.

 

During Ramadan, tens of thousands of Muslims (60,000 on weekends; 30,000 on weekdays), and more during the last days of Ramadan (85,000) were praying on the Temple Mount.

 

The mob of rioters that were very violent on the Temple Mount does not represent all Muslims. They created a situation which the police had to respond to. The violence put civilians in danger, also policeman, and also Jewish people that were in the area of the Western Wall. The distance of the Temple Mount to the Western Wall is the Wall itself! It is part of the Temple Mount!

 

PRAYER POINT:

 

Pray for and extra measure of protection for all those who come up to worship the Lord God Almighty, the God of Israel,  in Jerusalem – that they can worship in strength, in freedom, and in peace.

 

MORE SCRIPTURES:

 

Isaiah 20:39:  “And you will sing as on the night you celebrate a holy festival; your hearts will rejoice as when people playing pipes go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the Rock of Israel.”

Psalm 99:9:  Exalt the LORD our God and worship at His holy mountain, for the LORD our God is holy.

 

PEACE:  Luke 19:38:  "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!"

 

COMING GLORY OF GOD’S HOUSE:  HAGGAI 2:9: The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,' says the LORD Almighty. 'And in this place I will grant peace,' declares the LORD Almighty."

 

 

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 168

 

Jerusalem, Israel

 

APRIL 20, 2021 PRAYER UPDATE

 

Israel and the Nations

 

THANK GOD THAT HE KEEPS COVENANT WITH HIS PEOPLE:

Deuteronomy 7:9:  “Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commandments.”

 

2 Chronicles 6:14: …"O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like You in heaven above or on earth below, keeping Your covenant of loving devotion with Your servants who walk before You with all their hearts.”

 

Psalm 105:8: “He remembers His covenant forever, the word He ordained for a thousand generations.”

 

PRAYING DURING RAMADAN:

Protection:

There have been incidents of violence on the part of Muslims in east Jerusalem and at entrances to the Old City in Jerusalem since Ramadan began a week ago The Israeli police need extra protection; the IDF extra vigilance at checkpoints and border crossings throughout the country.

 

Psalm 34:7: “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and He delivers them.”

 

Psalm 91:11: “For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”

 

Prayer: We pray for Jerusalem’s Temple Mount, Lord, that Muslim Friday prayer gatherings during Ramadan would not stir Arab violence against Jewish Israelis. Please constrain enemy forces.

 

Isaiah 31:5: “Like birds hovering overhead, the LORD Almighty will shield Jerusalem; He will shield it and deliver it, He will 'pass over' it and will rescue it."

Psalm 37:40: “The LORD helps and delivers them; He rescues and saves them from the wicked, because they take refuge in Him.”

 

Prayer: God put Your shield of protection around Israelis during this Muslim holiday. Be Israel’s refuge, especially in the city center of the country… Your beloved Zion!

 

Psalm 91:4: “He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and rampart.”

 

Prayer: Lord God Almighty, You are Israel’s keeper. You water this land, continually. You guard it night and day so no one can disturb it. Thank you that ‘He who touches Israel never slumbers nor sleeps.’ You are at Israel’s side at all times. We praise You Lord for protecting this nation -- for the sake of Your name among the nations.

 

SALVATION OF THE MUSLIMS:

2 Peter 3:9: “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

 

Romans 2:4: “Or do you disregard the riches of His kindness, tolerance, and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you to repentance?”

 

Prayer:  Lord, You often give dreams and visions to Muslims so that they understand that Jesus is the Son of God, and their Savior. Please bring Muslims to faith during this season of Ramadan. Show them the truth, and the truth will set them free! For You want everyone saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth… ‘For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Jesus, the Messiah.’ (1 Timothy 2:5).

 

Titus 2:11: “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to everyone.”

 

To Muslims and to Jews we say:

“The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9)

 

PRAYER REGARDING NEGOTIATIONS FOR ISRAEL’S NEW GOVERNING COALITION:

The anti-Netanyahu bloc recently took control of an important Knesset committee – the powerful Knesset Arrangements Committee. This will now allow bills to pass in the Knesset that could limit the Prime Minister from running in a future election while under indictment. It also allows the Knesset to decide who to nominate for the office of President. Current Israeli President, Reuven Rivlin finishes his term in office in June. If Netanyahu is unable to form a government, it is thought that the Likud will recommend he become President, which would keep him secure in office for another 7 years (therefore, immune from any judgement in his current trial). However, the initiatives of a Knesset dominated by an anti-Netanyahu bloc weakens Netanyahu’s power.

 

Psalm 33:16: “No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength.”

 

Proverbs 27:2: “Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth; an outsider, and not your own lips.”

 

Prayer: Father, may the next leader of Israel be humble of heart, knowing that he cannot save himself from the multitude of challenges ahead. Show him that in his weakness, You are strong. You are watching over Israel. You raise kings up and bring them down.

 

Deuteronomy 32:4: “He (the Lord) is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are just; a God of truth and without injustice; Righteous and upright is He.

 

Prayer:  In this time of great uncertainty, we ask You God, to form a just government, with the kind of righteousness and uprightness that comes in knowing You. Let the politicians listen to Your counsel; let them follow Your footsteps, walking in purity and holiness. Let the attitudes of Israeli political leaders be caring and compassionate towards Your Chosen People. Turn the hearts of Israeli government leaders back to You. Release them from self-centeredness, pride, arrogance, dishonesty, fear, doubt, and unbelief. Take them out of the attitude of lovers of self, and self-perpetuated lies. Bring them into the attitude of caring and compassion. Let them walk in truth, honesty, and integrity as they serve You beyond serving the nation; and much beyond serving their own self-interests.

 

Psalm 86:15: “But You, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and faithfulness.”

 

Prayer:  We are grateful, God, that You have been gracious and compassionate towards Israel’s sinful leaders. Thank You that You have withheld Your wrath, and continue to keep covenant with Your people, even when they have broken covenant with You. Thank You Lord that you are slow to anger. Redeem Israel out of her own hands, evil plots, and wicked deeds. Save Your people, Lord, our God!

 

PRAY THAT ISRAEL WILL BE PROTECTED FROM IRANIAN PLOTS:

There have been several leaks to media, most likely due to the Israeli government’s interests, regarding Iran. While Iran was set back by some of Israel’s actions recently (i.e., the bombing of an underground nuclear facility at Natanz), Iran still managed to increase its enrichment of uranium to 60%, bringing it closer to a nuclear break-out. Israel is concerned.

 But, God hears our prayers and will give Israel more and more strategies to effectively deal with Iran.

 

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

 

Prayer: Then shall You, LORD, go forth, and fight against Iran and its proxies, as when You fought, previously, in the day of battle, on Israel’s behalf. Let the Iranian government understand that You are defending Israel against their wicked schemes, and will not allow them to annihilate Your beloved nation!

 

Exodus 14:25: “He jammed the wheels of their chariots so that they had difficulty driving. And, the Egyptians said: “Let’s get away from the Israelites! The LORD is fighting for them against Egypt.”

 

Deuteronomy 28:7: “The LORD will grant that the enemies who rise up against you (Israel) will be defeated before you. They will come at you from one direction, but flee from you in seven.”

 

Proverbs 21:31: “The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.”

 

Prayer: Only Lord by Your power can we push back our enemies; only in Your name can we trample our foes. (Psalm 44:5).

 

PRAYER REGARDING ISRAEL’S RELATIONS WTH AMERICA:

 

Iran and Israel have been engaging in a covert war just as the U.S. wants to re-enter into the Iran nuclear deal with the JCPOA countries. The leaks in Israel are the way that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is trying to get the Biden Administration to back off from negotiating another deal with Iran.

 

There have also been some media statements that the Biden Administration may use arms sales, or the way that Israel deals with U.S. military aid to the Jewish State, as a strategy to get Netanyahu to stop pressuring Biden with both his words and actions.

Psalm 33:10: “The LORD foils the plans of the nations; He thwarts the purposes of the peoples.”

 

Prayer: Lord, let Your interests be worked out between the U.S. and America on the Iran strategy; on defense issues; and on Israel maintaining a Qualitative Military Edge (QME) in the Middle East region. You, not the IDF, are the principle shield and protector of Israel.  You are the One who gives wisdom to Israel’s Defense Forces, and to the Minister of Defense. You will work this out. We also know that you will protect Israel from Iranian retaliation, in Yeshua’s name!

 

Job 12:17-22: “He leads rulers away, stripped, and makes fools of judges. He removes the royal robe of kings. They are led away with ropes around their waist. He leads priests away, stripped, and overthrows officials long established. He silences the lips of trusted advisers, and takes away the discernment of elders. He pours disgrace upon princes and disarms the strong. He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings utter darkness into the light.”

 

Psalm 29:5: “The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD breaks in pieces the cedars of Lebanon.”

 

Isaiah 2:12: “For the LORD of Hosts will have a day of reckoning, against everyone who is proud and lofty, and against everyone who is lifted up, that he may be abased.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 167

 

Jerusalem, Israel

 

MARCH 2021 PRAYER UPDATE

 

Israel and the Nations

 

PRAISE TO GOD FOR HIS PEOPLE, ISRAEL, AND HIS MERCY ON THEM!

Isaiah 43:21:  “I have made Israel for Myself, and they will someday honor Me before the whole world.”

 

1 Peter 79:13: “Then, we Your people, the sheep of Your pasture, will thank You forever; from generation to generation, we will declare Your praise.”

 

(See: Psalm 102:18, Isaiah 43:1;  Malachi 3:17; Isaiah 60:21; Isaiah 55:7; Isaiah 65:9; Jeremiah 31:34; Isaiah 14:1; Isaiah 44:21 )

 

We proclaim that this day. All honor and glory be to Our Lord and King and Savior, Yeshua!

 

Luke 1:71-75:  “He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David. Just as He promised through His holy prophets long ago. That we should be saved from our enemies and from all who hate us. He has been merciful to our ancestors by remembering His sacred covenant; the oath He swore to our father Abraham; to rescue us from the hand of our enemies; and to enable us to serve Him without fear; in holiness and righteousness before Him all our days.”

 

We pray that even now, Lord, Your People Israel would receive salvation through Yeshua, and also be delivered from their enemies. Thank You for remembering Your covenant with Your nation; Your promise through Abraham. Thank you for rescuing us and for allowing us to come to You and serve You with all reverence. Thank You for the change of focus in this nation – to humble ourselves before You, as a people, desiring to honor You in holiness and righteousness, before You, for all of our days.

 

We ask for, and receive forgiveness, Lord, of national and personal sins.

 

REPENTANCE ON BEHALF OF ISRAEL:

Proverbs 14:34: “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people.”

 

Isaiah 43:25:  “I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions, for My own sake, and remembers your sins no more.”

 

We are forever grateful Lord for Your saving grace!

 

Micah 7:28: “Who is a God like You, who pardons iniquity and passes over the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance – who does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in loving devotion?”

 

Micah 7:19:  “He will again have compassion on us He will vanquish our iniquities. You will cast out all our sins into the depths of the sea.

 

It is at this time Lord that we remember what You did for us; this time when not only did You deliver us from Pharaoh and all his ways; not only did you take us out of Egypt and into the Promised Land; but, You saved us from eternal destruction through Your Son, Yeshua!

We pray and repent on behalf of Your People Israel; as this people, have not listened to the LORD our God, nor followed His ways!

 

(See Hebrews 8:12; 2 Chronicles 6:21; Psalm 103:12; Isaiah 38:17; Isaiah 48:11)

 

THESE ARE GOD’S CHOSEN PEOPLE – DESPITE THEIR SIN, THERE IS GOD’S FAVOR AND PROMISES TO ISRAEL. HE PARTED THE RED SEA FOR THEM DURING THE EXODUS; DURING THIS TIME OF PASSOVER – THE DEATH ANGEL PASSED OVER!

Isaiah 44:1-: “But, now, listen, Jacob, My servant, Israel, whom I have CHOSEN. This is what the LORD says – He who made you, who formed you in the womb, and who will help you: Do not be afraid Jacob, My servant, Jeshurun, whom I have CHOSEN.”

For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out My Spirit on your offspring, and My blessing on your descendants. They will spring up like grass in a meadow, like poplar trees by flowing streams.

 

Some will say, ‘I belong to the LORD’; others will call themselves by the name of Jacob; still others will write on their hand, ‘The LORD’s,’ and will take the name, ISRAEL.

 

This is what the LORD says – Israel’s King and Redeemer, the LORD Almighty: I am the first and I Am the last; apart from Me there is no God.”

 

Lord, we celebrate the Feast of Passover, not by eating the old break of wickedness and evil, but by eating the new bread of purity and truth. (1 Corinthians 5:8). Cleanse us Lord and we will be cleansed. Heal us Lord and we will be healed!  Save us Lord and we will be saved!  For we choose You above all else!

 

WHO IS LIKE GOD WHO TELLS US WHAT IS TO COME?

Isaiah 44:7:  Who then is like Me? Let him proclaim it. Let him declare and lay out before Me what has happened since I established My ancient people, and what is yet to come – yes, let them foretell what will come.”

 

We proclaim, based on this scripture in Isaiah 44:7:  There is none like You Lord. Only You can declare and lay out what has happened since You established Your ancient people, and what is yet to come. You will tell us, Lord… what is to come!

 

PRAYER FOR THE ISRAELI ELECTIONS:

We praise God for the privilege to vote; for every Israeli to see it as their duty to cast their ballot in what is a democratic process that works well in Israel. We pray that new and wise leadership will emerge, with leaders who seek good counsel.

 

Proverbs 11:14: “Without wise leadership, a nation falls. With many counselors, there is safety.

 

Proverbs 16:12: “It is an abomination for kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.”

 

Isaiah 33:22:  “For the LORD is our judge; the LORD is our lawgiver; the LORD is our King; it is He who will save us.”

 

Psalm 75:7:  “It is God who judges: He brings one down; He exalts another.”

 

Psalm 111:10: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts have good understanding. To Him belongs eternal praise!”

 

Thank You, Lord that You are already Israel’s King of Kings! Thank You that you direct the hearts of earthly kings, and guide them as You please (Proverbs 21:1).

 

As Israelis go to the poles now, let their votes reflect their heart’s desire to see leaders raised up with a Godly fear of the Lord. Let the people of Israel vote with humble hearts; with a sense of what is just and good for this nation. May they vote against corruption in high places, and vote for those leaders of integrity that want truth and honesty to prevail in this society.

 

Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisors, they succeed.”

 

Proverbs 16:22: “Understanding is a fountain of life to its possessors; but, the instruction of fools is evil.”

 

Let Israeli politicians walk in wise counsel, with good advisors, understanding the ways of the Lord, and not receive instruction by fools who devise evil plots.

 

May the Lord watch over the new Israeli coalition, and give us a government through which He can best restore Israel and bring His purposes to rest on this country.

NATIONAL DEFENSE AND SECURITY IN ISRAEL:

There is a growing alliance between Turkey, Russian, and Iran in the Middle East region. Turkey is taking Iran’s side in a growing dispute with the U.S about Iran’s nuclear program. Turkey and Israel are already at odds with one another. Russia and Turkey are growing together as allies and partners. According to the Jerusalem Post (3/22/21), their goal is to supplant U.S. influence and divide up many areas of the Middle East between themselves. Turkey wants the advanced S-400 missile defense system from Russia. It is a long term goal of Turkey to find an accommodation with states in the region, and bring together its alliance with Russian and Iran. Is this increased tri-partnership part of the alliance mentioned in scripture in Ezekiel Chapters 38 and 39?

 

Iran is using advanced centrifuges to enrich uranium at its underground nuclear facility at Natanz. It’s a further breach of Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal with P5+1 nations. One of Israel’s greatest concerns is that Iran could use the underground facilities to achieve the “break out” point towards developing a nuclear bomb, even though Israel has warned the world that it will not allow Iran to go nuclear.

 

Israel is developing more relations with Arab states in the region, including Saudi Arabia, in an alliance against the Iranian threat. Saudi Arabia has not yet established formal diplomatic relations with Israel, but the two countries are getting closer behind the scenes.

 

The Bible talks about wars and rumors of wars. Israel is often preparing their defense operations during a time of rumors of wars. Nations are being tested as to whether they will join an Iranian alliance against Israel; or, an Israeli alliance against Iran.

 

It’s a time of greater intercession needed!

 

Daniel 2:21: “He controls the course of world events; He removes kings and sets up other kings. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.”

 

Proverbs 16:33:  “We may throw the dice, but the Lord determines how they fall.” (NLT)

 

Lord, it is all about Your timing in putting down unholy and ungodly alliances. And, it is all about Your timing in fulfilling Your prophetic word! And, it is all about intercessors watching and seeing as Your events unfold on the earth!

 

Isaiah 21:6: “This is what the Lord says to me: ‘Go, post a lookout & have him report what he sees.’ ”

 

Proverbs 20:18: “Set plans by consultation, and wage war under sound guidance.”

 

Proverbs 14:6: “Only with sound guidance should you wage war, and victory lies in a multitude of counselors.”

 

Psalm 141:9: “Keep me safe from the traps set by evildoers, from the snares they have laid for me.”

 

Keep Israel safe, Lord, from the wicked plans of nations and from the snares they are trying to lay for Your beloved chosen nation!

 

Rescue Israel, LORD, from evildoers; protect this nation from the violent who pursue her from both within and without; from those who plot evil in their hearts and stir up trouble all day long. Keep Israel safe, LORD, from the hands of those who would want to destroy her. Protect her from those who are plotting evil against Your holy land! Let Israel say to the LORD, ‘You are my God.’ Hear the cry of mercy from Your people, Lord, when it comes to a future conflict in the region. You are Israel’s Sovereign LORD, her strong deliverer. You shield and protect Israel in the day of battle.  Do not grant the wicked their desires, LORD; do not let their plans succeed (See Psalm 140:1-8).