SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 50

AUGUST 2012 PRAYER UPDATE

Israel and the Middle East

Syria’s chemical weapons:  Syrian President Bashar Assad has threatened to use his vast stockpile of chemical and biological weapons against any foreign entity that tries to interfere with the conflict in Syria.  Israel has announced that it will take action against any attempt by Assad or his government to transfer the WMD’s to Hezbollah or other radical groups. The IDF has been on high alert on the Israeli-Syrian border, acquiring intelligence, and keeping a watchful eye on Syria’s weapons stockpile. Israel is also watching to see if Assad tries to smuggle more advanced weapons systems to Hezbollah. 

Israeli Golan Heights & Syria: For the first time since 1973, there are heavy battles between the Assad regime and the Syrian local population on the Syrian side of the Golan Heights. Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak recently visited the area and could hear mortar fire in Damascus, where heavy battles were taking place between the regime and opposing forces.  Over 500 Syrian soldiers were recently dispersed to the de-militarized zone between Israel and Syria.  The war in Syria is getting more brutal.  There is no mercy on the part of Assad and his forces.  They are shelling and destroying entire villages. Syria’s main cities – Damascus and Aleppo – are now under fire. 

More than 1.5 million Syrian refugees are on the move.  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has prepared the IDF for the possibility of an influx of refugees. Israel is reportedly setting up refugee camps in the enclaves between the Israeli and Syrian borders. 

The Israeli government is concerned that radical Islamists, like Al Qaeda, might try and use the Syrian Golan Heights as a launching pad for terrorist attacks against Israel. With Assad’s government occupied in fighting the rebels in Aleppo and Damascus, little attention is being paid to the control needed in border towns where militants from other countries are filtering in. 

In another development, Hezbollah is storing its missiles, advanced weapons systems, and ammunition within an extensive underground tunnel network that stretches throughout Lebanon. The tunnel network, which is supervised by Iranian agents, can resist Israeli air and land attacks. The tunnels reach deep into Syria and, reportedly, Hezbollah can smuggle their rockets through Syrian territory.  This is another way that the northern border with Israel is being used by enemies of the Jewish State to advance their evil goals.

In recent news, Israel’s security services arrested an Israeli Druse man who had been traveling back and forth from Israel to Syria as a medical student since 2005. He was arrested for providing information about security at the Kuneitra border crossing between Israel and Syria. He gave the locations of northern IDF bases and training centers in the north. And he spied on Israeli Druse living in the Golan Heights who were opposed to the Assad regime.

PRAYER POINTS:

·        There has been much saber-rattling going on between Israel, Syria and Hezbollah in Lebanon.  Any slight unusual move and a conflict could flare-up on Israel’s northern border.  Israeli troops are prepared for every possible scenario. Pray that the Lord will give Israeli military commanders an extra measure of insight, wisdom, alertness, and discernment. Intercede for top Israeli officers to know when it is essential to strike at enemy forces and when it is not – according to God’s will and timing. 

·        Pray for Israel’s home front to be prepared and not fear. Ask the Lord for an extra measure of faith and courage for the citizens of Israel at this time.  Declare, according to Psalm 91:7-8, that Israeli citizens will be safe from the coming missile war.  “A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not come near you. Only with your eyes shall you look, and see the reward of the wicked.”

·        Pray that all evil plots will be exposed and brought into the light, so that Israeli leaders will know the goals of wicked rulers in neighboring countries and take action as directed by the Lord. (Psalm 37:12).

·        Pray that God removes all dangerous weapons aimed at the Jewish State, confuses the enemy, and renders these weapons useless, in Jesus’ name!

·        Pray that the Lord will put His shield of protection over Israel’s border with Syria. Ask the Lord to repair all damage done by the Druse spy who was recently arrested. Pray that, in the future, Israeli intelligence agencies will be quick to catch all those who are spying on IDF soldiers and bases.

·        Pray that the Israeli government will be ready for Syrian refugees that try to cross into Israel, and will show God’s mercy to all those who are truly seeking shelter and food and have no agenda that would harm the state of Israel.

·        Pray for the Syrians to know the peace that passes all understanding in Messiah Yeshua. Pray that through these times of great darkness, the Syrian people will have dreams and visions of the Messiah and turn to Him.

·        Pray that all violence and bloodshed will stop now in Yeshua’s name! Pray that God will shelter all Syrian citizens that are caught in the crossfire between Assad’s army and rebel forces.

·        Proclaim Psalm 82:3-4 for Syrians who are suffering under the brutal dictatorship of Bashar Assad. They do not understand why he is unleashing violence on their cities and villages.  As the foundations of their lives are crumbling, ask the Lord to reach out His hand of love and compassion.  Pray that He will subdue those in the Assad regime who are oppressing and murdering the Syrian people.  Ask God to turn His hand against these adversaries.

·        The Lord is mighty and capable to remove Assad and his family from Syria. Pray that his family and those Syrians who have contributed to the mass killings of civilians would be humbled and convicted of their crimes.                  (see Psalm 83:13-18).

Christians in Gaza:

Five ethnic Christians were recently kidnapped by an Islamic group in Gaza who forced them to convert to Islam. Those attacked were part of the Greek Orthodox Church. The church claims that “a dangerous Islamic movement is trying to persuade Christian youth and women to convert to Islam, thereby destroying Christian families and the Christian presence in the Gaza Strip”. (Palestinian Media Watch, 7/25/12).

PRAYER POINT:

Ask the Lord to bring the truth and light of the gospel to all Gazans. Pray that those Christians who converted to Islam will return to the Lord and bring many other Gazans to salvation.  Declare John 14:6 over Gaza: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’ ”

Egypt, Gaza, Sinai:

As Egypt births its new government, it is likely that Sunni Islamists from throughout the Middle East, who align themselves with the Moslem Brotherhood, will have great favor and influence in the halls of the Egyptian parliament. Already, Egyptian President Mohammed Mursi has met with two Hamas leaders, strengthening the hand of the Hamas leadership in the Gaza Strip. Meanwhile terrorist cells in the Sinai are expanding and getting more aggressive, hoping to conduct an attack on Israel that would create a diplomatic rift between Egypt and the Jewish State. 

PRAYER POINT:

Proclaim Isaiah 19:17, “And, the land of Judah will be a terror to Egypt; everyone who makes mention of it will be afraid in himself, because of the counsel of the Lord of Hosts which He has determined against it”. Pray that the Egyptians come to respect the God of Israel and His land, and “in that day, there will be an altar to the Lord in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar to the Lord at its border.”  (verse 19).

Iran:

Iranian Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces said in May 2012 that the Iranian nation is standing for its cause which is the full annihilation of Israel. Despite western diplomatic talks with Iran, the Islamic Republic is increasing its stockpile of enriched uranium, in defiance of international sanctions. 

Most likely in late fall/early winter 2012, Israel and the U.S. will conduct the largest military drill ever coordinated between the two states. While U.S. President Barack Obama has taken credit for the enhanced strategic cooperation agreement between the two allies, it is the Lord who is directing this close security relationship.  Israel and the U.S. are working on plans for military action against Iran, which analysts predict could occur in 2013 or 2014. 

Iranian leaders have already claimed they will block the Straits of Hormuz if the country is threatened. Iran is increasing its military presence in international waters. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard’s naval forces have stated they have the ability to stop all oil traffic in the straits.  Meanwhile, America has beefed up its presence in the region, adding naval ships to its growing fleet in the Gulf.  The U.S. has threatened retaliation leading to war if Iran tries to block the narrow straits.

There have been multiple attacks on Israeli diplomatic missions in India, Thailand, and Georgia connected to Iran. An attempted attack on Israelis in Bulgaria was thwarted last year. But, in July 2012, a Hezbollah-Iranian attack was launched on a bus carrying Israelis from the Bulgarian airport to their hotel. The bomber killed five Israelis, a Bulgarian bus driver, and himself. Recently, Iranian nationals were arrested in Kenya, carrying explosives they planned to use on Israeli targets.

PRAYER POINTS:

In the face of Iranian threats, declare that those who curse Israel will be cursed (see Genesis 12:3). Proclaim these words for the citizens of Israel:  “No weapon formed against you shall prosper. And, every tongue which rises against you in judgment, you shall condemn!”  (see Isaiah 54:17). 

Attacks against Israeli targets must cease! Proclaim that God will deliver Israel from evil men; and, preserve Israel from violent men, who plan wickedness in their hearts. (see Psalm 140).  Declare that God will protect Israel’s home front from the devastation's of war, according to Isaiah 26:20:  “Come, my people, enter your chambers and shut your doors behind you; Hide yourself, as it were, for a little moment, until the indignation is past.”  

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 49

Jerusalem, Israel

ON HIGH ALERT – ISRAEL’S CONCERN ABOUT SYRIA’S WMD’S

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak have been sending out strong messages over the past few days, warning the international community of an impending Israeli military operation.  They have stated that Israel’s Defense Forces are prepared and ready for an attack on enemy forces in Syria and Lebanon.

The Israeli government has assessed that Syrian President Bashar Assad’s government is ready to fall, and he may try and flee the country. The greater concern is what he will do with his mass weapons arsenal; advanced missile systems; and WMD’s (chemical and biological weapons).  

U.S. intelligence officials have declared that the Syrian government has already moved part of its chemical stockpile out of storage facilities… believed to be the world’s largest stockpile of mustard gas, sarin nerve agent, and cyanide.  The possibility exists that Assad’s forces, which have killed an estimated 19,000 civilians, might try to use chemical weapons against the Syrian opposition.

Some of Syria’s chemicals have, reportedly, been placed in warheads and fitted on Scud missiles that could be used against Israel. Though the Free Syrian Army is in the process of forming a team to protect chemical weapons sites, this may not be enough security to satisfy Israel and America. The United States is prepared to move its forces into Syria to help destroy Assad’s WMD’s, if needed; and, to back up Israel if it decides to launch a military operation in the near future.

Israeli intelligence is keeping a watchful eye on Syria and Lebanon, hoping that Assad has not already smuggled some of his dangerous chemical arsenal to Hezbollah. Israel also wants to make sure that nothing lethal and dangerous to the Jewish State ends up in the hands of Al Qaeda; global jihadists; or other radical Islamic insurgents.

While most of Assad’s anger has been unleashed on his own people, there is uncertainty as to whether he will extend his fury towards Israel in a last ditch effort to save his regime and his life.

In addition to staging troops on the Israeli-Syrian border, the Netanyahu government is preparing refugee camps in an enclave between the two countries, in case thousands of Syrian citizens try to flee to Israel.  Already, a few dozen have attempted to cross the border in an effort to get away from the wrath of Assad’s security forces. They have feared for their lives as the civil war expands across the country.  

In recent days, at least 20,000-50,000 Syrian’s, including foreign aid workers and diplomats, have fled into Lebanon to escape the Syrian war.   Turkey has kept its border open to some 30,000 refugees; and, Cyprus has expressed a willingness to take in 200,000 Syrian’s escaping from their war torn nation.

Last week, Syrian rebels achieved a victory in an attack on Assad’s senior ministers and security officials.  Four high-level leaders were killed, including Assad’s brother-in-law. The bomb attack on the National Security building was considered an inside operation that penetrated Assad’s inner cabinet. Some in Syria have claimed this is a turning point because individuals close to Assad’s inner circle must have provided intelligence information to Assad’s enemies.  While the civil war is far from over, this event signaled that Assad’s power and options are diminishing, and opposition forces are growing in strength.

Israeli government officials are worried that Islamic militants may take advantage of the chaos in Syria and try to stage terrorist attacks against Israeli northern border towns. This would be a similar tactic used by militants launching terror attacks against Israeli southern towns along the border with Egypt.

The instability in Syria has created a vacuum that is now being filled by radical Islamists.  While they are intent to fight alongside Syrian opposition forces, their goal may be to take over the Syrian government once the Assad regime falls.  At least two Salafist groups, backed by Al-Qaeda, have been carrying out suicide car bombings in Syrian cities, causing more upheaval in the country. Iraq and northern Lebanon have been gathering points for these jihadist fighters who daily cross the border into Syria, hoping to join the resistance.

The current civil war in Syria is undermining Iran’s regional axis of pro-Shiite sympathizers.  Iran, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Syria have formed a bloc against Sunni dominated Arab nations in the region. 

However, there are strong pockets of Sunni resistance forces in Lebanon that may contend with Hezbollah’s supremacy in that nation. They could try and support Sunni’s that are fighting Assad’s Alawite forces in Syria. This means that sectarian clashes are expected to continue even after Assad’s government falls.

Since the beginning of the Syrian conflict in March 2011, the goal of Assad’s regime has been to accuse rebel forces of being controlled by an outside Islamic insurgency.  Assad has been in denial that his own people have hated him and his dictatorial regime. Rather, he has painted a false picture that it is outside terrorists acting against the Syrian government that have infiltrated rebel forces among the general population. But, video reports and eye witness accounts have proven that what was once public discontent for Assad’s rule has now become a war to bring him and his government down. 

Once Assad falls, the question remains as to who will lead the country.  Syria may become split along sectarian lines, similar to Lebanon and Iraq. For example, the Druse would remain on the Golan; the Alawites in the Ansariya mountains; and, the Kurds in northern Syria.  The Sunni’s who make up the majority of the population, would continue to live in cities throughout the country. Israel can only wonder who, out of all these population groups, might become the next leader of Syria. And, will that leader follow in the evil footsteps of Assad and his family? 

In the meantime, Israel will continue to pay close attention to the uprising in Syria, preparing its ground troops and air force for all possibilities. The persistent warnings by high level Israeli officials are a way of letting the Assad government and Islamic radicals know that the turmoil in Syria cannot be used to conduct a surprise attack on the Jewish State. Israeli forces are ready for any battle ahead. 

“Blessed be the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle.”  
 Psalm 144:1

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 48

TERRORISTS ATTACK ISRAEL'S SOUTHERN BORDER


While Egypt's Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) fights the Moslem Brotherhood for political control of the country, terrorist groups in the Sinai and Gaza are launching attacks against Israel. It started on Monday, June 18, when a terrorist cell struck at Israeli defense contractors working on a new fence along the porous border between Israel and Egypt.  Sinai Bedouins collaborating with Global Jihad terrorists set an ambush against the Israeli workers. They threw explosives at the fence, then fired an RPG rocket.  An Israeli worker was killed at the scene.

On the days following, except for a brief ceae-fire arranged by Egypt, more than 120 rockets launched from Gaza landed in southern Israel, further terrorizing border communities.  Hamas, Global Jihad, Islamic Jihad, Al-Qaeda sympathizers, Salafists, Bedouins, and Palestinian resistance groups have all gotten involved in these attacks against the Jewish State. Islamic extremists operating out of the Sinai Peninsula and the Gaza Strip are sending a clear message to Cairo that they are powers to contend with in any future deal for the leadership of Egypt.

While the IDF fights back, and the death toll increases among the terrorists launching these operations against Israel, it has been a nightmare for more than one million Israelis. They have had to scramble to available bomb shelters day and night when their southern communities come under attack. 

The Israeli government is also greatly concerned that Israel's enemies are continuing to build-up their weapons arsenals through arms smuggling. Advanced Katyushas and Grads, Iranian-made Fajr-3 rockets, anti-tank missiles and heavy mortars are being smuggled through underground tunnels from Egypt to the Sinai and to Gaza; stored and used for attacks against the Jewish State. 

Reportedly,  Sinai Bedouins who are operating terrorist cells in the region, are in possession of large arsenals of Libyan-made heavy machine guns, advanced Grads, anti-aircraft missiles, and RPG rockets and launchers.  Their  goal is to keep Israel from building the new fence along the Philadelphi Corridor.  These Bedouins are receiving millions of dollars to smuggle humans, weapons, drugs, and terrorists through breaches in the old fence. 

Before this latest war of attrition began, 44 Israelis lost their lives over the past six years to Gaza rocket fire; more than 1600 suffered injuries during that time period. Some Israelis lost limbs during these rocket attacks or became paralyzed as a result of shrapnel hitting them in the back. These are the reports that rarely make headlines.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak have both warned that the IDF will continue to defend the nation and fight back against any threat to the homeland.  Barak spoke of a disturbing deterioration in Egyptian control of the Sinai. He insisted that whoever is considered the winner of Egypt's elections must take responsibility for all of Egypt's international commitments, including the peace treaty with Israel and the security arrangements in the Sinai.  Meanwhile, the IDF is fortifying positions in the South and is ready to launch an offensive into Gaza, if necessary.

Recently, Netanyahu reiterated his support for the new fence along the Egyptian-Israeli border. When completed, it is expected to keep the terrorists out.  "I believe that if we hadn't decided two years ago to build the fence, we would be facing a flood of infiltrators and -- no less than this -- a flood of terrorism."

Israel's Defense Ministry Director-General Udi Shani stated:  "The terrorists aim was to stop the construction of the fence, but our job is to finish it as quickly as possible in order to prevent terrorists from infiltrating into Israeli territory in the future." 

Had the fence been completed already, it might have prevented the recent ambush against Israeli defense ministry contract workers along the border. As a precautionary measure, Israel has, once again, closed Route 12 north of Eilat. After a terrorist attack along that route last August, that killed eight Israelis, the IDF has been monitoring the area for additional terrorist cells. Israel is also planning to beef-up counter-terrorism operations along the border with Egypt. 

As long as the Egyptian government remains unstable, Israel can expect that terrorists operating out of the Sinai and Gaza will take advantage of the chaotic situation in the South. They will continue to try and confront Israel until someone in Cairo takes up the ruling leadership and begins to exert influence and power over the region. In the meantime, terrorists operating out of this area can expect that Israel's defense forces will be diligent to strike them down and stop them from launching future attacks against the Jewish State. 

"Arise, O Lord!  Do not let man prevail; Let the nations be judged in Your sight. Put them in fear, O Lord, that the nations may know themselves to be but men."  Psalm 9:19-20

  

 PRAYER POINTS:

• Pray that the Lord will be a refuge, strength, and help to the people of Israel as they fight this battle against Islamic extremists. Declare Psalm 91:7-8 over Israelis living in the south of the country. 

• Pray that the Lord will put a hedge of protection around the borders of Israel, especially the border with Egypt. 

• Pray that Israel is able to quickly finish building the new fence along the Philadelphi Corridor in the south.

• Pray that the IDF is alert to any cross border infiltration by terrorists.

• Pray that Israel receives good intelligence and knows where the attacks are originating from, and is able to stop the terrorists before they carry out their operations. Declare Jeremiah 31:1 over Israel. And, Ezekiel 28:26. 

OTHER PRAYER POINTS AND INFORMATION:

• Israeli Vice Premier, Shaul Mofaz, who is the leader of Israel's centrist Kadima party, is now part of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government. Mofaz, who is a former Israeli Minister of Defense, as well as a born Iranian, met with U.S. President Barack Obama in Washington, recently. One of the main topics they talked about was Iran. It seems that the United States, along with several European nations, is allowing Iran to pursue uranium enrichment towards a nuclear bomb, as diplomatic efforts continue to go nowhere. Iran has been able to apply stall tactics, as the nations have sat idly by.

• Pray that the Lord rises up like a roaring lion, taking His authority, ruling and reigning over this prince of Persia, pulling down this stronghold. Pray that this principality and power of the air will come into submission to God's will and plans concerning Israel and the nations. (Revelation 5:5).

• Netanyahu injured his leg playing soccer a few weeks ago, and his leg is in a cast. He has not been able to attend diplomatic events in Israel, such as the President's Conference.  

• Pray that the Lord heals Netanyahu's leg quickly. Pray that during his time of recuperation, the Lord will speak to him through His Word, and continue to bring Netanyahu to a greater understanding and insight regarding the Messiah. Pray that Netanyahu continues to seek for biblical answers in every decision he makes concerning the land and people of Israel.

• Pray for the people of Syria. The current death toll is 14-15,000. Pray that the Lord has mercy and stops the bloodshed. Pray that God helps the Syrian people, and renews their hope during this difficult time of suffering and tragedy. Pray that many Syrians find the Lord. Pray that the strongman, Syrian President Bashar Assad, is brought down by the Lord. Pray that in the midst of judgement, the Lord brings restoration to the Syrian people.

• While Syrians are suffering bloodshed under the oppression of the Assad government, Egyptians are caught up in a power struggle for political control of the Cairo government and presidency. Read about Egypt, Syria (Assyria, which includes Iraq), and Israel in Isaiah Chapter 19. In the end, after these nations are judged, there will be a highway (verse 23) extended from Egypt to Assyria, and Israel will be one of three with Egypt and Assyria. This is an encouraging promise to declare during this current crisis in the Middle East.

 

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 47

JUNE 2012 PRAYER FOR ISRAEL:

Shavuot:

Shavuot (Pentecost) took place this year on May 26 and 27. (Exodus 34:22; Deuteronomy 16:10; Numbers 28:26). The holiday marks the giving of the Torah by God to Moses (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy). This happened seven weeks after the exodus of the Jewish people from Egypt (Passover). During this holiday, the book of Ruth is read. In ancient times, Shavuot was marked by the end of the barley harvest and the beginning of the wheat harvest. At that time, Jewish farmers brought their first fruits to the Temple in Jerusalem. This was a natural sign. The spiritual sign was recorded in Acts 2:1-4. Pray for a future spiritual sign for the Jewish people according to Joel 2:28-29.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu studies the Bible on Shabbat with one of his sons. He is also conducting weekly Bible studies with others. He recently dedicated his Tanakh Study Circle in memory of his late father-in-law, Shmuel Ben-Artzi. Ben-Artzi was a Tanakh teacher and researcher.

At the start of the first lesson of Netanyahu’s Tanakh Study Circle, he said: "The Tanakh is the foundation of our existence. It unites the Jewish people, as it has throughout the generations. It also serves not only as a foundation but also as a map and compass. The Tanakh is always relevant vis-à-vis today’s problems and challenges. It inspires, it is a source of life for our people, and I think that it is important to expand Tanakh study, and love of the Tanakh, among all parts of the nation. This is also the goal of this circle."

Right before Shavuot, Netanyahu sat in the courtyard of his home with his family, along with 16 rabbis, Bible scholars, academics, linguists and archeologists. They studied the Bible and discussed the Book of Ruth. Pray that the Bible Study Circle will enrich the lives of all those who are hungry for God. Pray that they stick to the written Word of the Lord and not to the Talmud (man's oral interpretation) for understanding and wisdom. Pray that the Word goes deep into their hearts and they seek to know more of Him.

Jerusalem:

Jerusalem is on the Lord’s heart. Jerusalem Day was May 20^th, and Israel celebrated 45 years since the re-capturing of the city in 1967. We have prayed for years that the Israeli government would begin to defend the nation through attention being given to the Biblical scriptures. Up until now, most public statements defending Israel and Jerusalem were political, pointing to Israel’s historical rights to the land. But, now, Netanyahu, is spending more and more time defending the land from a Biblical perspective. This is an answer to prayer!

Here are some of the proclamations Netanyahu made before and during Jerusalem Day:

(At his Sunday cabinet meeting): "Jerusalem was a city of the Bible; Jerusalem is a city of the Bible. Today, we will make a series of decisions that will enable us to build Biblical sites in the city that will enhance and explain our link to the Land of the Bible, to Zion; and, also allow millions of people, no less, millions of people to have a direct appreciation of Israel’s heritage as it finds expression in the Bible. This will be Jerusalem and this is very important."

(At a speech at the ceremony marking the 45^th Anniversary of the Unification of Jerusalem at Ammunition Hill): 

"When Jews pray in Prague or in Amsterdam, in New York or in Moscow, in Mexico City or in Hong Kong, in Haifa or in Beer Sheva, they face the same direction our people have faced for thousands of years. They face Jerusalem."

"The prophet Isaiah said: ‘Wake, wake! Arise, O Jerusalem.’ Well, Jerusalem has arisen. After centuries of repression and intolerance by other faiths, Jerusalem has arisen and been unified."

"There are people who believe that if we just divide Jerusalem, which means eventually conceding the Temple Mount, we will have peace. They believe that, but they are wrong. If we grant other forces control over the Temple Mount, we will see the situation deteriorate so quickly that it will devolve into a religious and sectarian war."

"Sustainable peace is made with strong nations, and an Israel without a unified Jerusalem will be a body with a weak heart. A nation that is willing to sacrifice its heart will only convince its enemies that it lacks the willpower to fight for anything."

"Forty-five years ago, this place saw our people’s determination and the iron will of our fighters. They fought like lions in these trenches against heavy machine gun fire. They fought for Jerusalem and they won. During that same fierce battle, 36 of our best men perished – and in all of Jerusalem, 182 IDF fighters died, and Jewish history changed forever. A city divided became whole – and it will remain so."

"We will continue to develop our capital and we will continue to ensure that its golden light continues to light the future of our people and shine a light across the world – the light of Jerusalem."

PRAYER POINTS:

• Pray that the current Israeli government continues to declare that Jerusalem must remain the united capital of Israel, under Israeli sovereignty. Pray that no backdoor deals are made that would compromise the status of Jerusalem. Pray that the words of the Palestinians, who have declared that Jerusalem is to be their undivided and sovereign capital, be rendered null and void.

• Pray that the United States and all other world governments will declare Jerusalem is the capital of Israel.

• Declare, according to Ezekiel 43:10-11 that the people of Israel will repent of their sins, so that the Lord, Himself, can make known to them His plans regarding His Temple. The Temple Mount area is to be shared by no other religion. Proclaim, Ezekiel 43:12: "This is the law of the Temple. All the surrounding area on top of the mountain will be most holy. Such is the law of the Temple."

• The book of Zechariah is full of scriptures about God’s beloved city. He judges and will continue to judge nations regarding their actions towards Jerusalem. Read and declare His promises for this city, and for Zion:

        Zechariah 1:14-17; 2:1-5; 2:10-12; 8:1-8; 12:2-3; 12:8-10; 14:16-17.

• Despite the verbal battles now, and the wars that will come in the future, God will have the final say regarding the final status of Jerusalem and Zion. His Word will come to pass.  There is a joy that comes in proclaiming God’s Word over this city.

Iran:

Iran is a continued concern for Israel, and Jerusalem leaders are fearful of what will happen if the nations do not confront Iran and stop its nuclear ambitions. Here are some recent facts and analysis about Iran, for you to be praying about:

• The flying time of a missile launched from Tehran to Tel Aviv is only 7 minutes.

• Iran possesses at least 100 kg. of 20% enriched uranium; possibly up to 27%. They have done 90% of the work needed in order to get to nuclear weapons-grade material.

• If the United States were to form a coalition to confront Iran, these European nations would most likely be supportive: Britain, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Poland, and the Czech Republic.

• Analysts say that if the U.S. waits until Iran is almost nuclear-ready, it will be too late to do anything about it. When Iran has the materials needed for a nuclear weapon, the nations will no longer be able to contain Iran. There is a need for the international community to seriously consider military action in order to actually avoid conflict with Iran. If Iran sees that the nations of the world are willing to stop its actions by military force, then Iran may back down from its nuclear pursuit.

• A quote from Netanyahu, May 21, regarding Iran: 

• "In recent weeks, I have heard those who have cast doubt on Iran’s intentions. They said that when Iran’s leaders declare that they will wipe Israel off the map, they really mean something else in Persian. It would be interesting to hear what they think of the Iranian Chief-of-Staff’s remarks yesterday: ‘Iran is committed to the complete destruction of Israel.’ This is clear and simple. Iran’s goals are clear. It wants to annihilate Israel and is developing nuclear weapons to realize this goal…. Iran threatens Israel, peace, and the entire world. Against this malicious intention, the world’s leading countries must show determination, not weakness. They do not need to make concessions to Iran. They need to set clear and unequivocal demands before it: Iran must halt all enrichment of nuclear material. It must remove from its territory all nuclear material that has been enriched up until now and it must dismantle the underground nuclear facility in Qom. Only thus will it be possible to ensure Iran will not have a nuclear bomb. This is Israel’s position; it has not changed and it will not change."

PRAYER POINTS:

• Pray that Israel will walk in faith and trust and not in fear regarding Iran. Pray that He that keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. Thank God that He is watching over Israel; the Chosen Apple of His Eye, His Jewish people. Thank Him for His grace and mercy and His protective shield that covers His precious land. (Psalm Chapter 121; Deuteronomy 32:10; Psalm 17:8; Zechariah 2:8; 2 Samuel 22:31; Psalm 84:11).

• Pray that the standard mentioned in the remarks by Prime Minister Netanyahu will be adopted by the international community. The Word says that when the enemy comes in like a flood the Spirit of the Lord lifts up a standard against him. (Isaiah 59:19).

• Pray that the plans and intents of Iranian leaders will continue to be exposed, even through their own mouths, and that the Lord will perform miracles on behalf of Israel. Declare that He will set His land and people free from the threat of annihilation. (Psalm 18:1-3; Ephesians 6:16).

• Proclaim His mighty works, as in the time of the Exodus from Egypt; as in the time of Joshua when the Israelites crossed over into the Promised Land; and, as in the time of Esther when the people of Sushan were allowed to defend and protect themselves from their enemies who wanted to destroy Jewish communities through the king’s provinces. (Exodus 14:30-31-Exodus 15:1-21; Joshua Chapters 3 and 4; Esther Chapters 8 and 9).

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 46

Jerusalem, Israel

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ISRAEL!

Israel’s achievements over the past 64 years are remarkable, but its continued struggle to remain the sovereign homeland of the Jewish people, keeps its leaders from being able to fully enter into the joy of independent statehood.  

The relative peace that Israelis have experienced in recent years is being tested, now, by threats to Israel’s security and stability. Terrorist attacks along its southern border; land breaches; and deteriorating diplomatic relations with neighboring countries that want to isolate Israel, are some of the challenges the Jewish State faces. 

NATURAL GAS 

The discovery of huge gas reserves off the Mediterranean Coast will make Israel energy-independent in the years to come. Economically, Israel will thrive as one of the world’s largest exporters of natural gas. But, today, hostile neighboring countries such as Turkey and Lebanon have threatened Israel’s commercial gas explorations with Cyprus.  Israel is developing a search-and-rescue pact with Cyprus which will lead to air and naval maneuvers in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.  Part of this is seen as a way of Israel providing security for itself and Cyprus as both nations explore national gas fields off their coasts.

While Israel waits to profit from its own natural gas finds, Egypt has recently cut off all supplies of natural gas to Israel, in defiance of its peace treaty with the Jewish State.  The Israeli government has had to dramatically increase electricity prices to the general public, and has warned of shortages this summer due to the reduction of natural gas imports.  

Israel’s ability to ride the natural gas “storm” with its hostile neighbors, while developing its own natural gas resources, along with its new partnership with Cyprus, will be an economic and security challenge for the Jewish State over the next few years.

RELATIONS WITH EGYPT

New rocket attacks and ambushes against Israeli cities have been conducted by terrorists operating out of the Sinai. This has created mounting tensions between Israel and Egypt’s ruling military power. 

Despite Egypt’s attempts to crackdown on terrorists and arms smuggling, the Sinai continues to be a haven for Al-Qaeda sympathizers. In addition, Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and radical Palestinian groups are receiving vast amounts of weapons and missiles, being transported from Iran and Libya through the Sinai to the Gaza Strip.

The Sinai Peninsula will continue to be a hot spot for the IDF, which is a worrying development for Israel’s leaders. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered Israeli engineers to build a large fence along Israel’s porous border with Egypt, hoping it will keep terrorists from infiltrating into Israeli southern cities, such as Eilat.  

Meanwhile, all candidates running for the Egyptian presidency have issued anti-Israel statements, and the new Egyptian Parliament is loaded with a majority of Islamists who have spoken negatively towards the Jewish State.

Prospects for a continued peace with Egypt may look promising in the near future, but in the long-run, the Israeli government believes that the peace treaty will be challenged. Therefore, the IDF is preparing its Southern Command for a future military conflict with Egyptian forces along Israel’s southern border.

DIPLOMATIC ISOLATION

Israel’s advances in its partnerships with NATO countries have been marred by Turkey’s attempt to block Israel’s greater involvement with NATO.  When Israel wants to participate in military exercises in the Mediterranean Sea, Turkey continues to try and prevent Israel’s inclusion, in an effort to isolate the Jewish state. Deteriorating relations with Turkey have caused Israeli leaders to scramble for new European and Middle East partnerships. Israel is looking to forge diplomatic relations with countries such as Cyprus, Greece, Bulgaria and Romania in order to offset the damage caused by the Turkish government towards Israel. 

THE GREATEST THREAT TO ISRAEL’S SOVEREIGNTY AND STABILITY

Netanyahu has managed to get the international community to put Iran on its foreign policy agenda.  U.S. and EU mediators are attempting to convince the Persian State to stop pursuing nuclear military capability. So far, sanctions have had some effect, but Iran continues to try and build a bomb that they have threatened to use against Israel. 

Already, Iran has five tons of low enriched uranium on-hand. It has enriched 100 kilograms to 20%. This means that Iran now has enough fission material to create several nuclear weapons. It’s just a matter of time before Iran reaches the “breakout” point where it can quickly advance to military nuclear capability. Israel is concerned that Iran is hiding much of its operations underground, so that IDF forces will not be able to easily detect or destroy Iran’s nuclear military facilities in the future.

Israel still talks of war, but is sitting and waiting for the international community to dialogue with Iran in hopes that sanctions and threats will cause the Iranian leadership to stop pursuing its nuclear military ambitions…an unlikely prospect.

WALLS AND FENCES

Not only is Israel building a fence along its porous border with Egypt, it is also building a two kilometer concrete wall along its border with Lebanon. And, it is building another fence along its border with Syria. Israel is intent on keeping infiltrators from breaching its borders.

Last year, during Nakba Day in May, 100 Palestinian demonstrators managed to infiltrate Israel. The protestors ran to a Druse village on the Golan and put a stake in the ground with the Palestinian flag raised. This year, Israel is preparing for more demonstrations along its borders, training IDF soldiers to stop protestors from entering Israel. Border clashes are expected to increase as Israel’s hostile neighbors try to take land from the Jewish State without a peace agreement.

HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

Despite the lack of security and stability that Israelis face in the future, the freedom of having a nation of their own gives them a strong cause for celebration.  Those who grew up in Israel, as well as those who have immigrated to the land of their forefathers, understand that they are all part of an amazing tapestry that has been woven together to form the world’s only Jewish State. Nothing can take that joy away from them as they, collectively, join together in remembering 64 years of independence.

“Your eyes shall see, and you shall say, ‘The Lord is magnified beyond the border of Israel.’ ”

Malachi 1:5

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 45

Jerusalem, Israel

APRIL 2012 PRAYER UPDATE

Israel and the Middle East

The attempt to breach Israel’s borders by the Global March to Jerusalem, hoping to involve a million Palestinians in countries surrounding Israel, failed to accomplish its mission on Friday, March 30. We give praise to the Lord for answered prayer.

East Jerusalem was a main focal point for Israeli police, with about 100 Arabs protesting near the Old City. There were some riots in the West Bank and Gaza resulting in dozens injured and one Palestinian killed.  But, Jordan and Lebanon refused to allow protestors to approach the Israeli border; Egypt was relatively quiet; and, overall, the IDF was able to handle the security situation with few clashes on the borders.

However, Israel is now bracing for more attempts by Arabs to try and push their way into the land during the next two months. Trouble is expected throughout Nakba Day (the Arab exodus from Israel during the 1948 Israeli War of Independence), and Naksa Day (when Arabs mourn Israel’s victory in the 1967 Six Day War).  The result of this continued attempt by evil powers to try and occupy Israel has caused the IDF to begin fencing in the Jewish State.  According to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel will encircle its land borders with physical barriers so it can control its boundaries. Already, a fence is being built along Israel’s porous border with Egypt. A similar barrier is expected to be built along the border with Jordan. Work is beginning soon to rebuild the fence on the Golan Heights, which is Israel’s border with Syria. 

Pray that Israel will be able to keep terrorists from entering the state of Israel; stop smugglers of arms and human trafficking; and keep out illegal foreign workers.  Declare that the scepter of wickedness shall not rest on the land allotted to the righteous.

The pressure on the Israeli government comes from current threats from Shiite Iran and its proxies in the Middle East, as well as Sunni terrorists connected to Al Qaeda and other extremists.  Netanyahu has identified the nuclear threat; the missile threat; the cyber threat; and the border threat to Israel in 2012.

Pray that He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep; that as the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him. Pray for IDF soldiers to be aware and watchful on Israel’s borders so that no weapon formed against the Jewish state will be able to prosper. Pray that God will contend with those who contend with Him and Israel.   (Psalm 121:3-4; Isaiah 59:19; Isaiah 54:17; Psalm 35:1).

On March 31, 2012, Prime Minister Netanyahu celebrated his third year in office. His government has been strong and unified.  Recently, the main opposition party in Israel (Kadima) had elections.  Tzippi Livni who was the head of that party has resigned.  Shaul Mofaz is now the head of Kadima.  He is an Israeli with Iranian roots; a former Minister of Defense; and his credentials are strong. He supports a leftist agenda, and his plan would be to give the Palestinians their own state with temporary borders. He has already spoken, negatively, about Netanyahu’s threat of a military strike against Iran. 

It is expected that Mofaz will be tough on Netanyahu as he is determined to win the next Israeli general election, scheduled for October 22, 2013.  Netanyahu has managed to oversee a conservative rightist government despite opposition in Europe and the United States. Israeli polls show him to be a popular leader. He is close friends with Canadian leader Steven Harper who is a Christian. Netanyahu reads the Old Testament with his son every Shabbat; and, holds a weekly bible study in Jerusalem.

Pray that Netanyahu will rely on the Lord in all decision making; that the Lord will uphold him and steer him away from all controversy. Pray that he will grow in Godly wisdom, knowledge, understanding and insight. Pray that the Lord will hide him in the shadow of His wings away from all evil; that his adversaries will be weakened. Pray that he will learn how to steward the land of Israel with integrity, and a sense of righteousness and justice. Pray that Israel’s opposition leaders will respect the authority that God has given to Netanyahu at this time. (Romans 13:1-2; Psalm 5:12).

Since the Arab Spring uprisings began last year, the nations surrounding Israel have increasingly become Islamic strongholds. Therefore, the Israeli government is now reaching out to nations in Europe and Africa to form new diplomatic ties. Netanyahu is looking for friends to counter-balance Islamic gains in neighboring countries. We need to be praying for those nations to come forth who will stand by Israel’s side in critical times.

When international leaders meet in Europe, Israel bashing can run rampant. Certain nations have stood with Israel during such times. The Czech Republic, Italy, Holland, Romania, and Bulgaria help Israel in diplomatic forums in the European Union (EU). These nations attempt to form a block to stop criticism of Israel’s policies. Israel has formed close ties with Greece and Cyprus, as well. Please pray God’s blessings upon every nation that blesses Israel.  (Genesis 12:3).

Netanyahu is also taking trips to Africa to try and form new allies there, with countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Nigeria and South Sudan. Pray that nations in sub-Saharan Africa will be loyal to Israel in the future. Pray that Israel will not enter into covenant with any nation that the Bible clearly indicates will be Israel’s future enemy.

There is a new axis of evil forming, which is aligning itself with Iran.  That axis includes:  Venezuela, Brazil, Argentina, and Belarus. These countries are forming close ties with Iran in addition to other nations that have already aligned themselves with the Persian State:  Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Russia. Currently, nations attempting to draw closer to Iran are Egypt, Turkey, and Austria.   Please pray that all nations turning their back on Israel, that have entered into an unholy alliance, will be warned and judged by the Holy One of Israel. (Psalm Chapter 2; Ezekiel Chapters 38 & 39).  

Israel is increasingly being accused by her enemies as encompassing two great evils, “apartheid” and “Nazism”. The Jewish state has been accused of “ethnic cleansing”, as well. These blatant lies have stirred up anti-Semitism and anti-Israel hatred, especially in Europe. Evil acts against Jews are surging in Germany, France, and the U.K. 

Pray that as the Jewish people commit their way to the Lord, and trust in Him, He will bring forth their righteousness as the light, and their justice as the noonday. Declare that evildoers shall be cut off; but those who wait on the Lord shall inherit the earth. (Psalm Chapter 37).

Recently, a man with close connections to extreme Islam murdered a Jewish rabbi and his two young sons in Toulouse, France. Another young girl was also murdered in that attack on a Jewish Day school. Their bodies were brought to Israel for burial. As Speaker of the Knesset, Reuven Rivlin, said in his eulogy about the murderers of the Jewish people, “They know where to hurt us…they target our most holy values…Jewish education, the passing on of our traditions from generation to generation.”

Individual jihadists, like the one who murdered the Jews of France, are lone killers who have formed ties with Sunni or Shiite groups such as Al Qaeda and Iran. 

Pray that the God of Israel will redeem His people out of the hands of their enemies. (Psalm 31:15). Pray that jihadist coalitions and individuals will be prevented by the Lord from forming a confederacy and from attacking Israelis, as well as Jews living abroad. (Psalm Chapter 83). Pray that the Lord will strengthen security around His people and His land.

Reports indicate that there are 200,000 missiles pointed at Israel on any given day.  The missiles now in possession of Israel’s enemies are in larger quantities; are better quality; are longer range; have dangerous warheads; and are considered to have greater accuracy.  If launched they could go deeper into Israeli territory. These rockets are harder to knock out because they are buried underground in civilian areas in fortified silos. Proclaim Psalm 91 over Israel, especially verses 5-8. Declare Psalm 33:10-22 over the nations, and over God’s Chosen People.

Good news!  Israel has become a trauma lab of emotional healing for other nations, such as Haiti and Japan.  With greater understanding of Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder, Israeli counselors are helping people in other countries to cope with their suffering. Israeli organizations are providing medical relief and training; as well as, art, music, and drama therapy to people who have been traumatized by devastations including earthquakes and tsunamis. This is an answer to prayer, as Israel is becoming a “light to the nations!” (Isaiah 42:6).

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 44

Jerusalem, Israel

MARCH 2012 PRAYER UPDATE

Israel and the Middle East

As Israelis celebrate the month of Adar on the Hebrew calendar, Jews all over the world are being misunderstood, rejected, harassed, persecuted, maimed and killed just because they are Jews. Israel’s enemies have cursed the Jewish people just like Goliath cursed David in 1 Samuel 17:42-44. Today, the leaders of Iran are calling for the destruction of Israel, just like what happened during the biblical account of the book of Esther when Haman called for the destruction of the Jews in all the king’s provinces, including the city of Shushan. (Esther 3:13).

From Haman and Goliath to Stalin to Hitler to Saddam Hussein to Sheikh Nasrallah to Mahmoud Ahmadinejad – leaders throughout the centuries have cursed the Jews and have actively sought to eliminate God’s people from the face of the earth.

But, there are those men, who have acted like Mordecai and David, along with women like Esther, intent on entreating the King of Kings and Lord of Lords to stop acts of hatred towards Israel and God’s Chosen People. 

·        Pray that the Lord will raise-up Godly men and women who have great influence with leaders of nations and actively engage in activities that defend Israel and the Jewish people. Pray that those whom God calls will also recognize that the battle belongs to Him.  (1 Samuel 17:45-47).

From May 2011 to February 2012, Iran and Hezbollah organized and carried out a terrorist campaign against Israeli and Jewish targets abroad. During that time period, six attacks were attempted in five Asian countries (Thailand, India, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Georgia). The latest tactic used by terrorists has been to drive through traffic on a motorbike, and attach a magnetic explosive device to a vehicle. Terrorists have mainly targeted Israeli officials traveling or living abroad. Though sparsely reported, there was also a recent attempt to assassinate Israel’s Defense Minister Ehud Barak while he was in Singapore in February.

·        Intercede before the Lord, declaring that plots hatched against the Jewish State and its leaders will be discovered, uncovered and eliminated.     (2 Samuel 22:14-15). Ask God to turn each situation around to Israel’s advantage; to sharpen His sword and make His arrows into fiery shafts against His enemies. (Psalm 7:14-16; Isaiah 59:19).

·        Entreat the Lord to increase His army of “informers.” Pray that they will operate with insight and discernment, gathering intelligence information so that Israeli and global Jewish communities are protected from terror attacks, hate crimes, and other acts of anti-Semitism. (Joshua Chapter 2).

·        Thank the Lord for a new elite unit of the IDF that has been established to bring Israeli security services together for covert operations deep inside enemy territory.  Pray that those appointed by Israel’s Chief of Staff, Benny Gantz, will develop assessments according to biblical strategies, and will successfully uncover demonic strongholds being set up against the state of Israel.  (Psalm 55:23; Psalm 129:5).

·        Pray that all attempts to kidnap Israelis serving in the IDF will continue to be thwarted. Ask the Lord to anoint highly trained soldiers for the coming battles that Israel will face. And, to raise-up intercessors that are capable of watching day and night from their guard posts. (Ezekiel 3:17; Isaiah 21:5-8).

·        Thank God that, two recent attempts by terrorists to smuggle bombs across enemy territory into Israel, were stopped by the IDF. (Reports indicate that had the terrorists succeeded in their plots, there would have been mass casualties in Israel). Pray that the Lord will keep Israeli soldiers alert and vigilant at all times along the Egyptian-Sinai border, especially along the porous Philadelphi Corridor. While terrorist cells continue to move freely in that area, the IDF is investing in new intelligence sources to immobilize them.  Entreat the Lord to give great wisdom to brigade commanders in the Southern Command. There are signals that an IDF offensive into Gaza may come as early as April, to end the constant barrage of terrorist missiles hitting Israeli southern communities. Continue to ask the Lord for His divine protection over the state of Israel, reminding Him of His promises.    Pray and Proclaim: Proverbs 1:33; Proverbs 18:10; Psalm 121:7-8;  2 Samuel 22:29-37.                               

On Israel’s northern border, Hezbollah is reportedly receiving mass weapons being smuggled into Lebanon from the Syrian regime. Reports indicate that Syria’s WMD’s may be in the hands of Iranian Revolutionary Guards. To-date, more than 7500 Syrians have been killed in clashes with Syrian President Bashar Assad’s forces. The bloody revolt has gone on for 11 months and the country is in a severe humanitarian crisis. The Assad government has refused to allow the Red Cross to directly provide aid to the Syrian people. Meanwhile, there have been reports that Assad has used nerve gas against his own people, and Israeli leaders fear that he may attempt to do the same across the border with Israel.  Iranian war ships have been deployed in the Mediterranean Sea to protect Syria’s naval bases. Russia and China have refused to cooperate with the U.N. Security Council to try and stop Assad’s ruthless power. Russia refuses to intervene, because Moscow could lose billions of dollars in military contracts with Assad, if his regime falls.

·        Press into God for a resolve of the Syrian crisis. Entreat the Lord to save the Syrian people from murder, and to provide relief for the thousands who are wounded and suffering. Pray that the Lord will open a humanitarian corridor in Syria so that aid workers can distribute food and medical supplies where needed. Pray that the cover provided to the Assad regime by Iran, Russia, and China will dissolve, and that Assad’s deeds will be exposed, globally. Pray that the nations will act boldly to intervene in this crisis, stop Assad, and bring an end to the bloodshed in this embattled nation. Pray for Israel’s continued alertness and God’s protection on its border with Syria. (Isaiah 10:12).

High-level Israeli officials are in the U.S. this month meeting with their counterparts in Washington. The main topic of discussion: Iran. There are indications that the U.S. may be trying to prevent Israel from considering a pre-emptive strike against Iranian nuclear installations. But, U.S. leaders have declared that American and Israeli senior officials have unprecedented strategic cooperation to insure total defense coordination. They say that attention has been paid to every detail when it comes to military options concerning Iran.

·        Pray that U.S. officials publicly recognize that Israel has every right to defend itself from any country that is intent on its destruction. Pray for Israel’s President, Prime Minister and Defense Minister who will be talking with leaders in the Obama Administration in early March. Ask the Lord to coordinate strategies before Israeli leaders go into meetings. Proclaim that they will have great favor and wisdom when dealing with U.S. President Barack Obama and his advisors, as well as State Department and Pentagon officials. Pray that Netanyahu’s speech at the annual AIPAC conference will be well-received and televised, globally. (Proverbs 2:1-9; Proverbs 3:3-4; Proverbs 8:35).