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).

 

 

SITUATION ANALYSIS -- 166

 

Jerusalem, Israel

 

FEBRUARY 16, 2021 PRAYER UPDATE

 

Israel and the Nations

PRAISE & THANKS TO GOD FOR HIS GREATNESS, POWER, AUTHORITY, AND PROTECTION OVER US:

Psalm 143:8:  Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I entrust my life.”

 

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

 

Psalm 47:2, 8: “How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth! God reigns over the nations; God is seated on His holy throne.”

Mathew 6:10: “Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

 

Daniel 2:37: You, O king, are the king of kings, to whom the God of heaven has given sovereignty, power, strength, and glory.

 

We pray for Your Kingdom, Your government to rein on this earth!

PRAYER FOR THE ISRAELI GOVERNMENT:

(1)    HUMAN RIGHTS:

 

*The government has been accused of infringing on human rights, freedoms, and civil liberties. The green passport is being rolled out this week. Only those who have taken the vaccine are able to go to concerts, gyms, hotels, and future travel outside the country. The airport has been closed for weeks. The country is sealed. There is a sense that the government is controlling the population and its borders.  

Recently, there has been a “push back” from Israeli citizens, which is not being widely reported. It’s about the vaccine, but also about the surveillance methods of the Israeli security services.

Israel is a signatory to the Nuremberg laws, especially regarding experimenting on humans. But, the Israeli Prime Minister, reportedly, made a deal with Pfizer (which he alluded to when he addressed the Global Economic Forum). Whatever deal he made to get millions of vaccines from Pfizer, he agreed to send Pfizer information regarding side effects and deaths, so Pfizer could improve their vaccine. Some would say that Israel became a country of people used as “human trials.” On Monday, the Israeli prime minister announced that he was negotiating with key COVID-19 coronavirus vaccine manufacturers, Pfizer and Moderna, on setting up production in Israel. He is also planning to procure tens of millions of vaccine doses for the coming years as the inoculation campaign in the country continues.

 

When the Knesset was in session in 2020, the government passed the Coronavirus Law. It basically allows the government to determine what is best for the nation in terms of Covid-19 lockdowns; openings and closings of businesses and schools; coercion and punishment methods regarding those who do not take the vaccine; and, others who do not quarantine when they are supposed to. The government is debating whether to make the vaccine mandatory. It has already gone further than Pfizer recommended in giving out the vaccine does (to pregnant women and children).

PRAYER POINTS:

Proverbs 19:21: “Many plans are in a man's heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail.”

 

Jeremiah 10:23: “I know, O LORD, that a man's way is not his own; no one who walks directs his own steps.”

 

 

We ask You Lord to guide the nation of Israel. Put Your words in the Prime Minister’s mouth. Guide those who cannot hear or see what Your purposes are for this nation!

 

 

Psalm 83:18: “May they know that You alone, whose name is the LORD, are Most High over all the earth.”

 

 

 

(2)    ABOUT THE ELECTIONS:

 

At this time, half the country wants Benjamin Netanyahu to be prime minister again. But, the other half, including people on the “right” who were once in his political party, do not want him to become prime minister, again, after the next election.

 

 

We declare this scripture over the people of Israel:

 

 

Isaiah 30:21: “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’ ”

 

Daniel 2:21: “He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.”

As the elections fast approach, we trust You Lord to give wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. It is for You to decide who will be leader over Israel in the upcoming elections!

 

The Israeli people need wisdom how to vote. Please put Your wisdom in their hearts, in Yeshua’s name!

 

 

Daniel 4:17: “This decision is the decree of the watchers, the verdict declared by the holy ones, so that the living will know that the Most High rules over the kingdom of mankind and gives it to whom He wishes, setting over it the lowliest of men.”

ISRAEL-U.S. RELATIONS:

U.S. President Joseph Biden has not called Netanyahu since the transfer in power in the U.S. on January 20. This is reminiscent of the Obama years. It’s being reported that Biden is not going to appoint ambassadors until spring or even summer 2021. That means there will be little movement on diplomatic issues at a time when Israel needs American support, especially in EU and UN forums.  No one knows what Biden is going to do about supporting the Trump Administration’s deal regarding Israel’s diplomatic agreements with the Gulf Arab states. The U.S. has a part to play in those agreements.

 

There is also the Iranian nuclear deal – how will Biden respond to that? Israel is waiting on the foreign policy of the United States. But, so far, it appears that U.S. State Department policy is that Israel should not build in Judea and Samaria; and, that there must be a two-state solution.

 

PRAYER POINTS:

Pray that Biden will be guided and directed by God’s prophetic plans for this region, not man’s!

 

Micah 6:8:  “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

 

Proverbs 20:24: “A person's steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand their own way?

 

Proverbs 19:21: “You can make many plans, but the LORD’s purpose will prevail.”

 

 We declare this for U.S. President Joe Biden!

SECURITY THREATS TO ISRAEL:

The security threats at this time are Iran and Hezbollah. Recently, we heard the constant sound of fighter jets practicing over Israel. Israel’s Air Force (IAF) has been conducting training exercises for the possibility of war in the north. The drill has been called “Vered Hagalil”, and has been designed to carry out the IAF’s readiness for combat in the north. The purpose of involving the IAF in this exercise is to maintain aerial superiority, protect Israel’s vulnerable skies, and to improve intelligence gathering.

 

PRAYER POINTS:

 

Thank You Lord for Your protection over Israel’s northern border!

 

We declare Lord, according to Psalm 31:3, You are Israel’s rock and her fortress. For the honor of Your name, lead Israel out of this present danger.”

 

Psalm 7:6: “Arise, LORD, in Your anger; rise up against the rage of my enemies. Awake, my God; decree justice.”

 

Psalm 62:8: “Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.”

 

Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.”

 

Psalm 121:7: “The LORD will keep you from all harm-- He will watch over your life”

 

PRAYER FOR THE BODY OF MESSIAH LEADERSHIP IN ISRAEL:

We proclaim, according to 2 Chronicles 7:14 that from the Messianic leadership to the congregants, there will be heartfelt repentance in the land. As a result, we rely on You Lord, to hear the cries of Your saints, to listen to their prayers, and to heal this land!

Leviticus 19:2: “Speak to the whole congregation of Israel and tell them: Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.”

Exodus 19:5-6: “Now then, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine; and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel.”

 

 1 Peter 2:5: “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus, the Messiah.”

 

1 Peter 2:9: “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

We speak this, to the leadership in the Body of Messiah in Israel, who are in dispute. This is God’s order; this is above the doctrines of men; this is what the Lord God almighty wants to see in His people! We pray for the “unity of the Spirit and the bond of peace”…. that the believers will arise above their differences, into their calling and destiny in the Lord in the nation of Israel!

Encouraging scripture:

Luke 18:1: “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”