Thursday, August 2, 2012

CHPP Daily Brief -Thursday, August 2, 2012



Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
"Partners in Prayer for Our Nation"
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net


The Daily Brief -Thursday, August 2, 2012


"May the Lord of peace himself give you peace
at all times and in every way."
(2 Thess. 3:16)

The Daily Brief

1. Obama authorizes secret U.S. support for Syrian rebels - Reuters

President Barack Obama has signed a secret order authorizing U.S. support for rebels seeking to depose Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his government, U.S. sources familiar with the matter said.

- An operation is not "secret" when the entire world is notified of it ahead of time. Pray that the people involved in this action will be protected and have wisdom.

- "A fool's mouth is his devastation, and his lips are a trap for his life." [Proverbs 18:7 HCSB]


2. Los Angeles Times: Justice Department shrugs off Fast and Furious report- LA Times

Top Justice Department officials largely dismissed a new House Republican report on the Fast and Furious gun-tracking operation, saying Tuesday that they have moved ahead with major reforms to prevent future incidents of U.S. firearms being lost and smuggled across the border into Mexico.

Read more

- Lord, we pray these incidents will be used as stepping stones to gain wisdom, and bring improvement to our system rather than being ignored.

- "He that covers his sins shall not prosper: but whoever confesses and forsakes them shall have mercy." [Proverbs 28:13]


3. Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day brings out supporters, protesters - Fox News

It used to be that taking a bite of a chicken sandwich just meant you were hungry. Now it has become a symbol of whether you stand for or against same-sex marriage, or -- alternately -- the right to express your personal views without fear of retaliation.

- Lord, we ask that You visit the people that are attempting to shut down Chick-fil-A. We ask that Your Holy Spirit begin to move among them, shutting down their angry voices and changing their hearts toward You.

- "I say to you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repents" [Luke 15:7a]


4. A)Historic drought puts over half of U.S. counties in disaster zones, USDA says -CNN

More than half of all U.S. counties have been designated disaster zones, the Department of Agriculture reported, blaming excessive heat and a devastating drought that's spread across the Corn Belt and contributed to rising food prices.

b) Drought decimates Arkansas' famed cattle industry - CBS News

One by one, long cattle trailers in bright green and barnyard red slowly pull up to the Arkansas Cattle Auction. Folks with mud on their boots and cowboy hats on their heads unload their life's work. The cows trundle out into the waiting pens. A few hours later, they will be sold at a third their usual value -- if their owners are lucky. The crippling, record U.S. drought has forced ranchers all over America to unload their stock sooner and at lower prices than they would probably like, a problem that seems likely to get worse before it gets better.

- Lord, we prostrate ourselves before You on behalf of the drought-stricken Midwest, and pray for Your great mercy over our farmers and ranchers and their livestock. We call forth the rain from Heaven over their land, and ask that You not destroy our nation.

-"Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your faithful love; according to Your abundant compassion, blot out my rebellion. Wash away my guilt and cleanse me from my sin." [Psalm 51:1,2]


5. a) Federal Deficit Highest Since 1940s - US News

The federal deficit is higher than it has been since the 1940s, in the years immediately after World War II.

b) San Bernardino, California, files for bankruptcy with over $1 billion in debts -Reuters

San Bernardino filed for bankruptcy protection on Wednesday citing more than $1 billion of debts and making it the third California city to seek protection from creditors. The city of about 210,000 residents 65 miles east of Los Angeles declared a fiscal crisis last month after a report said local government had tapped out its reserves and projected spending would top revenue by $45 million in the fiscal year that began on July 1.

c) Fed Holds Off on New Steps to Stimulate US Economy - CNBC

The Federal Reserve on Wednesday said the U.S. economic recovery had lost momentum so far this year, but stopped short of offering new monetary stimulus even as it signaled further bond buys could be in store.

- Lord, we know that America sits on the edge of complete disaster in its fiscal policy. The cycle of debt and attempting to get out of debt by more spending has taken a heavy toll on us. We pray that You will raise up leaders to bring wisdom into the process, and jobs to the citizens.

-"and He was numbered with the transgressors, and He bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." [Isaiah 53:12]


6. 60 House Bills to Name Post Offices, Zero To Fix Mail Service - ABC News

In the 18 months the 112 th Congress has been sworn in, the House has introduced 60 bills to rename post offices. Thirty-eight have passed the House and 26 have become law. During those 18 months, the House has produced 151 laws, 17 percent of which have been to rename post offices, according to Congressional Democrats.

- Father, once again we are "gagging on gnats and swallowing camels" in the approach to America's problems. We pray for Your wisdom to flow from Heaven to earth, and for people who will listen and act on what they learn from You.

- "But be doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." [James 1:22] 


The Middle East in Focus

The Middle East in Focus

This week, for all the headlines cited below, please join us in proclaiming THIS DECREE:

Except that it was YHWH who was for us, O may Israel say; except that it was YHWH who was for us when men rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us up alive, when their wrath was kindled against us - then the proud waters would have gone over our soul. Blessed is YHWH, who has not given us as a prey to their teeth. (Psalm 124:1-8)


1. Netanyahu to Panetta: Time running out on peaceful Iran solution - Ynet News

"Iran is the foremost sponsor of terrorism, and everything must be done to keep Iran, the world's most dangerous regime, from developing the world's most dangerous weapons," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told visiting US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta Wednesday.


2. Don't overplay your hand on Iran, US officials reportedly warn Israel - Times of Israel

Iran has "yet to make the choice it needs to make, which is to abandon its nuclear weapons ambitions," White House spokesperson Jay Carney said in a press briefing aboard Air Force One Wednesday.


3. Netanyahu: West hasn't convinced Iranians it won't let them go nuclear - Times of Israel

Iran is not yet fully convinced the West intends to prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons, despite statements by the US and Israel regarding possible military action, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at the outset of his meeting with US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta Wednesday. 


The Daily Jot

The Bible, the Constitution, and Chick-Fil-A


Homosexual radicals and leftist politicians across the United States drew a line in the sand by targeting Chick-Fil-A for it's President's stance that marriage is between one man and one woman. The same sex marriage crowd tried to flex political muscle by threatening to refuse permits for Chick-Fil-A business expansion and to run the business out of Chicago, Boston and other places. Americans responded by flooding Chick-Fil-A restaurants Wednesday with business. Thousands upon thousands showed appreciation for Chick-Fil-A's executive position favoring traditional marriage by voting with their wallets. The same sex marriage crowd responded by calling these Americans hate mongers and bigots. Really? 


The homosexual movement is so radical that anyone who disagrees with them should be denied a living and is labeled a hater. This is unbelievable! The precursor to the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, establishes where legal rights originate: "We hold these truths to be self evident, that al men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." Our legal rights in this nation are established by the Creator. Therefore, we can safely deduct that the Bible is a constructive guide for extrapolating the basis of law.

The Bible shows us inherently that we are not to discriminate between races, creeds, colors, etc. It also specifically addresses sexual practices in many places. Ephesians 5:3, for example, says, "But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh of saints." Romans Chapter 1 speaks frankly about the sin of homosexuality. In the Old Testament, YHVH calls homosexuality "abomination." 

Sexual practices outside of marriage are sin. The Bible defines marriage as joining man and woman as one. It is YHVH ordained. Yeshua says in Mark 10:9, "What therefore God has joined together, let not man put asunder." Homosexuals want their sexual practices to be legitimized through marriage. But that is not the definition of marriage derived from the very source of the US Constitution. So then, the homosexual radicals and their political minions want to make this a civil rights issue. But here again, if our legal rights are endowed by our Creator, this argument cannot be legitimate. Most Americans know the score--we saw them at Chick-Fil-A buying food. The homosexuals are planning a "kiss-in" at Chick-Fil-As on Friday. Once again proving that their beef is about a sexual practice, not a right endowed by the Creator. 

Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!
Bill Wilson
www.dailyjot.com

 
Supporters THRONG Chick-Fil-A's!

Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day brings out supporters, protesters

People Turned Out in Droves to Support The Day

(Your own reports included here!)


[Note: we did not find any reports of any protestors yesterday at any Chick-Fil-A, anywhere! -- the editor]

 
It used to be that taking a bite of a chicken sandwich just meant you were hungry. Now it has become a symbol of whether you stand for or against same-sex marriage, or - alternately - the right to express your personal views without fear of retaliation.

At Chick-fil-A locations across the country, people voted with their wallets today, coming out to express support for the fast-food chain after CEO Dan Cathy said in an interview that he is a firm backer of traditional marriage. 


The Chick-fil-A firestorm has taken on different meanings for different people. For some, it harks to the days of intolerance and segregation. For others, it is about religious views of marriage. But for most people who Fox News spoke to today, it is about free speech. (Read more.)



AND NOW . . . NEWS FROM OUR PRAYER PARTNERS!!


What a moving sight!  The scene at Chick Fill-A today.  It was pouring rain with cars lined up in the center lane on both sides of Route 30.  Saw a Christian Motorcycle gang sitting in the line in the pouring rain as people were in line around the building with umbrellas. -- Nancy in Lancaster, PA


NDP staff lunched in joy at Chic-fil-A today and plan to return Friday in love and prayer.

Lisa Crump
Senior Director, Prayer Mobilization
National Day of Prayer Task Force
Colorado Springs, CO


My husband heard that St. Louis had back up 1/4 mi long.  Some Wendy's in Carolinas told people to go support chick-fila!!!!!

Shopping malls packed and shopping centers packed where they are in malls. Headed to our local one now.. . We went around 3:30.  it was sane then . . . now parking lot full and 2 lanes of ordering outside around the bldg  they had many people working and people were v nice and patient. He also heard that one place ran out of breakfast food so they started serving lunch way early. (Judy in southern Ohio)


Hi Sara,

Our Martinsburg, WV Chick Fil A was closed today due to a bomb threat.

Sounds like real tolerance to me.

Wendy


Just back from Leesburg Chick-fil-A. A marvelous huge crowd!!! they just keep coming! Looong lines of cars for drive through - moving  fast -they have twenty five extra employees on call for today. Praise God!! (Joanne in Leesburg, VA)


Our neighborhood Chickfil-A is booming with business.  Our family went there twice today just to show appreciation.  I asked them if they were doing good business today and the window clerk said "oh yes busier than ever!"  Praise the Lord! (Betty S. in Texas)

The store in west Allen, Texas is doing big business today, but they nearly always seem to have a line wrapped clear around the building (in the drive-thru).  (Bob S. in Texas)


As you saw in the news, it was a huge success and heartwarming to see Christians turn out en masse to support this fine restaurant and its Christian family values. When I got to the Chattanooga location on Hwy 153 (Northgate), around 12:30 p.m., there was a long line of people and cars around the building. We stood outside, in the broiling sun, for an hour but no one, not even children complained. Once inside, the place was packed with people eating, people ordering, and people waiting for their orders. There was no room to move! Everyone, including yours truly, waited 45 minutes for their order, but no one complained. I have never seen such sweet cooperation and patience from customers and staff alike. Individuals prayed for the staff, that their energy would hold out. Everyone present understood how important this event was. 

(Bettina in Tennessee)
 
Thank you, all, for your participation and for your support of Chick-Fil-A.
Bless you!

House votes to extend Bush tax rates

House votes to extend Bush tax rates


The House approved GOP legislation late Wednesday that would extend all current tax rates for another year, and also turned away a Democratic bill that would have allowed rates to rise for higher income earners.

The Job Protection and Recession Prevention Act was approved in a 256-171 vote that saw 19 Democrats vote with Republicans, highlighting division in the Democratic party over taxes. Only one Republican voted no.

With the House vote, both chambers have now spoken on tax policy, which will allow both parties to make their case on the campaign trail. Last week, the Senate approved a bill that would let rates rise on annual individual income above $200,000, and annual family income above $250,000. (The Hill) Read more.

 
Today's Legislative Focus


Today's Legislative Focus

From The Madison Project

www.madisonproject.com


Bonus Legislation

[Every week, we will try to spotlight some positive legislation that is worthy of conservative support.]


H.R. 6009 The Self-Sufficient Community Lands Act of 2012


The federal government owns roughly two thirds of all land in the country and most of the nation's forest lands. For decades, local rural towns relied on the timber industry to sustain its economy and bring in enough tax revenue to support rural infrastructure. Unfortunately, the fact that most forests lands are owned by the federal government has allowed environmentalists easy access to the court system and sympathetic bureaucrats in the federal agencies. In turn, they have created an environment of federal policies and tedious litigation that have made many public lands in western states inaccessible to the timber industry. To that end, as is always the case with regions of the country that are ravaged by federal regulations, the government has been subsidizing these localities through the Secure Rural Schools & Community Self-Determination Act passed in 2000. 


Rep. Raul Labrador (R-ID) has introduced H.R. 6009 to restore the dignity and self-determination of these western communities by ending the federal monopoly on the forest lands as well as the subsidies that are granted to compensate for the federal burden. His bill would cede management of certain forest lands over to local boards of trustees who will then be allowed to harvest timber for sale off public lands. Lands selected will be managed according to environmental statues existing within the state. Please ask your congressman to cosponsor this bill, which will restore federalism, create jobs, and wean rural communities off federal subsidies. 

On the Campaign Trail

On the Campaign Trail:

Romney says Israel's capital is Jerusalem,
vows to move embassy


Mitt Romney on Sunday declared Jerusalem to be the capital of Israel and said he would seek to move the U.S. embassy there from Tel Aviv as president if the Israeli government ascents.

"A nation has the capacity to choose its own capital city, and Jerusalem is Israel's capital," the presumptive Republican presidential nominee said in an interview on CNN, conducted in Jerusalem. "I think it's long been the policy to ultimately have our embassy in the nation's capital of Jerusalem."

Romney gave several televised interviews and delivered a speech in Jerusalem during a trip to Israel aimed at emphasizing his ties to the close U.S. ally and boosting his support among Jewish Americans and supporters of Israel.

"I would follow the same policy we have had in the past, our embassy would be in the capital, and the timing of that is something I would want to work out with the government," Romney said.

During a separate speech, Romney made a point of referring to Jerusalem as the capital of the Jewish state. 


Its status is a critical point of contention in the long-running dispute between Israel and the Palestinians. As a result, recent U.S. presidential administrations have avoided the question and maintained the U.S. embassy presence in Tel Aviv, despite a 1995 law that declares Jerusalem to be the capital. 

On Friday, the Romney campaign circulated a statement from House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-Va.) criticizing White House press secretary Jay Carney over his answers to questions about the status of Jerusalem.

During a press priefing last week, Carney was asked by a reporter what city the administration considers to be the capital of Israel. "Our position has not changed,"

Carney responded, "For thousands of years, Jerusalem has been the eternal capital of the Jewish people, but this administration refuses to say if Jerusalem is the true capital," Cantor said in his statement. "At a moment when Israel is facing so many perils, the United States should be standing by our ally, not quibbling or quarreling about its capital city." (The Hill) Read more.

 
Khameni says war in weeks

Khameni says war in weeks

A Debka TV report


This is an ominous series of events in this Debka video from Israel. Predicted time of war is September or October which is mentioned at the end of the video.

Only God knows the true timing. Pray! 

The Good News Corner

The Good News Corner

Israel Hi-Tech Helps Protect US-Mexican Border


The United States has selected an Israeli company for the placement of a radar system to detect infiltrators at the border with Mexico. Elta, a subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), won the tender with its systems that can identify individuals from distances between 300 meters and 20 kilometers (approximately 13 miles), and vehicles from twice that distance.

The United States is trying to overcome illegal immigration and drug smuggling across its southern border. 


A source told Israel Defense that the selection of Elta's radar by the US Border Patrol "presents Elta with a potential market worth hundreds of millions of dollars."

It added that negotiations are underway with several countries "interested in combining Elta's special radar with existing border protection systems in order to upgrade their capabilities."

Officials from several countries have visited the American-Mexican border to see the Elta system work.

India also is interested in Israel's border defenses, and its officials are due to arrive in Israel this month to inspect how Israel protects its border. (Arutz Sheva) India has expressed more concern over its borders, especially since the mega-terror attack in Mumbai in 2008. 


Worship with Us Today!

Worship with Us Today!

LAMB OF GOD


YOUR ONLY SON, NO SIN TO HIDE
BUT YOU HAVE SENT HIM
FROM YOUR SIDE
TO WALK UPON THIS GUILTY SOD
AND TO BECOME THE LAMB OF GOD

YOUR GIFT OF LOVE THEY CRUCIFIED
THEY LAUGHED AND SCORNED HIM
AS HE DIED
THE HUMBLE KING THEY NAMED A FRAUD
AND SACRIFICED THE LAMB OF GOD

O LAMB OF GOD SWEET LAMB OF GOD
I LOVE THE HOLY LAMB OF GOD
O WASH ME IN YOUR PRECIOUS BLOOD
MY JESUS CHRIST THE LAMB OF GOD

I WAS SO LOST I SHOULD HAVE DIED
BUT YOU HAVE BROUGHT ME TO YOUR SIDE
TO BE LEAD BY YOUR STAFF AND ROD
AND TO BE CALLED A LAMB OF GOD

O LAMB OF GOD SWEET LAMB OF GOD
I LOVE THE HOLY LAMB OF GOD
O WASH ME IN YOUR PRECIOUS BLOOD
TILL I AM JUST A LAMB OF GOD