Prophecy Update Newsletter
IN TODAY'S NEWSLETTER...
Living on a Prayer - Pete Garcia -
http://www.omegaletter.com/articles/articles.asp?ArticleID=8681 Hello, my name is anonymous. No, not that Anonymous (i.e...anarchist group), but just the ordinary, everyday, average person primarily residing in 'fly-over' country. I'm not special according to the world's standard. I'm mostly invisible to the movers and shakers of the great here and now, except unless if I were to commit some egregious, news-worthy crime. Otherwise, I'm just a number, a statistic, or a percentage point on some survey...according to the world's standard of worthiness. Feeling marginalized yet? If not, keep reading. I have a voice and an opinion on political and social matters, but my opinion carries about as much weight as a torn Wal-Mart sack. Mostly, it's liking or debating issues on Facebook or Twitter. I've often been accused of focusing too much on the next life, as opposed to this life. Although I am convinced in what I believe (i.e....Pre-Trib Rapture, eternal security, Trinitarian, inerrancy of Scripture, etc.), being so scripturally literal mean means my voice and my circle of theological peers is an increasingly shrinking one. It also means finding a church where I can worship with like-minded believers, has become like winning the lottery...the odds are not in my favor. That is not to say, my life here is as invisible as I make it appear. To my family, I am a father or mother. To my spouse, a wife or husband. If I am unmarried, I might be a brother or sister, and an aunt or uncle. At least (maybe), I am a co-worker or peer, supervisor, friend, and subordinate to my higher bosses. I mostly live paycheck to paycheck. I try to live a somewhat comfortable lifestyle, but comfortable is a very subjective term. Few if any recognize me in public, and my circle of influence (either for good or bad), is relatively small. I make ends meet, and it often feels as if I'm just trudging along, having life happen to me, rather than making it happen for me. So, with all these things considered, let us take a quick self-evaluation to see if any apply. Choose any/all that apply -I don't have a local fellowship I feel comfortable worshipping with -My family has written me off as a 'prophecy-nut' -I'm not allowed to teach or preach at my local congregation because of my eschatological/theological views -I have financial or medical problems. -I struggle both financially and medically -I struggle with a habitual sin -I struggle with anger, anxiety, depression or other mental/emotional/spiritual problems -I struggle with over/under eating -I am fearful for the future of my children -I am fearful for the future of my country -I am fearful for my own future -I am alone Assessment "I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name. Indeed I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie-indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you. Rev. 3:8-9 Few people go through life without any major issues and for those who do, should consider themselves very blessed. If you've checked any of the above (which should be a majority of you), know, that you are not alone. We all have struggles and we all go through trials and temptations in this life. But not knowing you personally, or your specific circumstances, I'll use myself as the proverbial guinea pig. I am a writer of sorts, having contributed to this and a handful of other websites over the years. I am nothing of note per say. My opinions and opines don't make the news, nor are they shattering public perception about any particular topic. I'm not breaking any literary boundaries or new theological ground. Much of what I write, has been written about many times over...over the past decades and centuries. I'm often discouraged that I am not doing enough, and what I am doing, is primarily 'preaching to the choir'. And while I might be prone to a pity-party here or there... (Pete Garcia---pity-party of one, sir, your table is ready)...I tend not to stay there long (check please!). It is because I am keenly aware of the physical suffering and persecution going on around the world, and I grieve as many do, for those who come to faith in Christ while living under the banners of Islamic, Hindu, atheist, or communist nations. While we here in the West have thus far avoided physical persecution; the mental, emotional, cultural, and governmental iron-fisted hammer of political correctness and secular humanism are swinging harder than ever...and it is wearing people down. Not content with just chipping away at the edges anymore, no the Godless are swinging directly at the very pillars of a society...i.e....the family unit. Whether it is gay marriage, gender confusing education, transgendered bathroom rights, skyrocketing divorce rates, abortion, genetically manipulated embryos, or any number of issues, Satan knows the way to destroy a nation is by destroying the family. While the structure of the family unit is not exclusive to just Christian families, it would seem, that the wrath of man as it were, is specifically targeting Christian families. If you're Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu, Atheist, or otherwise, the laws of this land are either not targeting you, or your cultural standard has found a liberal exception to policy stamped across your lifestyle. That shouldn't be all that surprising though is it? I mean, if Christianity is the one true faith, and every other view (John 14:6) is of the devil, then Satan has no need to attack his own pillars of destruction. He need only target one. We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one. 1 John 5:19 If that weren't enough, I tell you, as hard as it is just being a Christian in the 21st century, it's even harder being a Pre-Millennial, Pre-Tribulational, Dispensational believer in these last days. It's not that we just have the godless attacking us and our way of life, but an increasing number of those within professing Christendom who are increasingly acquiescing to any number of heretical and damning doctrines of demons. Whether that be liberalism, humanism, eastern mysticism, materialism, legalism, or Universalism, mindsets, they are no longer attempting, but are succeeding in redefining what Christianity is and isn't. Knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, and saying, "Where is the promise of His coming? For since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of creation." 2 Peter 3:3-4 The scoffers mentioned above isn't the world, as the world doesn't waste time or energy thinking about Christ. No, the scoffer's sadly enough, are those who are within Christendom mocking the idea that Christ is ever coming back. If Satan is currently managing the affairs here on terra firma, (he is according to Luke 4:5-6) I would expect to him to stack the deck against both Christians and Jews as we draw down to the final moments of human history. Not only that, but he would prefer it if Christians formed a circular-firing squad, aiming there attacks at each other as to sow discord, confusion, and enmity between ourselves by confusing doctrines. I equate living at this specific point in time, a time when the world seems to be enthusiastically and energetically sending itself to hell in a handbasket, to living paycheck to paycheck. But instead of paychecks, we are living from prayer to prayer, increasingly asking for God's protection, sanctification, and perseverance to continue on in a world that has given itself wholesale over to the wicked one. Scripturally speaking, we were forewarned that these times would be like this. Paul writes... But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come. And indeed we are living through them. In His overview of the last days, Jesus said... "If the world hates you, you know that it hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you." We were told these things beforehand, so that we could be mentally, emotionally, and spiritually prepared for the hardships of this life. Although we are in the world, we are not of it. There is a spiritual battle raging all around us, and it is only ever escalating as the time is drawing closer. We are ambassadors for the coming King, and His Kingdom and we are at the precipice of war. (2 Cor. 5:20) We see the battle lines being drawn and the sides being chosen. (Eph. 6:12-17) But war, as in the case with any war, is always preceded by the withdrawal of its ambassadors before the first shot is fired. This life, as dreary and awful as it can be, is temporary. (2 Cor. 4:16-17) For some, it's more temporary than others, but know that this will not be like this forever. Everything made, has a shelf-life. The world we currently inhabit, has a shelf-life. And while things appears to be growing increasingly dark and dangerous, be of good cheer fellow pilgrim... Because you have kept my command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name. Revelation 3:8-12 Nations Prepare Next Move For Middle East Chessboard - By Yaakov Lappin - http://www.prophecynewswatch.com/article.cfm?recent_news_id=2403 Tehran's recent decision to attempt direct clashes with Israel resulted in a resounding defeat on May 10, when the IDF destroyed 50 Iranian military targets in Syrian territory. Iran is now shifting gears back to its traditional proxy approach. While Iran appears reluctant to mobilize Hezbollah against Israel right now -- and risk a full-scale regional war -- it is continuing to work on securing a military position in Syria to use for future aggression. Israel must maintain its flexibility and responsiveness in order to prevent the creation of a second Iranian mass missile front on the border. Judging from international media reports, Israel's campaign to keep Iran out of Syria has entered a new phase. In the previous phase, Tehran injected its Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) forces into Syria, where they proceeded to build drone, missile, and infantry bases. Iran's grander ambition is to set up naval and air force bases on Syrian soil as well. In addition, it wants to flood the country with projectile launchers and terrorist cells that would assault Israel in the future. The initial effort ran up against persistent and accurate Israeli defensive countermeasures. Israel relied on advanced intelligence, combined with precision firepower, to destroy Iran's budding military presence in Syria. In an effort to deter Israel from continuing with its campaign and force it to accept Tehran's military presence in Syria, the IRGC's Quds Force began directly attacking Israel using drones and truck-mounted mobile rocket launchers. This represented a break from the older Iranian pattern of aggression via proxy. The confrontation ended with a resounding defeat for Iran in the May 10 IDF strikes. Israeli air defenses also successfully dealt with an Iranian rocket barrage over the Golan Heights. Iran's decision to use its own forces to directly attack Israel proved to be a strategic error: it exposed the Iranian assets to Israeli firepower and saved Israel the trouble of having to deal with Iran's proxies. It also underlined Israel's solid intelligence coverage of Syria. Israel used the event to send a firm message to Tehran about its willingness and ability to enforce red lines in its own backyard. A secondary message was sent to the Assad regime, which tried to shoot down Israeli fighter jets using a combination of surface-to-air missile batteries (SA-5s, 17s, and 22s). Every battery that took part in an attack on Israeli aircraft was destroyed. In total, more than half of the Assad regime's air defenses have been knocked out by Israel in recent months. Yet as the latest international media reports indicate, Tehran has not given up. It has merely switched tactics. Iran is still seeking to establish a foothold in Syria, but is now relying more on its militias, a development that marks a return to the older proxy model. Iran may have switched gears, but Israel's defensive campaign appears to be responding in the same way. In mid-June, according to international media reports, Israel conducted a major airstrike on a military base housing the Iran-backed Katai'b Hezbollah, an Iraqi Shiite militia. The airstrike occurred in eastern Syria, near the Iraqi border. This is the area where Iran is trying to build a land bridge to link it directly to Syria and Lebanon via Iraq. Dozens of militia members were reportedly killed in the attack. At the start of July, according to media reports, a blast rocked an arms depot belonging to an Iran-backed militia in Daraa, in southern Syria, where the Assad regime is involved in a major push to retake the area from Sunni rebel groups. It is worth recalling that leaders of Iran-sponsored militias have visited Lebanon in recent months, where they were given tours of the Israeli border by Hezbollah and threatened that they would take part in future fighting against Israel. Meanwhile, Israel still seems to be targeting Iranian heavy weapons trafficking across Syria. An airstrike rocked the Damascus airport at the end of June, reportedly targeting an Iranian missile transfer. For years, Iran has been trying to use Syria to transfer advanced weapons to Hezbollah in Lebanon. More recently, it tried to assemble missile bases in Syria itself and build a new arsenal to target Israel. Iran wants the new missiles in Syria to join the estimated 120,000 Hezbollah projectiles already stationed in Lebanon. Israeli officials have stated that they will not let Iran turn Syria into a second Lebanon. Such statements appear to be backed with consistent action. One initial conclusion that can be reached from recent reports is that Iran is trying to change its modus operandi in Syria to avoid Israeli strikes, but these efforts have not been successful. A second conclusion is that Iran is reluctant to activate Hezbollah against Israel right now. Generally speaking, Tehran seems deterred at this time from taking a risk big enough to spark a regional war with Israel, but it still wishes to build up a military force in Syria for future aggression. Following the losses it incurred in May, Iran seems to be more aware of the risks involved in directly confronting Israel and is thus falling back on militias, as well as weapons trafficking, to lower the stakes. But it is continuing its efforts to take over Syria militarily, meaning the threat of a wider confrontation has not vanished by any means. Iran's calculations cannot be divorced from other strategic developments, such as the cancellation of the nuclear deal by the Trump administration, internal unrest, and economic troubles. Despite growing pressure, Iran has signaled that it refuses to be rolled back to its own borders, meaning that the potential for escalation remains. The Israeli Air Force is in charge of rapid response to Iran's activities. The IAF has been able to keep up a very high operational tempo while displaying flexibility in its policing of Israel's security interests in Syria. Russia, which is the senior partner in the pro-Assad coalition, appears to have reluctantly accepted Israel's activities despite protesting them, and despite concerns that the Iranian-Israeli conflict could spin out of control without warning. That scenario could bring down the Assad regime. The IAF has had to learn how to fly in the region in a way that evades Russia's considerable intelligence-gathering abilities. The growing Israeli F-35 squadron, now at 12 jets, and the IAF's ability to keep upgrading its older legacy F-16 and F-15 aircraft, have meant that Israel's regional air superiority has been maintained so far in the face of increasing challenges. The Syrian civil war appears to be winding down and Hezbollah is reportedly beginning to withdraw some of its forces from Syria and deploy them back to its southern front against Israel. This means Hezbollah will soon be less stretched along two fronts. Because of the inherent explosiveness and instability of the region, Israel takes a calculated risk every time it pursues its "active defense" campaign in the northern arena. But the risk of not acting, and allowing the Iranian axis to build up its force freely, is far greater. For Israel, failure to act would mean facing two Iranian mass missile fronts in Lebanon and Syria, which would represent an intolerable threat to Israel's homefront. Israel's campaign not only contains the threat from the north. It also serves to continually remind the Iranian axis of Israel's own evolving capabilities, thereby reinforcing Israeli deterrence and keeping full-scale war at bay. Recent News and My Views - By Daymond Duck - http://www.raptureready.com/2018/07/15/recent-news-views-daymond-duck/ First, on July 3, 2018, it was reported that an Iranian Brigadier General accused Israel and one other unidentified country of stealing Iran's clouds and snow. He believes the severe drought that has plagued Iran for several years is the result of Israel using a weapon to keep it from raining in Iran. This is my thinking: God promised to bless those that bless Israel and to curse those curse Israel. It wouldn't surprise me that Israel has a weapon that can impact the weather, but I think the Iranian drought is more likely to be the result of Iran's attitude toward Israel and the fact that God fulfills His Word. Second, it was reported that on July 1, 2018, Turkey resumed filling the reservoir behind its newly completed Ilisu Dam on the Tigris River. Turkey had stopped filling the reservoir because extreme drought in the Middle East is causing the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers to dry up, and Iraq was complaining that Turkey was not letting enough water through the dam. The interesting thing about this is the fact that the Euphrates River is drying up. That will happen again during the Tribulation Period (Rev. 16:12). Third, on June 25, 2018, it was reported that China's Pres. had recently said that China must lead the way in reforming global governance (world government). He believes China deserves a greater role because of China's growing economic and political clout, America's withdrawal from UN agreements and the EU's problems with Brexit and other issues. The fact that China is becoming more assertive probably ties in with Bible prophecy because there is wide agreement that China will head up the Kings of the East that invades the Middle East when the Euphrates River dries up (Rev. 16:12). Fourth, on July 6, 2018, China declared that the biggest trade war in economic history has started and that it will last for a long time. China was referring to U.S. tariffs on Chinese products and retaliatory Chinese tariffs on U.S. products. China is threatening to report the U.S. to the World Trade Organization (WTO), and Pres. Trump has hinted that he may withdraw the U.S. from the WTO. Several things are in play here: 1) A trade war could play a role in the coming global economic collapse (Rev. 6:5-6); 2) Many of the trade agreements between the U.S. and others were deliberately drafted to cause an unfair balance of trade because the goal was wealth redistribution and world government, not fair trade for the U.S.; 3) Pres. Trump's continued withdrawal from UN groups and unfair trade agreements (something I am for) is distancing the U.S. from global leadership and preparing the way for a different world leader (Europe's Antichrist). The Trump haters in the UN may even try to embarrass Mr. Trump and the U.S. by moving their wannabe world government out of New York (perhaps to the cradle of civilization in Iraq; rebuilt Babylon). Fifth, in his sermon on Pentecost, Peter said there will be fire and smoke on earth, and the moon will turn to blood "before the great and notable day of the Lord (Acts 2:19-20). It is wrong to be dogmatic about what this means, but the Kilauea volcano burned 46 more houses this week (total is now 671), about 700,000 acres have burned in six U.S. states out west, and there will be another blood moon on July 27, 2018. Sixth, this week, Lisa Haven reminded her viewers that the Real ID Act goes into effect on Oct. 1, 2020. U.S. citizens are now less than 27 months away from their federal government having one national database with all of their information in it (Drivers License number, Social Security number, face scan, etc.). Some authorities believe the Real ID Act will lead to highway checkpoints to monitor all travel and a federalized police force to control everyone. In a matter of months, U.S. citizens will not be allowed to fly on international flights, enter federal buildings, visit federal parks, etc., without a National ID number (and it has already started at some airports). Ultimately, people won't be allowed to buy and sell without the Antichrist's name, number or Mark. Seventh, on July 8, 2018, it was reported that Israel is now the home of the world's largest Jewish community. Rabbi Adam Berkowitz said this has far-reaching implications and it is a major step in the redemption of Israel. The article can be seen at: https://www.breakingisraelnews.com/110564/messianic-tipping-point-majority-jews-israel/. Rabbi Berkowitz wrote that Rabbi Hillel Weiss, spokesman for the Jewish Sanhedrin, said this third and final return was anticipated in prophecy. It will lead to the rebuilding of the Temple, the Davidic Dynasty, and the Messianic era (Some Christians call it the Millennial reign of Jesus). Since the largest population of Jews is now in Israel, the Torah requires the Jews to count the 50-year Jubilee cycles (7 cycles of 7 years each plus the 50th year) and to identify the 12 tribes of Israel. It is important to understand that the 70th week of Daniel requires the Jews to go back to counting cycles (the Tribulation Period will be one week of years or one 7-year cycle; Dan. 9:24-27). Also, the 144,000 Jewish evangelists requires the 12 tribes of Israel to be identified (Rev. 7). Finally, on July 2, 2018, it was reported that Amy Coney Barrett was on the final list of four people that Pres. Trump was considering as a nominee to be a judge on the U.S. Supreme Court. According to the article, if she is nominated, she will be opposed - not because she is unqualified - but because she is a committed Christian with values that might influence her decisions on social issues. Who could have ever imagined that America's morals would sink so low that a person would be rejected for a position on the U.S. Supreme Court because they are a committed Christian? Is that persecution, the spirit of antichrist or what? Is America still a Christian nation? Has America departed from the faith, turned lukewarm, etc.? Prophecy Plus Ministries, Inc. Daymond & Rachel Duck [email protected] News from Hal Lindsey Media Ministries - Hal Lindsey - www.hallindsey.com The heat kills 54 in southern Quebec. Temperatures in northern Siberia soar 40 degrees above normal. Africa records the highest temperature ever verified on that continent. What is going on with the weather? Whatever it is, the global warming crowd is thrilled. They see it as affirmation of their religion: the High Church of Climate Change. But they obscure two distinctions. First, contrary to what the mainstream media and the politically correct crowd would have you believe, almost no one denies that earth's climate is changing. In fact, it has been in a constant state of change throughout its entire history. What many of us deny is that it is changing because of something man is doing. We believe it is changing because of natural influences and fluctuations. Things like increased solar activity that directly affects the earth. Solar activity that has waxed and waned over the centuries. That's why history tells us that the earth has suffered through several different "ice ages." The second distinction the global warming crowd obfuscates is the difference between "climate" and "weather." "Climate" refers to meteorological patterns over long periods of time. "Weather" refers to what is happening right now. In Texas we say that if you don't like the weather, wait five minutes and it will change. So the global warming people seize upon the latest heat wave as proof that the "climate" is rapidly warming. So the United States should cough up $300 billion dollars (our contribution demanded by the Paris Climate Accord from which President Trump withdrew) to stop it. Of course, if the coming winter is especially brutal, some of them will keep their mouths shut and hope you don't notice. Others will insist that the brutal cold proves that the "climate" is rapidly cooling. So the United States should cough up $300 billion dollars to stop it. Interestingly, China and India, the world's two biggest polluters, aren't required to do anything -- or pay anything -- for the next 30 years. But I'm chasing rabbits here. The point is that after the great flood, God made a promise to humanity: "While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease." (Genesis 8:17 NASB) That means that no matter what man does, or does not do, the natural order of things will not change. So save your money. However, the Bible does address the subject of weird weather. Especially as we approach the end of this Age of Grace. Isaiah tells of a future judgment on the earth where the world "fades and withers... The inhabitants of the earth are burned." (Isaiah 24:4,6 NASB) That probably refers to nuclear war and the devastating, unending fires that follow. But it seems to also include weather phenomenon, because another verse in the same chapter predicts that grapevines will "wilt" (Isaiah 24:7 Complete Jewish Bible) as a result of human disobedience to God. The chapter implies drought on a planetary scale. Then Revelation 16:8 tells about something that will happen during the Tribulation: "And the fourth angel poured out his bowl upon the sun; and it was given it to scorch men with fire." (Revelation 16:8 NASB) This is not talking about nuclear war, but about violent sunlight! It hasn't happened yet, but the earth seems to be getting a foretaste of it. Jesus said and the Bible tells us that as we approach His return, we can expect to see an increase in strange weather. But the worst will not come until the time of the Tribulation. And if you are in Christ, by then, you will be gone. A few days ago, seven former US ambassadors to the United Nations sent a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. They asked him to restore 100% of the funding that the US gives annually to UNRWA, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees. Earlier this year, the US cut its contribution to UNRWA by 50%. After we have given almost $5 billion, we finally did it because UNRWA, which has been in business almost 70 years, has thus far not settled even one Palestinian refugee. Instead, they keep them confined in filthy, miserable, crowded "camps" so that they can be used as political pawns in the constant struggle to delegitimize Israel. UNRWA schools indoctrinate Palestinian children to despise Israel. They encourage terrorism by praising and honoring terrorists, Nazis, and the annihilation of the Jews. Their schools and hospitals are often used to house missiles and rocket launchers for use against Israel. UNRWA camps are rundown and dangerous. Even pro-Palestinian organizations claim that Palestinian children are not safe there. The refugees need to be absorbed into the societies around them. Instead, UNRWA imprisons them and keeps them dependent on the UN for food and shelter. As Caroline Glick notes, they "doom Palestinians to perpetual misery and ensure that they will never, ever accept Israel's right to exist in secure borders." You see, in 1948, the Arab nations, who were preparing to invade the new state of Israel, convinced many of the Arabs living in Israel to flee. They warned them that the Jews would massacre them. Of course, it was all propaganda. There were no massacres. But that fear created the ongoing Palestinian refugee crisis. Most people, though, don't know about the other refugee crisis from that same period. In her monumental book, From Time Immemorial, Joan Peters notes that, "For every refugee -- adult or child -- in Syria, Lebanon, or elsewhere in the Arab world... there is a Jewish refugee who fled from the Arab country of his birth. For every Arab who moved to neighboring lands, a Jew was forced to flee from a community where he and his family may have lived for 2,000 years." To retaliate against the new state of Israel, Muslim nations made life impossible for the Jews in their midst. They lost their property, security, dignity, and basic human rights. They faced persecution and death. They were forced from the lands of their birth. In 1948, there were more than 850,000 Jews living in the Arab world. Today, there are only around 25,000. Unlike the Arabs who did not want to live with Jews in Israel but were never accepted as citizens in Jordan or Syria or Lebanon, the fledgling state of Israel quietly accepted and assimilated all of the Jewish refugees who fled to Israel. In 1922, after the fall of the Ottoman Empire, the League of Nations gave the British a mandate to prepare a homeland in Palestine for the Jews. Instead, the British gave 75% of that land to the Arabs for a homeland. It was a vast expanse east of the Jordan river. The country was known as Trans-Jordan. The remaining 25% was given to "Eretz Yisrael" (Land of Israel). It included all the land from the river Jordan west to the Mediterranean Sea. That includes the areas the Jews call Judea and Samaria. The world knows it as the "West Bank" (of the Jordan river). During the 1948 Arab-Israeli war, Jordan took the West Bank by force. During the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel took it back. Somehow, the world thought it was okay for Jordan to take the West Bank (given to Israel by the League of Nations) by force. But they saw it as a crime when Israel took it back 19 years later. The original "two-state solution" was to create the nation of Jordan for the Arabs who did not want to live with the Jews in Israel. Somehow that "two-state solution" has been lost to history. Have you noticed? Al-Qaeda is making a comeback. ISIS stole the headlines for a few years, but lately, al-Qaeda has been active around the world. Including in Cleveland where federal officials arrested an al-Qaeda supporter who planned to bomb a Fourth of July parade. In Belgium, a husband and wife were arrested for planning to bomb a Paris meeting of an Iranian opposition group. In Austria, an Iranian diplomat was detained and expelled for assisting them. One of Germany's top intelligence agencies released a report accusing Iran of "the illegal propagation of atomic, biological, and chemical weapons." The Jerusalem Post noted that "German Chancellor Angela Merkel remains a strong proponent of the Iran nuclear deal.... She has not commented on the findings of her intelligence agencies that appear to contradict her views of the effectiveness [of the nuclear deal]." An "anonymous" US intelligence official told NBC News that North Korea may be trying to deceive the US about its nuclear program. Personally, I don't put much trust in intelligence agents who leak anonymously to the press. But what's the surprise here? The North Koreans have been deceiving the world for decades. Do we think they will stop overnight? That's the point of intensive negotiations that include strict supervision and inspection protocols. Even if they eventually plan to give up their weapons, the more they possess now, the more leverage they will have at the bargaining table. We still don't know how this will turn out, but at least the two sides are talking, not fighting. Japan's Kyodo News Agency has published secret documents it has obtained from the Chinese Central Military Commission. They give us some insight into the urgency China feels to develop a military that can meet and defeat the US military. All of this simply illustrates that it's a dangerous world, indeed. And growing more so by the day. My goal is to impress on you how important it is for us to put our trust in God. This flimsy world system that finds itself in such deep trouble is not worthy of your hopes and dreams. It will let you down. But God remains faithful. His promises remain true. He promised that, "'I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you,' so that we confidently say, 'The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What shall man do to me?'" (Hebrews 13:5-6 NASB) Romans 8:31 asks, "If God be for us, who can be against us?" The near future may be dark, but the eternal future is gloriously bright! Do not fear, He is with us! Don't miss this week's Report on TBN, Daystar, CPM Network, various local stations, www.hallindsey.com or www.hischannel.com . Check your local listings. Daily Jot: Our identity and our salvation - Bill Wilson - www.dailyjot.com Recent polls indicate that only about 18% of the Millennial generation find that Christianity is relevant. Many of under 30 crowd who were raised in Christian households want nothing to do with organized religion, won't go to church, and say they are tired of the judgmental double standard of mainstream Christianity. I remember a poll that said Christians get enraged at immorality, policy, and the state of affairs in our country and around the world. Yet they demand that people hold to moral beliefs as justified by a book that they don't even read. This is part and parcel to what the Millennials are experiencing. In short, it means we Christians, as a whole, need to do a better job as disciples than what we are doing. 1 Corinthians 5:12 asks, "For what have I to do to judge them also that are outside? do not you judge them that are within?" In direct speak, it means that we have no business holding those who do not know the gospel accountable to our standards. That's why we are exhorted, even commanded, to make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey what the Lord has commanded us. We must find ways to make Christianity relevant. It has been tainted to be identified with political ideals, when in reality, the political ideals should be identified with Christianity, foundationally centered on God's love and love for one another. It starts with our individual relationship with the Lord. To look at our families, communities, states, nations from a Christian lens, we should first start by looking in the mirror. The Apostle Peter wrote in 1 Peter 4:17-19, "For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God; and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator." The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 10:13-14, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?" Jesus said in Matthew 24:23, "Then if any man shall say unto you Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not." Our national identity and, more importantly, our personal salvation is diluted tremendously if we, as Peter put it, "scarcely be saved." If America's preachers are so intent on preaching/teaching a self indulgent, extra Biblical and emotional version of the Christ, then what Christ are we following--the real Son of God, crucified and risen, for our sins, or some humanist version of Christ that fits a social or political extra-biblical gospel? It is here, not on the national policy front, that we as a people have lost our identity. This should be a serious personal consideration that gives weight to working out your salvation with fear and trembling. Daily Devotion: The Problem with Pride - By Greg Laurie - www.harvest.org Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall. -Proverbs 16:18 An unguarded strength is a double weakness. You might say, "I'm really strong in this area of my life, but I'm kind of weak here, here, and here, so I don't have to worry about that." Hold on. The area where you think you are the strongest is where you could end up being the weakest. You might say, "I would never be unfaithful to my spouse. I would never consider that temptation. I know I'm weak here and here, but I have that area covered." Guess where you most likely will get hit? Guess where you may fall? The Bible says, "Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18 NLT). We need to stand in God's strength and not our own. Ephesians 6:10 tells us, "Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power" (NLT). Know this: You are no match for the devil. You would never want to take him on in your own strength. You are not fighting for God. You are not being strong for God. You are not fighting for victory; you are fighting from victory. You are resting in the finished work of Jesus Christ for you on the cross, where He said, "Tetelestai," which is translated, "It is finished." It is accomplished. It is done. It is completed. Jesus Christ purchased our salvation. A decisive blow was dealt against the enemy at the cross. Satan was defeated at Calvary. He knows our closeness to God and fellowship with Him is our power base. His objective is to separate us from God in fellowship. His chief aim is to disconnect our hearts from God and inspire confidence in ourselves instead. Keep your guard up in every area of your life. You could always be vulnerable in ways you don't realize. 
FROM THE HEART
IF YOU HAVE BEEN BLESSED THROUGH THIS MINISTRY, THEN WE ASK THAT YOU WOULD PLEASE REMEMBER PROPHECY UPDATE IN YOUR GIVING - WE ARE TRULY, TRULY, THANKFUL FOR YOUR SUPPORT Prophecy Update has no corporate sponsors. This ministry is paid for and prayed for by readers and supporters. Without your support, there would be no Prophecy Update, Please pray about becoming a monthly supporter - thanks! If ever there was a time to invest in God's Kingdom, it's now! What on earth are you doing for Heaven's Sake? "Share in the Blessings and Rewards that will last Forever!" "Folks, it's all beginning to unravel. America is in more danger of falling than at any time in its history. But I believe Bible prophecy predicts this very decline. From this point on, we believers have to get serious. We are going to face discouragement, disillusionment and, most certainly, persecution in the time between now and the Rapture. But don't be discouraged or disillusioned. The coming turmoil will provide us unrivaled opportunities to share the good news of the Gospel. So be ready to share your faith and your hope with those who need Christ. We still have time to reap a great harvest of souls for God's kingdom!" - Hal Lindsey 1) We need your prayers!- We proclaim the Truth of the Word of God and we are under constant spiritual and sometimes even physical attack. 2) We need your encouragement!- We need to hear from you, let us know how the Lord is blessing you through this ministry so that we can share it with others. 3) We need your input! - If you have a prophetic article or story or if there is a news related item we missed, let us know. 4) We need your financial support!- To put it quite simply, without your support, there would be no Prophecy Update. I ask that you would prayerfully consider partnering with us to get the Word out and keep the world informed. Remember, your gift, no matter how small, does make a difference! You will be helping to touch lives, around the world, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, thanks to the internet your generosity carries a global impact! - Thanks! Our Prayer for You- "Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else." 2 Corinthians 9:10-13 Prophecy Update is a 501 (c) (3) tax exempt - non-profit organization, and all your donations are tax deductible. If you have been blessed by Prophecy Update and would like to help support this ministry financially. You can make a secure donation online by going to: DONATE NOW Or Visit our website: http://prophecyupdate.com/donations/ Or write us at: Prophecy Update P.O. Box 40516 Bakersfield, CA 93384-0516 
|
|