UNITED WE STAND
Today's Hymn:
It Is Well with My Soul
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
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The Daily Brief
"Praying for All in Authority"
Wednesday, May 27, 2020
"And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting . . . And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit." (Acts 2:2-4)
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“Standing United Together . . . Under the Cross of Christ
Honoring President Trump
Honoring President Trump:
Trump's Wall from Sea to Shining Sea
Good morning, everyone!
We want to start this day off by sharing a video with you that is a stunning documentation of the amazing progress that President Trump has achieved by building this amazing wall, securing our southern border.
In this video, you will watch as, mile by mile, different contractors are working in complete unity with a combined effort to raise up this wall of protection, from the Pacific Coast in California all the way across our border, covering 650 miles and ending at the Gulf of Mexico in Brownsville, Texas.
Today, we want to honor you, Mr. President, at achieving this remarkable feat! In spite of all that has come against you so far in your term in office, you have never waivered from this goal -- and this mission -- to protect the American people by building this wall.
We honor your tenacity, your courage, your dedication, and the love you have for our nation. Amen!
> > > To view this video, "Trump's Wall from Sea to Shining Sea," please go here. Thank you!
Focus on Israel
1. Netanyahu: I'll never agree to a plea bargain - World Israel News
In the wake of his arraignment at the Jerusalem District Court on Sunday afternoon and hours after conducting the first Cabinet meeting of the newly sworn-in government, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sat down for a lengthy chat with Channel 20's Boaz Golan. The following are translated excerpts from the interview.
Boaz Golan: Mr. Prime Minister, good evening. We are here after the first hearing [of your trial]. How are you feeling?
Netanyahu: I think it was an important day. You know why? Because for the first time, Israeli citizens heard the truth. The things that I said outside the courtroom were the truth. And the time has come to speak the truth.
I also requested that there be a live broadcast-not one that's cut and that all the transcript writers on all the channels play with. A full live broadcast. Because I have nothing to hide. I want everything to be exposed. And when it's exposed, it will be understood that they're trying to bring down a strong prime minister from the right, in order to bring down the right for generations. Everyone understands it.
Golan: You received much support from the public, including from Holocaust survivors, the elderly, young people. Many members of the public are behind you.
Netanyahu: Yes, it's very moving. You know what moved me the most? First of all, the Holocaust survivors. That was a shiver-eliciting moment. I finish the Cabinet meeting. And before going to Salah a-Din Street [where the Jerusalem District Court is located], representatives [from an organization of] Holocaust survivors ask to see me. Most are very elderly women. And one of them says to me: "I was [hiding] in the forests [during World War II], and we never forget. We don't forget you [either]. You're not alone."
(Read more)
2. 124 North Tel Aviv Day Care Children Plus Their Parents Quarantined - Jewish Press
One hundred and twenty four children in a North Tel Aviv day care center, along with their parents and teachers, were sent into a two week quarantine on Tuesday, after a teacher's aid, from one of the center's four classes, was discovered to have been infected with the Coronavirus.
The day care center has been closed for the next two weeks from the last time the assistant was there (22nd of May), per Ministry of Health instructions. The ministry is also requiring any parent that had entered the day care center to enter quarantine too. Normally that isn't required, but the Ministry of Health decided in this case, the parents must be quarantined too.
Some of the parents are complaining, according to a YNet article, that is unfair to them that they need to go into quarantine too, either because they need to work, or because the teacher's aid primarily worked in a different classroom.
Hundreds of students have been placed in quarantine over the past week after Coronavirus was discovered among individual staffers and students in various schools. This morning the a 7th grader in Jerusalem was discovered to have been infected.
(Read more)
3. Hailing 'return to normal,' Israel rescinds virus closures on eateries, bars - Times of Israel
Restaurants, bars, hotels and swimming pools are finally being allowed to open on Wednesday after over two months of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Health Ministry said Tuesday evening, as the government gave the go ahead to ease restrictions and allow Israelis to go out again.
Museums and tourist attractions, including cable cars and boats, will also be allowed to open as of Wednesday morning, subject to social distancing, wearing of facial masks, hygiene regulations, markings for waiting in lines and limits on the number of guests.
The Health Ministry said it would publish "purple badge" guidelines for each type of business.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the decision in a celebratory message that marked a stark contrast to somber tones struck two months ago when he announced a series of tightening closures aimed at stopping the spread of the pandemic.
"We want to make your life easier, to allow you to go out and get life back to normal, to have a cup of coffee and to drink a beer," he said in a video.
(Read more)
4. Amid US pressure, Israel rejects Chinese bid to build world's largest desalination plant - World Israel News
The Ministry of Finance announced Tuesday that Israel's IDE Technologies has won the bid to build Sorek B, the world's largest water desalination plant, beating out China-based rival Hutchison Water.
The announcement comes amid mounting U.S.-China tensions and less than two weeks after Secretary of State Mike Pompeo met with Prime Minister Netanyahu and reportedly expressed U.S. concern over Chinese involvement in Israeli infrastructure projects.
The $1.5 billion Sorek B project is expected to produce 200 million cubic meters of water per year, increasing Israel's desalination capacity by 35 percent. It will be located near Palmachim Airbase and the Soreq Nuclear Research Center.
In early May, Axios reported that several Trump administration officials including Ambassador David Friedman raised their concerns over China's possible involvement in the project.
"The Americans are speaking to us about this very politely but it is clear they would like us to review the Chinese participation in the [bid]," an Israeli official said.
(Read more)
5. European leaders said to implore Netanyahu not to advance annexation - Times of Israel
Several European leaders reportedly sent personal letters to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in recent days asking him not to push ahead with plans to unilaterally annex parts of the West Bank.
"I ask you, in a spirit of friendship, that your new government not take unilateral action [in the West Bank]. Such a move would destabilize the Middle East," French President Emmanuel Macron told Netanyahu, according to a report aired Tuesday on Channel 13. "Only dialogue with the Palestinians and a just and balanced solution will provide Israel with peace, security and stability." UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and their Italian counterpart Giuseppe Conte reportedly sent Netanyahu letters expressing similar sentiments.
Several European nations are currently considering ways to deter Israel from moving forward with its declared intention to apply sovereignty to the entire Jordan Valley and all settlements across the West Bank - territory much of the international community wants to see become a Palestinian state - and how to punish it if it ignores their warnings and carries out the annexation, according to the report.
(Read more)
6. Israel on Target - Bridge Connector Ministries
To read this week's prayer points, go here.
The Daily Brief
1. True The Vote Founder Talks Fraud And Frighteningly Lax Security Amid The Push For Mail-In Voting - Daily Wire
With COVID-19 forcing numerous Democratic state primaries to be rescheduled, and with the possibility of a virus resurgence in the fall, many in the media are beginning to focus their attention to a pandemic general election.
One of the ideas being bandied about for November 3 is mail-in voting.
While several states already run entirely mail-in voting processes, and others provide ways to obtain absentee ballots for a variety of reasons, a nationwide mail-in election would be a stunning undertaking.
Many progressives argue for mail-in voting due to ease of use and its potential for increased participation, and many conservatives argue against it because of the generally lax security protocols surrounding the method.
Read more
- Father, we continue to pray over the elections in November, that Your angelic Host will protect the vote from fraud. Let anyone with evil intent be prevented from destroying the fair election process, for You alone know their hearts and intentions.
-"For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart." ( Hebrews 4:12)
2. DOJ warns Los Angeles, Illinois of possible illegality of stay-at-home orders - USA Today
The Justice Department warned state and local officials Friday of the possible illegality of their stay-at-home orders, as the agency continues to monitor restrictions meant to contain the spread of COVID-19.
In a letter to Los Angeles officials, Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband said their recent comments suggesting that stay-at-home orders may stay in place longer "may be both arbitrary and unlawful." The Justice Department also said that Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker's "sweeping limitations" on Illinois residents raise constitutional concerns.
Attorney General William Barr said last month that the Justice Department would intervene if stay-at-home orders in response to the coronavirus pandemic become too restrictive, directing federal prosecutors "to be on the lookout" for state and local directives that could be violating constitutional rights. In a memo, Barr acknowledged that while lockdowns are "necessary" to stop the spread of the virus, such restrictions have placed "tremendous burdens" on Americans.
Read more
- Lord, we ask that the DOJ would take care of any illegal activity that is wreaking havoc with our citizens. We pray for a quick end to the lockdowns with no backlash of virus resurgence from the enemy.
- "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." (Ephesians 6:12)
3. Ex-Obama Ambassador Appears in Chinese State Media, Uses Opportunity To Undermine Trump - Western Journal
America's ambassador to China during the final three years of the Obama administration has trashed President Donald Trump in a series of interviews on Chinese state-run media media outlets.
During a May 12 interview with one such outlet, China Global Television Network, Max Baucus invoked former Sen. Joe McCarthy and Adolf Hitler in discussing the Trump administration and its criticisms of China.
"Joe McCarthy [and] Adolf Hitler . . . rallied people up, making people believe things that were really not true," Baucus said, according to the Washington Free Beacon. "The White House and some in Congress are making statements against China that are so over the top and so hypercritical, they are based not on the fact, or if they are based on fact, sheer demagoguery, and that's what McCarthy did in the 1950s," added Baucus, who served as the Obama administration's ambassador to China from 2014 to 2017 following more than 35 years as a Democratic senator from Montana.
Read more
- Lord, this former official allowing himself to be on Chinese media totally undermines the President. We pray that you will seal up his words and his lips so that he can no longer speak treacherously against the United States.
- "You brood of vipers! How can you speak good, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." (Matthew 12:34)
4. Republicans File Lawsuit in Attempt to Stop Gov. Newsom's Mail-in Ballot Plan - Newsmax
The Republican Party is taking California Gov. Gavin Newsom to court over plans to send all voters mail-in ballots for the general election.
The Republican National Committee, National Republican Congressional Committee and California Republican Party filed a lawsuit Sunday against Newsom and Secretary of State Alex Padilla in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California.
The Republicans allege Newsom's decision to provide voters with mail-in ballots is unconstitutional and could lead to voter fraud.
In their complaint, the groups called the Democrat governor's action an illegal "usurpation of the legislature's authority."
Read more
- Hallelujah, Father God! It's high time for some people to get strong and tough against these schemes to destroy our nation. May these plans for mail-in ballots and ballot harvesting all be defeated and destroyed by Your mighty hand upon California and any other state considering such unconstitutional activities that lend themselves to voter fraud.
- "And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you." (John 16:23)
5. Trump's struggles to stand still didn't go unnoticed during Memorial Day visit to Arlington - NY Daily News
President Trump's struggles to stand still during a Memorial Day visit to Arlington National Cemetery lit up social media Monday, prompting users to recall past incidents in which the commander in chief, who turns 74 next month, battled to find a balance.
"Is the President having trouble standing up straight as the National Anthem begins at Arlington Cemetary (sic) or am I seeing things?" Joshua Potash from Queens asked on Twitter.
The Trump critic posted that video, along with another clearly showing the president swaying in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Read more
- Father, we pray for stability for President Trump. Let his physical body be strong, secure and balanced. Likewise, may his spirit and soul be also steady and stabilized by your Holy Spirit holding him very close. Bring everything into complete order, in Jesus name.
- "He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock." (Luke 6:48)
6. Trump Threatens to Move Republican National Convention From North Carolina - Newsmax
President Donald Trump threatened Monday to pull the Republican National Convention out of North Carolina if the state's Democratic governor doesn't immediately sign off on allowing a full-capacity gathering in August despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Trump's tweets about the RNC, planned for Charlotte, come just two days after North Carolina recorded its largest daily increase in positive cases yet.
On Friday, Gov. Roy Cooper moved the state into a second phase of gradual reopening by loosening restrictions on hair salons, barbers and restaurants. But he said the state must continue to closely watch virus trends and has ordered indoor entertainment venues, gyms and bars to remain closed for several more weeks.
Read more
- Holy One, please watch over the citizens of the states that are still closed down and help this decision making process to move forward quickly. We pray that by convention time, the virus in this nation will be ashes under our feet and there will no longer be motive for fear to hold sway over our people.
- "And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine will burst the wineskins and be spilled, and the wineskins will be ruined." (Luke 5:37)
7. Trump Says Grenell's Work Could Soon Give Him a Chance To 'Break' the Deep State - WND
In a new interview, President Donald Trump outlined the challenge of his presidency in stark terms as the best chance the nation has to break the stranglehold of powerful insiders on the business of government. Trump's willingness to battle what is known as the "deep state" came to the fore in an interview aired Sunday by the syndicated news show "Full Measure."
During the interview, journalist Sharyl Atkisson brought up recent actions by acting Director of National Intelligence Richard Grennell to make public information about the early days of the investigations into the Trump presidential campaign by America's intelligence community. "Richard Grenell is a superstar. He had guts, he had courage to do what he did. We have another superstar going in as you know, John Ratcliffe. He just got approved yesterday and he'll be taking over as of Tuesday," Trump said.
"Richard Grenell has done one of the best jobs I've ever seen. I mean, in a short period of time, he exposed them as being corrupt. Look, they were trying to do a takedown of the president of the United States illegally. It's all illegal. Now, I don't know what happens. We hope [Attorney General] Bill Barr is going to be as good as we think because Bill, he's a great gentleman, a great man. He's got to hopefully use that information and do what's right. And he'll do what's right. Bill Barr will do what's right, but what Richard Grenell has done for this country is incredible," Trump said.
Read more
- Oh Lord -- our entire nation is rejoicing over the courageous moves of Richard Grenell, during his too short tenure as acting DNI. May the consequences of his actions result in justice being released in the government. We ask also Lord that his boldness would lead him to inquire of you and meet you as his Lord and Savior. May he also continue to walk in agreement with our president, in Jesus' name. Amen.
- "Seek good and not evil, That you may live; So the Lord God of hosts will be with you, As you have spoken. Hate evil, love good; Establish justice in the gate . . . " (Amos 5:14-15a)
8. Poll: Up to 94 Percent of Americans Want Economic Nationalist Overhaul in Wake of Chinese Coronavirus Crisis - Breitbart
A survey conducted by FTI Consulting finds that American voters overwhelmingly want economic nationalist policies implemented - including more tariffs on foreign imports, mandatory country-of-origin labeling, and a requirement that goods be made in the U.S.
In total, about 66 percent of Americans support increasing tariffs on foreign imports while only 34 percent want more free trade agreements between the U.S. and other countries. Likewise, 76 percent of Americans said they are willing to pay 5 percent to 100 percent more for U.S.-made products over products made overseas. Just 24 percent said they are not willing to pay more money for U.S.-made products.
The poll shows that Americans are increasingly growing tired of their goods being made in China.
Read more
- Father, we ask that all products be made/sourced/grown here in the U.S., wherever possible. May our government and leaders in manufacturing hear the voice of our people and move to restore quality manufacturing, and jobs that restore the dignity of American workers through sane, common sense policies, incentives and regulations. In Jesus' name, amen.
- "For I know what I have planned for you, says the LORD. I have plans to prosper you, not to harm you. I have plans to give you a future filled with hope." (Jeremiah 29:11)
9. CDC's Latest 'Best Estimate' of COVID Death Rate Is 13 Times Lower Than Initial WHO Claim - Western Journal
On March 3, in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, World Health Organization director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus made a remark during a media briefing that guided how we viewed the threat posed by the novel coronavirus.
"COVID-19 is a new virus to which no one has immunity. That means more people are susceptible to infection, and some will suffer severe disease," He said.
Yet, according to statistics "based on data received by CDC prior to 4/29/2020," the death rate from COVID-19 could be as low as 0.26 percent. The numbers are based on the newest of "five COVID-19 Pandemic Planning Scenarios that are designed to help inform decisions by modelers and public health officials who utilize mathematical modeling," the CDC said.
If there's a disease that spreads rapidly and has a death rate of 2 or 3 percent, yes, locking down the populace is a reasonable reaction.
If we're talking about something closer to 0.26 percent, putting the world into a new Great Depression seems a bit of an overreaction.
Read more
- Father, we are so grateful the number of deaths was much lower than originally projected. We choose to forgive those who may have ignorantly or deliberately projected much higher numbers that led to devastating consequences, socially and economically. We ask that You make this travesty work for good. Please grant much wisdom to our President and his staff. May You reveal any manipulation/deception behind the scenes at WHO or elsewhere. In Jesus' name.
- "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)
10. Devin Nunes: Republicans expanding investigation into Mueller team - Washington Examiner
Rep. Devin Nunes, the ranking member on the House Intelligence Committee, said fresh criminal referrals are imminent as more people come forward with information about what Trump allies view to have been a plot to undermine the president.
"We've also expanded our investigation into the Mueller team and everything that happened with Mueller and the people at DOJ and FBI that were above Mueller. And so, we will be making criminal referrals in the coming weeks against the Mueller team...."
Nunes says Mueller should have shut down his investigation right away, arguing that the former FBI director knew from the day he became special counsel in May 2017 that there was no coordination between the Trump campaign and the Kremlin.
Read more
- Abba, we would like to see justice quickly served for all who schemed to bring down President Trump, as well as other swamp-dwellers guilty of sinister plots now and in the past. May justice be served and mercy be released as You see fit, when You see fit, Father. Forgive our impatience, and show us where the sins of the Church are holding back Your cleansing and healing. Enable us to repent by Your grace, mercy and power. In Jesus' name, amen.
- "Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor His ear too dull to hear. But your iniquities have built barriers between you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear." (Isaiah 59:2)
The Daily Jot
Wednesday, May 27, 2020
Trading freedom for fear
As we view the COVID-19 situation, we do not need conspiracy theories to bolster concerns about the curtailing of freedom. We just need to look at the facts before us. In no time in history has this nation been shut down for a flu. Since March 15, all people-carriers, the sick, the well-have been essentially locked down. It has changed our lives. The facts are that state governments, especially those with Democratic governors, have, in the very least, temporarily taken away freedoms. Fear has ruled over the hearts of many and still does. The question we must ask as Americans is: "How much freedom are we willing to trade for fear?"
The Centers for Disease Control, in its latest model has lowered death estimates and infection rates. In fact, the latest CDC statistics indicate fatality rates at 4 per 1,000, down from previous estimates of 10 per thousand-and those were estimated on data compiled before April 29, a month ago. Given the CDC infection rate vs fatality rates, the actual figure is less than 3 per 1,000, and this is 13 times lower than World Health Organization predictions. In other words, less that ¼ of 1% of Americans are dying from this pandemic. One death is one too many, but based on facts has there been an over-reaction? Perspective: In 1918, for example, a worldwide flu epidemic attacked about 20% of the global population, leaving 675,000 deaths in the US-nearly 7 people per 1,000.
There are many news reports indicating that death tolls for this pandemic have been inflated, especially for states to money grab from federal government relief efforts. There are also reports saying the death estimates are too low. There are reports that the CDC's latest estimates are politically motivated. There are reports that Democratic governors, in collaboration with the Democratic National Committee, are purposely keeping lockdowns in place as long as possible to scuttle the economy in hope that President Trump can be defeated in November. More reports reveal another agenda: to put in place substantial socialist programs that expand government and its authority over citizens like you and me.
There are no sunset provisions in these new laws and regulations that are being passed at the state and federal levels. At some point, just based on the facts-not wild-eyed conspiracy theories-Americans need to decide how much freedom they are willing to trade for their fears. We are at a turning point in our Constitutional Republic. Freedom is difficult because it takes vigilant responsibility and constant care to preserve as people are always trying to take it away. Fear is often a lever to pry open the protective vault of liberty. As Christians, we are not to be swayed by silly doctrines and ear tickling. As in 2 Timothy 1:7, "For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love and of a sound mind." We, above all, should not be trading freedom for fear.
An Exciting Event on Capitol Hill!
Alabaster House Virtual Exclusive Equipping Event (EEE)
Tuesday, June 2, 2020
10:15 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. ET
What is Alabaster House?
Welcome to Alabaster House, a ministry to government leaders. We hope you will join us in making a difference in the lives of our elected officials and their families.
The mission of Alabaster House is to provide spiritual resources to government leaders in our nation's capital through confidential prayer, biblical devotionals, and friendship.
Most leaders in Washington, D.C. have substantial workloads, coupled with significant time away from family and home. This creates great strain on their lives emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
Alabaster House is an encouragement to those serving in government.
> > > To learn more about the ministry of the Alabaster House, please visit their website by going here.
What is the EEE?
The EEE is an immersive one-day virtual workshop with Members of Congress, congressional spouses, and government leaders. Participants will receive an insider perspective directly from elected leaders and their families.
Experience the behind the scenes reality of the extraordinary ways God is moving in our government.
Participants will gain insight, pray for, and hear from Members of Congress and congressional spouses.
Featuring keynote interviews with Members of Congress and congressional spouses.
Access to key prayer resources for ministry to government leaders.
Invitation to private Alabaster House congressional Facebook group.
> > > You can learn how to register for this event, to be held next Tuesday, June 2, by going here.
(A registration fee is required . . .)
Please note:
Due to COVID-19, rather than go directly to Capitol Hill, Alabaster House will offer the EEE online. We cannot wait to virtually introduce you to some of these fabulous government leaders. This will truly be an amazing event you won't want to miss!
Prayers for the Persecuted Church
"Remember the prisoners, as though in prison with them, and those who are ill-treated, since you yourselves also are in the body." (Hebrews 13:3)
Please visit the website for International Christian Concern to lift up prayers for the persecuted around the world, every day. Their link is: www.persecution.org -- or go here to connect. Thank you for interceding for our brothers and sisters who are suffering in Asia, the Islamic World, and the Far East.
A Classic Hymn
Classic Hymns
IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL
- "Praise the Lord, O my soul." (Psalm 146:1)
Lyrics
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
Refrain:
It is well with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul.
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.
My sin-oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!-
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.
But, Lord, 'tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord!
Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul!
And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.
Melody
Please go here.
About the Author:
Words: Horatio G. Spafford & Ira Sankey, 1876.
Melody: Scott Werdebaugh, 2019
About the Hymn:
> > > Please be blessed as you read about the story behind the writing of this moving hymn.
When Mr. [Dwight L.] Moody and I were holding meetings in Edinburgh, in 1874, we heard the sad news of the loss of the French steamer, "Ville de Havre," on her return from America to France, with a large number of members of the Ecumenical Council, whose meetings had been held in Philadelphia [Pennsylvania]. On board the steamer was a Mrs. Spafford, with her four children.
In mid-ocean a collision took place with a large sailing vessel, causing the steamer to sink in half an hour. Nearly all on board were lost. Mrs. Spafford got her children out of their berths and up on deck.
On being told that the vessel would soon sink, she knelt down with her children in prayer, asking God that they might be saved if possible; or be made willing to die, if that was His will.
In a few minutes the vessel sank to the bottom of the sea, and the children were lost. One of the sailors of the vessel, named Lockurn-whom I afterward met in Scotland-while rowing over the spot where the vessel disappeared, discovered Mrs. Spafford floating in the water.
Ten days later she was landed at Cardiff, Wales. From there she cabled to her husband, a lawyer in Chicago [Illinois], the message "Saved alone."
Mr. Spafford, who was a Christian, had the message framed and hung up in his office. He started for England immediately to bring his wife to Chicago.
Mr. Moody left his meetings in Edinburgh and went to Liverpool to try to comfort the bereaved parents, and was greatly pleased to find that they were able to say, "It is well; the will of God be done."
In 1876, when we returned to Chicago to work, I was entertained at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Spafford for a number of weeks. During that time Mr. Spafford wrote the hymn, It is well with my soul, in commemoration of the death of his children. P. P. Bliss composed the music and sang it for the first time at a meeting in Farwell Hall.
The comforting fact in connection with this incident was that in one of our small meetings in North Chicago, a short time prior to their sailing for Europe, the children had been converted.
This hymn was heard by a gentleman who had suffered great financial reverses in the panic of 1899, and who was in the deepest despondency.
When he learned the story of the hymn he exclaimed: "If Spafford could write such a beautiful resignation hymn I will never complain again."
Signs and Wonders
Signs and Wonders
The Black Hole at the Center of the Milky Way Acting Strange; Sending a Celestial "Winking" Signal At the Earth
The enormous black hole at the center of our galaxy is acting in an increasingly unusual manner, making stars dance around it and blinking in our direction. One rabbi noted that in their quest for answers to the mysteries of the stars, scientists are finally coming closer to what is explicitly written in the Bible. SGR A*: HUGE, POWERFUL, AND ACTING IN UNEXPECTED MANNERS At the center of our galaxy, 26,000 light-years away, is a supermassive black hole known as Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*), which is four million times as massive as the Sun. Because the black hole is so massive, even light cannot escape Sgr A*making it impossible for scientists to observe it directly but by observing the blackhole's interactions with bright stars or dust clouds that surround it scientists can understand what is happening with Sgr A*.
On the night of May 13, 2019, UCLA astronomer Tuan Do was observing Sgr A* from the Keck Telescope on Mauna Kea in Hawaii. In a span of just two hours, the black hole became 75 times brighter in the near-infrared band of the light spectrum. . .
The flareup was exceptional. In the 20 years since astronomers have monitored Sgr A*, the next-brightest event has only been half as dazzling as this one. Astronomers had several suggestions as to what may have caused it (close encounters with other astral objects, passing dust clouds) but they are still unsure.
(Breaking Israel News) Read more.
"I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke." (Acts 2:19)
"I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke." (Acts 2:19)
Good News Corner
The Good News Corner
The Redeemed Life of Ravi Zacharias:
How a Skeptic Became a Leading Voice for Christianity
"At the core of the Christian faith is the grace of God. If there's one word I would grab from all of that it's forgiveness, that you can be forgiven, that I can be forgiven and it's the grace of God." - Ravi Zacharias
Well-known author, evangelist, and Christian apologist Ravi Zacharias died Monday morning at his home in Atlanta, following a brief battle with bone cancer. He was 74. Zacharias was a 17-year-old skeptic-an unbeliever, recovering from a suicide attempt-when he heard the words of Jesus in John 14:19: "Because I live, you also will live."
The truth of Scripture gave Zacharias hope and he gave his life to Christ, promising to leave no stone unturned in his pursuit of truth.
The declaration of Christ in John 14-"I am the way, the truth and the life"-became the cornerstone of Zacharias's ultimate mission as a Christian apologist and evangelist: to present and defend the truth of Jesus Christ that others may find life in Him. (Breaking Christian News/CBN) Read more.
About CHPP
About Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
Our Mission Statement
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners (CHPP) is a ministry which is positioned on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., helping members of the Body of Christ to "pray for those in authority over us" in our federal government. Our primary purpose is to offer intercession on site for the members of Congress and their staffs each day that the Senate and the House of Representatives are in session; and our chief prayer focus is that "God's will be done in earth, as it is in heaven." [Matthew 6:10].
Because Jesus Christ has shed His blood for all, we, too, pray for ALL, in a nonpartisan manner. Also, because the scriptures indicate that "the effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much" (James 4:17), we are confident that fervent prayer, offered in the halls of the highest chambers of government in our land, can avail much for America. Capitol Hill Prayer Partners welcomes those who feel called to join us, engaging in this strategic work of intercession for our nation: "For there is no power but of God; the powers that be are ordained of God." [Romans 13:1]
HOW TO SUBSCRIBE
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners welcomes all who wish to pray for our leaders to join us in prayer for our nation. You may sign up to receive our alerts by sending an email to us at info@capitolhillprayer.org requesting that your name be added to our list of subscribers.
We Welcome Your Gifts
We Welcome Your Gifts
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners (CHPP) is a 501(c)(3), tax- exempt, faith-based, ministry, dedicated to praying for our leaders (1 Tim. 2:1-4). CHPP relies solely on the gifts of our readers to continue this work; thus we greatly appreciate your help in supporting this publication. Offerings may be sent to: Capitol Hill Prayer Partners, P.O. Box 5152, Herndon, VA 20172-1970. Please make checks payable to: CHPP. THANK YOU!
DONATE ONLINE!
Now you can also donate online by going here. Or . . . if you prefer, simply paste this link into your browser to access our secure online donor system:
https://www.egsnetwork.com/gift/gift.php?giftid=3B77E058-983E-4415-AA4E-2F82ED1A4DEA#
"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit." (Philippians 4:23)
Election 2020
Countdown to the 2020 Election
. . . DID YOU KNOW???
Our CHPP website features an indepth analysis of this year's election, which is updated daily!
You can find the link to that resource by going here.
We do want to recognize the IVOTE ministry for their work, and for allowing us to feature this valuable resource on our own website.
And you can find much, much more to pray over by visiting our own website at;
http://www.capitolhillprayer.org
"When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn." (Proverbs 29:2)
Reading the Bible Together
WELCOME TO OUR BIBLE READATHON!
"For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea." (Habakkuk 2:14)
> > > Reading the Word of God over our nation, six nights per week!! ALL NIGHT LONG!
We are now reading the Word of God every night (except on Sunday mornings) from midnight to 6:00 a.m. EDT. We are reading through the whole Word, from Genesis to Revelation, and beginning again in Genesis when finished. [As of this writing, over the past three years, we have now "read through" the entire Word of God sixty-five times, nonstop. Hallelujah!]
Our numbers of readers continues to grow over time. All are welcome to join, as we use "the weapons of OUR warfare" to confront our enemy and BRING HIM DOWN through the LOVE of our Messiah and, by faith, setting captives free!
Our conference number is: 712-432-0075. The access code is: 206425#.
Please call at any time from midnight to 6:00 a.m. EST! EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO JOIN OUR "WARFARE IN THE NIGHT", USING THE WEAPON OF HIS WARFARE - THE WORD OF GOD!
"For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12)
> > > A footnote: 2020 has been declared "the Year of the Bible."
Hallelujah!!
Please join us as, together, we "soak the very atmosphere of our nation" in the WORD OF GOD!
In closing, let us decree together that . . .
"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Psalm 119:105)
AMEN!!
Reminder!
Our conference number is: 712-432-0075.
The access code is: 206425#.
And . . . once again . . . welcome!
Sara Ballenger, President
Janet Dibble, Bible Readathon Coordinator
Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
Time to Repent
Time to Repent!
"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." (2 Peter 3:9)
