A Remnant
Scott Baker
Revelation 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
Hurricanes, financial collapses, partial Shariya law in Britain (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/2957428/Sharia-law-courts-operating-in-Britain.html)? Now days, there is only one place to be: "hidden in Messiah with God" (Col.3:3).
Paul McCartney has just earned his title of "Sir" in many Israelis' opinions. Not that he is the perfect role model, but I believe Paul McCartney deserves some credit for not cowering and bowing down to the rabid Islamofascist spirit of our age. There was a recent article in Ynet news in Israel regarding Paul McCartney's coming to Israel, entitled: "McCartney defies Muslim threats, show to go on" - http://www.ynet.co.il/english/articles/0,7340,L-3596537,00.html
In the article, it states that Radical Islamist speaker Omar Bakri Muhammad (living in Lebanon), a Syrian born orator, defined by CNN News as a friend of al-Qaeda, was excommunicated from the UK and now operates out of Lebanon, where he broadcasts hate-filled Jewish sermons over the internet, and claims the next 9/11 will be in Britain.
In an interview with the British tabloid 'Sunday Express' Bakri said, “If he values his life Mr. McCartney must not come to Israel. He will not be safe there. The sacrifice operatives will be waiting for him.” The self-proclaimed preacher added that “instead of supporting the people of Palestine in their suffering, McCartney is celebrating the atrocities of the occupiers. The one who is under occupation is supposed to be getting the help. He further went on to say, “And so I believe for Paul McCartney, what he is doing really is creating more enemies than friends.”
Listen to those peaceful veiled threats. Something sounds completely amiss in the logic of this argument: "the atrocities of the occupiers"...Who is threatening whom? It reminds me of the euphemism, when someone was being intimidated by a person with Mafia-like connections, he exclaimed, "This is extortion!", and the Mafia-type guy calmly replied, "Don't ever use the word 'extortion' again...if you do, I'll have your legs broken."
I was watching a link someone sent me of the first few minutes of the City Council meeting of Colorado Springs. http://www.springsgov.com/instantitems/formal/
As many people know, this city is saturated by prayer, ministries, and believers. So much so, that it has effected the public government ministries and meetings. If you watch the first few minutes of this link, I think you will see what happens when a community (or nation) becomes saturated with prayer and the presence of God. What I saw gives me great hope for America and other nations, that there is still a believing remnant alive and well in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. We don't need to give in to the evil and wickedness that is around us. But we are told in Phil. 2:15 - that we are "to shine as lights in the world." We need to rise up as a voice and speak out against unjustness and oppression, and declare God's will on this earth, until He comes. Look at the righteousness that exists in South Korea...We declare in the name of Yeshua, that the walls of North Korea will come down, and the evil regime of Kim Jong-il is fading away, and millions of North Koreans will be discipled by South Koreans. (Isaiah 49:24, 25)
I know that many people are foaming at the mouth, and chomping on the bit to see judgment on America...sadly, many believers too. But I tell you this, that though America may slip, she will not fall headlong. What can be said at this time for Israel, can also be said for America (and many other nations as well): "Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace." (Romans 11:5)
When presidential candidate John McCain was asked snobbishly by interviewer Woodruff at the presidential forum at Columbia University (where Obama did not debate with him together, although McCain insisted they should), "Do you think America is better than all of the other nations"...John McCain said without a moment's hesitation, "I don't think we are better, we are exceptional." He went on to say that he believes in the America that was founded by our founding fathers. With no disrespect to any other nation, and not trying to in any way denigrate any other country...But the thing that makes America exceptional is that wave after wave of people come to America for the same reason - they want to build a better life, they wanted freedom and they want to be part of America.
I agree that America has in no way been perfect, but has abused its power. But with that power is also great potential, more than any other nation at this present time. And when I see that amazing beginning to a Colorado Springs City Council Meeting in a major US city, (or any other nations and countries where prayer and intercession are rising 24/7) - and how the prayers and intercession of the righteous have made an impact, effecting even the world around - I am encouraged not to give in or give up hope as many have. But rather than growing weary with well-doing - let us gladly continue to pray and intercede, and endure to the end...declaring with many others, "Yes Lord, when you return, YOU WILL find Faith here on this EARTH!" "YOU WILL FIND IT IN ME!"
Both John McCain and Sarah Palin have taken the righteous stand against abortion, and they pledge they will not allow it on their watch. I believe that God is giving America a chance, and I pray that there are enough righteous Americans left who have not resigned to the evil of our day and age, who will make the right decision.
Proverbs 14:34 says, "Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people." - God we pray and ask your forgiveness for the wickedness that exists in this world, we ask for mercy rather than judgment, and for righteousness for the government of Israel, and America - that you God will be merciful in the choice of the next administration - not giving us what we deserve, but giving to us according to your mercy. (And pray for the government where you live.)...and for us, the remnant to live our lives hidden in you, in righteousness all over the world. In Yeshua's name...Amen!
Jeremiah 31: [7] For thus saith the LORD; Sing with gladness for Jacob, and shout among the chief of the nations: publish ye, praise ye, and say, O LORD, save thy people, the remnant of Israel. Plagued by the darkness that exists around us...many Jews are beginning to become introspective and look for answers to the evil that is around them: http://www.ynet.co.il/english/articles/0,7340,L-3596575,00.html Keep praying for the Jewish people, that they will recognize their Messiah Yeshua.