Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, attended a 4th of July celebration at the US Embassy in Tel Aviv, Israel on Thursday, where he gave a very upbeat speech about the similarities and the commitment between the US and Israel.  Despite clear and significant disagreements with the American administration, Netanyahu has been consistently thankful to the United States for its partnership, friendship and support of Israel.

During my first trip to Israel in 2008, a popular T-shirt in tourist areas was one that pictured an Israeli F-16 fighter jet, and the words, “Don’t worry America.  Israel has got your back!”  It drew friendly snickers, as everyone “knew” that it was the US who was the world power, defending Israel.  Looking back, I wonder if that popular T-shirt was prophetic!  In my mind, that statement would no longer draw snickers, but a pause in thought as I look back over the years since I first saw that T-shirt, and realize that Israel is fully capable of defending herself!

Indeed, as we see the US losing world respect by the day, and seeing our military being decimated by budget cuts while spending grows rampant in other areas, I have to wonder where the “power” lies in the relationship with Israel.  Militarily, Israel has been preparing for several years to “go it alone,” sensing that no other western ally will stand with them when push comes to shove in the Middle East.  That is proving true…and it is proving prophetic!

So, perhaps I read Netanyahu’s speech and his commitment to the United States with a different perspective than some.  In light of Bible prophecy (particularly Genesis 12:3 and Joel 3:2), read the speech for yourself and come to your own conclusions.  Whether or not our conclusions are the same, I hope we are in agreement that it is a worthy (and Biblical!) thing to stand strongly with Israel!

As we celebrate Independence Day in America tomorrow, may God bless the USA…and may God bless Israel!