President-elect Trump is a true friend of Israel and I look forward to working with him to advance security, stability and peace in our region. I am confident President-elect Trump and I will continue to strengthen the alliance between our two countries and bring it to greater heights. The ironclad bond between the U.S. and Israel is rooted in shared values, buttressed by shared interests, and driven by a shared destiny.
~Benjamin Netanyahu

Led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, several Israeli leaders congratulated Donald Trump on his American presidential election victory, and expressed hope in strengthening the relationship between Israel and America.  Let’s pray that is the case!  Here are the Prime Minister’s remarks:

In addition to Netanyahu, congratulatory remarks were received from Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Tzipi Hotovely, Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein and many other officials.

Another notable world leader, Russian President Vladimir Putin, sent a congratulatory telegram to Donald Trump and indicated Russia is ready to restore relations with the US.  I suspect Putin is testing the waters to see if Trump will be as absent in leadership as the current administration.  How the US deals with Russia will be very important in coming months.

Finally, here at home both Hillary Clinton and President Obama offered encouraging words in their congratulatory speeches to Donald Trump.  Hillary Clinton implored everyone to have an open mind and give Trump an opportunity to lead, while Obama expressed the need for us all to be Americans first and work together for the good of the country.  Even some Republicans who distanced themselves from Trump prior to the election are showing signs of desiring that everyone works toward the same goal.

It’s the honeymoon phase following a very contentious election season.  However, I want to hold out hope that the Lord will move and shake among His followers, and that the impact will be felt in our nation, our states, our cities and our homes.  Whether it is simply relief that the election is finally over, or there truly is a spirit of reconciliation, let’s pray that this trend continues.

Let’s pray, also, that America will strengthen its relationship with Israel.  One day, Israel will stand all alone.  Let’s not have that happen on our watch!