Given what we see in the Middle East today, is there any hope for peace?
I think you need to hear the message of Amir Tsarfati who provided a Middle East update, then addressed that very question. This message is vital and needs to be heard, so I encourage you to schedule some time (an hour) to watch and hear the message, then pass it along to others. You will be encouraged!
Shalom!
…and they are living securely…land of unwalled villages…those who are at rest, that live securely, all of them living without walls and having no bars or gates…My people Israel are living securely…
~Ezekiel 38:8, 11, 14
Notice how the prophet Ezekiel describes Israel in the days leading up to the invasion from the north, known as the War of Gog and Magog. Clearly, Israel will be living in safety and security.
Long-time friends of mine have just arrived in Israel, but not before we talked over dinner a few nights ago. I was asked the most common question about Israel: “Is it safe?” I answered as I always do, with a resounding “yes,” then got the typical, “Are you sure?” look! (Of course I’m sure!)
It is true that Israel has a low crime rate, and I feel as safe (if not more so) walking the streets of Jerusalem as I do walking the streets of American cities. While some accept that fact, many can’t get beyond the thought that Israel is being targeted (and at times fired upon) by enemies who desire to destroy her. That was the concern of my friends who were undoubtedly excited about going to Israel, but somewhat anxious about their safety.
So, is it safe?
That question goes beyond simply our limited view through human eyes. One must understand God’s promises both to Israel and to us as believers. There is a spiritual element that is best explained in a recent report by Amir Tsarfati from the Golan Heights. Just a mere stone’s throw from the Israeli-Syrian border, one might think the Golan Heights would be particularly dangerous. Yet, there is Amir, safely leading a tour group in that very place!
“But wait!” you say. “Isn’t the Israeli Air Force engaged in conflict with Iranian forces in Syria right now?” Ahhhh…yes! Indeed there is conflict in Syria, but that is specifically the point! Israel is safe and secure because Israel has drawn “red lines” regarding what they will allow at their borders. Currently, Iran is no match for the IDF, thus Israel is well able to deflect conflict to Syrian territory rather than Israeli territory.
Would I go against the instructions of the IDF? No. If they say it isn’t safe to travel to the Golan Heights, I would not go there. However, Israel is calm and life continues as normal today because the IDF is doing its job. Moreover, as believers in Christ Jesus, we have nothing to fear! We, too, can live securely as our Savior and Protector is doing His job!
Settle in and tune in to Amir’s report! Then, decide for yourself if Israel is indeed living in safety and security…just as Ezekiel prophesied. You will be blessed!
PS: We’re heading into exciting days, so stay tuned! I hope to report from Washington DC in a few days, where I will attend a ceremony at the Israeli Embassy, linked by satellite to the festivities surrounding the opening of the US Embassy in Jerusalem!
Welcome to May, my friends! Could this month be one of the most historic ever? Perhaps it’s a far reach to say it will be, but the potential is certainly there for dramatic history to be made this month. Here is just a taste of what’s on the world stage as May marchs in:
So, what does it all mean, and should we as followers of Jesus Christ be concerned? Amir Tsarfati gave a recent update that covers all these bases much better than I can. If you’re wondering what the Korean peace deal as to do with the Middle East, you’ll find the answer. If you’re wondering about Israel’s preparedness for all that is swirling around her, you’ll find the answer. More importantly, if you’re wondering how to view these events through the lens of Scripture, you’ll find the answer!
Take some time to understand the times and seasons in which we live. It is critical if we are to be prepared for our Lord’s return. Enjoy!
PS: Tomorrow is the first Wednesday of the month, which means the designated day of prayer for those of you involved in the Isaiah 62 Prayer Initiative. Check back tomorrow for specific prayer points. Also, I’ve invited others to join me in prayer for President Trump and other world leaders leading up to the May 12 decision regarding the Iranian nuclear deal. There are plenty of opportunities to pray and I urge you to be faithful in that. The battle is not won in the physical realm, but in the spiritual realm. Let’s fight the battle!
It is nightfall in Israel and Israelis are honoring their fallen soldiers and terrorist victims. Yom HaZikaron is similar to Memorial Day in the United States, and there will be moments of silence when everything in Israel comes to a halt (as it did on Yom HaShoah) in order to remember the lives that were lost.
Israel has been entwined in conflict since its re-birth in 1948. (Israelis celebrate independence day beginning at sundown tomorrow.) For a fantastic look at Israel’s wars (and how God has protected them), I highly recommend Amir Tsarfati’s teachings on the wars of Israel. It is a two-part teaching (each about 30-minutes in length). Enjoy!
