Pray For Leaders

Our vitally important message for this week is to persevere in prayers for the leaders in the United States and Israel regarding the volatile situation in Syria. However, we need to look at the truth of what is really happening in Syria.

Syria is experiencing a civil war with a number of factions wanting to be in control. The Assad government, which has murdered 100,000 of its own people over 30 months, is backed by Iran and Hezbollah. Those trying to overthrow this government are referred to as rebels and are backed by Al-Qaida. However, this conflict is affecting almost the whole Middle East. Saudi Arabia's military is on high alert, Jordan has United States troops on its borders, Iraq and Lebanon feel threatened.

Complicating the picture even further, the United States is considering getting militarily involved. President Obama until this past weekend was ready for United States involvement but now wants input from Congress. Only 20% of the United States citizens feel this is appropriate. What is the motivation for the United States government to even consider getting involved? After all, our military does not have a very good record when getting involved in civil wars - Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, etc.

Last, but certainly not least, how is all this affecting Israel? Iran and Syria have threatened to attack Israel if Syria is attacked by the United States. Israeli Defense Forces are on high alert, 60% of Israelis have gas masks, and school children can purchase unique back packs that will convert to a miniature shelter during an attack. Iron Domes are in Haifa, Netanya and also Tel Aviv. Israeli Defense Minister Ya'Alon recently said "Our eyes are on developments in the north."

Yes, we need to pray feverently for the leaders especially in the United States so they will react to Godly Wisdom concerning how to react to the situation in Syria. However, let us also pray for those living in Israel that they will turn to God's Word for comfort. Isaiah 51 provides much comfort to God's people in Israel when it says in verses 12 and 22 the following: "I, even I, am He who comforts you. Who are you that you should be afraid. . .thus says your Lord, The Lord and your God. . .see, I have taken out of your hand the cup of trembling, the dregs of the cup of my fury; you shall no longer drink it. But I will put it into the hand of those who afflict you."

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You In His Care This Day And Each Day,

Frank