Some Good - Some Bad

Possibly you are thinking that the title of our message this week is unique. Yes, it is! However, our message will totally deal with some of the bad and some of the good messages coming out of Israel. Let us deal with the bad news first.

In preparation for the January 27th International Holocaust Memorial Day, the government of Israel shared a report of world wide anti-semitism in 2015. The boycott of Israeli products in Europe has gained strength and now they are even boycotting Jewish events. The majority of Jewish students in United States colleges have witnessed or experienced anti-semitism. In London there has been a 61% rise in crime against Jewish residents. Half of European Union residents believe that Israel is trying to destroy the Palestinians. In Russia, anti-semitism is allowed to grow without control from the government. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has stated, "It is unacceptable that seventy years after the Holocaust anti-semitism is still in full swing."

Now, for the good news! Last week, we reported there has been positive contacts between Israel and some Sunni Arab States. Netanyahu believes this could actually resolve the Israel Palestinian conflict. Saudi Arabia is beginning to see Israel as an ally since they are seeking relationships with those who can help them with the threat of Iran. 

Additionally, Egypt has returned its ambassador to Tel Aviv and Jordanian pilots have recently trained with Israeli pilots during military exercises. Even Turkey and Sudan are working toward normalizing relations with Israel. In response to all this, Netanyahu recently said, "When Arab and Israelis agree it is worth paying attention."

The reports of increased anti-semitism is a reminder for all of us to keep praying for God's protection in Israel and throughout the world. I view this as a responsibility, not as an option. (Psalm 122:6) The reports of contacts between Israel and moderate Arab countries is definitely prophetic. Isaiah 19:19, 23, 24, 25 state, "In that day there will be an altar to The Lord in the midst of the land of Egypt and a pillar to The Lord at its border. In that day there will be a highway from Egypt to Assyria and the Assyrian will come into Egypt and the Egyptian into Assyria and the Egyptians will serve with the Assyrians. In that day Israel will be one of three with Egypt and Assyria, even a blessing in the midst of the land, whom The Lord of hosts will bless, saying, 'Blessed is Egypt My people, and Assyria the work of My hands and Israel My inheritance.'" 

The day is coming when Egypt will know and serve The Lord and will worship Him with Israel, Saudi Arabia and Iraq. We live in exciting and very prophetic times. Praise The Lord!

May The Lord Bless You And Keep You This Day And Each Day,

Frank