The Daily Brief: Wednesday, May 24, 2017

                                                    The Daily Brief: Wednesday, May 24, 2017

1. Pope Francis, Donald Trump to Seek Common Ground at Vatican - Wall Street Journal

When President Donald Trump visits Pope Francis on Wednesday, at the halfway point of a trip the White House has cast as a pilgrimage of peace, the two leaders will have a chance to reset an acrimonious public relationship.

Yet the two men, famously divided on the pope's signature issues of migration and climate change, could struggle to find significant areas of agreement. As of last week, representatives of the White House and the Vatican working on the agenda for the meeting had found few common policy priorities, according to someone familiar with the preparations. (Read more)
- Father, we pray You would use all the meetings during this trip to shift opinion about President Trump. We pray he will develop willing partners to resolve ongoing global problems, such as terrorism and migration.

- "Now let the nations and their rulers tremble before the Lord, before his glory." (Psalm 102:15)

2. Manchester terror attack suspect identified as Salman Abedi - Fox News

British authorities on Tuesday identified the suicide bomber who launched a deadly attack at a Manchester Ariana Grande concert, hours after the Islamic State terror group claimed responsibility for the blast. Salman Abedi, 22, was identified as the man who detonated an improvised explosive device at about 10:30 p.m. local time Monday, killing more than 20 people, some of them children, and injuring dozens more, Manchester police confirmed in a news conference on Tuesday. At least 12 children under the age of 16 were injured, emergency responders said. An 8-year-old girl was among the dead.

(Read more)
- Father, we pray for healing for the injured and comfort for the families of these precious ones. Lord, we ask that You would do a work in our entertainment industry - that they would "wake up" to the devastation of Islam and stop protecting and promoting the ideology that leaves people dead and injured.

- "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one." (John 17:15)

3. Here's What's in Trump's 'Taxpayers First' Federal Budget - The Daily Signal

The Trump administration will respect taxpayers, balance the budget, return the country to 3 percent economic growth, and push a parental leave requirement in its fiscal plan to be released Tuesday, said Office of Management and Budget Director Mick Mulvaney.

Mulvaney called it a "taxpayers first budget." "This budget was written through the eyes of the people paying for the budget, not through the eyes of who is getting paid," Mulvaney told reporters Monday during an off-camera briefing at the White House.

Mulavney elaborated that budget writers went line-by-line through the budget to see what programs had a success rate and what programs didn't. (Read more)
- Father, we pray this budget perspective, from the taxpayer's point of view, will be respected throughout the appropriation process. We pray the reforms of this budget will be implemented as soon as possible.

- "They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly. They share freely and give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will be remembered forever. They will have influence and honor." (Psalm 112:8-9)

4. DeVos Calls for 'Transformation' of America's 'Closed and Antiquated Education System' - CNS News

After 30 years of federal education "reform," too many students are still "falling through the cracks," Education Secretary Betsy DeVos told a policy summit in Indiana on Monday.

"The time has expired for 'reform,'" DeVos said. "We need a transformation - a transformation that will open up America's closed and antiquated education system." DeVos advocates school choice: "We must offer the widest number of quality options to every family and every child," she said. (Read more)
- Father, we pray the shackles of control will fall off our children and each one will fulfull their God-given potential and purpose. We pray Your blessing upon the modernization of our education system.

- "I will teach all your children, and they will enjoy great peace." (Isaiah 54:13)

5. Brennan: 'I Don't Know' If There Was Collusion - Daily Caller

Rep. Trey Gowdy (R-SC) grilled ex-CIA Chief John Brennan on evidence of US-Russia collusion, forcing Brennan to admit he doesn't actually know if there was any collusion.

Brennan is testifying in front of the House Intelligence Committee Tuesday about connections between the US and Russia.

Gowdy asked Brennan if he had seen any evidence of collusion, coordination, or conspiracy between Donald Trump and Russian actors.

Brennan responded that he had seen information about contacts between Russian and US actors that led him to believe the matter should be investigated further by the FBI, but declined to say whether or not he saw direct links between Trump and Russia. (Read more)
- Father, we pray You would bring to light anything that needs to be exposed and bring these time-consuming, distracting hearings to an end.

- "When one of them comes to see me, he speaks falsely, while his heart gathers slander; then he goes out and spreads it around." (Psalm 41:6)

6. Democratic Aide Suspected Of Major Security Breach Under Government Protection In Pakistan - Daily Caller

A criminal suspect in an investigation into a major security breach on the House of Representatives computer network has abruptly left the country and gone to Pakistan, where her family has significant assets and VIP-level protection, a relative and others told The Daily Caller News Foundation's Investigative Group.

Hina Alvi, her husband Imran Awan, and his brothers Abid and Jamal were highly paid shared IT administrators working for multiple House Democrats until their access to congressional IT systems was terminated Feb. 2 as a result of the investigation. Capitol Police confirmed the investigation is ongoing, but no arrests have been reported in the case. (Read more)
- Father, we pray all the facts will come out regarding security being compromised by the Democrats in Congress. We pray all the computers and information of our elected officials and government employees will be secure for the benefit of our nation and national security.

- "But he who listens to me shall live securely and will be at ease from the dread of evil." (Proverbs 1:33)

7. Muslims invade U.S. 'in the name of Allah' - WND

Paul Nehlen: Americans collecting big cash from feds to help with 'migrant' influx

The man who unsuccessfully challenged House Speaker Paul Ryan in a Republican primary last year is now releasing a documentary highlighting what he sees as a threat to the United States through a coordinated Muslim migration strategy.

Paul Nehlen is host of "Hijrah: Radical Islam's Global Invasion." He is also the author of the forthcoming book, "Wage the Battle."

Nehlen told WND and Radio America hijrah can refer to multiple ideas, ranging from leaving sin behind to Muhammad's journey from Mecca to Medina. However, he said Islamic texts clearly speak about strategic migration. "Hijrah means 'migration in the name of Allah,'" said Nehlen, who explained that the ultimate goal is to populate non-Muslim nations to the extent needed to impose Shariah law. (Read more)
- Father, we know many, if not most, of the Muslims coming here desire to change our nation into one that submits to Islam - but Your plan is bigger. We pray all these people will hear of the salvation found in Jesus and surrender their lives to You.

- "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)

8. Bill Protecting Faith-Based Adoption Agencies in Texas on Way to Governor's Desk - The Daily Signal

The Texas Senate early Monday passed a bill to allow faith-based adoption and foster care providers to operate based on their religious beliefs.

By a final vote of 21-10, state senators agreed with their counterparts in the Texas House of Representatives that society should continue to make room for adoption and foster care services associated with a religious tradition, whether Christian or Muslim.

Only one Democrat joined the Senate's 20 Republicans in voting for the bill. The remaining 10 voted against it.

In an interview Monday with The Daily Signal, state Rep. James Frank, a Republican who co-wrote the legislation, predicted that Texas Gov. Greg Abbott would sign it. (Read more)
- Father, we thank You for this legislation protecting the conscience rights of people in Texas. We pray this law will be upheld as Constitutional in the inevitable legal battle it faces in the future.

- "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:21)

9. BREAKING: Another Attack May Be "Imminent" - CNN

The UK raised its threat level to "critical" -- the top of its threat scale -- and British Prime Minister Theresa May warned that another attack "may be imminent" after the bombing at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester that killed 22. The raised threat level -- which hasn't been this high since 2007 -- means armed soldiers will be deployed to key sites around the country.

Police ID'd 22-year-old Salman Abedi as the suspected suicide bomber and made a few raids and at least four arrests. ISIS claimed responsibility for the atrocity but didn't offer any evidence.

The victims of the attack, many of them just children, were remembered at a vigil outside Manchester's city hall, where a defiant poet reminded residents that their city is more than just the site of a terror attack.

Grande, who tweeted that the attack had left her "broken," returned home to Florida after announcing she was postponing her current tour. (Read more)
- Father, we pray You foil any future attacks. Give insight into the plans of the enemy. We pray for Manchester, and for all of us who are susceptible to these acts of terror.

- "I shall also grant peace in the land so that you may lie down with no one making you tremble." (Leviticus 26:6)

10. Congress salutes Jerusalem Day - Israel National News

"It's such a special day, not only because we're able to enjoy the entire city, but because of the great miracle that occurred back then, when all forces of evil tried their best to destroy us," Oliner said. "Rabbi Goren prepared graves for those whom he expected to be mortally wounded."

"A miracle occurred between May 15 and June 6, we were able to destroy the entire air force of Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, and Syria. It was a great miracle. General Rabin came together with General Dayan. We were able to have Menachem Begin come together with Levi Eshkol.

"As a result of the unity that occurred then, fifty years later we celebrate together that great miracle, that extraordinary event that occurred.

"The more interesting thing is that today, we can only celebrate that event in one other capital in the world. On May 17th, we will be celebrating Yom Yerushalayim (Jerusalem Day) in Congress, for the first time.

"It's an extraordinary event, and it's extraordinarily important.

"It's the only place where we can come together and hear members of Congress speak about the reunification of Jerusalem.

"But the event takes on extreme importance because of the unity... The fact that it will be bipartisan. Every day we are adding another congressman. But in addition to being bipartisan...what's extremely important is that the entire Jewish community is coming together to celebrate at the same time. We're having 25 different Jewish organizations participate in the event.

"What's equally important is that we intend to pass a series of resolutions which demonstrate the importance of the freedom that has been achieved during this fifty-year period in Jerusalem, the fact that all religions can participate together and enjoy the celebration of that freedom.

"It is a reaffirmation of that freedom that we will be celebrating, that we are coming together in a unified fashion to celebrate and to give thanks for a great miracle." (Read more)
- Father, we are so grateful that our Congress has taken time yesterday to celebrate this amazing anniversary of the 50th year since Jerusalem was liberated and now stands as the capital city in Israel. We pray that, soon and in Your timing, our own embassy will, indeed, be moved to Jerusalem, honoring that great city, in Your name, amen.

- "I will bless those who bless you, And I will curse him who curses you; And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed." (Genesis 12:3)

The Daily Brief: Tuesday, May 23, 2017

The Daily Brief: Tuesday, May 23, 2017

1. BREAKING NEWS: Reports of up to 20 dead and many injured after two explosions in Manchester Arena at the end of Ariana Grande gig as bloodied teenage concert-goers flee to their waiting parents - Daily Mail

There have been reports of up to 20 dead and hundreds injured after explosions were heard inside Manchester Arena at the end of a teen concert tonight.

Video footage showed thousands of people fleeing in tears from the venue, many covered in blood, after the Ariana Grande concert finished.

Armed officers surrounded the venue and bloodied concertgoers were pictured being helped by emergency services outside the gig.

Evie Brewster, who attended the concert, told MailOnline: 'Ariana Grande had just finished her last song and left the stage when a huge explosion sounded. 'Suddenly everybody started screaming and running for the exit. (Read more)
- Father, we pray for all of these victims and their families. Let Your comfort surround them, Your peace fill them, and bring their hearts close to You. We ask for swift knowledge of the perpetrators and anyone who colluded with them be found.

- "You have delivered me from the violent man." (Psalm 18:48b)

2. Vice President Mike Pence praises free speech after some Notre Dame grads walk out - IndyStar

Vice President Mike Pence called Notre Dame a "vanguard of freedom of expression and the free exchange of ideas" during his commencement address on Sunday.

Pence's comments, though, were not heard by about 100 of the 3,171 graduates. As soon as the vice president and former Indiana governor stepped up to the podium - where he spent a chunk of his 15-minute address discussing his support for freedom of speech at universities - students quietly got up from their seats and left Notre Dame Stadium in protest of some of Pence's policy positions.

Pence bestowed his compliment upon the university "sadly, when free speech and civility are waning on campuses across America," he said. "Notre Dame is a campus where deliberation is welcomed, where opposing views are debated, and where every speaker, no matter how unpopular or unfashionable, is afforded the right to air their views in the open for all to hear." (Read more)
- Father, we can't conceive of the rudeness of these students to do this to the Vice President. We ask that You work strongly in their hearts to bring repentance from believing the lies that they have been told. We pray for this generation of Americans- that You will move among them, bringing truth to their minds and hearts.

- "Behold, You desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom." (Psalm 51:6)

3. As Leaks Pile Up, It's Evident Trump Is Under Attack From His Own Staff - Daily Caller

It's coming from inside the house. Throughout Trump's presidency and increasingly in the past few weeks, leaks from staff members to the press are undermining the president.

The New York Times reported Friday exact details of Trump's meeting last week with Russian officials. The report cited a document read to them by an "American official," which summarized the meeting. "I just fired the head of the F.B.I. He was crazy, a real nut job," Trump said, according to the report. The president then added, "I faced great pressure because of Russia. That's taken off." The White House did not dispute this account.

Shortly after this story broke, The Daily Beast quoted a senior administration official saying, "Every day [Trump] looks more and more like a complete moron." That same story included a Justice Department official saying that Trump's comments about Comey can "absolutely" be considered obstruction of justice. These represent just two of the many stories quoting administration officials that have attacked the president. These articles range from details on the ongoing investigation into alleged Russian interference in the election, to a Washington Post piece about how awful White House aides say it is to work for Trump.

Columnist Charles Krauthammer said on Fox News Friday: "What's unusual is the Niagara of leaks coming out of this White House. As you said, this had to have been somebody in the room, somebody who took the notes, who picked up the phone and read the notes. It's a loyalty problem inside the White House," Krauthammer added.

NBC's Hans Nichols said Friday that the president is "dealing with something other presidents haven't necessarily had to deal with. That is, a remarkable amount of leaking within his own administration." Prominent Harvard law professor Alan Dershowitz described the leaks on CNN as acts of "civil disobedience," and said that some have been illegal. (Read more)
- Father only You can stem this tide of leaks and twisting of the truth. You are the God of Justice, the God of Truth. We pray for You to reveal Your hand in this situation.

- "For the Lord is a God of justice; Blessed are all those who wait for Him."
(Isaiah 30:18b)

4. Inside left's secret plot for coup against Trump - WND

The formula for a de facto coup against President Trump is pretty simple and it's happening before our very eyes, according to one of the nation's top scholars and most esteemed political analysts.

And evidence for that theory is backed up by equally renowned political observers.

This is how it works, according to classics scholar, Stanford fellow and National Review columnist Victor Davis Hanson:

- The mainstream media pumps out anti-Trump stories to undermine the president.

- That creates doubt and uncertainty among lawmakers, especially those from "purple" states (those that are not overwhelmingly Republican or Democratic.)

- Removing the support of the "purple" GOP lawmakers gives Democrats a de facto majority to stop the Trump agenda, even though Republicans have majorities in both the House and the Senate. (Read more)
- Lord, we ask You to root out every mole, every leaker, every false witness, every anti-Trump reporter and expose them to the Light. We pray that no one will be able to hide their evil intent any longer. Let Your truth judge them and stop these plans from coming to fruition.

- "No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue that rises against you in judgment you shall condemn." (Isaiah 54:17)

5. CIA Official Leaks Obama's Plans To Destroy America, Proves Trump Was Right All Along - The Washington Feed

Clare M. Lopez is a former CIA employee. Her résumé is quite impressive: she was the Vice President for Research and Analysis at the Center for Security Policy and a Senior Fellow at The Clarion Project, the London Center for Policy Research, and the Canadian Meighen Institute.

. . . She believes that the global war on terror used to be an effort to 'stay free of Shariah' - the repressive Islamic law - but then the Obama administration sided with jihadist groups such as the Muslim Brotherhood and its affiliates. The CIA official even claims that Obama opened the door to the White House for the Muslim Brotherhood, allowing them to thoroughly infiltrate the Obama administration and other branches of the federal government.

One of the most outrageous of those appointments is Mohamed Elibiary, a senior member of the Department of Homeland Security Advisory Council, reports UConservative. According to a report by the Center for Security Policy, Elibiary supported brokering a U.S. partnership with the Muslim Brotherhood terrorist group. Two months ago, Elibiary caused chaos and disgust among social media users when he compared 'Caliphate' to the European Union and tweeted that its happening is inevitable. (Read more)
- Lord, we have been aware for some time that the Federal government was deeply infiltrated by the Muslim Brotherhood under Obama. We ask that You not only reveal the agenda of these people, but that You also remove them and bring them to their knees in repentance.

- "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:10,11)

6. Here Are 12 Times Liberal Democrats Refused To Impeach Barack Obama After He Broke The Law - Now the End Begins

The Obama presidency was marred with numerous impeachment scandals that would be blared on the news 24/7 if he were a Republican.

President Barack Obama faced a large number of scandals, many of which involved apparent violations of federal law. And yet in eight long years, Obama skated by without any serious investigations by the Department of Justice, or with investigations that were quashed from above. It seems Republican administrations are held to a higher standard.

The most glaring example is, of course, the Hillary Clinton e-mail scandal, which is connected to broader claims of corruption involving the Clinton Foundation. President Obama told 60 Minutes in 2015 that Clinton had simply made a mistake: "I don't think it posed a national security problem," he said. The media bought it - and so did the Department of Justice, despite a mountain of evidence that she had been "extremely careless," as Comey put it later. (To read this list of 12 examples, go here.)
- Father, we bind the plans of the enemy and break off every wicked scheme that is set against this administration.

- "And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven and whatever you bind on earth wil be bound in heaven." (Matthew 16:18a)

7. Supreme Court strikes down 2 NC congressional districts - Fox News

The Supreme Court struck down two congressional districts in North Carolina Monday because race played too large a role in their creation, a decision voting rights advocates said would boost challenges in other states. The justices ruled that Republicans who controlled the state legislature and governor's office in 2011 placed too many African-Americans in the two districts. The result was to weaken African-American voting strength elsewhere in North Carolina.

In recent years, the Supreme Court has ruled for civil rights groups and black voters in challenges to political districts in Alabama, North Carolina and Virginia.

A Democratic group led by former Attorney General Eric Holder is focusing on redistricting challenges to counter political gains Republicans have made since the 2010 census and the redrawing of electoral districts that followed. (Read more)
- Father, we lift these challenges before You and ask that ONLY Your perfect will prevail in the court cases.

- "For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding." (Colossians 1:9)

8. Gallup: Only 24% of Americans Believe Bible is Literal Word of God - CNS News

A new Gallup poll shows that only 24% of Americans believe the Bible is the "literal word" of God, which is a decline from the 1970s, but the survey also shows that the number of Americans who think the Bible is the "inspired word" of God, 47%, has stayed pretty steady over the last 40 years.

In addition, an overwhelming majority of Americans, 71%, believe the Bible is a holy document, inspired by God or containing God's own words.

"Fewer than one in four Americans (24%) now believe the Bible is 'the actual word of God, and is to be taken literally, word for word,' similar to the 26% who view it as 'a book of fables, legends, history and moral precepts recorded by man,'" reported Gallup on May 15. (Read more)
- Lord, this report grieves us more than we can even express. Our nation has fallen so far from You and our sin is heaped above our heads. We plead for mercy, and a refreshing of Your Spirit over us.

- "And He will cause the rain to come down for you - the former rain and the latter rain in the first month." (Joel 2:23)

9. Rouhani Wins Reelection in Iran - The Atlantic

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani won reelection Saturday, beating his conservative opponent, Ebrahim Raisi, by a hefty margin in a clear signal that the nation approves of his reformist policies that have increasingly engaged the outside world.

About 70 percent of eligible voters turned out, with some waiting hours in line and election officials repeatedly extended the voting hour until midnight. A big turnout was expected to favor Rouhani, and he won handily with 57 percent of the vote, compared with Raisi's 38. In Iranian politics, the president is the second-most powerful person, answering to the unelected Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Raisi was a protege of the ayatollah, but his defeat is an indication that Iranians favor the reforms Rouhani has implemented, including an agreement reached with global powers that saw many of the sanctions against the country lifted in exchange for heavy regulations on its nuclear program. (Read more)
- Lord, we are grateful that this man won the "election" in Iran, as the other candidate was a hardliner intent to isolate Iran ever further. We ask that You return this nation to the freedoms they once had before the rigid Islamists took control. Move on their lives, Father, let Your Holy Spirit bring freedom to the captives.

- ". . . to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound." (Isaiah 61:1)

10. Crisis in Venezuela - Daily Mail

No electricity, no antibiotics, no beds, no soap: A devastating look inside Venezuela's crisis-hit hospitals where 7 babies die a day, bleeding patients lie strewn on the floor, and doctors try to operate without tools. Read more:
- Lord, it is so difficult for us to even view these photos taken in Venezuela, much less read about these barbaric conditions. Abba Father God, this nation has been in distress for many, many years. We ask You to bring relief in a way that only You know, in Your name, amen.

"In my distress I called upon the LORD, And cried to my God for help; He heard my voice out of His temple, And my cry for help before Him came into His ears."
(Psalm 18:6)

The Daily Brief: Monday, May 22, 2017

The Daily Brief: Monday, May 22, 2017

1. Embassy decision coming 'after Trump visit,' US official says - Jerusalem Post

WASHINGTON -- US President Donald Trump will decide whether to move the American embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem after visiting the region next week, and based in part on what he learns on the ground, a US official told The Jerusalem Post on Thursday.

The official spoke on the matter one day after Bloomberg reported that Trump had already decided against the move.

Trump campaigned on a promise to relocate the embassy - a move that would roil the Arab world, but elate the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the conservative American Jewish organizations that have been consulting his White House. (Read more)
- Abba, we ask that You give President Trump wisdom about his decision to move the American embassy or not. We pray for Your timing in his decision and pray for him to walk in Your will. In the name of Yeshua, amen.

2. Top Fatah official: Time for two embassies in Jerusalem - Jerusalem Post

Top Fatah official Jibril Rajoub on Thursday welcomed US President Donald Trump's decision to hold off from moving the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

"This is a responsible and rational decision," Rajoub told The Jerusalem Post in a phone interview. "The American president clearly understands that the issue of Jerusalem is complex and should be resolved in the framework of a final agreement."

A senior White House official said Trump decided "not to immediately move the US embassy in Israel to Jerusalem," Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday.

Trump will have to sign a presidential waiver by June 1st to prevent the relocation of the US embassy. US law requires that the embassy be moved to the capital unless the president signs a waiver to block its relocation. (Read more)
- Abba, we pray that President Trump would not even consider this idea. That would essentially be the same as dividing the city of Jerusalem. Father, we ask that leaders from other nations would stand up and join the movement to relocate embassies to Jerusalem and that they would not consider this two embassies idea. We pray in the mighty name of Yeshua, amen.

3. What has changed that Israel went from ecstasy over Trump to near-mourning? - Jerusalem Post

On November 9, the day after the presidential election in the United States, Education Minister Naftali Bennett released a statement congratulating Donald Trump on his victory.

"The era of a Palestinian state is over," Bennett glowed at the time. "Trump's victory is an opportunity for Israel to immediately retract the notion of a Palestinian state... This is the position of the president- elect, as written in his platform, and it should be our policy, plain and simple."

Other members of the cabinet joined the celebrations.

Likud Minister Ofir Akunis, for example, called to immediately increase settlement construction in the West Bank. Other ministers focused their praise on what they believed would be the imminent transfer of the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. (Read more)
- Father God, we pray for peace for the people and leaders of Israel. We ask that You would move in their hearts and help them understand their need to seek and trust You. We pray in the name of Yeshua, amen.

4. US Lawmakers Pass Bill Requiring Greater Oversight on European Antisemitism

JNS.org - The US House of Representatives unanimously passed legislation requiring greater State Department reporting on European antisemitism.

The bill, known as the Combating European Anti-Semitism Act of 2017, requires enhanced annual reporting to Congress on antisemitic incidents in Europe, the safety and security of European Jews, and efforts by the US to partner with European entities to combat antisemitism.

The bill will now head to the Senate and eventually President Donald Trump for approval. (Read more)
- Heavenly Father, we thank You for this bill. We ask that You move on the hearts and minds of the members of the Senate and President Trump to finish passing it. This bill would keep the acts of anti-Semitism toward Your children in front of our eyes. We pray this would make the Nations more accountable and have a greater desire to protect the Jewish people in Europe, as well as keep our leaders more aware of what could happen more here in our own land. We pray this in the name of Yeshua, amen.

5. Bridges for Peace: Israel Prayer Update

To read this week's edition, go here.

6. Insight for Intercessors: Weekly Prayer Update

To read this update, go here.
> > > Please note: this week's Insight report features excellent, in-depth information, tracking every day of President Trump's journey this week. Don't miss this one!

	The Daily Brief

Please note:
Every prayer below is presented to our Lord in the Name of Jesus Christ, amen.

1. Trump tells Middle East: step up in fight over 'Islamist extremism' - Reuters

U.S. President Donald Trump called on Arab leaders to do their share to fight "Islamist extremism" on Sunday in a speech that put the burden on the region to combat militant groups while urging unity among religions.

Trump, who generated controversy with his push to ban many Muslims from entering the United States, described the fight against terrorism as a battle between good and evil rather than a clash of civilizations.

"This is a battle between barbaric criminals who seek to obliterate human life, and decent people of all religions who seek to protect it," Trump will say in the speech, according to excerpts of the speech released by the White House. (Read more)

Read the text of his speech here.
- Father God, President Trump has now brought all of us into a brave new world, filled with hope and promise. We ask that these 70 kings in the Middle East would, indeed, form a new coalition for the express purpose of fighting terrorism and ISIS in the days ahead. Let there be an amazing new alliance formed through STRENGTH as, together, we confront those who endanger our lives. In Your name, amen.

- "The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it."
(John 1:5)

2. Trump in Saudi Arabia signs $110B arms deal with Persian Gulf ally - Fox News

President Trump in Saudi Arabia on Saturday signed a nearly $110 billion arms deal to help the Persian Gulf ally with its military-defense system.

"That was a tremendous day," Trump said after signing the deal with Saudi leader King Salman. "Tremendous investments in the United States. Hundreds of billions of dollars of investments into the United States and jobs, jobs, jobs."

The White House says the package includes defense equipment and other support to help the Arab nation and the rest of the Gulf region fight again terrorism and the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran, according to the White House. (Read more)
- Almighty God, we pray earnestly that this massive amount of received from Saudi Arabia will be channeled in the right direction and not be used against Israel. Father, we ask that the Holy Spirit guide King Salman to spend this money on its intended purpose - for the defense of Saudi Arabia only. We pray in the holy Name of Jesus and thank You for Your divine protection. Amen.

- "Again, I tell you truly that if two of you on the earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven. 20For where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them." (Matthew 18:19,20)

3. In Saudi Arabia, Tillerson argues Iran is Trump's top Gulf region concern - Fox News

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Saturday in Saudi Arabia that the focal point of President Trump's visit to the Gulf nation is to curb the threat of neighboring Iran, while putting much of the burden on recently reelected Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.

"Rouhani has a new term," Tillerson said at a press conference in the Saudi capital of Riyadh. "And he could use that term to dismantle a network of terrorism. That's what we hope he does."

Tillerson, well known in Saudi Arabia for his visits as ExxonMobil's chief executive, said the United States also hopes Rouhani puts an end to ballistic missile testing and restores freedom of speech in his country. (Read more)
- Father in heaven, we pray that the trust President Trump has shown toward the Islamic nation of Saudi Arabia will be reciprocal and they prove each day to be trustworthy of the confidence that our President has shown by this massive monetary investment. We pray that President Rouhani will act quickly to dismantle a network of terrorism. Impart that into his heart, Lord God. By the Blood of Jesus, bind all evil intentions that the enemy might put in his mind so there be no treacherous acts or plans. We put our trust in God and pray in the Name of Jesus and thank You for answering this prayer.

- "You, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Yours; Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and You are exalted as head above all." (I Chronicles 29:11)

4. Fired FBI Chief Comey to Testify Publicly in Congress - Newsmax

James Comey, the former FBI chief whose firing by President Donald Trump has triggered uproar, has agreed to testify publicly about Russian interference in the 2016 elections, lawmakers announced Friday.

"I hope that former Director Comey's testimony will help answer some of the questions that have arisen since Director Comey was so suddenly dismissed by the president," the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, Mark Warner, said in a statement. "Director Comey served his country with honor for many years, and he deserves an opportunity to tell his story. Moreover, the American people deserve an opportunity to hear it."

Both Warner and the committee's chairman, Richard Burr, indicated they were looking forward to Comey's testimony about Russian interference in the November 8 presidential elections that saw Trump secure the White House by scoring the electoral college, though Democratic rival Hillary Clinton won the popular vote.

No date has yet been set for the open session hearing, though the statement said it would take place after the Memorial Day holiday, May 29. (Read more)
- Father, President Trump's firing of Mr. Comey has opened the windows of opportunity for truth to prevail. This Senate Committee should take a look back at the fact that Mr. Comey, in the end, could find no fault with Mrs. Clinton's handling of her emails, for example. This issue "Does matter." Truth is truth. Lies are lies. Let nothing be hidden from Your servants, Lord. We ask this in Your name. Amen.

- "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; Mercy and truth go before Your face." (Psalm 89:14)

5. Intel officials scoff at hype over Trump's reported sharing of information with Russians - Washington Times

Some of America's top intelligence officials are expressing frustration at the wave of media hysteria that has greeted reports that President Trump may have shared sensitive intelligence with top Russian diplomats last week, with some saying a handful of news organizations are guilty of hyping what amounts to a nonstory. Critics of the story, which has consumed official Washington, say Mr. Trump was within his rights as commander in chief to share classified intelligence as he sees fit. They also say the criticism overlooks how President Obama and his top aides shared intelligence with Russia in the fight against the Islamic State group and faced several crises of their own with damaging intelligence leaks.

"People are making way too big a deal of this," one senior U.S. intelligence official told The Washington Times on Wednesday after reports that Mr. Trump jeopardized a critical Islamic State intelligence source - reportedly cultivated by Israel - by revealing highly classified information to Russia's foreign minister and ambassador during a meeting in the Oval Office.

"First of all, it was the Obama administration that started the policy of intelligence-sharing with the Russians about the specific problem of ISIS in Syria, and there was no secret that such sharing was going on," said the official, who spoke only on the condition of anonymity. "Second, the president can say whatever he wants because he's the president - assuming he said something sensitive, that's entirely up to his judgment." (Read more)
- Lord God, we trust that President Trump's decision to share sensitive intelligence with the Russians will not backfire and be used against America. By the power of the Blood of Jesus, disable any evil intentions against our President by the Russians or by the media. We trust the intelligence of our President that he used wisdom during their discussions. God, close the mouths of those who sow evil. We pray in the Name of Jesus. Amen.

- "The Lord God has given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary; He wakens morning by morning, He wakens my ear to hear as the learned." (Isaiah 50:4)

6. Harvard Study Reveals Huge Extent Of Anti-Trump Media Bias - ZeroHedge.com

A major new study out of Harvard University has revealed the true extent of the mainstream media's bias against Donald Trump.They found that the tone of some outlets was negative in as many as 98% of reports, significantly more hostile than the first 100 days of the three previous administrations. The academics based their study on seven US outlets and three European ones. In America they analyzed CNN, NBC, CBS, Fox News, the New York Times, the Washington Post and the Wall Street Journal. They also took into account the BBC, the UK's Financial Times and the German public broadcaster ARD.

Every outlet was negative more often than positive.

Only Fox News, which features some of Trump's most enthusiastic supporters and is often given special access to the President, even came close to positivity. Fox was ranked 52% negative and 48% positive. - "Fair and Balanced" indeed. (Read more)
- Lord God in heaven, You are fully aware that the media in America is owned by the wealthy shadow government who are steered by evil forces of darkness to spread lies about Donald Trump, with the intent to take him down. But GOD, You are righteous and holy and will dispatch holy angels from heaven to fight against this evil over all the media. We pray You will surround President Trump and all his administration with the powerful hand of God and bring down their enemies. We pray in the Name of Jesus the Christ and give thanks for answering this prayer. Amen.

- "Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and He delivered them out of their distresses." (Psalm 107:6)

7. Republicans fearing for their safety as anger, threats mount - The Hill

A growing number of House Republicans are facing physical threats from angry constituents in their districts, leading many to fear for their safety.

In the last few weeks alone, the FBI arrested a man threatening Rep. Martha McSally's (Ariz.) life; a woman pursued Rep. David Kustoff (Tenn.) with her car, and Rep. Thomas Garrett (Va.) heightened security at a recent town hall in response to death threats.

Other Republicans still holding town halls say they haven't felt physically threatened by protesters, but they worry about the depth of anger from some constituents in the polarized environment and what it means for political civility. (Read more)
- Father, we continue to lift this need before Your Throne of Grace, and we ask that You unleash Your "body guard" angels to protect all members of Congress -- House and Senate -- and from both sides of the aisle. Infuse each one with such a spirit of "NO FEAR" that this distraction be dismissed out of hand, and the work of our democratic republic will go forward. We ask this in Your name, amen.

- "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (2 Timothy 1:7)

8. Leftist protest group 'March For Truth' announces anti-Trump demonstrations in 50+ cities on Sat, June 3rd - Alerts USA

Militant leftist anti-Trump protests that will span most of the 'summer of rage' are being organized across the U.S.. The first major wave of demonstrations will take place Sat, June 3rd, 2017 in more than 50 cities. Law enforcement agencies nationwide are preparing for violence. Multiple national protest organizations are operating under a common, publicly stated agenda; "Trump must Go By Any Means Necessary. No Business as Usual Until He is Defeated."

A list of the June 3rd protests can be found at this link.

Given the increasingly violent thrashing from the left over the election loss, AlertsUSA urges subscribers to be security minded as we move into summer. Take a few min daily to stay informed of local events. As has been seen with increasing frequency over the last 12 months alone, being caught in a downtown area when Social Justice Warriors and paid agitators are marching can be extremely dangerous, not to mention a massive inconvenience given the new tactic of blocking freeways and other major thoroughfares.

As always, AlertsUSA will keep you informed of where violence breaks out, but it is up to you to be proactive in staying on top of potential risks in your locality.
- Lord God, You are almighty over all the earth and we cry out to You to pour holy rain of fire and brimstones upon each and every one of the 50 events (but not the people involved) planned for the "summer of rage" incitements. God, defeat the handiwork of satan and all his emissaries. Cover him with the presence of holy angels that no evil can touch him. Visit his enemies with a vision of Jesus, Son of God, that their souls be saved. In the mighty Name of Jesus we pray and give You thanks. Amen.

- "Hold not Your peace, O God of my praise; for the mouth of the wicked and the mouth of the deceitful are opened against me: they have spoken against me with a lying tongue. They compassed me about also with words of hatred; and fight against me without a cause." (Psalm 109:1-3)

9. Planned Parenthood announces closure of half its New Mexico facilities - liveaction.org

Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains has announced that it will close three of its six New Mexico facilities this year, citing financial considerations as its reason. Of the six centers in the state, locations in Nob Hill (Albuquerque), Rio Rancho, and Farmington will be shuttered. None of these facilities commit abortions. The three remaining centers include the Santa Fe Health Center, which does commit abortions, as well as the Albuquerque Surgical Center, which seems to exist for abortion, as well as to train future abortionists (from the University of New Mexico). These Planned Parenthood closures are part of the same round of closures that include shuttering the last Planned Parenthood in Wyoming, as Live Action News reported on Wednesday. (Read more)
- Father God, we thank You for every life that will be saved because these Planned Parenthood locations are closing. Our prayers will continue until every clinic, center, facility or whatever name that is used will be closed and there will be no more abortions allowed in our nation. These prayers include the abortions done on the black market also. Your name is praised and You are honored. Thank You sweet and Holy Jesus, amen.

- "I will lift up my eyes to the hills - From whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth." (Psalm 121:1)

10. Trump: 'Walls Work. Just Ask Israel' - CNSNews.com

In a joint press conference with Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos, President Donald Trump issued a short direct answer to whether his proposal to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border will be a positive step towards stopping the flow of drugs across the border - "Walls work. Just ask Israel."

Trump's response followed that of Santos, who said, "I believe that the best way to fight the drug trafficking is by collaborating. This is not a problem of Colombia only or a problem of the United States only. It's a world problem, and we have to all work together. We declared the war on drugs 40 years ago. The world declared war on drugs, and it's a war that had not been won, so we must be more effective and more efficient," Santos said. Santos said the U.S. and Colombia must work together to fight drug trafficking. He said his country has already made great strides in this effort - destroying 22,000 laboratories in the Colombian jungles and seizing cocaine in transit. (Read more)
- God Almighty, put Your blessing on the construction of the wall on our southern border if that is Your will. Give President Trump Your wisdom and knowledge in his decision on building this wall. Your ways are perfect. May Your name be glorified. Thank You, Father for leading our President. In Your Name, amen.

- "But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in him." (1 John 2:27)

The Daily Brief: Tuesday, May 16, 2017

The Daily Brief: Tuesday, May 16, 2017

1. State Department Expands Pro-life Policy - Liberty Counsel

Under President Trump's administration, the State Department announced today plans to expand the Mexico City policy that bans U.S. funding for abortions overseas. The expanded policy, known as "Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance," prohibits U.S. taxpayer money from funding foreign organizations that perform or actively promote abortion as a method of family planning.

The pro-life policy will apply global health assistance funding for international health programs, such as those for HIV/AIDS, maternal and child health, malaria, global health security, and family planning and reproductive health, rather than abortion. (Read more)
- Lord, we rejoice at this news and pray that You will protect this action by the Blood of Jesus and the Power of His Name!

- "Oh send out Your light and Your truth! Let them lead me." (Psalm 43:1)

2. Filthy mattresses, toddlers' shoes and dog collars: Inside the squalid Philippines home of 'sweating US predator who filmed the sexual abuse of children for international online pedophile ring' - Daily Mail

Vile images have emerged from inside the home of an American man suspected of exploiting Filipino children and using webcams to sell videos, images and livestreams.

David Timothy Deakin, 53, was arrested at his Philippines home last month in what was potentially the largest ever seizure of illicit digital content in the country. Children's underwear, toddler shoes, cameras, bondage cuffs, fetish ropes and stacks of hard drives can be seen scattered throughout the two-bedroom townhouse.

[Editor's comment: we are intentionally NOT showing this link, as these photos are truly disgusting. Let's adhere to the dictates of Philippians 4:8 in all we say and do. Thank you.]
- Lord, we are sickened by the sexual perversion that is rampant through the world at this time. WE pray for these victims, that You will redeem their lives from the pit, and rid this mand form the demons that have ensnared his thoughts and heart.

- "For the perverse person is an abomination to the Lord." (Proverbs 3:32a)

3. Bathroom Policy Back in Court - Liberty Counsel

Today, Liberty Counsel filed an amicus brief at the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals on behalf of a Virginia school board on the so-called bathroom transgender decision in G.G. v. Gloucester County School Board. The brief was filed on behalf of Dr. Judith Reisman and the Center for Child Protection Institute.

The Supreme Court previously blocked the decision by the appeals court which ruled that the federal law known as Title IX should be interpreted to include "gender identity" and that a girl who "identifies" as a boy can use the boy's restroom. The case was sent back to the court of appeals after President Trump rescinded Obama's transgender guidance that schools had to adopt a policy allowing students to use the restroom of their "self-identity." (Read more)
- Father, we ask that You save the children of our nation from all of these perversions that confuse them. We pray for this team of lawyers, that You will grant them anointing and wisdom.

- "He guards the paths of justice, and preserves the way of His saints." (Proverbs2:8)

4. Experts try to figure out who's behind global cyberattack - SRN News

Experts are trying to figure out who's behind a global "ransomware" software cyberattack that shut down hundreds of thousands of computers around the world by exploiting a software vulnerability. Some details about the "WannaCry" attack, which emerged late Friday, and what you can do to stay safe:

HOW THE VIRUS WORKS

Cybersecurity experts say the worm affects computers using Microsoft operating systems and takes advantage of a vulnerability in the software to spread the infection. "WannaCry" is particularly malicious because it takes just one person to click on an infected link or email attachment to cause the virus to spread to other machines on the same network.

Infected computers are frozen and display a big message in red informing users, "Oops, your files have been encrypted!" and demanding about $300 in online bitcoin payment. Victims have only hours to pay the ransom, which rises to $600 before the files are destroyed.

Money has been trickling in, according to a Twitter account monitoring bitcoin wallets linked to the attacks, with victims paying nearly $39,000 by Monday afternoon in Asia. (Read more)
- Lord, we ask that You grant Your wisdom to those whose computers have been affected by this attack, so that all can be recovered. We pray that You will execute justice quickly and find whoever is responsible so that they may be held accountable.

- "I will praise You forever, because You have done it." (Psalm 52: 9a)

5. UN agency helps North Korea with patent application for banned nerve gas chemical - Fox News

For more than a year, a United Nations agency in Geneva has been helping North Korea prepare an international patent application for production of sodium cyanide -- a chemical used to make the nerve gas Tabun -- which has been on a list of materials banned from shipment to that country by the U.N. Security Council since 2006.

The World Intellectual Property Organization, or WIPO, has made no mention of the application to the Security Council committee monitoring North Korea sanctions, nor to the U.N. Panel of Experts that reports sanctions violations to the committee, even while concerns about North Korean weapons of mass destruction, and the willingness to use them, have been on a steep upward spiral.

Fox News told both U.N. bodies of the patent application for the first time late last week, after examining the application file on a publicly available WIPO internal website. (Read more)
- Father, we ask that the UN be held accountable for their failures, and agencies that lie or hide their actions and vote against Your people. We pray that you move across the entire organization and bring them to their knees in repentance, or remove them from our soil.

- "When I choose the proper time, I will judge uprightly." (Psalm 75:2)

6. Germany Confiscating Homes to Use for Migrants - Gatestone Institute

In an unprecedented move, Hamburg authorities confiscated six residential units in the Hamm district near the city center. A trustee appointed by the city is now renovating the properties and will rent them - against the will of the owner - to tenants chosen by the city. District spokeswoman Sorina Weiland said that all renovation costs will be billed to the owner of the properties.

Similar expropriation measures have been proposed in Berlin, the German capital, but abandoned because they were deemed unconstitutional.

Some Germans are asking what is next: Will authorities now limit the maximum amount of living space per person, and force those with large apartments to share them with strangers? (Read more)
- Father, we ask that You stop this action, but that You will move across Germany to touch their hearts and minds, changing their hearts of stone to hearts of flesh.

- "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh." (Ezekiel 36:26)

7. White House denies report Trump revealed classified info about ISIS to Russians - Fox News

White House officials Monday denounced a Washington Post report that President Trump revealed classified information about ISIS to Russia's foreign minister and Moscow's ambassador to the United States during a White House meeting last week. In a brief statement in front of the White House, National Security Adviser H.R. McMaster described the Post's story as "false."

The newspaper cited current and former U.S. officials who said Trump jeopardized a critical source of intelligence on ISIS in his conversations with the Russian officials, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Ambassador Sergey Kislyak. "The president and the foreign minister reviewed a range of common threats to our two countries, including threats to civil aviation," McMaster said. "At no time, at no time, were intelligence sources or methods discussed, and the president did not disclose any military operations that were not already publicly known."

McMaster's statement echoed earlier denials issued by two other administration officials who attended the meeting. (Read more)
- Lord, these continual attacks against our President threaten to derail his momentum. We pray for President Trump and cover him with the Blood of Jesus, asking You to protect and defend him against the lies of the media.

- "A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who speaks likes shall perish." (Proverbs 19:9)

8. Trump travel ban faces skeptical panel in 9th Circuit hearing - Fox News

The legal hold on President Trump's so-called travel ban seems unlikely to be lifted anytime soon, based on the tenor of oral arguments before a federal appellate court in Seattle on Monday.

The Trump administration's top courtroom lawyer faced a trio of judges who expressed varying degrees of skepticism about the presidential decree that critics argue violates the Constitution's religious protections. Acting Solicitor General Jeffrey Wall was repeatedly asked to explain how controversial statements made by Trump and administration officials can allow a reasonable observer to conclude the purpose of the executive order was something other than prejudice against Muslims.

"How is a court to know if [the executive order] is a Muslim ban in the guise of national security justification?" Judge Ronald Gould asked. (Read more)
- Father, we pray that somehow You will preserve the integrity of elections in North Carolina. We ask for the Supreme Court to see truth and judge righteously. "The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul." Psalm 121:7

9. U.S. top court lets North Carolina voter law die, pleasing rights groups - Reuters

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday rebuffed a Republican bid to revive a strict North Carolina voter-identification law that a lower court found deliberately discriminated against black voters, handing a victory to Democrats and civil rights groups.

The justices' decision not to take up a Republican appeal in the important voting rights dispute set no legal precedent and did not rule out the possibility that the court, with a 5-4 conservative majority, would endorse such laws in future. North Carolina's law was one of a number of similar statutes passed by Republican-controlled states.

"Today's announcement is good news for North Carolina voters. We need to be making it easier to vote, not harder," said North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, a Democrat who took office in January and asked the court not to take up the case.

The justices left in place a July 2016 ruling by the Richmond, Virginia-based 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that voided the law passed by a Republican-controlled legislature and signed by a Republican governor. (Read more)
- Father, we pray that somehow You will preserve the integrity of elections in North Carolina. We ask for the Supreme Court to see truth and judge righteously.

- "The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul." Psalm 121:7

10. Miss USA 2017 Criticized For Conservative Politics- Daily Caller

The second black woman in a row just won the Miss USA 2017 pageant, but liberals who claim to love diversity are livid that she denounced feminism and said that health care is a "privilege" rather than a "right." Black Lives Matter leader DeRay McKesson warned his followers not to take their political advice from Kara McCullough, the newly crowned Miss USA.

A number of Twitter users accused McCullough of being uneducated because of her remarks. However, she is a nuclear scientist at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. (Read more)
- Lord, we pray that Ms. McCullough would be strong and full of truth. We pray that she will have answers straight from Your Holy Spirit against all of the criticism.

- "But after that they dared not question Him anymore." Luke 20:40