The Daily Brief: Monday, September 25, 2017

The Daily Brief: Monday, September 25, 2017 (short form)

1. North Korea says strike on US is 'inevitable' as Pentagon flies bombers off coast - Fox News

North Korea's foreign minister called U.S. President Donald Trump "a mentally deranged person full of megalomania" and promised a strike on the American mainland was "inevitable" in a blistering speech to the United Nations General Assembly Saturday.

The address by Ri Yong Ho began as the Pentagon announced that it had flown bombers and fighter escorts to the farthest point north of the Korean Demilitarized Zone by any such American aircraft this century.

"This mission is a demonstration of U.S. resolve and a clear message that the president has many military options to defeat any threat," Defense Department spokesman Dana White said in a statement. (Read more)
- Righteous Father, we stand on the promises of the Word of God that it is the righteous believers who trust in the Almighty God in heaven who will receive all the benefits of trusting in Him for salvation and being the source of every need we may have. The wicked are not so. They have isolated themselves from God and have no desire to know Him nor to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. Therefore, the wicked will receive his reward from following satan and not the Lord God Almighty. The United States is sending our bombers and fighter escorts indicating we have what it takes to counter any action taken by North Korea. This power is evident, and make no mistake about it, America will win this battle against its enemies. We declare this in the ever-powerful Name of Jesus and pray and trust in His Name.

- "The voice of the Lord is powerful: the voice of the Lord is full of majesty. The voice of the Lord divides the flames of fire. The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness; the Lord shakes the wilderness of Kadesh, the sanctuary. The Lord will give strength unto His people, the Lord will bless His people with peace." (Psalm 29:4,7,8,11)

2. Trump: 'Madman' North Korean leader to be 'tested like never before' - Times of Israel

US President Donald Trump on Friday warned "madman" North Korean leader Kim Jong Un that he would be "tested," the latest in an exchange of insults between the two. "Kim Jong Un of North Korea, who is obviously a madman who doesn't mind starving or killing his people, will be tested like never before!" Trump tweeted.

Trump "insulted me and my country in front of the eyes of the world and made the most ferocious declaration of a war in history," Kim said, according to the official Korean Central News Agency. He blasted Trump's maiden speech to the United Nations General Assembly as "unprecedented rude nonsense." (Read more)
- Righteous Father, unto You will we cry out for divine intervention regarding this North Korean leader, because it is You who sees the wickedness in his heart that consumes him. Give President Trump godly wisdom to counteract this insane evil. God, we pray the Blood of Jesus paralyzes every demon in Kim Jong Un and deactivates their power to cause harm in the world situation. Demobilize their evil energy and break their attempts to create evil. Send a holy angel to stand in front of him to block his path and subdue his strength to zero. We trust and pray in the Name of Jesus.

- "The Lord is our Light and our salvation, whom shall we fear? The Lord is the strength of our lives of whom shall we be afraid? When the wicked, even our enemies and our foes, came upon us to ear up our flesh, they stumbled and fell."
(Psalm 27:1-2)

3. China limits oil trade to North Korea and bans textile trade - BBC

China has moved to limit North Korea's oil supply and will stop buying textiles from the politically isolated nation, it said on Saturday. China is North Korea's most important trading partner, and one of its only sources of hard currency. The ban on textiles trade will hurt Pyongyang's income, while China's oil exports are the country's main source of petroleum products. (Read more)
- Father, the facts indicate that North Korea has become a politically isolated nation. This action by China, imposing sanctions to limit the supply of oil and textiles to North Korea, will have huge consequences. Please protect all people from this evil man's actions. Deal with his soul and let him know that You are the Almighty King of Kings. Let his yes be yes to serve you, Lord Jesus, as his heart turns from evil to good.

- "For He brings down those who dwells on high. The lofty city; He lays it low, He lays it low to the ground., He brings it down to the dust." (Isaiah 26:5)

4. Trump keeps decision on Iran nuclear deal secret, even from advisers - YNet News

US President Donald Trump has determined how he wants to approach the Iran nuclear deal-which he has called the worst agreement ever negotiated by the United States-but has not told even his top national security advisers what his decision is.

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said Wednesday that Trump had not informed him or others in the administration about his decision and had refused to share it with British Prime Minister Theresa May when she asked him about it.

Tillerson said he had been surprised when Trump publicly announced he had reached a decision. The secretary told reporters it would now take some time to prepare to implement the decisions. He gave no hint as to the direction Trump would take, but repeated the president's long-standing position that the deal does not address troubling non-nuclear behavior despite the hopes of those who negotiated it.

In her comments, Mogherini also alluded to North Korea, but made the opposite argument, saying "the international community cannot afford to dismantle an agreement that is working." Mogherini declined to say whether Tillerson had pledged to remain committed to the deal, but said the European Union is committed to preserving it. She suggested that US complaints about Iran's troublesome non-nuclear activities should be discussed in a different forum. (Read more)
- Righteous Father, we pray that You guide President Trump in a most unique way regarding the Iran nuclear deal to keep him in touch with God's purposes. Hold back the advisors that would adhere to natural standards and not to God's perfect will. We ask that You resist the evil intents coming out of Iran and weaken all evil deals that they may devise against America. Protect this nation, my Lord. In the Name of Jesus we pray.

- "The secret friendship of the Lord is with them that fear Him; and He will show them His covenant." (Psalm 25:14)

5. World powers rally to defend value of Iran nuke accord - Times of Israel

Top diplomats from Germany, Russia, China and Italy insisted Thursday there can be no turning back on the Iran nuclear deal after President Donald Trump suggested that he may seek a renegotiation or simply walk away from the pact.

"How are we going to convince countries like North Korea that international agreements provide them with security - and in so doing make them commit to future disarmament efforts - if the only international example for such an endeavor being successful, the agreement with Iran, no longer has effect?" asked Germany's Vice Chancellor and Foreign Minister Sigmar Gabriel, addressing the UN General Assembly. (Read more)
- Father God, we recall that when President Trump visited the G8 this summer, he was the only one who wore the flag of his country on his lapel, while all other leaders wore the "G8 pin." Lord God, please help these globalists wake up and see the danger that is in front of them, and give our nation the support we deserve. In Your name, amen.

- "Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven." (Matthew 18:19)

6. Countering the US, Iran test-fires new ballistic missile - Jerusalem Post

Shortly after Iran unveiled its newest ballistic missile in a military parade on Friday, Tehran test-fired the weapon, broadcasting the launch on public television. The Khorramshahr missile has a range of 2000 kilometers . . . and can be armed with several warheads. The release and launch of the missile comes shortly after a speech by US President Donald Trump at the UN General Assembly in which he directly attacked the Islamic Republic. (Read more)
- Father God, at times it seems that some national leaders are playing the child's game of "king of the mountain." You are the King of Kings of every mountain (nation) and Your ways are peaceful and loving. The ways of these missile - launching men are not of You. Turn their minds and hearts to be like You in all their ways. Let them know that eternity matters and You are the only way to enter the home He has prepared for all believers in heaven.

- "And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses," (Colossians 2:13)

7. Graham, Cassidy revise Obamacare repeal bill, appealing to holdouts - POLITICO

Senate Republicans have updated their last-ditch Obamacare repeal bill in an effort to win over skeptical party members ahead of a key deadline this week, according to a copy obtained by POLITICO on Sunday night.

The revised bill includes new provisions that would steer more federal funding to Alaska, Arizona and Kentucky. All three states are home to pivotal GOP swing votes who either have opposed or expressed concerns with the bill - Sens. John McCain, Rand Paul and Lisa Murkowski. However, Democrats said Senate Republicans are using misleading numbers to obscure massive funding cuts still in the Graham-Cassidy plan. (Read more)
- Lord God, we ask that these new provisions would serve to turn the hearts of the three senators named in this article to support passage of this bill. We ask, too, that You would turn the hearts of Senators Ted Cruz and Susan Collins to be solidly behind Graham-Cassidy. We thank You, Lord, that when this bill is passed and signed into law by President Trump, Planned Parenthood will be defunded. In Your name, amen.

- [Applied to members of Congress] "The king's heart is like channels of water in the hand of the Lord; He turns it wherever He wishes." (Proverbs 21:1)

8. BREAKING: St. Louis Rioters Use Horrifying New Weapon Against Police - teaparty.org

St. Louis rioters have begun using chemical warfare/terrorist tactics, throwing bottles of dangerous chemicals at our police officers and causing burns, irritations, and other health complications that could arise in the future, according to KMOV. (Read more)
- Oh Lord, we see the wicked one has raised the level of hostility against duly constituted authority so that law officers are in even more danger than before. Lord, we pray that the police will have wisdom in how to protect themselves. We pray that the educating of people in how to do more and more violent acts will cease and that they will come to a knowledge of the Prince of Peace. Lord, cut off their supply line and cut off those who are instigating this evil.

- "Hide me from the secret counsel of the wicked; from the insurrection of the workers of iniquity." (Psalms 64:2)

9. Unemployment Rates Hit Historic Lows in Tennessee, Idaho, North Dakota - CNSNews.com

The unemployment rates in Tennessee, Idaho and North Dakota hit historic lows this August with each state registering its lowest rate of unemployment since the Bureau of Labor Statistics began tracking state-by-state unemployment in 1976.

"In August 2017, unemployment rates for North Dakota (2.3 percent), Idaho (2.9 percent), and Tennessee (3.3 percent) were at their lowest levels since the state unemployment data series began in January 1976," BLS said in an analysis released Thursday.

"Among states, North Dakota had the lowest unemployment rate, followed by Colorado (2.4 percent), Hawaii (2.6 percent), and New Hampshire (2.7 percent)," said BLS. "Alaska had the highest unemployment rate, at 7.2 percent." (Read more)
- Dear Lord, we honor You for this good report. We thank You for the good news that employment rates are doing so well. We see Your hand in this and pray that all citizens of our country will see that You are the one who blesses and sustains life. We pray that all will turn to You in gratitude for what You have done.

- "Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me." (Psalms 54:4)

10. Deadly Tennessee church shooting: Sudanese immigrant arrested, FBI to launch civil rights investigation - Fox News

One woman was killed and seven other people were hurt after a suspect identified as a Sudanese immigrant opened fire at a Tennessee church Sunday, police said, as federal officials told Fox News the FBI will initiate a civil rights investigation into the shooting.

The suspect, 25-year-old Emanuel Kidega Samson, immigrated from Sudan two decades ago, police said. He's suspected of bringing two pistols and a mask to the predominantly white Burnette Chapel Church of Christ in Antioch, southeast of Nashville, before opening fire just after 11 a.m.

The woman who was shot and killed in the church parking lot, identified as Melanie Smith, 39, was walking to her car when she was hit, police said.

An usher, identified as Robert Engle, 22, confronted the gunman at one point and was pistol-whipped, causing "significant injury around his head," police added. They said Engle went to his own car, grabbed a pistol and headed back into the church. (Read more)
- Father God, we ask tonight that you would comfort the family of Melanie Smith, who was mercilessly gunned down today in the parking lot of her church by this murderer. We ask that You bring Your healing touch to all others who were wounded and now hospitalized. We ask for skill and wisdom to be with those who are investigating this criminal act, and we thank You that, in our nation, we still do have the right to bear arms. In Your name, amen.

- "Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God." (Isaiah 40:1)

The Daily Brief: Short Form - Thursday, September 21, 2017

The Daily Brief: Short Form - Thursday, Sept. 21st

1. Reports: All of Puerto Rico without power as Hurricane Maria leaves behind trail of destruction - AccuWeather

Significant damage has been reported across Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands as Hurricane Maria lashes the northern Caribbean islands. Maria became the second Category 5 hurricane of the 2017 Atlantic hurricane season, but was downgraded to a Category 4 hurricane shortly before making landfall in Puerto Rico around 6:15 a.m. AST Wednesday.

Conditions will gradually improve across Puerto Rico into Thursday as Maria makes its way to the northwest toward the Turks and Caicos and Bahamas. Dominica took a direct hit from Maria on Monday night shortly after it strengthened into a Category 5 hurricane. (Read more)
- Father, we lift up the people of Puerto Rico to You and pray they would turn to You in this time of great need. We pray each one will receive the help needed and experience Your peace.

- "You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat." (Isaiah 25:4)

2. State Department in 'open war' with President Trump - WND

Obama holdovers 'continue running the show and formulating policy'. President Trump's big war right now apparently isn't with Iran, or North Korea, or Venezuela, or even Democrats and twice-failed presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton, says a new analysis: It's with the State Department. In the U.S. Run by his own appointee, Rex Tillerson, explains a report in Joseph Farah's G2 Bulletin.

That's the conclusion of Soeren Kern, a senior fellow at the Gatestone Institute. He's assembled a big list of times that "Tillerson and his advisers at the State Department have made a number of statements and policy decisions that contradict Trump's key campaign promises on foreign policy, especially regarding Israel and Iran." For example, on Aug. 10, the State Department held a meeting with the U.S. Council of Muslim Organizations, which Kern described as an umbrella group set up by the Muslim Brotherhood to install political Islam in the United States.

"Behind closed doors, they reportedly discussed what they said was Israel's illegal occupation of Palestine and the removal of all Israeli control of the Temple Mount and holy areas of Jerusalem. Observers said the meeting was part of larger effort by anti-Israel organizations to drive a wedge between the Trump administration and Israel," he reported. (Read more)
- Father, we pray You would remove each person from the State Department who is disloyal to President Trump and undermines Your people, Israel.

- The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will remove from his Kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. (Matthew 13:41)

3. Former CIA Officer: On Wiretapping, Trump Was Right All Along - Daily Caller

CNN, which had previously denounced President Donald Trump's claims that he had been wiretapped at Trump Tower, reported late on Monday that former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort was tapped by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Depending on the political inclinations of the journalists covering the story, the tale has been framed as either a vindication of Trump's generally derided claims that Trump Tower was wiretapped by the Obama Administration or yet another bit of evidence demonstrating that Team Trump was in collusion to with the Russians to influence the results of the presidential election.

Insofar as can be determined given the lack of any corroboration coming from the government, the narrative surrounding Manafort goes something like this:

Manafort, together with a number of other Washington based consultants, was a top adviser to former pro-Russian Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich between 2004 and 2014. His involvement somehow came to the attention of the FBI in 2014 and a secret Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) warrant was sought by the Bureau and then issued to permit teltapping and other forms of investigation to determine if foreign lobbying laws had been broken. The initial inquiry was eventually allowed to lapse "for lack of evidence." (Read more)
- Father, we continue to ask You for justice regarding the flagrant disregard of civil rights by the Obama Administration. We pray for the whole corrupt system - and all the people who support and benefit from it - to fall.

- Righteous are You, O Lord, that I would plead my case with You; Indeed I would discuss matters of justice with You: Why has the way of the wicked prospered? Why are all those who deal in treachery at ease? (Jeremiah 12:1)

4. Trump on Iran Deal: 'I Have Decided' - CNS News

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he has made a decision on the Iran deal, although he wouldn't indicate what that decision is or when he'll announce it. Prior to a bilateral meeting with Palestinian Chairman Mahmoud Abbas, Trump said, "I have decided," when reporters asked whether he had decided that the U.S. would honor the Iran deal that the previous administration brokered or break the deal. When asked when he would make an announcement, the president said, "I'll let you know."

Meanwhile, Trump said it was "a great honor" to have Abbas and his representatives with the U.S. delegation, adding that Abbas and his people "have been working very hard with everybody involved toward peace. I mean, we're looking seriously at peace, and maybe, ultimately, peace in the whole of the Middle East, and I think we have a pretty good shot -- maybe the best shot ever -- and that's what we're looking to do," he said. (Read more)
- Father, we pray President Trump has made the right decision for the United States, Israel and the Middle East.

- God will help the king to judge the people fairly; there need be no mistakes. (Proverbs 16:10)

5. Top Republicans Scramble For Support On Graham-Cassidy - Daily Caller

Top Senate Republicans are struggling to drum up the 50 votes needed to successfully pass their latest Obamacare repeal legislation. Health care reform appeared all but dead after GOP leadership fell one vote short of passing a "skinny repeal" bill in late July. But legislation introduced last week by Republican Sens. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, Ron Johnson of Wisconsin and Dean Heller of Nevada has rekindled hope that the party can make good on its top campaign promise.

While Graham-Cassidy - which aims to replace Medicaid expansion and insurance subsidies with block grants provided to the states - has gained some traction, the reconciliation bill still lacks the support needed to pass the upper chamber. GOP Sens. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Susan Collins of Maine and John McCain of Arizona - all of which voted against skinny repeal - have expressed skepticism about the legislation, fearing the formula used to calculate funding will negatively impact their states. Conservative Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky also bashed the bill for leaving the majority of Obamacare taxes and regulations in place, arguing that the bill simply shifts reshuffles money from Democratic states to Republican states. (Read more)
- Father, this bill appears to be the best option so far. We pray this bill will pass and our nation will be relieved of the burden of Obamacare.

- Rescue me from the oppression of evil men; then I can obey you. (Psalm 119:134)

6. Tax Reform Must Go Bold - RealClearPolitics

Whatever you think of President Trump, you know he likes to win. And a commitment to winning is exactly what we need as we enter the critical drive for tax reform that can increase workers' paychecks, reduce the cost of living and bolster savings for the future.

With more countries than ever vying for jobs and business, we need a big play for our workers, our manufacturers and all Americans. That starts with pursuing, passing and securing the most competitive tax code America has ever seen. We should think big and go bold. Timidity never wins.

What does that mean, specifically? First, it means the corporate tax rate that businesses in America pay, and in turn limits the creation of new wealth for more, should be no higher than 15 percent - just as the president has argued. Many small businesses face marginal tax rates of more than 44 percent, thanks in part to the additional taxes from the Affordable Care Act. That's shameful. Our elected leaders love to talk about how they admire small businesses, but the best way to show they stand with small businesses would be supporting bold reform that helps them grow, hire and hold their own. Just give them a chance. (Read more)
- Father, we pray for the tax reform our nation needs, with the ultimate goal of releasing resources and reaching the lost around the world.

- For I am planting seeds of peace and prosperity among you. The grapevines will be heavy with fruit. The earth will produce its crops, and the heavens will release the dew. Once more I will cause the remnant in Judah and Israel to inherit these blessings. (Zechariah 8:12)

7. Ivanka Trump delivers anti-human trafficking speech at UN - CNN

Ivanka Trump delivered an anti-human trafficking speech Tuesday at the United Nations General Assembly, calling it "the greatest human rights issue of our time."

"This is a call for action, a call for global unity," Trump said at a panel event hosted by Great Britain and Northern Ireland, noting that her father, President Donald Trump, has said he is "prepared to bring the full force and weight of our government" to combat human trafficking.

Human trafficking is chronically under-reported problem that affects at least 20.9 million people globally in both forced labor and sex trafficking. "It is hard to grasp how tens of millions of people across the globe can experience this scale of human suffering. It is unacceptable," Trump said. "Human trafficking, forced labor and modern slavery splinters families, distorts global markets, undermines the rule of law, strengthens transnational organized criminal networks and threatens national security everywhere." (Read more)
- Father, we lift up those in bondage around the world and pray for their freedom and salvation. We also pray for those who are abusing these people, that their hearts would turn to You in repentance.

I will free you from being slaves to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment. (Exodus 6:6b)

8. Likely Next Solicitor General Fought for Nuns, Against Disputed Obama Appointees - Daily Signal

After racking up victories against the Obama administration before the Supreme Court, Noel Francisco is expected to be confirmed by the Senate to manage the Trump administration's cases there. "If you asked any conservative attorney in this town, they would put Noel in the top five legal minds," @Curt_Levey says.

President Donald Trump nominated Francisco, who clerked for the late Justice Antonin Scalia and was a lawyer in the George W. Bush administration, to be his solicitor general. A Senate committee approved the nomination four months ago. Democrats have stalled a final vote, but an end looks in sight. The U.S. solicitor general works in the Justice Department, charged with managing the defense of the federal government's cases in front of the Supreme Court. In many cases, the solicitor general argues the case.

Francisco briefly served as acting solicitor general until Trump nominated him for the position in March. Jeffrey Wall, who has served as acting solicitor general, is set to take the office's No. 2 slot upon Francisco's confirmation. (Read more)
- Father, we pray for Noel Francisco's quick confirmation and we pray he will be a great asset to the Trump Administration before the Supreme Court.

- The Lord your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. (Deut. 2:7a)

9. Retail Apocalypse: 20 big retailers closing stores in 2017 - Fox Business

Some of the United States' most prominent retailers are shuttering stores this year amid sagging sales in the troubled sector. The rise of ecommerce outlets like Amazon has made it harder for traditional retailers to attract customers to their stores and forced companies to change their sales strategies. Many companies have turned to sales promotions and increased digital efforts to lure shoppers while shutting down brick-and-mortar locations.

Toys R Us is the latest retailer to experience difficulties amid the shifting business landscape. The venerable toy outlet filed for bankruptcy Monday night amid mounting debt and pressure from wary suppliers. For now, the company says its 1,600 store locations will remain open and operate "as usual," with no changes to organization structure or payroll. A list of some of the top retailers to close stores this year can be found [at the link]. (Read more)
- Father, we lift up all the people who will lose their jobs through these closings and we pray for You to shift them into meaningful, fruitful work.

- So I decided there is nothing better than to enjoy food and drink and to find satisfaction in work. Then I realized that these pleasures are from the hand of God. (Ecclesiastes 2:24)

10. Egypt's Sisi on Qatar: It's time to confront supporters of terrorism - Al Arabiya

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi who is in New York for the UN General Assembly session said the time has come to efficiently confront parties that support terrorism and get them to bear their responsibility. He specifically addressed Qatar and said it must respond to the four boycotting countries' demands to show that it does not aim to harm Arab countries' interests or interfere in their internal affairs.

Sisi also met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in New York to discuss the Middle East peace process in their first public talks, his office said on Tuesday. Sisi emphasized the importance of "resuming negotiations between the Israeli and Palestinian sides to reach a comprehensive solution," the statement said. The Egyptian president also met with former American officials and with delegations from research centers, Jewish organizations and think tanks on Monday. Sisi also confirmed the importance of strategic relations between Egypt and the US, noting that Egypt is concerned about improving and developing these ties. (Read more)
- Father, we thank You for Egyptian President al-Sisi and his strong, capable leadership. We pray Your blessing upon him as he brings stability to Egypt and works towards peace for Israel.

- By justice a king gives a country stability. (Proverbs 29:4a)

The Daily Brief: Wednesday, September 20, 2017 Short

The Daily Brief: Wednesday, September 20, 2017 (Short Form)

U.N. News

1. Full Text: President Trump's Historic First Speech to the United Nations General Assembly - VOX.com

"In remembering the great victory that led to this body's founding, we must never forget that those heroes who fought against evil, also fought for the nations that they love. Patriotism led the Poles to die to save Poland, the French to fight for a free France, and the Brits to stand strong for Britain. Today, if we do not invest ourselves, our hearts, our minds, and our nations, if we will not build strong families, safe communities, and healthy societies for ourselves, no one can do it for us." (Excerpt) Read full text here.

View the video of President Trump's Address to the United Nations by going here.

- Father God, we thank You that our President has indeed delivered this powerful speech to the members of the UN General Assembly. We pray that, as he has now laid down the gauntlet against the terror tactics of both North Korea and Iran, we pray that all other leaders will form a global coalition, bent on one goal only: the obliteration of the threats from these two nations. Lord God, let the U.N. rise up and fulfill their mandate: working to bring peace among all nations. Amen.

- "Let God arise, and let His enemies be scattered. And let those who hate Him flee before Him." (Psalm 68:1,2)

2. Conservatives Welcome Trump's 'Blunt' Speech to the UN - NewsMax

President Donald Trump's "open" and "blunt" speech to the United Nations on Tuesday was enthusiastically welcomed by conservatives on Tuesday. Most maintained Trump's words needed to be said and warmly applauded his speech. "This is the international UN version of 'draining the swamp,'" Rep. Ron DeSantis, R-Fla., told Fox News. "He went in there and was extremely blunt. "That was exactly the message that needed to be sent. Bret Baier, chief political anchor at Fox News, called the president's speech "strong," "bold" and "direct."(Read more)
- Father, we pray that President Trump's clarity will result in peace and stability for Israel, South Korea and the United States.

- "The wicked flee when no one is pursuing, but the righteous are bold as a lion." (Proverbs 28:1)

3. Full text of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's UN speech - Times of Israel

PM vaunts 'revolution in Israel's standing among the nations,' goes on the offensive against the Iran nuclear deal

[Closing comments] As the prophet Isaiah said, "I have made you a light unto the nations, bringing salvation to the ends of the earth."

Today, 2,700 years after Isaiah spoke those prophetic words, Israel is becoming a rising power among the nations. And at long last, its light is shining across the continents, bringing hope and salvation to the ends of the earth.

Happy New Year, Shanah Tovah from Israel. Thank you.

To read the full text, go here.

To view his speech, go here.

4. Netanyahu praises Trump's 'bold and courageous' speech - Times of Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu praised US President Donald Trump's speech to the UN General Assembly Tuesday.

"In over 30 years in my experience with the UN, I never heard a bolder or more courageous speech. President Trump spoke the truth about the great dangers facing our world and issued a powerful call to confront them in order to ensure the future of humanity," Netanyahu said. (Read more)
- Father, we are grateful for the warm relationship between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu. We pray they will continue to work together to increase the peace and security of Israel and the Middle East.

- "Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress." (1 Timothy 4:15)

5. Netanyahu slams Iran deal in fiery UN speech, urges world to 'fix it or nix it' - Times of Israel

NEW YORK - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu harshly condemned the Iran nuclear deal in a speech at the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, warning that the accord will pave the way for Iran to obtain nuclear weapons if it is not scrapped or altered.

After praising Donald Trump's address earlier in the day from the same podium, in which the US president called the Islamic Republic a "murderous" regime and the nuclear deal an "embarrassment," Netanyahu said the 2015 accord strengthened Iran's nuclear program and posed a grave threat to the entire world. (Read more)
1. 7.1 magnitude earthquake kills more than 100 in Mexico, collapses buildings - Fox News

A 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck near Mexico City Tuesday afternoon, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said, killing at least 149 people and leaving multiple people reportedly trapped in collapsed buildings.

Mexico City's international airport tweeted that it has suspended operations following the quake, although it's not immediately clear how many flights have been affected.

President Donald Trump tweeted "God bless the people of Mexico City" after news of the earthquake broke, and added that the U.S. is "with you and will be there for you." (Read more)
- Father, we pray for the people of Mexico to quickly find survivors and secure failing infrastructure.

- "Then he said to them: "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven." (Luke 21:10-11)

2. Magnitude 3.6 earthquake hits Los Angeles - msn.com

A magnitude-3.6 earthquake hit Los Angeles late Monday. Experts said it was unlikely to cause any serious damage.

The quake struck nearly 4 miles northwest of Westwood at 11.20 p.m. local time. There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

"We get these size earthquakes fairly frequently. Any severe damage would be pretty unlikely," said U.S. Geological Survey seismologist Zachary Reeves, according to the Los Angeles Times. (Read more)
- Father, we recognize that Your Hand of mercy has prevented any major quakes from occurring on the West Coast . . . yet. We come to You in repentance, for only You can protect us from these natural disasters. Thank You, Lord, amen.

- "He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God?" (Micah 6:8)

3. Hurricane Maria takes aim at Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands as Category 5 storm strengthens - Fox News

Hurricane Maria is taking aim at Puerto Rico as the Category 5 storm barreled toward the U.S. territory Tuesday night with disastrous winds and "life-threatening" flooding, according to forecasters.

Maria, a "potentially catastrophic" storm, has top sustained winds near 175 mph, and was located about 160 miles southeast of San Juan, as of the National Hurricane Center's 8 p.m. advisory. The major hurricane was moving to the west-northwest at 10 mph, and "some fluctuations in intensity are likely during the next day or two," according to the NHC.

"Conditions will continue to deteriorate across the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, with the worst conditions there early Wednesday morning," Fox News Senior Meteorologist Janice Dean said Tuesday. "Puerto Rico is forecast to take a direct hit from this major hurricane on Wednesday, with the worst conditions from late Wednesday morning through Wednesday afternoon." (Read more)
- Father, we come to You again, interceding for the people of Puerto Rico - we pray for the forgiveness of their sins, that they would turn to You in repentance and in Your mercy shift this storm away from them.

- "The Lord responded by shifting the wind." (Exodus 10:19a)

4. Jose to swipe northeastern US with rain, wind and dangerous surf - Accuweather

Hurricane Jose will bring coastal flooding, beach erosion, gusty winds and rain to the mid-Atlantic and New England coasts much of this week. Jose, currently a Category 1 hurricane, is expected to pass within 200 hundred miles of the coast on its closest approach around midweek. By this point, Jose will either remain at minimal-hurricane intensity, weaken to a tropical storm or become a sub-tropical system. Regardless, Jose's anticipated track will bring the most significant impacts along and just east of the Northeast Interstate 95 corridor.

"A hurricane does not need to make landfall to cause significant adverse effects in the Northeast, since the shape of the coast tends to enhance storm effects and trap ocean water," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski said. "The slow-moving, lingering and spread-out nature of Jose will lead to prolonged impact on beach communities and offshore interests," Sosnowski said. Areas from the Outer Banks of North Carolina to Maine can expect rough surf to continue to pound the coast as Jose churns waters offshore.

Extensive beach erosion is likely. Intense rip currents and large waves will endanger anyone who ventures into the water. (Read more)
- Father, we pray hurricane Jose will move away from the coast and quickly dissipate.

- "For your unfailing love is higher than the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds." (Psalm 108:4)

5. Italy Supervolcano Near Mount Vesuvius May Soon Erupt, Scientists Say - International Business Times A volcano in southern Italy might be getting ready to erupt, according to scientists who have found and studied the source of magma building up beneath the surface. The team said in a study in the journal Scientific Reports that their research on the volcano Campi Flegrei could help experts better predict when volcanoes are going to explode. The volcano just west of Naples is classified as a supervolcano because it has experienced an eruption of a magnitude 8 on the Volcano Explosivity Index - a scale that runs from 0 to 8. It is only several miles away from Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that famously erupted almost 2,000 years ago and destroyed the ancient Roman city Pompeii, covering it in ash and sending out rapid flows of hot gas and material that burned or choked the people in the city. Campi Flegrei hasn't erupted in hundreds of years. The last time it blew was in 1538, after earthquakes and uplifting of the ground allowed the molten rock known as magma to accumulate beneath the area. "An eruption of similar scale would be highly destructive for the dense metropolitan city of Naples," which is nearby and where there are more than 3 million people, the study says. (Read more)
- Father, we pray this volcano will not erupt and that Your mercy would be the only thing to rain down upon the people of Italy. May this report cause them to reflect on Your goodness and repent.

- "Answer me, Lord, out of the goodness of your love; in your great mercy turn to me." (Psalm 69:16)

6. Senators push for churches to get disaster relief grants - Washington Times

Four Republican senators introduced a bill Monday that would allow churches to apply for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance program grants, putting the houses of worship on the same playing field as non-religious nonprofits. Texas Sens. John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, along with Missouri Sen. Roy Blunt and Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford, say churches should be eligible for disaster relief money, because houses of worship often serve as shelters in communities plagued by natural disasters.

FEMA allows nonprofits that serve the public benefit to apply for disaster relief funds, but the agency explicitly excludes facilities primarily used for religious activities.

The senators' Federal Disaster Assistance Nonprofit Fairness Act comes after three Texas churches damaged by Hurricane Harvey asked a federal court earlier this month to rule FEMA's policy unconstitutional. "This policy is discriminatory and wrong," Mr. Cruz said. "We must ensure that religious organizations are eligible for federal assistance on the same terms as other nonprofits after being damaged or destroyed during natural disasters such as Hurricanes Harvey and Irma." (Read more)
- Father, we pray this bill will pass through Congress and be signed by President Trump, giving much needed aid to those who love and serve You.

- "Leadership gains authority and respect when the voiceless poor are treated fairly." (Proverbs 29:14)

7. Lindsey Graham: Paul Ryan told me House would pass Senate Obamacare fix - Washington Examiner

House Speaker Paul Ryan has said the House would pass new legislation from Senate Republicans that would send Obamacare funding to the states to use as they like, according to Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. "Paul Ryan told me to my face, 'if you pass it, we pass it,'" Graham told reporters Tuesday. Graham was talking about a plan he developed with Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., to give states more control over healthcare spending.

The plan is drawing support from Republicans, who may try to pass it by next week, when they can still advance it in the Senate with just 51 votes, instead of the usual 60. Graham indicated that the idea that the House might follow suit and pass the bill quickly next week could help prompt Senate passage in the coming days. "Mitch McConnell and the leadership has done everything we've asked and then some," Graham said. "I spoke to Paul Ryan, the speaker of the House. He says, 'I like it. You send it to the House, it's gonna pass.'" (Read more)
- Father, we pray this Obamacare fix will pass quickly and bring stability to our healthcare system.

- I will give you back your health and heal your wounds," says the Lord.
(Jeremiah 30:17)

8. Feds were wiretapping head of Donald Trump's presidential campaign - Washington Times

U.S. government investigators were wiretapping the head of Donald Trump's presidential campaign, both before and after the election, CNN reported Monday night. Citing "three sources familiar with the investigation," CNN Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort had his phones tapped under secret orders from a Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) court.

"The government snooping continued into early this year, including a period when Manafort was known to talk to President Donald Trump," CNN reported. Mr. Manafort has owned a home in Trump Tower since 2006. In March of this year, Mr. Trump tweeted that he had "just found out that Obama had my 'wires tapped' in Trump Tower just before the victory. Nothing found. This is McCarthyism!" (Read more)
- Father, we lift up the integrity of our federal agencies and pray those who violated the rights of U.S. citizens will be held accountable.

- "People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will be exposed." (Proverbs 10:9)

9. Senate backs massive increase in military spending - Reuters

The U.S. Senate passed its version of a $700 billion defense policy bill on Monday, backing President Donald Trump's call for a bigger, stronger military but setting the stage for a battle over government spending levels later this year. The Republican-controlled chamber voted 89-8 for the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2018, or NDAA, which authorizes the level of defense spending and sets policies controlling how the money is spent.

The Senate bill provides about $640 billion for the Pentagon's main operations, such as buying weapons and paying the troops, and some $60 billion to fund the conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and elsewhere. The 1,215-page bill includes a wide range of provisions, such as a 2.1 percent military pay raise and $8.5 billion to strengthen missile defense, as North Korea conducts nuclear weapons and ballistic missile tests. It also bans Moscow-based Kaspersky Labs products from federal government use. (Read more)
- Father, we pray our military will be equipped to strengthen our interests and preserve peace around the world. We pray none of our military assets will be diverted for other purposes or used to harm the innocent.

- "I do not trust in my bow; I do not count on my sword to save me. You are the one who gives us victory over our enemies; you disgrace those who hate us. O God, we give glory to you all day long and constantly praise your name." (Psalm 44:6-8)

10. Israel and US open first American military base in Israel - Associated Press

BISLACH AIR BASE, Israel (AP) -- Israel and the U.S. inaugurated the first American military base on Israeli soil on Monday, which will serve dozens of soldiers operating a missile defense system.

The move comes at a time of growing Israeli concerns about archenemy Iran's development of long-range missiles. Together with the U.S., Israel has developed a multilayered system of defenses against everything from long-range guided missile attacks from Iran to crude rockets fired from Lebanon and the Gaza Strip.

The base's opening is largely symbolic and isn't expected to bring operational changes. But the Israeli military says that along with other measures, it sends a message of readiness to Israel's enemies.

"It's a message that says Israel is better prepared. It's a message that says Israel is improving the response to threats," said Brig. Gen. Zvika Haimovich, the commander of Israel's aerial defense. (Read more)
- Father, we thank You for this news of a tangible blessing released to Israel by our nation. We call forth the blessing that will now return to our country, according to the promise of Your Word, in Your name, amen.

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