The Consequences of This Election Are High, So Pray

By Steve Strang

My inbox is full of e-mails from many Christian leaders calling for prayer and fasting and warning that if Sen. Barack Obama is elected, there are serious consequences for everything from right to life, to national security, to turning America toward European-style socialism.This week's report is a compilation of what I think are the most serious warnings. It is also a call to pray and to believe for a miracle to see John McCain get elected.

Meanwhile I'm being bombarded by some very strong negative comments from so-called “Christians”--most of them black--who are supporting Obama because he's black and blasting anyone who won't vote for him as racist. This is sad to me because I've worked all my adult life to build bridges of reconciliation to the black community. Click here to read Kim Daniel's important word on the election from a black woman who is not afraid to buck the trend of nearly everyone in the black community.

The first and most important item is a statement from Dutch Sheets about the spiritual ramifications of this election. You can read that at the end of this report. And you can click on the links below to download a prophetic song by Klaus Kuehn and a prayer from Dutch. Forward this and the entire Strang Report to your family and friends.

http://klausmusic.com/free/klaus_battle_hymn_dutch_sheets_prayer.zip
http://klausmusic.com/free/klaus_battle_hymn.zip

As always you're invited to leave your comments on our blog.

Prophetic leaders are hesitant to say publicly they believe God will give McCain a surprising win, much as Truman defeated Dewey in 1948. But that is what I'm hearing through e-mails and phone calls, even though the polls are saying Obama is ahead in key states.

Some Christian leaders are also predicting a nasty round of race problems and even riots over this election. Let's pray that the predictions are wrong.

I’m including an analysis by my friend Mike Evans on the effect that an Obama presidency would have on Israel and predicting he would sell out the Israelis as Jimmy Carter sold out the Shah of Iran in the 1970s. To read it, click here.

Also at http://www.valuevotersusa.com/ there is a video worth watching and passing on. More than 750,000 have viewed it on YouTube in less than a week, and thousands of churches downloaded the video and showed it in their churches last Sunday.

Finally, click here to read a report I received from a financial advisor I respect--Eric Reinhold--on the serious consequences financially if Obama takes us down the road to socialism. I will also include information from the Traditional Values Coalition questioning those who “groomed Obama” as a youth. You can read it by clicking here.

For those of you in California, Lou Engle is holding TheCall in San Diego on Saturday, Nov. 1. Click here for more information, and help us get out the word to those you know in California.

Meanwhile, read the recent report from my colleague Lee Grady on Obama's connection to Odinga, a socialist in Kenya, by clicking here.
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Letter from Dutch Sheets:

The Stakes Couldn’t be Higher

October 27, 2008

With the upcoming elections 8 days away, satan has worked hard to deflect attention off of the real issue. This has been relatively easy through the economic meltdown and an unpopular war. Many Americans, including Christians, will vote based on these two issues. While these things are obviously important, they pale in light of the real issue—the Supreme Court.

The cover story of USA Today, on Thursday of last week, spelled this out quite clearly. It stated that the real legacy of the next president won’t be the economy or the war, but the Supreme Court. The next president of the United States will appoint at least 2, and maybe 3, Justices in his first term. If he serves 2 terms, it could be 5 Justices—there are 5 of the 9 on the Court 70 years old or older! Since the trend is to appoint younger and younger Justices, the next president will most likely shape the court for the next 30-40 years! This means we are not voting only for a president, we are voting for the Court we want for the next generation! The vote we cast on November 4th will do more to shape the culture we give our children and grandchildren than any other vote of our lifetime! Perhaps some succinct bullet points will help us see this clearly:

• • Without question, no institution, organization, or agency has shaped the current culture of America in the last 50 years more than the Supreme Court. You don’t need millions of people, the majority in Congress, or the President to shape the culture of America. You only need 5 people—the majority of the Supreme Court. Five people can kill 50 million babies (the number aborted since Roe vs. Wade), legalize homosexual marriage, remove parental rights, put God out of schools and government, rob from us our godly heritage, etc.
• • It is now split—sometimes 5-4 toward life, family, morality, our godly heritage, the intent of our forefathers when they wrote the Constitution; sometimes 5-4 toward death, immorality, legislating their beliefs from the bench (though not their constitutional role or right, this is easy—they simply say the Constitution is a fluid, living document and therefore must be changed to accommodate the times), removing God from our nation, etc.
• • 2-3 Justices will retire over the next 4 years, their replacements chosen by the next president; possibly a couple more will step down 5 to 8 years from now, making it 5 potential Justices that could be appointed by the next president if he serves 2 terms. This will determine how the Court rules for a generation.
• • The first two Justices to go will almost certainly be Stevens who is 88 years old and Ginsberg who is 75 and ill. They are the two most liberal and are no doubt waiting to retire, hoping for a president that will replace them with 2 more liberals. These two replacements alone, if they are good, conservative judges could shift the Court toward righteousness for many years.
• • Conclusion: our vote this November 4th will be not for a president, not for the economy, not for ending our involvement in Iraq. Our vote will be for what we want America to look like 40 years from now!

The ramifications of this are staggering! We are no doubt reaping great judgment now in America—diseases, family breakdowns, violence, a death culture, destructive weather, and much more—because of abortion alone…not to mention expelling God and His laws from our schools and government. I don’t know that we can survive another 40 years of this without completely losing our godly heritage and destiny. The economy will recover and the war will end no matter who is elected president—but this is not the case with the Court and the soul of this nation.

If you don’t know where the candidates stand on the Court and the kind of Justices they would appoint, read the USA Today article. It makes their positions very clear. Share this information with every friend and acquaintance you have. And finally, pray like never before for God’s will to be done in this election. We CAN win this war and we MUST NOT lose this war. Pick up your word, go to war and let’s make history together.Here are some practical suggestions to consider:

1. Fast (a meal a day; a day this week; a Daniel fast; 3 days; TV; etc.) and spend the time praying.
2. Agree in prayer with someone everyday for God’s will to be done.
3. Hold nightly prayer meetings
4. Take time in every gathering to pray. (Take 15 minutes in every service to pray for the elections. Turn an entire service to harp and bowl style intercession—worship and prayer combined.)
5. Join 2 or more friends on a conference call and pray for 15, 20, or 30 minutes.
6. Pray on the way to work (and on the way home).
7. Pray before you go to sleep.
8. Pray before church services.
9. Ask God to give you His strategy—He will!

For God and Our Great Nation,
Dutch Sheets

Pray About the Elections

This is one of the most important elections in my lifetime. This week I have lots of information from various sources on some of the issues involved.

One of the most important votes is on the definition of marriage between one man and one woman both here in Florida as well as in California and Arizona. Click here to watch an interesting video about proposition 8 in California sent to me by the American Family Association.At the very end of this blog is a word that came from Dutch Sheets about his calling the body of Christ to prayer in the next 2 weeks up until the election. He believes, as I do, that this election can shift if people pray. It is so important that I'm running it below in it's entirely instead of some of the ads and other materials that we normally run. Please read it, send it to friends, and respond.

Here is a sobering interview by Tony Perkins on the effect that legalizing same sex marriage will have on how we raise our children. The video is about 7 minutes and worth watching.
http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1815825713/bctid1819819843

My friend John Stemberger is leading the charge for passage of Amendment 2 here in Florida. This is the link to his website which has a lot of useful information.
http://www.yes2marriage.org/learn-more/brochures-and-flyers/

Also, below is some information from Mat Staver of Liberty Counsel which is asking people to sign a petition saying they will vote for Amendment 2 and forwarding this to five friends. If you know someone who lives in Florida, please help us by emailing it to them.
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For weeks, Liberty Counsel has been working to create a network of grassroots Florida citizens who have taken a stand for marriage. I'm thrilled to report that we now can reach by email well over 100,000 Florida citizens who have expressed an interest in voting for the marriage amendment (Amendment 2)!

I believe these 100,000 plus citizens could make history in the next two weeks by rallying hundreds of thousands more to stand for marriage on November 4.But it all starts with you. Please go here to join with thousands of other Florida citizens who are pledging to vote YES on Amendment 2:

http://www.libertyaction.org/r.asp?u=12360&RID=14674276

After you sign the pledge, please take a moment to "Alert 5 to Keep Marriage Alive."

This is absolutely crucial. Anti-marriage groups are doing everything possible to defeat Amendment 2. They are using deception and scare tactics. They are even falsely telling senior citizens that they will "lose benefits" if the marriage amendment passes. That's why I'm asking you to take a stand with thousands of other Florida citizens right now by taking the marriage pledge.

Go here: http://www.libertyaction.org/r.asp?u=12360&RID=14674276

With your help, we can inform and equip hundreds of thousands of Florida citizens before Election Day. Thank you for taking your stand!

Mathew Staver, Founder and Chairman

Liberty Counsel
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Letter from Dutch Sheets

Dear Praying Friend,

In 2000, I wrote the 2nd most important letter of my life—a call to prayer for the elections of that year. I’m now writing what may be my most important letter. I knew the importance of those elections in 2000 was beyond any in my life up to that point and that the spiritual warfare surrounding them would be unlike anything any of us had ever seen. That letter was read by millions of people and I believe millions of them responded by praying. I also believe the prayers turned the tide.You may question whether President Bush was the right choice; obviously, he has made some blunders in his tenure as president. But two of his decisions alone left no doubt he was God’s choice: Roberts and Alito.

These two Supreme Court Justices have proven critical in the process of breaking the hold of humanism, death and anti-God agendas that have ruled the Court for 50 years. I assure you that more devastation—the shedding of innocent blood, immorality, decay of the family and an erosion of our godly heritage—has flowed into our nation through that institution than any other door in America. Many times more. The poison allowed into America through their decisions is beyond any of our abilities to articulate. The reality in America is that you don’t need to control Congress or the White Hose to rule the nation. You only need 5 people – 5 out of 9 on the Supreme Court. And for decades those who disagree with just about everything you and I stand for have been in control!In Bush’s two terms, the process of turning this around began with the appointments of Roberts and Alito. Now, we win some cases 5-4 and lose some 4-5. (We barely outlawed partial birth abortion. The vote of one judge saved thousands of babies from this horror.) We need one more conservative Justice for a consistent majority, then more to build a strong majority.

In Obama’s own words, “the next president will appoint at least one, perhaps two or more Supreme Court Justices.” He’s right. Almost certainly two or more older, liberal Justices are waiting until after the elections to retire, in hopes of Obama winning and appointing more liberals to replace them. And he certainly would. He voted against the confirmation of Roberts and Alito. So did Biden. And Biden led the fight against Justice Thomas several years back, another of the 4 solid conservatives. Make no mistake about it, the two of them do have a litmus test for Supreme Court Justices, and a major part of that test is Roe vs. Wade. McCain and Palin, on the other hand, both have very strong pro-life positions. This alone makes the choice for President simple. To vote for the 2nd and 3rd most liberal senators (Obama and Biden), both of whom are firmly and blatantly pro-abortion, would be unconscionable.Obama has actually said that if he wins, he would like his first action as president to be the signing of the Freedom of Choice Act, which would eliminate every other law against any aspect of abortion (partial birth abortion, parental notification, etc., etc.). And with a democratic majority in the House and Senate, pretty much any legislation he and Biden want to pass will be a slam-dunk. There are many other unrighteous positions they hold but this position alone makes the choice easy. If they win this election, it will set America back decades in the cause of life and the restoration we seek.

Just as many of you do, I too, want to see a first black President, but not Senator Obama. To allow that noble and godly desire, the economy or one’s position on the war to trump this issue of life and death for the innocent unborn is simply wrong. The scriptures teach that if we choose first to exalt righteousness and turn from evil, God promises to heal our land (see Proverbs 14:34; 2 Chronicles 7:14). It is righteousness that exalts a nation, not wealth, prosperity or armies. If we will finish the process of removing the curses of death and anti-God laws off of America by electing a president that will continue to shift the Court, God will grace us with breakthrough in other areas such as the economy, the war against terrorism, etc. My faith is not in a person, and certainly not a political party, for the healing of America, but I know God’s word and His ways well enough to know that our decisions do move Him to action or inaction. Now to the heart of my reason for writing this letter (I realize I am “preaching to the choir”—most of you who know or listen to me are conservative enough to vote for McCain and Palin.)I have not written any appeals for prayer concerning this election because:

1) others have, and
2) I believe our movement has matured to the point that the prayer base of the Church is already praying.

But I now feel the need to raise my voice. I am appealing to you to pray for these elections the next two weeks like you’ve never prayed for any in the past. Faithfully. Passionately. Boldly. Ask God for His mercy and grace. We deserve His judgment for removing His influence and authority from our government, schools, homes and businesses; for the killing of 50 million babies; for leading the world in the consumption and exporting of pornography; for passing laws to reject His; etc. But mercy triumphs over judgment and in His wrath He remembers mercy. In 2000 we actually lost the popular vote and won the election—talk about grace! Please pray for this grace to be released again.

But I am also asking you for something more than normal prayer. For those of you who understand spiritual warfare, I am asking you to also include this aspect of prayer. There is no doubt that we have entered a Daniel 10 moment in time: “Then he said to me, ‘Do not be afraid, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart on understanding this and on humbling yourself before your God, your words were heard, I have come in response to your words. But the prince of the kingdom of Persia was withstanding me for twenty-one days; then behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left there with the kings of Persia’” (Daniel 10: 12-13 NAS). The spiritual warfare in this election is incredibly fierce, and just as it was in Daniel’s day, is all about the restoration of a nation. And also like Daniel, we must keep praying until we win the battle in the heavens.In August of this year I predicted that September would mark a shift in momentum for these elections. This happened with the appointment of Sarah Palin as the Vice Presidential nominee (who is a true Esther in our generation), but when the economy began its meltdown and the media ramped up their unprecedented attacks on Palin, that momentum wasn’t sustained. But we can see it turn again if we approach this battle as the spiritual warfare it truly is and bind the evil forces involved (see Matthew 16:18-19). The reality is that this election can be the breakthrough we need to fully shift the Court (and ultimately our nation) or it will be an immeasurable setback that could take many years to reverse—if ever. Please understand what I am saying: if we engage in this battle and do what I am asking—in mass—we will win; if we do not, we will lose. I, for one, don’t intend to allow the latter. I am in Washington, D.C. now (October 20-22) with Lou Engle and a team of prayer leaders from around the nation to war for this election. Join us! Lose some sleep, miss some meals— pray! Pray like never before for these elections. And as you do, involve yourself not only in petitioning prayer but also in spiritual warfare. Use your God-given authority over the plans and strategies of Satan’s kingdom. Bind all witchcraft that is working to control the outcome, including occult powers that are suppressing truth. Release Christ’s Kingdom rule in every way the Holy Spirit leads you.

Don’t be deceived and don’t lose hope (if you have to, turn off the TV.) It is not too late to turn these elections. God is plenty powerful enough to do so. The real question is will we rise to the level of prayer and spiritual warfare necessary to release that power. And remember, we don’t need a majority of Christians who are willing and able to do this—only a praying remnant. We can do it!Here are some practical suggestions to consider:

1) Fast (a meal a day; a day a week; a Daniel fast; 3 days; 10 days; TV; etc.) and spend the time praying.
2) Agree in prayer with someone everyday for God’s will to be done.
3) Form/participate in prayer groups regularly. Churches could pray everyday.
4) Take time in every gathering to pray. (Take 15 minutes in every service to pray for the elections. Turn an entire service to harp and bowl style intercession—worship and prayer combined.)
5) Join 2 or more on a conference call and pray for 15, 20, or 30 minutes.
6) Pray on the way to work (and on the way home).
7) Pray before you go to sleep.
8) Pray before church services.
9) Ask God to give you His strategy—He will!

In His grip,

Dutch Sheets
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This is Steve again. This week is a potpourri of things emailed to me. For those who stayed with me this long, here is something from "the other side" showing the radical left is nervous about losing the vote on traditional marriage in California. It was forwarded to me by a friend and I thought it was both encouraging and an interesting insight in how they view people with traditional values.
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Here is a heartening letter to the editor of San Diego's Gay and Lesbian Times. Keep praying, fasting, and fighting.

Subject: Queer community faces 'political emergency' on Prop 8

Letters to the Editor
(Published Thursday, 16-Oct-2008 in issue 1086)

“Today we face a political emergency in the Queer community. The defeat of Proposition 8 by all legal means available is our immediate priority. NOTHING – not even the Presidential election – is more important.”

Dear Editor:

Rex Wockner’s article “Polls flip on California marriage, Gays losing now” (October 9) doesn’t mention the scariest aspect of the new polls showing anti-marriage Proposition 8 ahead: the gain of support occurred almost entirely among young voters (ages 18 to 34). Before this poll, marriage equality advocates had always assumed that the youth were on our side; that even if today’s cohort of voters was against same-sex marriage, the bigots would slowly die off and eventually there would be a clear majority on our side as young people, raised in an atmosphere of live-and-let-live acceptance of Queer people, entered voting age and replaced them.

Well, as on so many issues the Left sat on its hands and hoped, and the Right put their noses to the grindstone and organized. An October 10 dispatch on the Christian Newswire by Trish Teves [http://www.protectmarriage.com/article/traditional-marriage-initiative-makes-gains-with-young-voters] boasts that the Yes on 8 forces have set up a special Web site to appeal to youth directly, iProtectMarriage.com, which “directs users to MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, and BlueChowder, encouraging young people to register to vote, get informed about Prop. 8, and tell their friends to vote Yes on 8.” As a result, according to the SurveyUSA poll, voters 18 to 34 are now MORE likely than older voters to support Proposition 8 – 53 percent in favor to 39 percent opposed.

Today we face a political emergency in the Queer community. The defeat of Proposition 8 by all legal means available is our immediate priority. NOTHING – not even the Presidential election – is more important. Passage of Proposition 8 will kill the chances of same-sex marriage anywhere in the U.S. outside of New England forever – or at least long enough that no one now living will see it. The future of Queer equality will be far better if Proposition 8 is defeated and John McCain is the next President than if it passes and Barack Obama is the next President.

Accordingly, the Queer community nationwide in the U.S. should divert ALL its resources into a massive campaign to raise a war chest capable of matching that of the Proposition 8 supporters and defeating this initiative at the polls while there is still a chance to do so. Proposition 8 is the deal-breaker, the vote that will determine whether or not marriage equality for same-sex couples EVER becomes a reality in the United States. Our opponents understand that and are acting accordingly. Are we?

Mark Gabrish Conlan

Publisher, Zenger’s Newsmagazine
http://www.gaylesbiantimes.com/?id=13302

Christian Response to Financial Crisis

By Steve Strang

I've never seen anything like the financial crisis that has hit Wall Street and our nation in the last month. If you're like me, you have investments for your retirement, and you feel helpless to know what to do. Probably the worst action to take would be to sell everything because history has proven that the economy will probably rebound.

Last Sunday I had the privilege of visiting Abba's House (Central Baptist Church) near Chattanooga, Tennessee, pastored by Dr. Ron Phillips. During the service Phillips introduced his pastor of stewardship, Alan Johnston, who has a very impressive financial background and is an expert in what's happening on the stock market.

Johnston shared with the congregation that the worst thing that can happen is for people to react out of fear. You can see for yourself what he said by clicking on the link to the video below.

View Video

Below I share some thoughts and financial insights from Michael Cozakas, who is a part of Apostle C. Peter Wagner's network and the founder of Eagle's Heart Ministries. I have shared his comments with several people, and they felt it would be good information to pass along.

Meanwhile, click on the ad below announcing a conference call with Larry Bates, one of our authors who wrote a book several years ago titled The New Economic Disorder. I will report more about his book in a future Strang Report.

Long before President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in his 1933 inaugural address, said in reference to the depressed economic condition of our nation, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself," God Himself had given us the admonition not to fear. He said through the prophet Isaiah, "'Fear not, for I have redeemed you. …When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. … Since you were precious in My sight, you have been honored, and I have loved you'" (Is. 43:2-4, NKJV).

Johnston says that historically there have been 10 cycles during which the stock market has fallen even more than it has this month. Each time it does, there is usually a reason. This time it is the credit crunch and the banking failures that have recently taken place. However, the government has stepped in to stabilize things, and it's probably just a matter of time before things return to normal.

As Johnston shared with the congregation at Abba's House, we should continue in faith, continue our giving and look to the Lord, who is our real source, not the stocks we own or the economy in the country in which we live.

I urge you to forward this video by Alan Johnston to as many people as possible. We must get the word out. In order to understand the times in which we're living, we must learn to discern them, as the sons of Issachar did (see 1 Chron. 12:32), and view them in light of the Word of God.

Please leave your thoughts on the blog.

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The Economic Bailout
By Michael Cozakas

October 2008

I was in Norway during the most recent economic events that have caused such a stir throughout the world. I heard people tell me that the U.S. financial markets were collapsing and unprecedented losses would occur. When I realized the nature of the problem I reflected on what was causing this catastrophic event to occur.

What Happened?

First and foremost, I believe this is a godly correction and it is a good thing for our economy. The mortgage meltdown, which has caused most of this, was brought on by some greedy people [who] departed from sound economic practices. The bankers that caused this put many people into mortgages that they could not afford or qualify for. They convinced people that if they purchased homes beyond their earning capability they would realize an increase in their quality of living.

The bankers developed mortgage packages with artificially low interest rates that made the loan payments for the first few years affordable and easy to make. No one ever looked past the initial rate as the people were told that they could always refinance, and they really should move up and enjoy their new lifestyle. To make the problem worse, the bankers then released loan packages called "stated income loans" that had no income verification. These loans were given to borrowers based on what they said they earned. It is, and has been, common banking practice to verify everything a borrower states so that people are held accountable to their word.

Many people were convinced by the bankers, the mortgage companies, and the mortgage processors, that they should get the home of their dreams and take full advantage of the American dream. As we all know, these practices moved the banking community away from good stewardship principles, and they were motivated by their greed.

As the loans came due, and the market conditions changed, their dream homes become a curse. Because they were living well beyond their means, they suffered through foreclosures, bankruptcies and personal financial devastation. This caused the mortgage meltdown to occur, which affected our old and stable financial institutions; thereby creating the current economic conditions. Suffice it to say, there was nothing godly in anything our financial institutions did. Praise the Lord, He brought about a correction.

Most of us understand good stewardship, and most of us understand when something is not right. We all are given a moral compass. As these events occur, which will shape our life for generations, we need to see that God is in this so we all have real hope that this is moving by the hand of God for our good.

The Bailout

Interestingly enough, while I believe God caused this, I can also see God's grace at work here. When I first heard that our elected officials were faced with approving a 700 billion dollar economic bailout to help our financial institutions survive, I was relieved that our government was actually going to do something to help—then I quickly realized that the taxpayer base would pay it back. The number is so large, it will affect us and our children. This cannot be good, and why should we help financial institutions that strayed away from sound banking practices? They caused the problem; they should suffer through the chaos as this is righteous.

History

Shortly after that, I read an article that said this is not the first time that the U.S. government has bailed out the economy. In fact, this is the fourth time, and every time the government has bailed out the economy the people eventually prospered.

The first time this occurred, the economic bailout was suggested by and administered by Alexander Hamilton. The government purchased properties, held on to them, and then sold them for a profit; thereby replenishing the treasury. We know Alexander Hamilton to be a man of God and this was his idea. In a time of crisis, we work together for the good of the country where we live.

The last time this occurred was during the '80s when the S&L [savings and loan] meltdown occurred. A similar set of circumstances happened, and our government stepped in and bailed out the problem. The government formed a company that held the properties and then they were sold at a profit. The money was repaid at a profit for the people.

When I started to see the truth of this, I realized that while God drove a correction that was needed, He also opened a door that, based on history, could actually profit the people in time. While I don't believe our financial institutions deserve anything, I do believe that we should seize the hope that God has given us. I also believe that this is a great time of fear for the country. The media has learned that people pay more attention to it when the news is bad, so the media has learned to play on our fears.

Faith, Hope and Trust

This is a time for the body of Christ to hold onto our faith and trust the Lord and His ways. I know that through faith and trust, we will overcome this and our character in Christ will grow more day by day. I also believe that those people who have no relationship with the Lord will be driven to seek Him and find their faith. The old adage that says there are no atheists in a foxhole tells us that in a time of crisis the people seek their God. I believe more people will be driven to the church and more people will find their God.

As believers, it is our responsibility to let people see the Spirit of the Lord that abides in us. We must show our faith as we go through these difficult times. As people around us walk in fear, we can walk in faith and keep our peace, joy and righteousness. When people see the character of Christ in us by the way we conduct ourselves in this time of crisis, they will ask the questions that will truly lead them to their God.

I think this is an incredible time of faith and restoration for all people. This is a time when God is gathering the faithful to lead the unfaithful to a place of peace. We are not in a time of catastrophic doom—so don't let the media rob you of your faith!

We are in a time of great change, but we all know that great change is required and we all know that God is committed to our growth. Don't let the enemy rob you of your hope. Let your faith and trust in the Lord our God grow day by day as we work together to build His Kingdom.

Michael Cozakas
COO, ICWBF
3941 Park Dr. Suite 20-293
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
E-mail: Michael@icwbf.com
www.eaglesheart.org

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Life As We Know It Will End If Obama Is Elected

I was amazed that during the presidential debate this week Sen. John McCain didn't make the point that if Sen. Barack Obama is elected, life as we know it in many ways will end. America will be more socialized and have less free enterprise and freedom.

It seems that due to the current economic crisis, a percentage of Americans are clamoring for change in the White House. Unfortunately, they don't seem to realize that change will mean gay rights will be encoded into law and abortion rights laws will be strengthened. The result will be an alteration in our entire social structure and the likelihood that Roe v. Wade—the case that led to the legalization of abortion--will never be overturned. Recently someone sent me a video put out by Roman Catholics on the sanctity of life. Take time to watch it at www.catholicvote.com. It makes the point that protecting human life from conception to natural death is one of the most important responsibilities we have as Christians.

I believe if Obama is elected, the government will tax, tax, tax the citizens who are most productive. Yet it's been proven that tax increases lead to economic downturn, while tax cuts lead to economic growth (which we desperately need). There will also be a “take from the rich, give to the poor” type of socialistic mind-set throughout the nation. And I believe our country will be weaker militarily around the world.

In addition, people who hate Christianity will be emboldened to attack our freedoms. Christianity is already persona non grata in academia and in the liberal media. People such as Bill Maher and Michael Moore, who hate God and God's people, will think the election verifies that the nation as a whole believes as they do and will jump for glee. Meanwhile, Christians seem almost asleep. There is no outcry! And there is a group of Bible-believing Christians who appear to have decided to overlook how dangerous Obama will be and plan to vote for him anyway.

A few weeks ago McCain and Obama were even in the polls. However, the economic crisis seems to have pushed some Americans toward Obama. So in the 25 days to the election we must pray as never before. And we must work to wake up Christians. That is what happened late in the 2004 election—Christian leaders rallied believers, and as a result, George W. Bush was re-elected president.

Even though polls are often right, there are exceptions, and we must pray and work--before it’s too late--to see that Obama is not elected. I receive lots of interesting e-mails having to do with the election and the issues surrounding current culture wars. Below is some of what someone sent me and urged me to pass on. There are links to several interesting videos that you should take the time to watch. Much of what you will see is disturbing. I urge you to forward the information below to your friends.

The only reason Obama is competitive is because people do not really know who and what he stands for.

Barack Obama’s Views:

Endorsed by:
- ACLU
- AFL-CIO
- National Trial Lawyers Groups
- NARAL
- Planned Parenthood
- Homosexual and atheist advocacy groups
- Moveon.org
- Radical leftist national groups

These groups have provided the largest support for his campaign, along with the Saudis. And every one of them hates serious Christians and Zionist Jews. How can a Christian or a Jew vote with them? He promised the trial lawyers that he will fight against Tort Reform.

He promised the unions to vote for the Union Intimidation Act (aka Employee Free Choice Act)--a laughable name for legislation that will devastate American jobs. He promised the abortionists to vote for the Abortion Anytime Act (aka the Freedom of Choice Act).

He promised the homosexuals that he will support the repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act, and he is already fighting the California Marriage Amendment. And he has no experience! Hello?

Serious Political Videos and Articles that Expose the Truth about Barack Obama

Article: See Obama’s Illegal Campaign Contributions
http://www.newsmax.com/timmerman/Obama_fundraising_illegal/2008/09/29/135718.html?s=al&promo_code=6BD9-1

Video Clip: Mohammar Khaddafi on Barack Obama. Quite real and quite damning.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSemkPChvHo

Video Clip: A History of Barack Obama’s Life and Politics
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUdjhKbImwE

Video Clip: Barack Obama on Defense Spending
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8sj91NH5fvw

Video Clip: Little-Known Barack Obama Scandals
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sawN7uJ8s8s

Video Clip: Hillary Shreds Obama
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQadAAlK9c4

Video Clip: Biden Slams Obama
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EV14xqelWxY

Video Clip: The Hypocrisy of the Liberal Media Exposed in Their Attack on Sarah Palin’s Prayer for the Troops
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hpwM4Jjyrs

Video Clip: School Children Sing Praises of Obama
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08iomNFrzU4

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I know many of you are as disturbed as I am. I think this information on Obama speaks for itself. Let's pray for a shift in our country. And let's get this information into the hands of as many people as possible. If you missed my endorsement of John McCain, click here.

And be sure to add your thoughts to the blog.

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A message from Bill Wiese

Dear Friend,

During the fall of 1998, I experienced overwhelming terror, dreadful fear, penetrating horror, untold misery, and total exhaustion and despair. I was in a place of complete isolation and unending torment, a place where I was hopelessly lost and without human intervention. Yes, this is a place—an actual reality that exists now, this very moment, for untold millions of people. This place is hell, which I found myself in for twenty-three minutes on November 23, 1998. I tell of this entire experience in explicit detail in my first book, 23 Minutes in Hell. I didn't ask for this, nor did I ever seek after spiritual experiences.

In fact, to be associated with something as radical as this is uncomfortable for me. I'm a conservative man by nature, a real estate broker for over thirty-five years, and a Christian since 1970. After seeing firsthand the absolute misery and horror that exists for so many, I wanted to warn everyone I could how to avoid this place. It was then that I began to research the subject of hell.

My purpose in writing Hell was threefold. First, I wanted to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about hell and the afterlife. Second, I wanted to expound on some of the events I experienced and give additional verses to help clarify, and include many of the commentaries, opinions, and views from current and past reputable leaders. Third, I wanted to share some of the responses we have received from others and about the many souls saved after reading 23 Minutes in Hell. Christians have become more committed, ceased living a compromised lifestyle, and developed a renewed passion for the lost.

To purchase a copy of my new book, Hell, please visit Amazon.com today. Buy a copy for yourself and another for everyone you know who needs to hear this essential message.

amazon.com | christianbook.com | barnesandnoble.com

Prophecy for Sarah Palin

October 2, 2008

Strang Report
by Steve Strang

If you're like me, you'll be glued to the television tonight to watch the first vice- presidential debate, which is being held at Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. The 90-minute debate between Gov. Sarah Palin and Sen. Joe Biden will begin at 9 p.m. EST and will be broadcast on all major television networks.

I've publicly endorsed Sen. John McCain and Sarah Palin, so you know for whom I will be rooting. I've reported in the Strang Report how unfair the media has been to Gov. Palin, even ridiculing her Pentecostal background. Now we've learned that tonight's moderator, Gwen Ifill of PBS, has written a pro-Obama book. So much for objectivity.

This is a call to pray for Sarah Palin. Read the incredible prophecy quoted below that is going around the Internet. At the end I tell about attending a huge Palin rally in Florida 10 days ago. Below, read about an important new book we just published by Perry Stone.

Pastor Mark Arnold in Lebanon, Ohio, wrote this true account. He first sent it out to a small handful of friends and relatives, never dreaming that, thanks to e-mail, it would travel around the world. As of today, he's heard back from 50 states, 36 nations, and several major Christian ministries and news networks, and he has received more than 11,800 e-mails.

When Arnold was asked what he felt the value was in letting this story go public, he said he is seeing people moved and coming out of the “caves” they've been in, coming alive and realizing that they need to get involved in the affairs of the nation and not sleep through this season as the church did when believers allowed prayer to be removed from schools.

Pastor Mark Arnold of Lebanon, Ohio, writes:

On Sept. 9, the McCain/Palin bus came through a little town called Lebanon, Ohio. The Lord allowed me to go to the rally [to give McCain and Palin] a message that He wanted me to personally deliver.

Sunday Night: A burden hit me that would only shake me to my knees--I prayed and wept for our nation. Never has my heart been so broken before God. I literally interceded for these wonderful people who do not deserve all the hate against them. The God-haters are going to try everything to stop them, but they will not succeed!

God is not pleased with the “bashing” in the news of this “anointed” person [Sarah Palin]. He has called her for this time! I promised God that I would pray and hold them up in prayer. I would “listen” out and be mindful of where they were. The following day is important in this time line ... because I didn't even know until God spoke to me.

Monday and into Monday night: The burden of prayer was so heavy that I was literally shaking and could not stop weeping. I didn't know that they were coming to Ohio. I prayed and walked and wept and walked. I prayed and prayed and wept and prayed.

Tuesday at 2:00 a.m.: God spoke these words to me: “Go turn the radio on!” Immediately the reporter's words were, “McCain & Palin bus to be in Lebanon later this morning for a 10:00 a.m. rally!”

Immediately on hearing that news, I heard God again. God said, “You are to go. You will meet them and give them a message for Me!”

I prayed as an intercessor and went to a place in prayer that I don't think I've ever been … because the Lord had just visited me … and I knew I was on a “mission.” I had now been up since Sunday night … and now it's Tuesday and I've got to go on the “Word of the Lord.” He sure became my strength as this unfolds.

I didn't stop praying until I drove over to the town and parked the car. The news would later report they were expecting 5,000 people, [but] the actual head-count of those who had been scanned was more than 10,000 people.

I simply obeyed … and God actually told me where to stand, who to talk to … and when to be on the move. I had sure learned on the mission field, when God wants to open a door, He will do it at the appropriate time. He always has someone to assist … and even those standing beside you may just be an angel.

I struck up a conversation with an agent on the ground. He simply said, “I can't allow you to stand here!” Here is where the bus was going to actually pull up to. They had to make a much larger perimeter, so the entire area was now being moved back several blocks. The only other thing he told me to do was to go through the metal detector zone and just watch from the back. So, that's what I did.

Due to [the] sensitivity of the Internet, I can't share much of the story. As to what happened next, [it] was a definite God thing all the way.

Looking over the shoulders and backs and heads of all those people … I knew it would take a miracle for what God told me to do.

As I was standing there, two Boy Scouts came running up my back. Literally, they almost knocked me to the ground because they were running so fast behind me, up my back and over to the right. These Boy Scouts were about Junior High age. Their Scout Leader and several others were behind them, but as the two out front [were] trying to push through the crowd, saying they were late, the smaller scouts were left in their dust. The Scout Leader, who was with a McCain rep. from the State, grabbed me and told me [to] bring the other Scouts up front as they try to keep up with the first two that just came through.

I just became the leader of the rest of the Scouts to lead them right up front and center. As the rep. was shouting back at me to bring the Scouts forward, the people parted just like God parted the Red Sea.

I marched those boys right up front and to the right of the stage as one was looking from the back. When I got there I was fifteen feet from the podium. God said, “Stand here, and don't move from this spot.”

Within five minutes the bus pulled up, and around the other side McCain, Sarah Palin and her husband, Todd, stepped up and the speeches took off. I was where God placed me … and even Sarah Palin and Todd were standing on my side of the stage. I made eye contact, I gave them thumbs-up gestures … and I knew they were just happy to see me standing there. Ha ha.

When they came around the podium and started on the other side, I knew they were coming right toward me. A little lady who stood by me, reached up and told the rep. that they had promised a picture with her because she was the one who had lost a son in Iraq recently. The rep. confirmed she would get a pic with them and they would talk to her.

When McCain came to hug her … he immediately shook my hand and following his moment with her, I shook his hand as he grabbed my hand, now for the second time, and I said, “God wants you to know that I'm praying for you, Sir!” He thanked me and kept smiling. I repeated that phrase to him five times. He grabbed my hands and looked right into my eyes and said, “I won't make it without prayer. Sir, thank you for praying for me, and don't let one day go by that you don't pray for me. I need all the prayers that I can get. Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

As he moved to my right, Sarah Palin came over to my left side … standing over the crowd and then looking at the little lady who had lost the son. It took a moment for her to shake some hands and people were pushing in all around. Sarah came and got on her hands and knees on that side of the stage and hugged that little mom, telling her, “It was not in vain.” She promised her support.

It was at this moment Sarah Palin reached out for me to help her up, and as I was assisting her to stand, I was now face-to-face with her, and God said, “Open up your mouth and I will fill it.”

Here is what came out:

“God wants you to know that you are a present-day Esther!”

[She immediately began to cry!]

“God wants to tell you that you are chosen for such a time as this!”

“You are called, and chosen to be a leader.”

“Don't lose heart and don't fear man.”

“The news and naysayers and criticizers are going to be very hateful toward you … and in the days ahead they are going to turn up the heat … but do not fear.”

“You are a present-day Esther.” You are an Esther. You are an Esther!

“Keep your eyes on God and know that He has chosen you to reign!”

“Stay strong ... be strong ... don't tire. Don't be weary in well-doing. Be strong.”

Her husband, Todd, came over, and I told him what I told her. He began to cry.

I emphasized the fact that he was to guard her at this time … and know that “she is God-called and God-anointed.”

“This is a God-thing and your wife is a present-day Esther ... she is for God to use at this time ... she is an Esther ... she is an Esther ... she is an Esther.”

“You will be hated … but stand strong … God has called both of you to stand!”

“We are praying and I am praying for you!”

At this moment, McCain came right to where I was finishing talking to Todd, and I told Mr. McCain exactly what I told to Sarah and Todd Palin.

“Mr. McCain … they are called of God and she is an Esther.”

“Don't lose hope and don't lose heart.”

“We are praying for all of you!”

He shook my hand and with a deep look of understanding what I had just said, he said, “Thank you for your prayers and support ... I really do mean that!”

And he turned and shook more hands … and I watched them as they went through the crowd.

When I got to my car I sat there for quite a long time … knowing the God of the universe had just used me to deliver a message confirming to Sarah and Todd to realize they are truly chosen vessels of God.

I wept. I have not stopped praying and crying. My heart is full knowing they had to have all the staging and all the hype and all the crowd … but the God of heaven and earth … wanted to give them a divine God-appointment!

To God be all the glory and honor.

If anyone wants to know if I believe God can speak. Yes … absolutely, is my answer!

Be praying for me … and let me know what you think about all of this.

Pastor Mark Arnold
www.agreeinprayer.com
MEA31975@aol.com
MEA31975@gmail.com
Tel: (513) 291-0425

My own experience of hearing Gov. Palin speak at The Villages about 80 miles north of my home near Orlando on Sept. 21 was not nearly as dramatic. It was a hot Sunday afternoon, and we went two hours early and waited in the heat for Palin to come. Estimates of the crowd range from 30,000 to 60,000. It was impossible to know for certain how many were there because it was in a “town center” area, and people were up and down the streets in all directions.

I was able to get near only a large-screen TV, not the stage, and my wife and I settled down in our portable chairs to watch. The crowd was so thick you couldn't move around to look for a better place. From our vantage point you couldn't even see the stage, and we never saw Sarah Palin or her family except on the large screen. But it was interesting to see the level of excitement for her candidacy.

Now it will be interesting to see how the debate goes tonight. Be sure to add your thoughts in the blog below.

Steve Strang

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Dear Friend,

Reading, understanding and practicing the message in this book could add years to your life.

There is a way to experience life changing intimacy with God and receive emotional, spiritual and physical healing at the same time: by understanding and receiving Communion in your home on a daily basis. The first revelation of the power of the blood and body of the lamb was revealed in the homes of the ancient Hebrews in Egypt (Exodus 12). The First Century Church met in homes, “breaking bread from house to house” (Acts 2:46). As documented in my book, The Meal That Heals, the breaking of bread was actually the celebration of the Eucharist or the Lord’s Supper. The early believers knew the power of Communion and celebrated it daily.

In The Meal That Heals, I will lead the reader on a fascinating spiritual journey into the church’s most blessed sacrament. Biblical and historical evidence that God has a covenant of healing for his people today, covering:

• The secrets of the believer’s priesthood and the Hebraic mysteries linked to the crucifixion
• The mystery of the manna and breaking bread from house to house
• How the First Century Church celebrated Communion and who removed the daily tradition
• Seven covenants that bring seven blessings to your life
• The difference between a Catholic Mass and a Protestant Communion
• The greatest hindrance to receiving your healing and how to remove it
• How receiving daily Communion could extend your life and bring healing to your body, soul and spirit
• How to build a family altar at home as a place of study, worship and Communion with God
• The importance of not dying before your appointed time

At the conclusion of each chapter we have included a special question and answer section that is excellent for a home or church Bible study. We have also included a feature color photo section which includes a photo of the Biblical description of the manna that fell in the wilderness!

In this book I will document how the concept of receiving daily Communion in your home is a restoration of a dynamic truth practiced by the first century believers as they understood the concept of the “priesthood of the believers” (Rev.1:6). In this book I endeavor to restore a lost truth that can bring wholeness to this generation.

You can purchase a copy of my new book, The Meal That Heals today at any of the following retailers. Buy a copy for yourself and another for everyone you know who needs healing in their life.

www.amazon.com
www.christianbook.com
www.barnesandnoble.com