Dear Prayer Partners,
Shalom! Greetings from Jerusalem! The cooler fall weather has arrived in Israel, and we are all getting used to an earlier sunset, which is a bittersweet transition from the summer. The changing of the seasons is always a good reminder that our lives are constantly changing, which is especially true of life in Israel.
The situation along the Syrian border seems to have calmed down for now, but Israel is always on guard, staying prepared for any possible scenario. Last month, the IDF discovered a tunnel running from Gaza to an Israeli kibbutz near the Gaza border, which was intended for a large-scale attack by Palestinians. We are grateful to the LORD for providing intel to Israel to avoid such an attack!
Israel continues to also stay alert for any possible attacks from Lebanon, and the situation amongst the Palestinians in the Judea & Samaria region of Israel is becoming more violent.
Please join us in interceding on behalf of Israel for:
Hanukkah: Hard to believe, but Hanukkah, “Festival of Lights”, will begin sundown on Thursday, November 28th. While it is not a biblical feast, it is one that Yeshua celebrated and is mentioned in the book of John. We also celebrate in Israel as believers in Messiah, knowing that this festival commemorates God’s faithfulness to Israel during the time of the ancient Greeks’ invasion of Jerusalem and desecration of the Temple. Please pray for a quiet and peaceful celebration during this season. Please also pray that many will receive revelation of Yeshua, the LIGHT OF THE WORLD, and for many to come to salvation in Him!
“Peace” Process: The 9-month deadline that Secretary of State Kerry gave for the “peace” talks is approaching. While the details of the talks are not being released to the press, there have been reports that the potential for reaching a deal is quite low. While this is a position we support according to Scripture, it could possibly bring about another Palestinian uprising. Israel is being portrayed as the sole reason that these talks are not succeeding, when in reality, the Palestinians have made zero concessions, as Israel has already. But it is clear that something must be done about the situation, and we are in need of much prayer! Please continue to pray for God’s wisdom in this situation, as the last time such a push for “peace” was made, violent Palestinian suicide bombings and terror attacks took the lives of hundreds of Israelis. Please also pray that America would see the truth of God’s Word, where He promises judgment on those who divide His Land (Joel 3). Lastly, please pray for a great revival within Israel and amongst the Palestinian people, that we will all recognize our only chance for peace is through changed hearts in Yeshua.
Concern for a 3rd Intifada: As with previous failed peace talks, this current round may bring a violent uprising. The current situation in the Judea & Samaria region is already becoming increasingly violent, and while some are saying a 3rd Intifada is already happening, many do not agree. Yet, the possibility is there and we are asking for intercession for Israel’s protection. Please continue to pray for Israel’s protection, and that God will give Israel increased knowledge and wisdom to continue to prevent terror attacks.
Syria:.The civil war continues, but now the world powers are starting to step in, at least to deal with the chemical weapons issue. While Assad’s regime cannot be trusted, and Russia is not the ideal “watchdog” to oversee the destruction of the chemical weapons, it seems the only option on the table that is not a military strike. Please continue to pray for God’s wisdom for Israel and the USA regarding Syria, as well as clarity to see the situation with open eyes. Please also pray for the many innocent civilians being affected by the conflict there, that they would experience the peace and comfort of God. Furthermore, please intercede for Israel’s safety and that chemical weapons would not successfully be used against her. Lastly, please pray that Israel would see that it is God who ultimately defends her more than any army in the world can.
Iran: The world continues to be deceived by new Iranian President Rouhani, who is begging for sanctions to be lifted in exchange for a “peaceful” nuclear program. The US is debating whether or not to pass another round of crippling economic sanctions in an effort to “give diplomacy a chance.” The fact is, diplomacy has totally failed in getting Iran to halt its nuclear program, which it has declared in the past, is to gain a nuclear weapon. Reports as of the end of October claim that Iran continues to enrich Uranium at the 20% level, bringing it dangerously close to weapon-grade material. Please continue to intercede on behalf of Israel where Iran is concerned. We know that the end days will bring much suffering, and we pray for God’s hand of mercy over Israel, as her enemies are becoming more brazen about her destruction. Please pray that the next round of sanctions WILL pass, in order to send a very clear message to Iran that NO uranium enrichment is acceptable. Lastly, please also pray that if Israel does attack Iran, that the USA and other nations will stand behind her!
Israel’s Water Supply: Please continue to pray for God’s mercy on Israel this rainy season! Please pray that we will have a plentiful season of rain and for our water supply to continue to rise.
Following are some ministry requests for Hope for Israel:
Moran – Moran just finished a busy month with some tour groups in Israel; it was a very blessed time! He is now preparing for a two-week trip to the USA, in addition to keeping on top of the office in Jerusalem and the States. When he returns from the States in mid-November, he will have another tour group in Israel, and then the season of Hanukkah begins. Please pray for strength and wisdom for he and Melissa during this busy season. Please continue to pray for wisdom and discernment for Moran as he leads the ministry that God has entrusted to him. Please also pray that God would protect his and his family’s health in the coming winter season. Finally, please pray that God would put His hedge of protection around them all and give Moran and Melissa great wisdom as the raise their three young children.
HFI Board – Please also continue to pray for the Board as they make some important decisions for the ministry. Please keep their families in your prayers as well, that the arrows of the enemy will not penetrate, but that the LORD will shield them.
HFI Staff – Please continue to intercede for our staff members, board members, and ministry partners & their loved ones; please pray that we will walk in the victory that Yeshua has given us over illness and disease. Please continue to pray for His protection over our children’s hearts & minds as well. Please also pray for the entire staff in our work, that the LORD would inspire and work through us to bring Himself glory in Israel.
Seeking New Staff – we are in need of someone to lead our writing and media department. Please pray for God’s provision for someone who is willing to serve the LORD through their gift of writing, editing, and use of media. Please pray that God will bring someone who will be a perfect fit not only for the position, but also for the family of Hope for Israel.
Winter Newsletter – Our quarterly newsletter is off to the printer and should be mailed out in the next two weeks. Please pray for a smooth printing and mailing process, and for God’s protection over Moran, Melissa, Mike, & Judy as we work together on the newsletter from conception, writing, editing, design, printing, and mailing.
Big Transition – The ministry is still undergoing a significant transition that we cannot speak of at the moment, but we do ask for prayer. Please pray that the process will be peaceful, honoring to the LORD, and that channels of communication will be open and clear. Most importantly, please pray that the end result will be honoring and glorifying to the LORD and His Kingdom!
Office space – Please continue to pray for continued favor from the Lord with our new landlord, and that we would be a powerful witness to them. Please continue to pray for gracious provision of funds that we will eventually be able to purchase an office space to be used for all the various ministry activities.
Ner Yah Youth Group – Please continue to pray that the youth will continue to be rooted in the Lord through a deep relationship with Yeshua. Additionally, continue to pray for David and Sappir as they lead the youth into becoming disciples of the Messiah. Lastly, please pray for God to prepare those who will be entering the army and strengthen them for the time ahead.
Ner Yah Leaders –Please continue to pray for the staff and student leadership team as they prepare for the next year. Please pray that God would give them wisdom as they seek to do His will with the youth.
Moms’ Group: The group had its first regular meeting last month after the summer break and the High Holy Days. The group will continue to meet once a month for now, with an additional meeting here and there as Melissa is able. Please pray for Melissa as she is in much prayer about planning the discussions for the upcoming year, that she would hear clearly from the LORD and present topics that are relevant and encouraging to the mothers. Please continue to pray for the mothers’ personal relationship with the LORD, that they will not neglect their first love in the busyness of every day life. Lastly, please pray that the mothers will be encouraged to take care of themselves – body, mind, & soul – in order to better care for their families.
Tour Department – One of the ways that Hope for Israel is able to supplement the ministry’s income is by organizing and leading tours to Israel. The tours also carry a strong ministry component, as tour participants often have opportunities to bless Israel via tangible acts of service. As the situation in Israel continues to heat up, it is more important than ever for followers of Messiah to show their support by physically coming to Israel. Please continue to pray that the LORD will bless this aspect of the ministry and that He would bring more and more people to witness of His love on these tours.
Lastly, please continue to pray for the salvation of Israel & the Jewish people throughout the world; we long for the day when all Israel will recognize her Messiah and bless Him… this is the key to unlocking the great spiritual blessing for the entire human race: “For if their rejection [of Yeshua] is the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?” Romans 11:15
In His Service,
The Hope for Israel Prayer Team