Month: February 2021

A Note From BIB Co-Founder Dov Schwarz

Things have changed dramatically in the short time since our last update. It is difficult to understand how much we are truly living in a different season in Israel and the world! A passage from the Psalms explains it perfectly.

If the foundations are destroyed,
What can the righteous do?
The LORD is in His holy temple,
The LORD's throne is in heaven;
His eyes behold,
His eyelids test the sons of men." (Psalm 11:3-4)

In eternity I believe we will understand the full extent of the dark and evil environment, full of troubles, through which we lived. In such a short time the foundations on which we stood have been shaken and uprooted. Yet, this passage reminds us that our Abba Father and our Lord Yeshua (Jesus) sits on our Father's throne in His heavenly temple.

The LORD is using these events, amongst other things, to test the inhabitants of the earth. One of things I remind myself is that the LORD cannot and will not curse what He has blessed or bless what He has cursed. He will always be true and faithful to His own holy character and His holy word! So, we know He will bless what He has promised to bless.

Thankfully, our dear prayer and financial partners in the nations understand this as well. If ever there was a time to clearly define and understand what is pleasing to the God of Heaven and to walk in those things-it is now! Certainly, one of those things is Blessing Israeli Believers in Messiah Jesus! Here are just a few verses of Scripture that pertain to Israeli Believers.

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

"For it pleased those from Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor among the saints who are in Jerusalem. It pleased them indeed, and they are their debtors.
For if the Gentiles have been partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister to
them in material things. (Romans 15:26-27)

"Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved." (Romans 10:1)

How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?
And how shall they preach unless they are sent?
As it is written: "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!"
(Romans 10:14-15)

I am also reminded of the faithful prayer partners who receive this letter. That being the case, I am going to give an update on critical prayer and financial needs that are facing Israel in general and Israeli disciples of Messiah Yeshua as well. Thanks once again for your faithful obedience to the Lord and His word.

Israel is leading the world in distributing the vaccine in the Promised Land. Our government is very strongly urging all to get their two dose shots. Many are not comfortable with the risks of the vaccine and the strong-arm tactics being used to implement it. This is causing division in the body of Messiah here in Israel as there are leaders and those in congregations on both sides of this discussion. Along with whatever the Holy Spirit leads-please pray for wisdom, truth, and unity to prevail.

Israel has been locked down more than any nation in the world. Since the virus issue began we have been locked down 139 days! Along with all the emotional and mental effects, our economy is suffering terribly. So many are hurting financially which is causing despair and potential unrest. Please pray that the witness of our Israeli believing partners would be an agent of salvation and discipleship in Messiah Jesus at this time. As you can imagine, our Israeli partners are more than ever so thankful for your support.

Since the new American administration is cozying back up again with Iran the winds of war are blowing again in that direction here in the Mid-East. High-ranking Israeli military officials are discussing drawing up more plans to hit Iran's nuclear program should the American administration re-enter the previously cancelled nuclear agreement. As Israeli disciples of Messiah Yeshua we are praying and standing for peace within our borders.

Most agree that a war against Iran would likely also involve Hezbollah who has about 150,000 rockets pointed at Israel from Lebanon and Syria. If a full-fledged war like this broke out many experts believe the casualties would be catastrophic! Thankfully, the One who never slumbers or sleeps is watching over this Land. PLEASE PRAY!

I must say, I am so thankful to our Heavenly Father and encouraged by so many who faithfully are hearing from Him in these troubled times. To the contrary of shrinking back, many are faithfully praying and financially supporting our Israeli brothers and sisters in the faith of Messiah Yeshua. I will close with a special promise to you!

"And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith." (Galatians 6:9-10)