newsletter

Ezra & Shulamite, Golan Heights:

It is a blessing and encouraging to see how God is working in the lives of the women as they gather together for their weekly Bible Study. The Lord has raised up 4 women through this meeting to teach this or other meetings that are held during the week.

One of these is our Foundations meeting that is held in an apartment in the Senior Assisted Living Center. Please keep this meeting and the others in your prayers that people would come to faith and grow in the grace and the knowledge of the Lord. Join us as we praise the LORD as He continues to add to the body of Messiah in northern Israel.

Efraim & Jeannie, Northern Israel:

Shalom! — Blessings and peace to you during these summer days. These are certainly tumultuous and uncertain times. However, in Israel there are some things we can be sure of and that is the summer will be long and dry, the political climate will remain uncertain and that the Lord watches over Israel.

These are certainly times when we need to be engaged in prayer for repentance and renewal in Israel for all Jews, Arabs, and Druze people. I can understand how Yeshua must have felt as He looked over Jerusalem, I presume, from the Mount of Olives:

O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! (Matthew 23:37)

Jerusalem in Jesus’ times would have been predominately Jewish with Roman overseers and slaves from the vast Roman empire. Today’s Jerusalem is even more diverse and divided than it was in Jesus’ era. Looking upon Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives one sees the symbols of Islam and Christianity and the developed skyline of modern Israel, an imposing landscape. Beneath all of the symbols and history is a city that is teeming with people who need peace—a peace that will not be decreed from the White House, the halls of the United Nations, or the chambers of the Israeli Knesset. The true shalom that the people living in Israel need will only be found in the Messiah Yeshua. The good news is that the Messiah Yeshua is standing before all who live in Israel, offering His forgiveness and salvation. We proclaim this message to our Jewish people wherever we may be. Please pray for our co-workers in Israel as we share the message of Yeshua to our people. I take comfort that my co-workers are engaged and sharing the gospel especially during these troubled times.

Jeannie and I thank you for your unwavering support and concern. Your partnership encourages us daily as we strive to share the wonderful message of our Messiah Yeshua. We would like to hear from you, especially how we can be praying for you.

Yours in the Messiah Yeshua, Efraim & Jeannie

Shalom From Ima’s Goodies:

I wanted to write you a quick personal note to say how thankful we are for you and your faithful giving every month to this work among our Israeli soldiers.

We have had quite a few openings and possibilities to go out to our soldiers even in the midst of all of this corona stuff happening and the high tensions in this land. You know as I look at the news, I am always astounded by God's Faithfulness to this country. He is a faithful, good God.

Just recently I met a few soldiers in the supermarket by where I live, they were in their uniforms and I turned to greet them. I then found out they are actually stationed just not so far away and working with the Iron Dome Anti-Missile system. I explained who I am and what I do with this wonderful ministry of Ima’s Goodies. I asked if it's possible to speak to the Main Commander at that time so as to bring them some goodies. I was then told that the young man I was speaking with was in charge and he gave me permission to come to them. I have been able to bless them twice with home baked cakes, cookies and snacks, as well as cold drinks. This is a smaller group but oh so very important. I believe that even as it says in the New Covenant that we are all one body that even so in the physical army each job is important. We cannot do anything without the help of others around us.

The days are extremely hot in Israel and its not just the weather. Tensions are high all the time, maybe if you have visited here you have felt it, now even more so is the time to bring an encouraging word to our soldiers, to remind them that God is still on the throne and He is watching over His word to perform it. Thank you once again for helping us to go out and love on our soldiers in a very real practical way.

Gidon and I want to thank each of you that have given personally towards his hearing aids and glasses. Gidon is watching TV at a distance and without the volume level being up so high. For this I am thankful. Your sacrificial love and generosity towards us has not gone unnoticed by us, or our heavenly Father. We would not have been able to do this without your help. For those who have asked if we personally need monthly help for us as a couple, the answer is YES. Thank you for your prayers that cover us as a family.

Gidon & Renee’ - Ima’s Goodies

The following update from Janet, one of our BIB partners in Haifa, was received just after our June letter went to print. We felt this was important and wanted to share it with you.

"Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities.
Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:14-19

Shalom from very eventful Israel! This verse always makes me think of you all in your generosity and kindness to us who serve the Lord in Israel! The Lord sees and knows!!!

As I started to write this letter, it was May 13th and rockets had been raining down on Israel's south and center from Gaza, from the border, to as far as Tel Aviv. As of this day, well over 1000 rockets had been fired at this country in 48 hours. (At the end of the 10-day outbreak, it was well over 4000 rockets!!) Riots had broken out all over the northern cities in support of the terrorists group Hamas.

Here in Haifa, one short block from where I work, 100s of Muslim youths had been gathering and rioting for two nights in the very popular German Colony. Molotov cocktails had been thrown at businesses, residences and passing cars. Our head of the home where I work stayed up all night on the worst night watching out for fires, because his neighbor's home had been hit. One of our large garbage bins was dumped and torched. Piles of tires were burned just up the street. Night duty workers had to take the bus to work for fear of being attacked in their cars. These rioters were not residents of Haifa, they were bused in by local radical elements. It was a very tense time, and I am glad it’s over. By May 21, it all calmed down in Israel with the ceasefire! So far, it holds...

May 31 - Now we have a new major prophetic event: BIBI IS OUT! A new "change" government is in, after 12 years of Netanyahu! Things are setting up quickly and God is moving fast! We are truly seeing birth pangs coming closer together, and I wonder if the next one will be stronger than the last, and how shocking!

"Daniel answered and said: “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, For wisdom and might are His. And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise And knowledge to those who have understanding. He reveals deep and secret things; He knows what is in the darkness,
And light dwells with Him." Daniel 2:20-22

I truly believe Jesus is coming for His bride ANY DAY NOW!!! The signs are too obvious! Israel is the gauge of where we are on the prophetic time clock, so let us keep watching and looking up! May God bless you all and may He call us all UPWARD to gather together with our Bridegroom in the clouds!

In the name of Jesus, Janet

Update from Ariel & Shayla, Haifa, Israel

Shalom Blessing Israeli Believers!
Just in the past few days we’re experiencing a whirlwind of God’s Spirit moving in people’s hearts and bringing breakthroughs, healing, and salvation! There are so many stories we can’t share them all, but we pray these highlights will encourage your faith!

Miracle Breakthroughs at the Friday Outreach
I had the privilege of going out with our newest team member, Rene, on our latest outreach to the poor on Friday. Rene is a gifted evangelist and has a heart full of compassion for the lost. She can share the Gospel in Hebrew and Russian. She’s answering our Pro-Life and Gospel helpline part of the week and is also involved in our outreaches and follow-up.

On the way to our first house we saw a man with a broken arm, and offered him prayer. His arm was hurting at the moment but when we prayed in Yeshua’s name the pain suddenly left! He was quite amazed and very open as we shared the whole Gospel with him. He gave his phone number and would love to meet with us to talk in more depth. As we were leaving we saw him walk over to his friends and excitedly share how Yeshua had healed him!

At the first house the lady there, Olga, is a new immigrant to Israel going through many challenges. When we shared the Gospel with her she was so touched she was almost in tears and said that she definitely wants to talk about Yeshua in more depth. We told her about a Russian-speaking home group in our congregation and she was excited to join!

On the way to the next house, a young woman called and Rene answered. She said, “I just found out yesterday that I’m pregnant and I really don’t know what to do. I started thinking about an abortion but then I actually decided to look up on Youtube ‘why not to get an abortion.’ I found your video and you said you could help people with unplanned pregnancies.” Rene responded, “You came to the right place!” She talked with her in more depth later and Rene connected her to a Pro-Life counselor in her area who said that they already met and had a wonderful talk.

Another team shared the Gospel with a man named Ivan and then asked if they could pray with him. He agreed and during the prayer he started to weep. He said, “What is this I’m feeling?” They answered, “It’s the Holy Spirit!” He was deeply moved by God’s presence there and they could tell that he is very close to receiving Yeshua!

Please pray with us:
•For hearts of stone to be removed and replaced with hearts of flesh.
•For the 1000’s of Israelis who’ve contacted us because of the Pro-Life and Gospel Campaign.
•For all new believers that they would agree to meet for regular discipleship and grow in their faith.
•For wisdom, direction, anointing and unity as we work with others to create a discipleship program that could help many congregations in Israel and abroad.
•For clear guidance in the next steps for evangelistic videos and the Pro-Life and Gospel Campaign.
•For protection, health, and good sleep for all our team members and their families.

Many blessings in Messiah!
Ariel and Shayla Hyde on behalf of our ministry team

A Note From Blessing Israeli Believers Co-Founder Dov Schwarz

Recently, my wife and I were scheduled to return to Israel from a visit to the United States. After two flight cancellations prayerfully and thankfully we were able to get re-booked on EL AL—the Israeli airlines. Due to the threat of Hamas rockets, our flight was re-routed to a smaller airport in the southern desert of Israel. Once there, we waited patiently on the tarmac, refueled and then were given clearance to fly and land at Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv.

Why did all this happen? It is due to the fact that prophetic Scriptures are leaping off the pages of the Bible! Hamas and other Palestinian terrorists, Hezbollah, Iran, Turkey, and others are incensed over Jerusalem. The world is fast approaching the final prophetic scenarios including ours great King and Savior returning to His holy city Jerusalem. Keep watching—the nations will increasingly go mad over Jerusalem. Hallelujah, we know the end of the book—WE WIN!

“Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of drunkenness to all the surrounding peoples, when they lay siege against Judah and Jerusalem. And it shall happen in that day that I will make Jerusalem a very heavy stone for all peoples; all who would heave it away will surely be cut in pieces, though all nations of the earth are gathered against it.” (Zechariah 12:2-3)

Update from Ima’s Goodies:
Cookies and Rockets!!

So Just what exactly do you do when you feel the Lord calls you out someplace, and your car is loaded down full of cold drinks, snacks and cookies and the news report talks of tension in the area?...WELL….
You GO.

Little did I realize when I was invited to a group of undercover soldiers in the IDF that I would be down on the border with Gaza the same day that Rockets would start flying over my head. I knew there was a lot of tension in the air, I mean there usually is…. this is Israel. This is where I live and this is the land of the people God has cut covenant with.

We have quite a few neighbors that are not happy with us… for their own reasons. But this is the beauty of the Gospel of Messiah. "He died in order to break down that middle wall of separation, having abolished in His flesh the enmity….so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace.” (Ephesians 2:14)

So in the midst of chaos and upheaval and true enmity happening in the land, you go out and you share the Good News of a God who loves and cares for each one, and especially for our IDF Soldiers and a God who wants peace as much as these young men and women want it.

This wonderful unit that I visited were so happy that I came down south, a two-hour plus drive. In the beginning I was to meet them on the Egyptian border but then everything changed to the Gaza border. A group of about 80 guys, serving in the army, for some of them its a career, they have chosen this, but they need to be reminded that God has called them and watches over them in their missions during the day and in their excursions at night. As they go in-and-out to very real dangerous areas they put their lives on the line so that we could sleep comfortably.

It's amazing that as you pass out cakes and cookies, the love of a mighty God can be so very tangible and real. As the dusty wind blows through my hair and the sand whips up around me, I’m hot and dirty and probably a bit sweaty, but we all are like that as we sit out in the sun and the heat. These young men (& one woman) all get hugs and pats on the back, a little bit of talking and asking about them and their lives, gives them a break, a very short one, from the real dangers at hand.

We ended up passing out Ima’s Goodies to several hundred soldiers that day down along the Gaza border. Scripture talks about a cup of cold water given in His name, that was the perfect thing for back in Jesus’ day, but I'd like to think that today as we give some cold Coca Cola and some snacks, we share the love of ALMIGHTY God and each time a muffin or Cookie is given the Good News goes forth.

Thank you for your love, prayers and support for this ministry.

We Bless You from the Kitchen of Ima’s Goodies,

Renee and Gidon

Dear friends of Blessing Israeli Believers, Recently we found out that Gidon is in need of new hearing aids and glasses. Gidon was diagnosed with Parkinson’s a few years back, his situation has gotten better with the help of some new medicine, however he is unable to work. Gidon and Renee’ have been serving the body of Messiah in the Land for almost 40 years and the family is in need of assistance. Please ask the Lord if this is something you could be involved in helping.

Shavuot (Pentecost) Evening May 16-May 17

Dear Disciples of Messiah Yeshua and friends of Blessing Israeli Believers,

Once again, I am reminded that our true and living Savior Messiah Yeshua (Jesus) operates by His calendar. His appointed times in the Bible not only point us to history (His-story) in the past—but also the present and our eternal future with Him!

This season of Shavuot (Pentecost) was initially a holy day for acknowledging and thanking the LORD for the ingathering of the wheat harvest. A counting began from the previous barley harvest of first fruits. You may remember our recent letter that featured passages regarding Messiah Yeshua—the Firstfruits of the Resurrection. He rose from the grave on Firstfruits, and 50 days later is Shavuot. This ingathering is also called “a first fruits” and some call it the Second First Fruits. This simply means that the children of Israel were to bring the first part of both their barley and wheat harvests and offer them to the Lord in thanks for His faithfulness.

“And you shall observe the Feast of Weeks, of the firstfruits of wheat harvest, and the Feast of Ingathering at the year’s end.” (Exodus 34:22)

‘And you shall count for yourselves from the day after the Sabbath, from the day that you brought the sheaf of the wave offering: seven Sabbaths shall be completed.” (Leviticus 23:15)

Then you shall keep the Feast of Weeks to the Lord your God with the
tribute of a freewill offering from your hand, which you shall give as the
Lord your God blesses you.” (Deuteronomy 16:10)

Also significant, included in the Shavuot offerings to the LORD were two leavened loafs of bread instead of the previous unleavened bread elements of ceremony of the Passover Feast.
Remember, leaven often pictures sin in the Bible. This fulfills the LORD’s prophetic plans to unite into “one new man” (Ephesians 2:15) two previously separated groups—both marred by sin—now purchased by the blood of the Passover Lamb Messiah Jesus!

Count fifty days to the day after the seventh Sabbath; then you shall offer a new grain offering to the Lord.You shall bring from your dwellings two wave loaves of two-tenths of an ephah. They shall be of fine flour; they shall be baked with leaven. They are the firstfruits to the Lord. (Leviticus 23:16)

It is often overlooked that in Acts 2, when the Holy Spirit made this the most special Shavuot ever, not only were there Jews—but also Gentile proselytes to Judaism present who were saved that day (Acts 2:10)! Three thousand were saved and the international ingathering of precious souls that began that day would soon expand all around the world!

Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.” (Acts 2:41)

Then after the long hot summer, the final ingathering would take place at the Fall Feast of Tabernacles. That time of final harvest is quickly approaching and then there will be no time for harvest. While we have a little time—may we truly celebrate our Salvation in Messiah Yeshua and remember to take His gospel to the Jew first and then to the Nations!

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ,
for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes,
for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” (Romans 1:16)

An Update from Ezra & Shulamite, Northern Israel
Praise & Prayer
Sunday morning is our time to gather and pray for the unborn and their mothers. Please join us in prayer for the lives of these children here in Israel and around the world.

How fitting that we were able to finally gather together on Pesach (Passover) to celebrate freedom and life. We were limited on the number of people that night but thankful that number has now been raised so we can all meet together.

The group of Holocaust Survivors is growing smaller as many are coming to the end of the days allotted to them on this earth. Many of those who are no longer with us received Yeshua as their personal Messiah while they still had breath but a few did not which breaks our hearts. Please pray that the rest of them would have their eyes and hearts open to see and receive Yeshua.

A Note From Blessing Israeli Believers Co-Founder, Dov Schwarz

Last month our letter was about our Savior’s identity as the Passover Lamb. This month His identity unfolds as the First Fruits of the Resurrection!
The Passover season began with the first night of Passover and progressed through the seven days of Unleavened Bread. Traditionally, often the two are combined calling it one holiday—Passover. The holiday called First Fruits falls within that seven days.

“And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them: ‘When you come into the land which I give to you, and reap its harvest, then you shall bring a sheaf of the firstfruits of your harvest to the priest. He shall wave the sheaf before the Lord, to be accepted on your behalf; on the day after the Sabbath the priest shall wave it. And you shall offer on that day, when you wave the sheaf, a male lamb of the first year, without blemish,
as a burnt offering to the Lord.”(Leviticus 23:9-12)

Israelis were to bring the first and best of their spring barley harvest for sacrifice to the LORD. It was a way of acknowledging the LORD of The Harvest and expressing their faith in Him to bring the rest of the harvest. Our Heavenly Father sets a great example by giving His First and Best to be the sacrifice for our sins.

Then, on the third day of Passover week the Lamb of God rose from the grave on First Fruits—the first day of the week after the Sabbath—Hallelujah! He is alive! And that Messiah Yeshua (Jesus) is alive points to the rest of the harvest!

But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ’s at His coming. (1 Corinthians 15:20-23)

Every Jew and Gentile, except for Messiah Jesus, was born into this world
“in Adam.” This category includes sin, condemnation, separation from the LORD in this life, and then eternity in the lake of fire. Yet, when we receive Messiah Yeshua as Lord and Savior we are re-categorized—declared righteous by our Heavenly Father! We are placed into the eternal category of being “in Christ”!

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”(2 Corinthians 5:17)

What makes this possible? Yes, the cross of Messiah Jesus, but the power of the cross is only made possible by the reality of the Resurrection! And our Savior is not only alive—He is alive in we who are born again! Not only that, one day He will bring those from their graves, and those who are alive and remain to eternal glory—in glorified and eternal bodies!
(1 Thessalonians 4:16-18)

So be encouraged—because Messiah Yeshua (Jesus) is alive—you and I are alive—and it will be worth it all when we see Him!
Dov Schwarz

Update from Efraim & Jeannie, Northern Israel

With the easing of restrictions, hundreds of Israeli young people headed out to hike the Israel Trail. For over a year these young Israelis have been grounded and unable to travel abroad to go trekking and traveling. International travel is still restricted so the next best place to go is the Israel National Trail.

My good friends, John and Judy called to tell me that their Youth Hostel in Eilat was bursting at the seams with eager Israeli hikers and could I come to help. This was an offer I could not refuse! Their Youth Hostel is at the southern end of the Israel Trail and they offer a free night to all those starting in Eilat. The Youth Hostel is called The Shelter and for decades it is known as a Messianic Center.

Rearranging my schedule was not difficult since we were coming out of a lockdown. So I drove the 300 miles to Eilat to help out for 5 days. They wanted me to be available to talk with these young enthusiasts about my adventures on the Israel Trail and more importantly, weaving in conversations about the Messiah Yeshua. Both of these points of conversation are my favorites and I was able to do a lot of this when I was in Eilat.

Of course, I had to go out on the Israel Trail for a two-day hike. Out there in the field I met up with several of the people who I had spoken with at The Shelter. Everybody’s comments were: “Efraim, how did you get here?” They couldn’t believe that I had hiked for two days in the desert. Hopefully some of them will remember the testimony of hospitality that they received at The Shelter and the witness of the love of Yeshua.

Passover 2021:
Eve March 27 - Eve April 4

A Passover Message From Blessing Israeli Believers
Co-Founder Dov Schwarz

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! This is He of whom I said, ‘After me comes a Man who is preferred before me, for He was before me.’ I did not know Him; but that He should be revealed to Israel, therefore I came baptizing with water.” (John 1:29-31)

Last year at Passover, for the first time since the first Passover in Egypt, in Israel we were similarly unable to leave our homes. Lord only knows if that will be the case again this year. We certainly live in quickly changing and developing biblically prophetic times. As we consider the above passage from John’s Gospel account, I will mention three things—two that have not changed and the third that is truly an end-times development!

First, see that Messiah Yeshua (Jesus) is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! That has not changed, nor will it ever—oh Hallelujah!

Secondly, also see that Messiah Jesus still wants to reveal Himself to Israel. He loved Israel then at His first coming, He loves Israel now, and will love Israel throughout all eternity!

Thirdly, see the prophetic development: John the Baptizer was a witness of Israel’s coming Messiah Yeshua. Then, according to the prophetic developments, the Apostles and the Messianic Believers were Israel’s witness. Amazingly, after all these years of almost complete dispersion, Israel is back in the Promised Land! According to His prophetic plans the Lord has brought the Jewish people back mostly unbelieving in Messiah Yeshua. And who is their witness today? The answer pertains to the modern day prophetic development.

The Lord Himself—Messiah Yeshua—has placed His born again Israeli disciples here at this prophetically charged time. May the Lamb of God be revealed to precious Israelis through the born again lives and Gospel witness of Israeli Believers! During this Passover season, please pray for us in the Promised Land to reveal Messiah Yeshua to Israel.

Many of you enjoy hearing from our Israeli Believing Partners, here are two testimonies that we pray will encourage and bless you!

Greetings from Janet in Haifa

Greetings “Blessing Israeli Believers” Partners in the Nations from Haifa on a beautiful sunny afternoon! It is no small thing that you do! You yourselves labor, you sacrifice, you deny yourselves to give of your own hard earned wages to support Israeli believers in Messiah Yeshua.

I know that the Father looks upon you all with loving favour, because these are hard days for everyone on the earth. The signs of the Lord’s return are manifold and increasing by the day! The challenge to us all is to never grow weary in doing good in what ever task the Lord has called us to! This scripture also exhorted me this morning:

"Let love be genuine.
Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.
Love one another with brotherly affection.
Out do one another in showing honor.
Do not be slothful in zeal,
be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation,
be constant in prayer.
Contribute to the needs of the saints
and seek to show hospitality." Romans 12:9-13

I want to thank you all again so much! I am humbled by your faithful kindness and generosity, and your own fulfillment of this above verse of Romans 12!

In patience and love of our soon coming Bride Groom Yeshua! Janet

An update from Ariel & Shayla, Tree of Life

How can you reach people in an ultra-Orthodox town with intense opposition to the Gospel?
What seemed impossible for us is never impossible with God!

There’s an ultra-Orthodox town in the Galilee with a very strong religious opposition to Jesus, Yeshua. We’ve shared the Gospel in that city and shown the love of Messiah there, yet every time that we mentioned the name of Yeshua, angry crowds started to gather together and forced us to leave the area.
We started praying for the people in that town, and asked God, “How can these people be reached with the Gospel of Messiah?”
​
A few months later, God surprised us when a friend contacted us about someone from that town: “There’s a young lady named Anna (name changed for sensitivity reasons) that joined our congregation recently. She watched your ‘Forbidden Chapter’ video and decided to follow Yeshua!”
​
Praise be to God who is able to bypass walls of opposition and reach the unreachable! What seemed impossible to us is never too difficult for God!

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)

We at Blessing Israeli Believers are looking forward to 2021 with great anticipation even in the midst of the challenges we face in these troubled times. Thankfully, ours is an "all weather" faith in the Faithful One Messiah Yeshua! Having said that, we think it is fitting to start the year with testimonies from a few of many whom we together support here in Israel both prayerfully and financially.

Happy 2021 from Dov Schwarz and John McTernan,
Co-Founders Blessing Israeli Believers

Update from Ezra & Shulamite, Golan Heights

Praise & Prayer
2020 has been a difficult year like no other in our generation yet even at its darkest moments the love of God has shone through His servants. Through your prayers and sacrificial giving we were able to distribute blood pressure monitors this month to those over 80 yrs old in our community as well as food baskets.

Olga received a BPM and has asked us to visit her again as she desires to hear about the God of Israel. Others have also asked us to visit them on a weekly basis as Covid 19 has made them feel isolated, some who believe and others who are seeking the truth about the promised Messiah.

We were blessed to be able to meet with the Holocaust Survivors before Israel enters it 3rd major lockdown. What a blessing to see God working in the life of Larisa, who came to faith through these meetings 1.5 years ago and is now sharing her faith.

Larisa is also part of a group of our women who volunteer 2 days a week for the military, cleaning weapons, making alterations to uniforms and whatever else is needed. All while praying and sharing the love of Messiah with all who see the light within them. PRAISE THE LORD!

Update from Oded Shoshani - King of Kings, Hebrew Congregation

God's Faithful Provision
Throughout these months of the coronavirus we have been assisting some of our congregants in financial need. Together with this we also have seen how the Lord is supplying in a supernatural way to some of our congregants.

One family in which both spouses lost their job were living off of savings. Last week we asked them how they are doing financially and they shared that the Lord has been blessing them so much in the last few months that they are actually able to help others in financial need! Thank you for standing with us in prayer.

Baptisms
Praise the Lord this Friday we will be able to baptize one of the young adults who has been preparing! After such a long time waiting we are delighted to see this special step fulfilled. Thank you for your prayers for protection and peace and a fresh pouring out of the Holy Spirit!

Update from Ariel & Shayla, Tree of Life Ministry Team

"I Will Give You a New Heart" Written by Eliel
We've been continuing to reach out to Shlomit and praying with her. She is searching for Jesus Yeshua from an ultra-Orthodox Jewish background, and God has been working in amazing ways. After many phone calls, she has finally decided to put her faith in Yeshua as the Messiah! Hallelujah! She is actually considering making a public statement of her faith in Yeshua - even though it would almost certainly mean being completely cut off from her family and community!

In our latest talks, she was asking questions about how to build a strong relationship with Yeshua. I started to teach her about worshipping God in song, and shared one of my favorite songs with her, "Worthy of It All." She responded, "Wow, this is so new for me!"

She also wanted to learn more about prayer, so I taught her The Lord's Prayer. Whenever we pray together, she talks with Yeshua with such amazing freedom! It's wonderful to see her hunger for Yeshua and how she is excitedly reading the Word of God.

She recently said, "There's so much life in the New Testament!" Her heart has truly come to life! It reminds me of Ezekiel 36:24-28 - God has given her "a new heart and a new spirit"! At the end of our last talk when we prayed together, this is what she prayed:

"God, sometimes I think, 'Why am I doing this to my family, why am I causing so much trouble?' But then, when I think of what You did for me, how can I deny You? Thank You Jesus that I feel so much freedom in You and that I am no longer under the burden of the Law."

I could hear how genuine her prayer was! She's not struggling to find righteousness through the Law but has found it in Yeshua! Afterwards, she said she needed to go - she was eager to get off the call so that she could spend more time with Yeshua!

May our Savior Yeshua be praised for these powerful testimonies! Dov Schwarz

A Note From BIB Co-Founder Dov Schwarz

Our Blessed Assignments from Heaven for Israel-A Year End Exhortation

It is one thing to be told what to do-yet it is much better to be told what to do by the Almighty Creator of the Universe along with a promised blessing for doing so! As disciples of Messiah Yeshua (Christ Jesus) we have assignments from our Heavenly Abba Father that directly pertain to Israel. These promises begin at the beginning...in Genesis.

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

Our spiritual/earthly Father Abraham received seven perfect promises from the LORD of heaven that are passed down to Isaac, Jacob/Israel and the children of Israel. The promise of blessing those who bless the children of Israel is certainly for today as it is part of what the Bible calls "the everlasting covenant." (Psalm 105:9,10) Just think, an increasingly cursed world that collectively stands with its fist in the air in God's face cannot stop me from being blessed! Why - How? It is because the promises of the LORD are an expression of His grace and where sin has abounded-grace has abounded all the more! (Romans 5:20)

So then, here are a few reminders of how important it is to prayerfully and actively bless Israel:

We are commanded to love and care about Jerusalem. It truly is the city of our great King Yeshua over which He wept and to where He is returning. (Matthew 5:35, Luke 19:41) We are reminded that if we love Jerusalem we do not need to follow after prosperity-prosperity will follow after us!

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem:
"May they prosper who love you.
Psalm 122:6

I have set watchmen on your walls,
O Jerusalem;They shall never hold their peace day or night. You who make mention of the Lord, do not keep silent, and give Him no rest till He establishes and till He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth. Isaiah 62:6-7

We sometimes need to be reminded that the Holy Spirit inspired the words of the Bible and the Holy Spirit perfectly represents the heart of our Heavenly Father and our Messiah Yeshua. Bearing that in mind, see the heart of the LORD in the words of one of three chapters Paul wrote in the book of Romans pertaining to Israel.

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

Also in Romans you find a BIB foundational passage showing the responsibility given to Gentile disciples to help Israeli Believers in Messiah Yeshua. This mandate was out of existence while Israel was dormant. But now, Israel is back, Israeli Believers are back, and this principle is alive and well also-that of Blessing Israeli Believers!

But now I am going to Jerusalem to minister to the saints. 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 15:25-27

Certainly, our Blessing Israeli Believers partners and myself are your partners on the ground here in the Promised Land doing all these things and MUCH MORE! We are getting out the gospel, making disciples, saving babies from abortion, and helping Holocaust Survivors in the Holy and Powerful Name of Yeshua! And what a blessing, you are right in the middle of all these things with your prayers and financial support. Let's be reminded- in all these things may our Savior Yeshua be praised as it is only fitting for Him to receive all the glory, honor, and praise!

As we close out this year-for those of you who are our prayer and financial faith partners-always know that we love and bless you in our Savior's Name! This year Jews, and even a few Muslims, in Israel have come to faith through our partnership! Many who have not yet come to faith have received great seeds and watering from which our Savior may give the increase anytime! We have covered Jerusalem in prayer and watched over and warned where necessary as it pertains to Jerusalem, and we have ministered together in spiritual and practical ways to many Israeli Believers in Messiah Yeshua!

Also remember, we believe next year will be even better because in Messiah Yeshua the best is yet to come!!! So again, you are being blessed by covenant promises as you have stood with us this year. Why? We have learned one of the best ways to bless Israel is by Blessing Israeli Believers In Messiah Yeshua!

In Messiah Yeshua, our soon coming King! Dov Schwarz

A Note From Blessing Israeli Believers Co-Founder Dov Schwarz

Our partnership in Messiah Yeshua (Jesus) here in Israel with you in the Nations has so many facets and out-workings. We love, share, and pray which is lived out in different ways through our ministry partners here on the ground. All of it would be empty if our Savior and His Gospel were not at the center of our activities - and Hallelujah - He is!
It is my joy and pleasure to share a few powerful passages of Scripture and a personal testimony of four different Israelis with whom in the last few weeks I was able to share our Jewish Messiah.

"Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life.
No one comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:6

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes,
for the Jew first and also for the Greek." Romans 1:16

"Therefore, since we have such hope, we use great boldness of speech- unlike Moses, who put a veil over his face so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the end of what was passing away. But their minds were blinded. For until this day the same veil remains un-lifted in the reading of the Old Testament, because the veil is taken away in Christ. But even to this day, when Moses is read, a veil lies on their heart. Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord,
the veil is taken away. 2 Corinthians 3:12-16

First, we are reminded by these passages that the only hope for our Jewish people in this life and the next is that they be forgiven for their sins and saved through our Messiah Yeshua. Next, we see though the world and even some in church try to shame us from sharing the Gospel with Israelis-we must not be ashamed of the Gospel as it is Abba Father's power for salvation to the Jew first and then for the Nations. And then, we need to use wisdom because a uniquely hindering veil truly is over the eyes of Israel that can only be removed by our Adonai Yeshua (Lord Jesus) Himself!

My New Hair Stylist
Due to the Covid lockdown I had to find someone in our little village in the mountains to cut my hair. This sweet Israeli man, who speaks English very well, was a delight to spend time with-and he gave me a really good haircut! Yet, the best part of our discussion was about our very different faith perspectives. Very quickly, we agreed not to get upset with one another as we explained to each other what we believe about God.

I challenged him that his faith is not very Jewish as it takes on the same most important concepts of the Gentile religions. He has not yet understood that simply trying to be a good person, and doing good things for God, and confessing his wrongdoing was not enough to spend eternity with the LORD. I then explained through the Passover testimony that he needed the blood of the Lamb to be applied to the doorpost of his heart to satisfy the wrath of Elohim (God) for his sins. And, that Messiah Yeshua is the Passover Lamb. Well, since the veil is over his eyes he did not get it-YET. Lord willing, he is what we call a pre-believing Israeli.

One of My Hebrew Language Instructors
I have shared the gospel with this precious Israeli man a few times. In addition to modern/conversational Hebrew, he has also taught me some Biblical Hebrew as He agreed to teach me John's third chapter line upon line in Hebrew! Yet, our most recent faith discussion involved the Resurrection of Messiah Jesus. He did not yet realize or understand that the New Covenant Bible teaches that Messiah Yeshua rose from the grave on the third day. It was another opportunity to water seeds previously planted-Hallelujah!

Two Very Different Self Defense Instructors With The Same Age Old Problem-Their Need For The Savior!
Truly, more than I need self defense training, which I used to take many years ago, the Lord has given me a special opportunity! When you live amongst the two most resistant to the Gospel people groups in the world-you have to be creative regarding potentially fruitful interaction opportunities with Jewish people and Muslims.

So, I have two Israeli self-defense instructors who live in different cities. One is a religious Jewish man and the other a moderately religious Muslim. Both have become my dear friends, which makes me want to see them saved even more! One does not like me to speak about Messiah Jesus, which I do anyway, sparingly with fervently prayed for wisdom, and with the other-we frequently have very open and deep discussions about our faith. It is a perfect scenario when compared to the Romans 1:16 principle of the Gospel to the Jew first and then to the Greek-in this context meaning the Gentile.

Having heard these things, let's go full circle back to the beginning of this letter. Along with our Israeli believing partners -- you are co-laborers with me/us to be this kind of witness here in Israel during this critical generation! Your prayers and financial support help us TREMENDOUSLY to take these opportunities as the Lord raises them up for us-and He does on a regular basis! And, there is nothing like watching precious Israelis get on their knees and pray to receive Yeshua as their personal Savior and Messiah-which I have witnessed here in this Promised Land!

So then, please join me in prayer for these four you have heard about in this letter-along with the many others who are hearing, seeing, and experiencing the gospel through our Israeli believing partners. And, thank you once again for hearing from and obeying the Holy Spirit with financial support-which is even more critical during this difficult time in Israel.

In all these things, may Messiah Yeshua's Name be praised! Dov Schwarz