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Did Israel just lose their first battle? Some think they did! Why? Were they too cautious and indecisive?
In previous battles, Israel approached the challenge with focus and determination. Is that focus and determination disappearing? Was the leadership indecisive? Some say yes. Let's consider possible reasons why.
Loss of Will – National will and resolve is necessary to defeat a determined enemy. Are we seeing erosion of the will to win in Israel? If so, it would be wise to remember the words of General MacArthur, "In war there is no substitute for victory." What might be causing a lack of will and resolve? Perhaps many things such as a determined enemy – weariness – criticism – media bias, etc.
Media Bias – Many believe the news media as a whole is biased – a bias that portrays Israel as the main aggressor while down-playing the role of Hezbollah. All too often, the news media wears rose-colored glasses, reflecting wishful thinking vs. reality. Consider the hue and cry to use more diplomacy and get the UN involved. They fail to remember that this has been done for decades without any positive lasting results. Peace can only be achieved if both sides desire it. This is obviously not the case in the Middle East today (Request our free booklet, The Middle East in Prophecy).
Hesitancy and Uncertainty – Why is Israel facing these ongoing problems? The answer lies in knowing who they are nationally. Although called Israel, technically, they are just one of the twelve tribes of Israel, specifically the tribe of Judah. God promised all Israel His blessings if they obeyed Him. In the overview, they never did. In Isaiah 3:2, God says regarding Judah and Jerusalem that He will take away "the mighty man and the man of war." Are we seeing this occur? Also Leviticus 26:19 foretells a time when Israel, including Judah, would have the "pride of their power" broken. The power would still be there but they would be unwilling to use it (For more information write for our free booklet, The United States and Great Britain in Prophecy).
Ignoring the Lessons of History – Remember the "Peace in our time" quote of Neville Chamberlain and the peace at any cost mindset of the time? People ignored the danger posed by Hitler and rejected the input of Winston Churchill. This approach led inevitably to WWII. Will this same peace at any cost attitude prevail once again, leading not to peace but greater conflict? God's word makes it clear this will be the case unless all Israel repents (For additional information, request our free booklet Fourteen Signs Announcing Christ's Return).
Rejecting the Word of God – God promised ancient Israel, including Judah, abundant blessings for obedience. These promises are recorded in Leviticus 26:1-12. They include ongoing abundance – victory over their enemies and lasting peace. Unfortunately, they rejected the way of blessings, despised God's commandments and chose the path leading to misery, suffering and death. Sadly, modern day Israel is following the same path. However, the sure word of God tells us that lasting peace, happiness and abundance lies ahead for Israel and mankind in general.
Hope for the Future – Both Israel and Judah will finally learn their lesson and be delivered from bondage by Jesus Christ at His return (Zechariah 14:1-4). All twelve tribes will be united under King David (Ezekiel 37:15-28). Then, they will learn to choose the blessings and reject Satan's way – the way of misery, suffering and death. Also, at that time the veil of darkness and deception spread over all nations by Satan will be removed. (Isaiah 25:6-8)
Yes – under the government of Christ, "All Israel shall be Saved" (Romans 11:26-27). This will be a blessing for Israel and all mankind. God speed that day!
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