“Likewise know that wisdom is sweet to your soul. If you find it, there will be a future, and your hope will not be cut off”
Proverbs 24:14 (TLV)
I am focusing us on wisdom because with all that is going on in our world today, wisdom is something we can all use more of, don’t you agree?
Look at the verse above from Proverbs – wisdom is linked to having a future and hope that will last. Certainly something we all desire. And if we pray for wisdom earnestly, God will grant it.
When you read the news stories I’ve included here, I hope you will consider the importance of wisdom for all leaders and especially those in Israel and the Middle East. Pray with me that each one will seek wisdom in their lives and their decision making in the days ahead.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that he wants to move forward with West Bank annexation plans as early as July 1. These plans would affirm Israel’s sovereignty over 30 percent of the West Bank, including all settlements and the Jordan Valley.
I say “affirm” because while the U.N. ignores it, historically and legally Israel already maintains sovereignty over all the land between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. This was first recognized in the 1921 League of Nations’ Mandate for Palestine; adopted under Article 80 of the U.N. Charter; and no agreement since has altered it.
Still, it seems unlikely the U.S. administration will approve this move by the July 1 date, a source told The Times of Israel last week.
It could take weeks or even several months before the joint U.S.-Israel mapping committee concludes its work. The White House has declared this a precondition that must be met before any go-ahead would be given for annexation. Already, significant delays have happened because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
July 1 is the earliest date the coalition agreement signed by Netanyahu and Defense Minister Benny Gantz’s Blue and White party allows the Prime Minister to bring the issue to a vote in either the cabinet or the Knesset, Israel’s parliament.
According to the coalition deal, the West Bank annexation plan can only move forward in full coordination with the White House.
