Today, President Obama addressed the General Assembly of the United Nations. A focal point of his speech were remarks regarding the Israeli / Palestinian conflict. Said President Obama, "We continue to emphasize that America does not accept the legitimacy of continued Israeli settlements."
These are scary words.
President Obama is treading on very precarious ground. You see, the very land that Israel occupies, including the West Bank, where the disputed settlements are located, is land given to Israel by God.
President Obama's words are scary not because of political implications but because of spiritual ones. The Bible is clear in Genesis 12:3 regarding the nation of Israel,
"I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."
America has enjoyed the favor of God in its history for various reasons, not the least of which has been a strong support for the nation of Israel. I am convinced, because I believe the words of God, that if America moves to a posture of opposing Israel, especially her claim to the very land God gave her, that America will face the judgment of God.
That is why these are scary words.
To be fair, President Obama also called for the Palestinians to "to end incitement against Israel." In addition, he called on the nations of the world to recognize "Israel's legitimacy and its right to exist in peace and security." President Obama is in a tight spot as are all U.S. Presidents, trying to appease both sides of the conflict.
President Obama is a politician not a theologian, but his words and policies will have spiritual consequences for our nation. He would be wise to garner theological counsel from those who understand the spiritual stakes.
Blessings,
Jeff
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