Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May they prosper that love you. Peace be within your walls, prosperity within your palaces.” Psalm 122:6–7 NKJV

I grieve as I, along with much of the world, watch the news of the ongoing war in Israel following the attacks by Hamas. Such evil is displayed as Hamas slaughters even babies in their cribs. As Israel justifiably defends itself, more people die. Death on both sides mean grief for families and friends. Areas are destroyed.

There are so many wars and major conflicts across the globe; wisevoter.com claims “There are 32 countries currently in conflict, and the types of conflict vary widely.” Some may not attract the attention of the average American, yet our news is filled with the Israel-Hamas War. Why does this war matter so much to so many people? Is it more than just the fact that there are Americans who have died or are unaccounted for?

Can it be the end of the world, and that the Battle of Armageddon is near? Many Christians think so. Historically, there have been many wars that made people think the end was near. I do believe that it is much closer than it was before.

The New Testament book of Revelation foretells a terrible war, followed by 1,000 years of peace when the Messiah, Christ Jesus, comes to earth a second time (Revelation 19:1–20:6). Satan is bound in the bottomless pit for that 1,000 years, and when he is loosed and starts a rebellion, the devil meets his ultimate fate (Revelation 20:7–10). That evil rascal will no longer cause all of the grief from sin. Peace will reign forever, for God will live with His people and be their God (Revelation 21). If you are not familiar with Revelation, I recommend reading it.

There is a time of peace coming to Israel. The temple will be built again. The prophet Haggai shared the message of the Lord.

“For thus says the LORD of hosts: Once more (it is a little while) I will shake heaven and earth, the sea and dry land; and I will shake all nations, and they shall come to the Desire of All Nations, and I will fill this temple with glory,’ says the Lord of hosts…. The glory of this latter temple shall be greater than the former,’ says the LORD of hosts. ‘And in this place I will give peace,’ says the LORD of hosts.” Haggai 2:6–7, 9 NKJV

Peace. What a wonderful promise of God. Let’s pray for Him to give that peace.

How can we pray for Israel and others involved in conflicts?

• Set aside 5-15 minutes daily to pray for peace, including the peace of Israel.
• Pray for grieving families and friends to have peace from the losses they encounter, and healing from the trauma.
• Pray for those in authority to make godly decisions.
• Pray for people to turn their hearts and lives to the Lord God.

Lord, I seek peace for Israel. Please bring Your ultimate peace. Come quickly, Lord Jesus. I pray as the Psalmist did, ‘For the sake of my brethren and companions, I will now say, “Peace be within you.” Because of the house of the LORD our God I will seek your good.’ Psalm 122:8–9 NKJV

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Peace in flowers Photo by Disha Sheta on Pexels.com

Scriptures marked NKJV are taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION (NKJV): Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION®. Copyright© 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

I would love to hear from you. How is God working in your life?

Devotionals usually post every other Thursday, and are archived for your convenience.

God bless you.

Kathryn