Pastor's Corner re: Israel - Palestine War

War in Israel

No doubt you have seen, read, or heard the news of the conflict that is growing in Israel. Last Saturday, Hamas waged an attack on the Israel along the Gaza strip border. The reports of the brutality of this attack are horrific, and I’m sure that many of you - like me - are at a loss for what can be done.

I will not go into what I know of the history of conflict between Israel and the Palestinian state, suffice it to say there is a very long history there. And now, you and I see war playing out on the world stage. We are confronted with evil, that yes evil does exist in this world.

What Can I Do?

That is really the key question, isn’t it. We feel helpless. We hear the heartache of people caught in the middle of this conflict. We feel powerless in the midst of something that is so much greater than us as individuals.

What can we do?

PRAY

Turn off the television, turn off the radio, turn off the computer and take serious time to pray. Be still and know that God is God!

When you sense the anxiety rising within you, pray.

When you worry about what might happen in the future - Pray.

When you are thinking about the innocent people within Israel and Palestine - Pray.

The apostle Paul wrote:

Philippians 4:6–7 ESV

do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

One of the great statements of our faith is God is sovereign. That’s a theological way of saying God is in control.

You might say, “I don’t know how or what to pray?” Yes you do. Jesus taught us, this is what he said:

Matthew 6:9–13 ESV

Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

Let’s continue to look to God, and give Him the glory.

Even in the midst of war, we can pray for peace and keep turning to God. I’m reminded of the proverb:

Proverbs 3:5–6 ESV

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

I’ll see you in church. God bless.