1      God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.

    2      Therefore we will not fear,

             Even though the earth be removed,

             And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

    3      Though its waters roar and be troubled,

            Though the mountains shake with its swelling.

Peace in the middle east has been squelched once again.  Just as Israel and her neighbors were nearing the signing of a long-term peace agreement, the unthinkable happened.  There was a terrible surprise attack on their Jewish homeland.  The motives aren’t completely clear; however we know this attack has completely disrupted the peace process.  In the aftermath more than a thousand have died, thousands are injured, many are kidnapped, and Israel has declared war.  What isn’t clear is how long this war will last, how many more will pay with their lives, and is peace in the middle east completely off the table?

These recent events demonstrate that humans are still fully capable of gross atrocities against each other.  The outpouring of evil from the time of Cain and Abel has not abated.  The god of this world (Satan) is still influencing man.

However, the scriptures are clear, God is sovereign and in control.  Satan doesn’t make a move without God’s approval (Job 1:12).  What we find hard to understand is why would God allow this evil in the first place?  We don’t know the purpose, but we know God is working His plan.  In the end He will be glorified.

It is also important to know that God has our best interests in mind.  As inspired by the Holy Spirit and written by the Apostle Paul in Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”  He goes on to say in verse 31 “If God is for us, who can be against us?” 

How then should we respond to these horrible events? 

  1. In prayer and supplication to the Lord.  Many have lost loved ones.  Israel is sending sons and daughters to war. As Psalm 46 (above) says, God is our (and their) refuge and strength.  He hears our prayers for them.
  2. In support of those that need our help.  War is atrocious.  There are many organizations that will allow you to support the humanitarian efforts.
  3. Look up.  Through parables and direct teaching we are told to look up.  We are to maintain our focus on Him and His kingdom.  Earth isn’t our home, it’s our temporary place of lodging.  We look toward eternity where we will see God in His glory, where these terrible times will be behind us.

We pray this time passes quickly, with the least amount of blood shed possible.  We pray that God comfort those who mourn.  Lord God, You are our comfort and our strength.  We pray You give those who seek You strength.  Please Lord, minimize the bloodshed, the atrocities, and the length of this war, as it fits your plan.

There are many who are confused by these events, many hurting and in pain.  Let us be a light and comfort to those who need it.

God Bless,

Ron