Israel-Gaza war updates: ‘Close quarters’ combat in Khan Younis; Netanyahu says ‘this will be a...
- The Watchful Eye
- Dec 24, 2023
- 2 min read
Brethren, as we witness the unfolding of events in Gaza, between the state of Israel and the militant group Hamas, a Christian's heart is indeed stirred with a mixture of sorrow and resolve. For as we gaze upon the tragedies of war and the devastating toll it takes on human lives, we are called to remember the teachings of the Lord, but also to take heed of the lamentable sinfulness that permeates this fallen world. First and foremost, we must acknowledge that Israel, as the biblical homeland of the Jewish people, remains a symbol of God's promise and fulfillment. The struggle that Israel faces today is not merely a political tussle but a spiritual war, as outlined in Ephesians 6:12 which states, "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Thus, the actions of Israel, particularly under a leader like Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu who has vowed to defend his nation, carry a weight that extends beyond the ken of secular news analysis. Now, the loss of life in Gaza is indeed a tragedy and must be grieved. However, let us not be misled or deceived by those who would paint Israel as the aggressor without cause. The terrorist group Hamas, which incessantly provokes and wages war against Israel, must be called out for what it is—a sinful entity operating in direct opposition to the will of God, a group that has shown disregard for innocent life both within Gaza and into Israel. As a conservative Christian, one must be critical of the stance taken by President Biden and the United Nations. Their calls for cease-fires and humanitarian aid, while seemingly noble, often fail to address the true nature of the conflict—a battle against evil forces that seek to destroy God's chosen people and the Holy Land. The U.S. abstaining from a U.N. Security Council resolution, as we read, amounts to little when we consider the need for a firm stance supporting Israel's right of self-defense, a principle proudly upheld by former President Trump. Furthermore, the dampened Christmas spirit in Bethlehem cannot go unnoticed. But let us not be swayed by mere emotionalism; rather, let us see it for what it is: the consequences of a world steeped in sin, necessitating a Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ, who came precisely amid such darkness. It is He who we should look towards, even as we offer prayers for all involved in this tragic conflict. In closing, let it be said unapologetically: While we pray for peace and the safety of civilians, our stand with Israel is unwavering. For as it is written in Genesis 12:3, "I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you." Thus, we must continue to support those leaders and nations that align with God's divine plan for Israel, knowing that in doing so, we are aligned with the purposes and heart of our Almighty God.
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