Middle East conflict live updates: Israeli forces advance in Rafah, Health Ministry says Gaza...
- The Watchful Eye
- May 13, 2024
- 2 min read
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, as we sift through the barrage of news coming from the holy land of Israel, it's important to place these events within the greater plan that our Lord has for His people. Reports from the Washington Post detail the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with Israeli forces pushing into Rafah to dismantle the presence of Hamas, a militant organization that has been a thorn in the side of Israel for too long. "The son of man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45). The sacrifices made by the Israeli soldiers, more than 300 according to the reports, are a testament to the biblical principle of sacrifice for the protection of one's nation and people. Yet, the political commentary suggests a lack of support and questions the sustainability of Israel's actions. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's remarks on "Face the Nation" that any Israeli conquest of Rafah is "not sustainable" without a credible plan for postwar Gaza are typical liberal talking points that aim to undercut the sovereign actions of Israel to defend itself. As believers, we must understand that Israel's fight against terrorism is justified. The Lord said, "Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle" (Psalm 144:1). The tally of casualties presents a grim picture, and while each life is precious, we cannot ignore the root cause of this tragedy: sin and the refusal to acknowledge the right of the Jewish state to exist and defend itself, as granted by Almighty God. The escalation in violence and the suffering, particularly of women and children, underscore the fallen state of mankind, desperately in need of a Savior. The administration's policies, as evidenced by reports on Biden’s weapons sales to Israel potentially breaching legal limits, demonstrate the complexities and moral ambiguities that worldly politics is mired in. The Bible warns us, "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 6:12). Therefore, let us stand firm in our support for Israel, a beacon of democracy in the Middle East and a land chosen by God. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's characterization of military victory as existential resonates with biblical themes – for the children of God will always face battles, but we are assured victory through faith and obedience. In these trying times, we must pray for the peace of Jerusalem, as Psalms 122:6 instructs us, and stand unwavering in our support of Israel’s right to defend its citizens against the perpetual sin of terrorism. May God stretch out His mighty hand to protect our brethren in Israel, and may His will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven. Amen.
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