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Revive Israel
Yad Hashmonah, Israel
As the mother of a soldier, and a friend to women whose sons and husbands are engaged in combat, I often think about the verses that speak about seeking and pursing peace. How can a soldier who loves the Lord also serve in combat? To be a peace-seeking fighter, I believe it’s essential not to rejoice in the death of one’s enemy, but always cultivate God’s love and compassion. This means constantly seeking God’s justice and kingdom, even in battle.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)
In Hebrew, the word “peacemakers” is translated רודפי שלום (rodfey shalom). This phrase literally means “those who run after/chase after peace.” It means to seek peace by force, even in the dark and sombre night of war and hatred. The Holy Spirit within us cries out “Abba Father” for the suffering we see. We are His children, and God who lives in us brings us His kingdom and His peace because He is in us. Through His Son we can go from glory to glory and bring forgiveness, grace and peace through our behavior. In the Bible we clearly read that wars happen, but at the same time the Bible highlights how God’s peace can transform people’s lives and communities for the better.
“If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” (Romans 12:18)
In war we are faced with deep and complex moral issues at every moment, therefore it is essential to be a peacemaker and to be covered by the power of God, relying constantly on His guidance. God’s guidance is the way to resolve the tension between war and peace. Many soldiers I know are living examples: They don’t fight out of vengeance, but from a need to defend and protect. To the best of their ability, they seek to embody love and peace while reflecting Yeshua to those around them.
After the tragic massacre on October 7th, a great deal of anger emerged from people’s hearts. However, with the Lord on our side, we are able to overcome even the greatest pain. It is impossible to act with vengeance while seeking to build God’s kingdom and to be conformed to His image. Our combat must be driven by an honest heart, seeking first God’s kingdom and striving for justice with an unquenchable hunger and thirst.
“Give praise to the Lord, my Rock. He trains my hands for war. He trains my fingers for battle.” (Psalm 144:1)
The Lord is a “Man of War.” He was with Moses and the people of Israel, destroying the Egyptian army for them (Exodus 14). The Lord was by David’s side when he fought, and on the side of Deborah and Gideon and with so many others, who fought against evil in His name. As warriors that rely on God, we never rejoice in killing (Ezekiel 18:23), we are even saddened that we must drive evil away by force.
Let us seek the grace of peace and mercy from God. Let us meet this challenge of being at war with the weapons of God’s Spirit within us. He makes us more than conquerors. This is my prayer, as a mother, for our soldiers.
