7 Prayers for Peace in Israel and Gaza

The conflict in Israel and Gaza is a complex and heartbreaking crisis. All the people caught in this cycle of fear, violence, and trauma are people God loves completely. God calls us to be peacemakers and to intercede for all those suffering through the power of prayer. The current phase of the conflict began with the devastating Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, in which civilians were killed and hostages were captured. Israel responded with a sustained military operation in Gaza that was aimed at dismantling Hamas, but it has also led to a catastrophic humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, including massive civilian casualties, displacement, and severe shortages of food, water, and medical care. The pain, loss, and trauma on both sides are staggering. As of this writing, the United States has mediated a peace deal that diplomats hope will hold, but some people from both sides are already threatening to break the deal. A lasting ceasefire and a political resolution that guarantees security for both Israelis and Palestinians still seem elusive. In this fallen world that’s full of crises, the Bible urges us to pursue peace, and praying for peace is an important part of doing so. Psalm 34:14 reminds us that God calls us to: “Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” Jesus proclaims in Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” We need to pray for all people involved – not only for those we identify with, but also for those we may consider to be our enemies. Jesus says in Matthew 5:44: “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” We need to learn to love our enemies, and that includes praying for people we disagree with. All humanity is connected because we share the same Creator. No matter how our opinions may differ, it’s clear that God wants us to pray for each other. As the Bible says in 1 Timothy 2:1-2: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” So, let’s pray for all of the Israeli and Palestinian people who are suffering in the Middle East. Here are seven prayers for peace in Israel and Gaza:Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Ronniechua