The recent conflict between Israel and Hamas has left a devastating impact on the Middle East. Israelis are facing immense suffering and tragic loss of life, and Palestinians in Gaza are caught between a terrorist organization and a nation fighting for their right to exist.
This crisis began on Saturday, October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a horrific terrorist attack against Israel. These terrorists from Gaza killed more than 1,300 Israelis.
The death toll primarily comprises civilians and includes numerous children and senior citizens. In addition, Hamas took nearly 200 people in Israel hostage, carried them off to Gaza, and injured more than 3,000. In response, the Israeli army has been shooting missiles into Gaza and is preparing for a ground invasion. More than 1,000 Palestinians have died, and a humanitarian crisis looms. As we seek a path to peace and healing, we offer five prayers in light of this ongoing conflict.
Short Prayer for Israel
A concise yet heartfelt prayer for Israel: “May peace envelop the land of Israel, bringing unity, understanding, and prosperity. Grant strength to its people and wisdom to its leaders. May love prevail over conflict, and may hope shine brighter than fear. Amen.”
A Prayer for Israel Psalm 83
Psalm 83 is often cited in prayers for the protection and well-being of Israel. It’s a plea for God’s intervention against enemies who seek to harm the nation. A prayer inspired by Psalm 83 might go like this:
“O Lord, do not remain silent! Do not turn a deaf ear to our cries, for the enemies of Israel have risen against your chosen land. Protect Israel as you have promised, shield it from those who seek its destruction. Let your peace reign over Jerusalem, and may your divine presence bring strength and guidance to its people. Amen.”
What to Pray for Israel Now
In the current landscape, praying for Israel encompasses various aspects. Here are some areas to focus on:
- Peace and Unity: Pray for harmony among the diverse communities in Israel, fostering understanding and cooperation.
- Safety and Protection: Ask for the safety of all citizens, especially those living in areas prone to conflict or unrest.
- Leadership and Wisdom: Pray for wisdom and discernment for Israel’s leaders as they navigate complex political and social challenges.
- Prosperity and Well-being: Pray for economic stability, access to resources, and improved living conditions for all Israelis.
Intercessory Prayer for Israel
An intercessory prayer involves pleading on behalf of others. For Israel, it might sound like this:
“Gracious Father, we intercede for the land of Israel. Pour out your mercy and grace upon its people. Protect them from harm and guide them through times of turmoil. May your peace reign in every corner of the nation. Strengthen the bonds of unity and understanding among its inhabitants. We stand in the gap, asking for your divine intervention and blessings upon Israel. Amen.”
Prayers for Israel and Jerusalem
Prayers specifically dedicated to Jerusalem often reflect the city’s significance and importance in religious and historical contexts. They might include petitions for the city’s peace, prosperity, and the well-being of its inhabitants. These prayers often acknowledge Jerusalem’s sacredness and seek divine blessings upon its lands and people.
Pray for Israel Bible Verse
There are several Bible verses that inspire prayers for Israel. One such verse is from Psalms 122:6 (NIV): “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May those who love you be secure.'”
This verse encourages believers to pray for Jerusalem’s well-being and security, expressing a heartfelt plea for peace and stability in the holy city.
A PRAYER FOR MORE CHRISTIANS TO PRAY FOR ISRAEL
We lift our voices in prayer for Christians worldwide to join us as we intercede for the people of Israel. Let us pray the Holy Spirit will touch more hearts with a burden for all in Israel to hear the life-giving message of the gospel. May Christians worldwide pray and work toward peace in Israel—the ultimate peace we find in the Messiah (Isaiah 11).
Lord, stir in us a burning desire and passion for the salvation of Israel, the people and land you chose to play such a key role in your work in the world (Zechariah 2:8). May Israelis thrive as they turn to and call upon the Holy One of Israel (Joel 2:32). Amen.
A PRAYER AGAINST ANY ANTISEMITISM AMONG PALESTINIANS
Lord, we thank You for Your love and generosity to people of every nation, having made us all in Your image and offering eternal life in Your Son (Genesis 1:28; John 3:16). Amid the pain and anger caused by the conflict, we fervently pray against any form of antisemitism among Palestinians.
Father, convict the hearts of any who harbor hatred toward Jewish people and draw those people to repent. We pray for healing from hate and for love and peace between Palestinians and Israelis. May compassion prevail, promoting dialogue and understanding between Israelis and Palestinians. Above all, we pray both groups reconcile to God and one another in the Messiah (Ephesians 2:11–22). Amen.
A PRAYER AGAINST ANY ANTI-ARAB SENTIMENTS AMONG ISRAELI JEWISH PEOPLE
Lord, we likewise lift our voices in prayer against any anti-Arab sentiments arising among Israeli Jewish people in the midst of this conflict. We pray you replace all hatred or bigotry with love. Bring conviction, repentance, and restoration where needed. May Jewish Israelis come to know the Messiah and embrace His love for all the nations (Acts 10:34–35).
Abba, we ask for forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing conversations. May Your people be the kingdom of priests and holy nation You called them to be (Exodus 19:6). Amen.
A PRAYER FOR THOSE IN THE MIDDLE EAST TO KNOW THE MESSIAH
Father, we pray for all peoples in the Middle East to put their trust in the Messiah Jesus. Lord, open their eyes to reveal who Jesus is and their need for Him. Especially during this crisis, we fervently pray for the people of the Middle East to encounter the transformative love of Jesus, the Messiah.
Amid the turmoil and uncertainty, may individuals on all sides find solace, hope, and eternal salvation in Him. Let the gospel message touch the hearts of Israelis, Palestinians, and all those affected by the conflict.
We pray for a divine outpouring of the Holy Spirit to bring people to faith in Jesus and bring ultimate peace. May He be a source of strength, comfort, and healing to those who are suffering, both in Israel and Gaza. Amen.
A PRAYER FOR BELIEVERS TO GROW IN PASSION FOR JEWISH EVANGELISM
God of Abraham, we pray You will cultivate a fervent desire in the hearts of believers worldwide for Jewish people to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Thank you for how You have preserved Israel and used Your people, “from whom is the Messiah according to the flesh” (Romans 9:5), to bless the world.
In Your great mercy and love, you have brought a Redeemer to Jacob’s children and the world. Grant us all greater courage, kindness, and sensitivity to proclaim the good news to Jewish people. Amen.
As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to take a toll on the people in the region, our prayers play an essential role in pursuing peace, understanding, and healing. Let us stand united in our prayers, asking for the guidance and grace of our Lord. We pray this war will end soon with minimal further loss of life. Above all, we pray for Israel and all those in the Middle East to know Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
LET US PRAY FOR YOU!
As we join together to pray for peace in Jerusalem, it would be our honor to also pray for you and your family. Simply fill out the form below to let us know of your prayer needs.