Praying for Israel and Gaza

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From the BBC: Hamas gunmen launched an unprecedented assault on Israel from the Gaza Strip on 7 October, killing more than 1,400 people and taking more than 200 hostages. Israel has responded with air strikes on Gaza and has launched a ground offensive. More than 10,800 people have been killed in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

Escalating violence has killed or injured thousands and an unknown number have been abducted — reportedly including the elderly, women and children. The UN has condemned attacks on civilians and hostage-taking, warning of an “extremely dire” humanitarian situation in Gaza and calling for Israel to allow humanitarian aid into the region. We are heartbroken and shocked by the devastating violence and loss of life in Israel and Gaza. Will you join us as we pray for peace and for all those suffering through this worsening humanitarian crisis?

Let us pray:

Lord, You said “Peace, be still,” and the storm was stilled.

We confess that at times, we feel overwhelmed by the storm. But today, we lift our eyes to you — the Maker of heaven and earth. And we ask for a miracle… let your peace fill Israel and Gaza.

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

God, let violence cease in the region. Let there be no more bloodshed. We know your heart breaks for those killed and those left behind — for the orphaned child, the injured elderly, those abducted and families desperate for safety. Lord, speak into this crisis.

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

We pray for those who have lost loved ones. Let your peace and love wash over them. Please protect and provide for those who have been abducted and bring them home safely. Let them be reunited with their loved ones — let them feel the comfort of their embrace.

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

God, we pray that you open doors that allow food, essentials and medical supplies to reach those in need. May first responders be able to rescue the injured, comfort the grieving and help rebuild many lives.

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

God, we pray for your peace and reconciliation to overcome conflict. We ask that you give wisdom and discernment to our global leaders and those in positions of power who have the ability to impact the course of this war. Help us to be bold advocates and agents of peace in our own communities.

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

We pray for people scattered around the globe whose friends and family members have been caught in the crisis. We know you are with them. Help us to express your love to those affected in our communities, churches and workplaces.

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

Lord, we raise Israel and Gaza to you, and pray for those suffering. We ask that you provide peace in this crisis, and protection and comfort for all those who have been impacted.

We lift our prayer to you,

Lord, hear us.

Amen.

Prayer from World Relief: https://worldrelief.org/blog-prayer-for-israel-and-gaza/