This week, the world has once again been gripped by images of war and devastation from the skies over Israel to the streets of Iran. The distinction between the nature of these conflicts is stark: while Israel targets military infrastructure, Iran’s attacks have been disturbingly aimed at civilians. (For a detailed analysis, listen to our latest podcast).
Yet in the midst of sorrow, loss, and escalating conflict, something extraordinary is happening: the joy of the Lord is breaking through. From bunkers beneath the earth to quiet hospital corridors, from unexpected political statements to sacred moments of salvation, the people of God are proclaiming His goodness not despite the chaos, but through it.
Praise from the Bunker
One of the most stirring images from this week is that of Christians gathered underground in Israel, worshipping God as missiles flew overhead. In a bunker, a place the world sees as a place of fear and survival, they lifted their voices in praise.
What a contrast to the spirit of this age! The Apostle Paul, writing from a prison cell, declared:
“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4, NKJV)
This kind of joy is not based on circumstance but on the unchanging nature of God. These believers remind us of Paul and Silas in Acts 16, who sang hymns while imprisoned, and the earthquake that followed. Joyful praise in darkness is often the prelude to breakthrough.
A Miracle in Beersheba
Another incredible moment came at Soroka Hospital in Beersheba. Just hours before a missile struck the building, every patient had been evacuated to an underground facility. The media described it as “fortunate,” but one believer called it what it truly was:
“This is not just luck. This is truly a miracle. Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!”
Psalm 91 comes vividly to mind:
“A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it shall not come near you.” (Psalm 91:7, NKJV)
God’s protection is not always visible in advance, but in retrospect, we often see His hand with crystal clarity. This was a supernatural intervention, not merely good planning, but divine timing.
[Context and source: Times of Israel article]
A Voice Like Daniel’s
Amid political commentary this week, former U.S. President Donald Trump shared a heartfelt message from former Governor and Ambassador Mike Huckabee. His words were striking a bold affirmation of Israel’s right to exist and defend itself, rooted in both moral clarity and biblical understanding.
This brings to mind Daniel, the Jewish exile who rose to a position of counsel to King Nebuchadnezzar. Though surrounded by corruption and foreign gods, Daniel remained uncompromised and spoke truth to power.
“Then Daniel answered and said… There is a God in heaven who reveals secrets, and He has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will be in the latter days.” (Daniel 2:27–28, NKJV)
Like Daniel, we are witnessing voices emerging in unexpected places, speaking truth that honours God in turbulent times.
An Iranian Baptised by a Jewish Believer
Perhaps one of the most powerful stories this week comes not from warzones or politics but from a quiet moment of spiritual rebirth. In Turkey, an Iranian woman gave her life to Jesus, and was baptised by a Jewish believer.
What a powerful image of reconciliation and redemption. In a world where Iran’s regime publicly calls for the destruction of Israel, here we see the Spirit of God doing what only He can do:
“He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation.” (Ephesians 2:14, NKJV)
This is the Gospel at work, tearing down enmity, overcoming centuries of hostility, and making one new man in Christ. It is a glimpse of Revelation 7:9, where every nation, tribe, people, and tongue stands before the throne.
Joy in the Midst of Judgment
These testimonies of praise in bunkers, miraculous protection, prophetic voices, and reconciled hearts remind us that God is not passive in times of crisis. He is present. He is moving. And He is bringing joy that transcends understanding.
“You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” (Psalm 16:11, NKJV)
As believers, we do not ignore the sorrow or pretend that suffering isn’t real. But we do proclaim that joy is deeper. Joy is not denial, it is defiance. A holy defiance against fear, hatred, and death, grounded in the resurrection life of Jesus Christ.
Let us therefore be joyful watchmen. Let us not be silenced by the world’s chaos but instead proclaim with boldness: God is still good. He is still working. And His joy is our strength.
“Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10, NKJV)
Finally, we want to leave you with a short but deeply moving message from Pastor Daniel Yahav, a fellow believer in Israel. In the midst of turmoil, his heart is full of gratitude, For God’s faithfulness and for the prayers of believers around the world who have stood in the gap. His message is a testimony to the unity and strength of the Body of Christ, bound not by borders, but by the Spirit.
We will leave you with his words:
