Prayer for Israel

The Unseen Struggles of Parenting an IDF Soldier

Wars are escalating dramatically. Many in the West remain blind—perhaps wilfully—to the terror that radical Islamic regimes are unleashing against those who oppose them in the Middle East. Even in the midst of turmoil, God’s plan is advancing, just as He said it would. Throughout history, we have seen His hand guiding His people—through trials, through victories, and through moments that may seem uncertain to us. What is happening now is no different. Though it may feel unsettling, God is neither surprised nor shaken.

Just today, I came across an article from JNS that shed some light on the situation. Among other things, they reported that “Overnight on Sunday, Israeli security forces arrested 18 suspected terrorists in operations throughout the Judea and Samaria regions, including in the Jenin area, according to an official IDF statement.” This is yet another stark reminder of the many fronts Israel is facing. Just to state a few they are battling in Gaza, standing firm against increasing threats from Syria and Lebanon, and dealing with terrorist attacks from within their own land. They are surrounded by those who seek their destruction, yet this tiny nation still stands.

AI generated image of tanks going into Gaza

While many rightfully applaud the IDF for their courage and strategic efforts, we must also recognise the divine hand of protection over Israel that cannot be denied. How else can such a small nation, constantly under siege, continue to endure? Psalm 124:2-3 reminds us: “If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us alive.”

This prompted a thought about a post I saw just a month ago by Joshua Aaron, the well-known Messianic Christian singer/songwriter. He shared, “Praise GOD for His protection. Honestly, lately I avoid watching the news but, I’m very grateful to have driven my daughter, Emma personally early this morning to her army base 2 hrs south down the Jordan Valley. My baby girl is safe…They say being a parent to an Israeli soldier changes you. Man, it’s changing Jeannie and I so much. Learning to entrust our child in GODs hands is a huge task. But, we know He Who watches over Israel never sleeps nor slumbers!”

Joshua Aaron Posts A Selfie before dropping his daughter, Emma at the military base. Source: Joshua Aaron’s Facebook Page

This sentiment is echoed across the nation. Since October 7th, we at PFI have been speaking with people in Israel continuously, and they all share this heavy burden—the weight of uncertainty, the sorrow of loss, and yet, an unwavering trust in God’s faithfulness. Many Israelis are experiencing the truth of Deuteronomy 31:6, “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”

A Call to Prayer for Israel’s Soldiers

As Israel is essentially forced into more battles, we must stand in prayer for their soldiers. This is not about taking a political stance, as many may suggest. This is about a nation fighting for its very existence. And more than anything, it is about a people who belong to the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—the only One who can truly sustain them.

We must pray for divine protection over the IDF soldiers and their families, many of whom are young men and women barely out of school, called into war to defend their homes and families. We must pray that they would cry out to the Lord in the midst of battle and that He would be their shield. Psalm 91:4-5 tells us, “He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler. You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day.”

The reality of war is harsh, and it comes at a cost. There is grief. There is loss. But in the midst of it all, God’s purposes are unfolding. His covenant with Israel remains. His promises will not fail. And through it all, we trust in His perfect plan.

Let us not grow weary in prayer. Let us not be silent. Now is the time to intercede—for Israel, for their soldiers, and for the peace of Jerusalem.

Psalm 122:6 – “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you.”

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