There are many Christians praying for peace in Jerusalem; especially now with the state of Israel under siege since October 7, 2023. Prayers continue for the return of Israel's hostages; for an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza that works for a long term peace in the region; and a change of heart in those who seek to end Israel as a nation. Lately my heart is keen to go deeper into how I should be praying for peace in Jerusalem. Should I pray that Israel defeats its enemies? Or pray for a two-state-solution? Why pray at all? Consider God's Word:
Pray for peace in Jerusalem. May all who love this city prosper. O Jerusalem, may there be peace within your walls and prosperity in your palaces.
For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, "May you have peace."
For the sake of the house of the LORD our GOD, I will seek what is best for you, O Jerusalem. ~ Psalm 122:6-9
For the LORD has chosen Jerusalem; he has desired it for his home.
"This is my resting place forever," he said.
"I will live here, for this is the home I desired." ~ Psalm 132:14
God's answer to our prayers for peace in Jerusalem will be a lasting peace. It will be a prosperous and restful place for families and friends to live. God himself will live in Jerusalem. His answer for Jerusalem is not what, but WHO!
For a child is born to us, a son is given to us.
The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called:
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
His government and its peace will never end.
He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity.
The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven's Armies will make this happen!
~ Isaiah 9:6-7
Sound familiar? Yes, Jesus is that child. He is the One who is meant to govern Jerusalem. Jesus is God's plan for the salvation of the world; a great light for those living in darkness, and eternal peace for Jerusalem. When Jesus returns to earth and sets up his kingdom it will be the best outcome possible for Jerusalem and for the world (more ...)
Heavenly Father. I pray that Jesus will soon return to earth and rule from Jerusalem; that he will establish perfect peace in Jerusalem that is everlasting, fair, and renders justice for the whole world. Answer our prayer, oh LORD, as it is your plan from the beginning; that your son, Jesus, governs the world from God's holy city, Jerusalem. Maranatha! Maranatha! In the Majestic Name of our KING OF KINGS, JESUS CHRIST. Amen.
Mighty prayer link: Anne Graham Lotz Prayer for Jerusalem
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