Reflecting on the Swords of Iron War—One Year Later
The Swords of Iron War began on October 7, 2023, as violent Hamas terrorists launched a deadly attack on Israel. The Swords of Iron Memorial Day commemorates the fallen soldiers and civilians who have lost their lives in this horrific war.
The effects of this war have left deep scars on individuals, families, communities, and the nation that are still healing one year later.
This Day Is a Reminder and a Call to Pray
This anniversary is a painful reminder of the unsettled atmosphere in the region and a call for the body of Messiah—the One New Humanity in Yeshua (see Ephesians 2:15)—to unite in prayer for those impacted by this tragic conflict.
While the world got a chance to see the enemy’s plans to wipe out Israel and what pure evil looks like on October 7, 2023, many turned their heads.
Maybe not intentionally, but nonetheless, the very real and present conflict in Israel has become a low murmur in the ears of Believers and non-believers alike. The enemy uses arrows of distraction day after day to pull our attention away from God’s bigger purposes and plans–namely, those that include His chosen nation and land.
This isn’t to say God isn’t working through the details of our personal lives and our daily struggles. However, when we fix our eyes on Him and His plans for families, communities, and all nations, our attention is drawn back to Israel–the apple of His eye–as we look forward to the King’s return!
Let Us Pause and Pray
But let’s pause for a moment today—Swords of Iron Memorial Day—and pray for Israel in a way that falls into alignment with God’s destiny for His people and His land.
As we remember the loss and pain experienced on that day, especially as we reflect on the prophetic implications and significance of God’s appointed times during this fall season, it’s essential to pray as King-Priests for…
- The land and God’s chosen people
- The peace of Jerusalem
- God’s protection, healing, and redemption to be made known throughout Israel and all the earth
- Leadership
- Hostages
- Mercy
- Body of Christ to stand firm on God’s promises and intercede
Why Pray for Israel, the Land, and the Region?
The conflict in the Middle East is not only a physical battle but a spiritual one. It was prophesied in the Bible, but we also know that God’s promises to His covenant people are forever.
The terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023, were not just isolated incidents of violence; they reflected the ongoing tensions, fears, and dark plans that have pressured the region for generations.
God’s Heart Beats for Israel
As the body of Messiah, praying for Israel, the land, and the region is an act of obedience, compassion, and hope. It is a recognition that while geopolitical climates are complex, prayer is still a powerful means to bring about change, healing, and transformation.
It is a call to remember that God’s heart beats for Israel and all people, and His desire is for peace, justice, and reconciliation.
Pray for God’s Resting and Dwelling Place Be Prepared for Him
- “For the Lord has chosen Zion; He has desired it for His dwelling place: ‘This is My resting place forever; here I will dwell, for I have desired it.’”—Psalm 132.13-14
- “…this is the place of My throne and the place of the soles of My feet, where I will dwell in the midst of the children of Israel forever.”—Ezekiel 43.7
- “So you shall know that I am the Lord your God, dwelling in Zion My holy mountain. Then Jerusalem shall be holy… For the Lord dwells in Zion.”—Joel 3.17-21
The Bible Instructs Us to Pray for Israel’s Peace
The Bible tells us Israel holds a significant place in God’s redemptive history. The Word reminds us that God’s promises to Abraham and his descendants encompass both blessings and responsibilities (Genesis 12:1-3).
The call to “pray for the peace of Jerusalem” (Psalm 122:6) is a mandate that reflects God’s heart for the welfare of His chosen people. Further, Ephesians 6 reminds us that we are not warring against flesh and blood but against powers and principalities. The Swords of Iron War is a physical representation of the spiritual battle over the land and God’s people.
Ephesians 6:15 tells us that our feet should be ready for battle, prepared with the gospel of peace, fully realizing the spiritual war surrounding us.
As Believers in Yeshua, we are to pray for peace, but also pray with peace in our hearts, trusting in the gospel and knowing God’s peace plan—not the world’s or a counterfeit—will be manifested in His perfect timing through our coming King!
Yeshua is our peace, who has made both—Jew and Gentile—one and has broken down the middle wall of separation (see Ephesians 2:14). This message of reconciliation is a reminder that the ultimate hope for peace in the land lies in the coming King.
Pray for the Body of Messiah to See the Spiritual Warfare and Pray for Israel
- “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”—Ephesians 6:11-13
- “I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”—Genesis 12:3
7 Prayer Points | Swords of Iron War One-Year Anniversary
- Pray for Peace and Safety: The people in Israel and the region live in constant fear of violence, and the memories of last year’s and ongoing attacks are still very raw. Pray for protection over civilians, for the safety of families, and for the spirit of fear to be cut off. Ask God to draw those He has chosen close and find their place of refuge in Him.
- Pray for Healing and Comfort: Many lives were lost or forever changed on October 7, 2023. Pray for the families who lost loved ones, those who were injured, and the countless individuals who carry the trauma of that day. Pray for the hostages to have strength and be returned home. Ask God to provide comfort, healing, and hope in the midst of their pain.
- Pray for Leaders and Decision-Makers: The battle that is ongoing in Israel will require courageous leadership. Pray for the leaders of Israel and the nations to seek godly wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Ask that they would be guided by a desire to protect life and see deeper into the situation.
- Pray for Believers in the Region: There are Christian communities in both Israel and the surrounding regions who are striving to be agents of hope. Pray for their strength, courage, and witness. Ask that they reveal the Father’s heart and are beacons of Christ’s love in areas overshadowed by darkness.
- Pray for the Spread of the Gospel: As we pray for peace, we must also pray that the good news of Jesus Christ will be shared and embraced in Israel and the surrounding areas. Pray that hearts would be open to the message of God’s love, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
- Pray Against the Anti-Semitic Spirit: Dark powers and principalities are behind the violence and hatred in the region. Pray against their influence on terrorist groups, who are Israel’s enemies. Pray that their plans are thwarted and cannot prosper. Ask God to bring about a change of heart among those who are driven by hatred and to raise up those who understand God’s plan of reconciliation.
- Pray for an Increase of Trust and Wisdom: While the conflict seems complex, we can trust God’s plan and promise. Pray that people in positions of influence speak God’s truth with wisdom and discernment and trust in God’s plans.
Find Hope. Trust God.
We hope these prayer points help guide you in intercessory prayer. We stand in agreement with you, trusting that the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is on a mission to restore all things! We know the trials and tribulations of this world feel heavy, but may Romans 8:18 comfort us, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”