By Ryan Kelly

No doubt you have seen the turmoil and destruction caused by Hamas in Israel this past week, and the retaliatory response from Israel into Gaza to destroy the Islamic terrorists that have caused this deadly attack. Hamas leaders have declared a “Day of Rage” today against Israel and the West, which has included multiple protests and attacks worldwide.

There is no question – what Hamas has done and what they stand for is completely evil. And this evil must be opposed.

The valid question that should be asked is, what is the appropriate level of response and how do we as Christians respond? I’ll leave the first question to the Israeli military and leadership, although I do have my thoughts. The second is one that we can all share though.

We should be praying for all involved. This includes the soldiers and citizen soldiers fighting in Israel, for their protection, wisdom, discernment and safety. It also includes the innocent civilians in both Israel and Gaza, for them to escape harm and to see the Lord’s hand in all that is occurring. And I would add, salvation through Jesus for all involved. And, safety for everyone throughout the world who is in harms’ way due to these Islamic terrorists who desire death and destruction.

I have personally growth hesitant in the last few years on what I see on the news and what I believe is reported to us. No doubt, the attacks are real and the death toll is sadly growing as a result. I caution everyone on believing what we cannot prove, though. I will refrain from mentioning specifics, but there are many stories out there of what is occurring. Some are likely true, others likely not. Time will reveal what actually is occurring in Israel and with other nations at play, so just be patient and use your own discernment on what to believe at this time.

For the majority of us, the best thing that we can do it pray and prepare for safety and security. For each of us, be vigilant in our own lives and consider those around us. Don’t place yourself in a vulnerable position, and be ready to defend if there is indeed an attack. Also, be open and available for others to council with you…as this is hard on everyone (for both believers and especially non-believers). Share your heart with others and show how these attacks are part of what the Lord has told us will occur in Scripture. We may not know exactly what chapter and verse of Revelation is playing out at the moment, but I can assure you that we are seeing at least an element of what John wrote in the Bible’s final book.

We may not know what the future holds, but we worship a God who does. So don’t worry about tomorrow, rather focus on what you can do for yourself, for others, and for the Lord today.