Five Prayers for the Peace of Jerusalem

The recent conflict between Israel and Hamas has left a devastating impact on the Middle East. Israelis are facing immense suffering and tragic loss of life, and Palestinians in Gaza are caught between a terrorist organization and a nation fighting for their right to exist.

This crisis began on Saturday, October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a horrific terrorist attack against Israel. These terrorists from Gaza killed more than 1,300 Israelis.

The death toll primarily comprises civilians and includes numerous children and senior citizens. In addition, Hamas took nearly 200 people in Israel hostage, carried them off to Gaza, and injured more than 3,000. In response, the Israeli army has been shooting missiles into Gaza and is preparing for a ground invasion. More than 1,000 Palestinians have died, and a humanitarian crisis looms. As we seek a path to peace and healing, we offer five prayers in light of this ongoing conflict.

A Prayer for More Christians to Pray for Israel

We lift our voices in prayer for Christians worldwide to join us as we intercede for the people of Israel. Let us pray the Holy Spirit will touch more hearts with a burden for all in Israel to hear the life-giving message of the gospel. May Christians worldwide pray and work toward peace in Israel—the ultimate peace we find in the Messiah (Isaiah 11).

Lord, stir in us a burning desire and passion for the salvation of Israel, the people and land you chose to play such a key role in your work in the world (Zechariah 2:8). May Israelis thrive as they turn to and call upon the Holy One of Israel (Joel 2:32). Amen.

A Prayer against Any Antisemitism among Palestinians

Lord, we thank You for Your love and generosity to people of every nation, having made us all in Your image and offering eternal life in Your Son (Genesis 1:28; John 3:16). Amid the pain and anger caused by the conflict, we fervently pray against any form of antisemitism among Palestinians.

Father, convict the hearts of any who harbor hatred toward Jewish people and draw those people to repent. We pray for healing from hate and for love and peace between Palestinians and Israelis. May compassion prevail, promoting dialogue and understanding between Israelis and Palestinians. Above all, we pray both groups reconcile to God and one another in the Messiah (Ephesians 2:11–22). Amen.

A Prayer against Any Anti-Arab Sentiments among Israeli Jewish People

Lord, we likewise lift our voices in prayer against any anti-Arab sentiments arising among Israeli Jewish people in the midst of this conflict. We pray you replace all hatred or bigotry with love. Bring conviction, repentance, and restoration where needed. May Jewish Israelis come to know the Messiah and embrace His love for all the nations (Acts 10:34–35).

Abba, we ask for forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing conversations. May Your people be the kingdom of priests and holy nation You called them to be (Exodus 19:6). Amen.

A Prayer for Those in the Middle East to Know the Messiah

Father, we pray for all peoples in the Middle East to put their trust in the Messiah Jesus. Lord, open their eyes to reveal who Jesus is and their need for Him. Especially during this crisis, we fervently pray for the people of the Middle East to encounter the transformative love of Jesus, the Messiah.

Amid the turmoil and uncertainty, may individuals on all sides find solace, hope, and eternal salvation in Him. Let the gospel message touch the hearts of Israelis, Palestinians, and all those affected by the conflict.

We pray for a divine outpouring of the Holy Spirit to bring people to faith in Jesus and bring ultimate peace. May He be a source of strength, comfort, and healing to those who are suffering, both in Israel and Gaza. Amen.

A Prayer for Believers to Grow in Passion for Jewish Evangelism

God of Abraham, we pray You will cultivate a fervent desire in the hearts of believers worldwide for Jewish people to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Thank you for how You have preserved Israel and used Your people, “from whom is the Messiah according to the flesh” (Romans 9:5), to bless the world.

In Your great mercy and love, you have brought a Redeemer to Jacob’s children and the world. Grant us all greater courage, kindness, and sensitivity to proclaim the good news to Jewish people. Amen.

As the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to take a toll on the people in the region, our prayers play an essential role in pursuing peace, understanding, and healing. Let us stand united in our prayers, asking for the guidance and grace of our Lord. We pray this war will end soon with minimal further loss of life. Above all, we pray for Israel and all those in the Middle East to know Jesus, the Prince of Peace.

Updated on October 25, 2023.