Introduction
As Christians, we are called to intercede for Israel, a nation with a unique biblical significance as “the apple of God’s eye” (Zechariah 2:8). When we pray for Israel, we are not only blessing God’s chosen people but aligning our prayers with God’s heart. This article explores thirty reasons, rooted in scripture, why praying for Israel is vital. Together, let’s remember Israel in our prayers, following the Psalmist’s call: “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May those who love you be secure'” (Psalm 122:6).
Why Christians Should Pray for Israel
Here is a list of 30 scriptural reasons to pray for Israel, each based on relevant Bible passages and the nation’s unique place in God’s plan:
- God’s Covenant with Israel – God established an eternal covenant with Israel, making it integral to His promises (Genesis 17:7).
- Israel as God’s Chosen People – Israel was chosen to reflect God’s light and share His truth (Deuteronomy 7:6).
- Protection as “The Apple of His Eye” – Israel holds a special place in God’s heart (Zechariah 2:8).
- Fulfillment of Prophetic Promises – Praying for the prophecies of Israel’s restoration (Ezekiel 37:21-22).
- Peace in Jerusalem – The Bible calls us to pray for Jerusalem’s peace and prosperity (Psalm 122:6).
- National and Spiritual Unity – God promised to unify the scattered tribes of Israel (Jeremiah 31:10).
- God’s Blessing for Those Who Pray – God blesses those who pray for and bless Israel (Genesis 12:3).
- Role as Light to Nations – Israel’s mission to be a “light to the Gentiles” (Isaiah 49:6).
- Israel’s Restoration from Exile – God promised to bring the exiled back to their land (Isaiah 11:11-12).
- Protection Amidst Threats – Praying for Israel’s protection in a hostile region (Psalm 121:4).
- Promise of Salvation – Paul expresses the desire for Israel to find salvation (Romans 10:1).
- Jesus’ Return Linked to Israel – Jesus’s second coming is connected to the acceptance of the Messiah by Israel (Matthew 23:39).
- Healing for Those Suffering – Israel faces many struggles, and prayer provides comfort and healing (Psalm 147:2-3).
- Hope and Renewal – God promises hope for Israel’s future (Jeremiah 29:11).
- Support for the Jewish People Globally – Prayers for the Jewish diaspora worldwide (Isaiah 43:5-6).
- Encouragement for Messianic Believers – Supporting Jewish believers in Jesus (Romans 11:5).
- Repentance and Return to God – Praying for hearts to turn back to God (Joel 2:12-13).
- An End to Antisemitism – Standing against hatred and supporting Jewish people (Isaiah 62:1-2).
- God’s Promise of Deliverance – Assurance of God’s protection and deliverance for Israel (Isaiah 41:10-11).
- Establishment as Praise on Earth – Praying for Israel’s role in bringing glory to God (Isaiah 62:6-7).
- Fulfillment of the Abrahamic Promise – Israel’s purpose to bless the nations (Genesis 12:3).
- Jerusalem as a Throne of the Lord – Jerusalem’s significance in God’s Kingdom (Jeremiah 3:17).
- God’s Faithfulness to His People – God’s enduring love and commitment to Israel (Lamentations 3:22-23).
- A Future Full of God’s Peace – Praying for peace as Israel faces turmoil (Psalm 125:2).
- God’s Promise of Healing – God’s restoration of Israel physically and spiritually (Isaiah 40:1-2).
- Intercession for Leaders – Praying for wisdom for Israel’s leaders (Proverbs 21:1).
- Alignment with God’s Heart – Praying for Israel reflects our obedience to God’s will (Romans 11:29).
- Salvation and the Gospel – Praying for spiritual revival and acceptance of the Gospel (Romans 11:26).
- Israel’s Role in God’s Redemption Plan – Israel’s place in the timeline of God’s redemptive plan (Isaiah 9:6).
- Fulfilling the Call to Be Watchmen – We are called to be intercessors, praying consistently for Israel (Isaiah 62:6).
These reasons show the spiritual, biblical foundation for praying for Israel. Each point reflects God’s deep, abiding promises and our role as believers in supporting Israel through prayers.
Prayer Points with Bible Verses
- Pray for Peace in Jerusalem
- Psalm 122:6: “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May those who love you be secure.'”
- Pray for Israel’s Spiritual Renewal
- Romans 10:1: “My heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved.”
- Protection from Harm and Attacks
- Psalm 91:4: “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings, you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.”
- Fulfillment of God’s Promises to Gather His People
- Ezekiel 37:21-22: “I will gather them from all around and bring them back into their own land. I will make them one nation in the land, on the mountains of Israel.”
- Pray for Leaders’ Wisdom and Integrity
- Proverbs 21:1: “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will.”
- Pray for Israel’s Role as a Light to the Nations
- Isaiah 49:6: “I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.”
- Pray for an End to Antisemitism
- Genesis 12:3: “I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”
- Pray for National Unity and Healing
- Jeremiah 31:10: “Hear the word of the Lord, you nations; proclaim it in distant coastlands: ‘He who scattered Israel will gather them and will watch over his flock like a shepherd.’”
Conclusion
Praying for Israel aligns us with God’s purposes and promises for His people. As Christians, we can participate in God’s work by interceding for Israel’s peace, protection, and spiritual growth. Let us commit to ongoing prayers, standing as faithful watchmen for Israel’s blessings and restoration.
