A Call to Prayer: Hope
The Bible has much to say about the importance of hope, which is closely linked with faith. Hope involves optimism and the expectation of positive outcomes despite present circumstances. Hope is ingrained in Jewish culture. Indeed, the Hatikvah, Israel’s National Anthem, means ‘The Hope.’
WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Famed psychiatrist, philosopher, and author Viktor Frankl not only survived the Nazi concentration camps but learned much. He speaks of those who had no hope by losing meaning in life and were the ones who were more likely to perish. Yet, those who could find meaning in the suffering and never lose hope for a brighter future were much more likely to survive.
In this challenging time of war, terrorist attacks, death, global anti-semitism, and emotional and physical trauma, the Jewish people have not been through this much devastation since the Holocaust. Yet, many scriptures speak of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob fighting for His people with resulting restoration. In Haggai 2:6-9 the Lord speaks of times of great shaking that lead to a turning to Him, His glory filling the temple in greater quantity, financial provision, and peace. Romans 5:5 says, “Hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts.”
The National Leadership Center in Ariel, Israel, is a beacon of hope at all times, especially now as weary IDF soldiers, traumatized children, mourning widows, and more are coming to experience the love of God, be embraced by those who speak life and enjoy a community fighting for them.
Whether we are halfway around the world locked in prayer for Israel and the Jewish people or in the land with weapons of war or embraces for the broken, we are united in one purpose: We stand for the destiny of The Lord’s beloved Israel to be realized in all of its fullness.
WORSHIP SONG
SCRIPTURE
“O Israel, hope in the Lord; For with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him is abundant redemption.”
Psalm 130:7
REFLECTION
No matter the circumstances in our lives or in Israel, may we never cease to be people of hope, looking up with our eyes to the God of all power and breakthrough.
THE CALL TO PRAYER
Pray for Hope to arise in all in the nation of Israel.
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Five generations after David, King Jehoshaphat, King of Judah, faced the formidable armies of Moab, Ammon, and Mt. Seir. Outnumbered and doomed to destruction, King Jehoshaphat led the people of Judah in an admirable response. He humbled himself, called a fast, and gathered all to pray and seek the face of the Lord, saying, “O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.” (2 Chronicles 20:12).