With everything that has happened in Israel recently, it can be difficult to know exactly how to broach the subject with children. Even as adults it can be difficult for us to digest what has happened, but it is essential that we approach everything that is happening with a serious and prayerful heart so that we can equip them not only now but also in times to come.
Pray before you share
The most important aspect of sharing with the children in your life begins with asking God how, when, and how much to share. God knows your children better than you do, and He will kindly give us wisdom and discernment on how to approach complex topics when we turn to Him. James 1:5 reminds us: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. »
It can also be an opportunity to help your child grow in wisdom. I remember, when I was a child, how my parents decided to share with me, at the age of nine, what had just happened on September 11, 2001; their careful consideration has helped me in my own worldview and my view of the horrific events to come. Keep in mind that depending on your child’s age, you will need to use some wording and personalized details to explain exactly what is going on. Also watch out for little ears when you turn on the TV. Navigating with God even as you speak to them in real time will prove important not only right now but in the future as they see horrible events happening in their own lives.
Remember we are all God’s creation
It is also important when sharing to keep in mind that there is much more at stake than just nations against each other. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us: “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in the heavenly places. »
It’s not just about humans on humans, but larger forces trying to wreak havoc on this world. This is where you need to teach your children that, yes, human beings do horrible things, but we serve a God who is far greater than man and the Devil, who is ultimately the one who tries to cause such horrors. We must also be aware in our own hearts that although it is easy to view those who kill and harm as enemies, they are humans deceived by Satan. These people are still creations of God, and they are made in his image (Genesis 1:27). They may not be his children, because being a son or daughter of God comes from spiritual rebirth by the Holy Spirit, John 3:5-8“Jesus answered, “Verily, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit. Do not be surprised that I said to you, “You must be born again.” The wind blows where it wants and you hear its sound, but you don’t know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with all who are born of the Spirit. »
For this reason, we can encourage our children to pray for these lost souls so that they can repent and be convicted, and no longer under the influence and influence of Satan. When we humanize these people, that’s when we can see them as God sees them, as sinners believing Satan’s lies, in desperate need of a Savior. Humanizing them in no way means we agree with what they do, nor does it mean we don’t celebrate them, but we can pray for those who persecute God’s children and creation. We can pray that Satan’s work will be stopped and ended, for those who are used as his puppets will no longer be deceived.
Encourage your children to pray
No matter how old your child is, you can encourage them to participate pray. These prayers can be said before bed, at meal times, or at a certain time of the day so that they are reminded daily to lift up God’s chosen people of Israel in prayer, not only at that time- there, but also to move forward. Israel is the Promised Land and the land of God’s chosen people. From this fact and all the prophecies of the End, we know that the persecution of Israel does not end there. We entered the End Times as soon as Jesus ascended to Heaven, and until he returns, the Devil will try to cause trouble. We don’t need to fear or instill anxiety in children; instead, encourage them to pray for Israel and love God’s people. We can also encourage them to pray against evil, to pray for God’s hand in our world and events, and to stand up for God no matter what. This can be a place where you encourage your child in their prayer life for things greater than our daily lives.
Train them to approach difficult situations
It’s more than likely that at school or among friends, your children will hear various opinions on the topic of Israel, but this is a place where you can encourage your child to stand up for God even if he or she is alone. Ephesians 6:11 reminds us to “Refuel armor of godso that you can stand firm against the schemes of the devil. » This won’t be the last time your child faces situations where those around them may not agree with what God’s word says to do, but you can help instill it . Give them what is necessary so that they can stand, even if they are alone in the situation. Depending on the child’s age, choose Bible verses that explain why we stand with Israel and what it means that God chose such a people to be His own. This is an opportunity to explain to them why harming, harming, and killing others, especially innocent people, is morally, ethically, and hereditarily wrong. Equipping them early with the armor of God and educating them on how to view the actions of others will help them understand better. they become adults.
A prayer for the approach
God the Father,
Our hearts break as Your chosen people in Israel face senseless attacks, especially against innocent children. Lord, help us figure out how to share with the children in our own lives what is going on. Give us wisdom on what we can share with them and in what specific ways. Please help us to remember that even if we don’t have the answer to their questions, you do, and through prayer, study of your Word in the Bible, and through your revelation, we can find answers together. Please help the children in our lives develop compassion, love, and empathy in their hearts as they become the people you have made them to be. Lord, we also want to remember that ultimately You are in control and that ultimately You will defeat whatever Satan tries to do once and for all. Help us teach our children this vital truth and help our hearts as we mourn Israel and wait for your return.
In the name of Jesus,
Amen
Photo credit: ©GettyImages/gradyreese
Cally Logan is an author and professor of American history from Richmond, Virginia. In her free time, she enjoys mentoring young people and spending time in nature. She is the author of Wait, girl! And Dear Future Husband: A Journey of Love Letters Waiting for God’s Best. Check her out on Instagram and Twitter, @CallyLogan and TikTok Cally_Logan.
LISTEN: Special Update – Israel at War
This is a special episode of Inside The Epicenter. Joel and Carl look at the current conflict unfolding in Israel. They discuss the recent attacks, the implications of the conflict between Israel and Iran, the spiritual aspects of the situation and the importance of supporting our brothers and sisters in Israel.
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Salem Web Network and Salem Media Group.