When the Nations Rage

It's a discouraging time to be a citizen of the world. In the past few years, we have seen conflict after conflict pop up on a global scale. Countries all over the world are at war with each other, whether in armed conflict or ideological warfare. Every day, the news tells us of more people getting caught in the crossfire. Innocent lives are being taken, and everyone who isn't directly involved seems to have differing opinions that divide us even further.

Peace seems to be hard to come by, and even when we are physically removed from the unrest that is going on elsewhere, it can be unsettling to be enjoying our own lives and suddenly be reminded that there are people out there who are suffering at the very same moment.

This kind of guilt or discomfort is completely understandable, and it's probably a good sign that you're empathetic enough to consider these things. All the more—can you imagine the Lord's heart when He sees the destruction that we are perpetuating?

As with all things, it's essential that we think about how to approach the ongoing conflicts and crises around the world through a biblical lens. We'll do just that in this edition of CruReads! Read on to look back at God's faithfulness, look forward to His promises and find hope in the present through His Word.

1) Remember God's Presence, Protection and Sovereignty

What is interesting about global conflict is that unlike some modern phenomena, the bible directly talks about war. The Old Testament in particular is full of references to battles between kingdoms, including ones that God Himself has ordained! Many believers might use this to justify that God supports violence, but we must remember to take the entirety of God's Word into account before coming to such judgements.

Conflict was a reality of life in the Old Testament, and God's people were no exception. Governments and civil society were constantly in flux, and there were much fewer rules in place to keep kingdoms in check. Even so, we are often surprised when we see that God Himself appeared to endorse—and even command—such violent acts. After all, we know His character to be gracious and compassionate. Why does He seem to be so different here?

If you grew up in church, you probably heard the story of The Walls of Jericho. In Joshua 6, we see God lead Joshua and His people to march around the heavily-fortified city of Jericho 7 times before its walls come tumbling down. But it doesn't stop there. In verse 21, we are told that the Israelites "devoted the city to the Lord and destroyed with the sword every living thing in it—men and women, young and old, cattle, sheep and donkeys." This might feel incredibly violent and hard to reconcile with God's declaration that murder is a sin (Exodus 20:13). And yet, it's a story that we share with young children to celebrate God's power and might.

In fact, war was something that God knew was a necessary part of establishing kingdoms and political power at the time. He even laid out clear instructions for war in Deuteronomy 20! Ultimately, it is naive to assume that there is no place for war in God's kingdom. But does this mean that He is violent, angry and unmerciful? No!

If we read Deuteronomy 20, we can see exactly how God approaches conflict. He understands that it's a painful but necessary part of life in the time and place the Israelites are in. What He focuses on is telling them how to go about it in a way that honours Him and others. Just a few of the things that God's people are reminded to do are:

• to have their Priest bless the army and remind them that God goes with them (v3-4)
• for the officers to allow those who are leaving behind homes, brides-to-be, and even those are afraid to return home if their hearts are not committed to fighting (v5-8)
• to first and foremost make an offer of peace to their enemies, and only engage in battle if they refuse (v10-12)

The only enemies that they are permitted to "completely destroy" are those that are part of the countries that God has promised as inheritance to the Israelites (v16-18). It is specifically mentioned that this is because these cities do not follow God and can have evil influence over His people.

It's essential to note that God is consistent with who faces the wrath of His judgement—it is always those who are unrepentant and evil. Just as He has with us, God is faithful to pardon all who turn from their wickedness and choose to pursue His righteousness! Through the prophet Ezekiel in Ezekiel 18:21-23, God says,

“But if a wicked person turns away from all the sins they have committed and keeps all my decrees and does what is just and right, that person will surely live; they will not die. None of the offenses they have committed will be remembered against them. Because of the righteous things they have done, they will live. Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Sovereign Lord. Rather, am I not pleased when they turn from their ways and live?"

God does not enjoy death and destruction. He takes the most delight in people choosing to respond to His love with transformed hearts.

Most importantly, God never abandoned His people when they faced suffering and violence. Time and time again, we read of Him being a refuge and strength for those who trust in Him, no matter what circumstances they are in. Just one of the many examples of this in the bible is in Psalm 46. The Psalmist declares,

"There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,

the holy place where the Most High dwells.

God is within her, she will not fall;

God will help her at break of day.

Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;

he lifts his voice, the earth melts."

"Her'" in these verses refers to the city of God (contrary to popular out-of-context references today!), and the psalmist declares that even when countries are at war, God is present with His people and upholds them with His strength.

When we struggle with the idea of war and conflict, let us remember that God:

• does not take pleasure in it, even when it is a necessary part of life in a fallen world
• commands compassion, even in conflict
• is a fortress and help for His people

2) Look Forward to God's Promise of Peace and Hope

Now that we've looked back at what God has said about conflict in the past, what does He say about our futures? It's unlikely that many of us in peaceful and privileged Singapore will have to experience war firsthand. But who is to say for sure?

Another common phrase you might hear when you're talking about current events with fellow believers might be "It's the end times, that's why there are so many wars and disasters." This isn't an incorrect statement to make—we are told throughout Scripture to expect more and more chaos as Jesus's return approaches. Christ himself says, "You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains." (Matthew 24:6-8).

Suffering, death and destruction will continue to be inescapable as long as we are on this earth! But how does your heart respond to these uncertainties? That is the only thing that we can control, and that response should be shaped by God's promises. Take time to meditate on the verses below and remind your heart of what God has promised you.

God promises that:

• He has planned a hope and a future for us that is far greater that we can imagine (Jeremiah 29:11, 1 Corinthians 2:9, 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, Romans 15:4)
• Jesus will return to reign and make all things new (Revelation 22:12, Philippians 3:20, Titus 2:13, Revelation 21:5)
• There will be everlasting peace (Revelation 21:4, Isaiah 54:10, Isaiah 11:6-9)

As He has been faithful in the past, we can rest in the knowledge that He will never forsake His people. Even if famine, war and suffering come, God's presence and peace will always be with those who love Him!

In his book 'Finding God When the World's On Fire', renowned author Charles Swindoll says, "Fear is not an appropriate response to a world on fire. Rather, we are called to maintain a resilient faith in the unchanging promises of the Word of God." How can you build a resilient faith that can withstand these painful times?

3) In the meantime…

So, we understand God's heart in the midst of conflict and we can rest in His promises for the future, but…what do we do now?

When we're not directly facing the consequences of ongoing conflict but are still burdened by it, there are limited actions we can take. Aside from donating money and resources to relief organisations or even travelling there yourself to give aid, how can you be God's light in a darkening world?

• Pray for the world

Prayer is a believer's most powerful weapon! How incredible it is to know that we have access to the ear of the Almighty, and that He hears and is moved by our petitions? Set aside time to pray for the world at large, for the conflicts that are happening, the lives lost, the bodies that are hurting and the hearts that are broken from the devastation around them. Pray also for those who are attacking without wisdom or mercy, using their might to intimidate for their own selfish gain. Most of all, pray for strength for the church in these war-torn areas, that they would be fortified in the Spirit and be ambassadors for Jesus.

• Seek the Lord

When we can't escape from the constant stream of bad news, even the most mature believers can become weary and discouraged. It's all the more important that we protect our time with the Lord! Intentionally set aside time to rest in His presence, read His Word and commune with Him in prayer. Better yet, prioritise this time so that it's a constant each day. Ask the Lord to strengthen your spirit but soften your heart, so that you may continue to love as He does while abounding in hope.

• Share the Gospel

As God Himself has shown us time and time again, the only true escape from the wages of sin and death is to trust in Him! Ask the Lord to give you an urgency for His name to be known, and opportunities for you to do it. Equip yourself with knowledge and tools, and get excited about making the Great Commission a part of your daily life! Each of us is invited to be a part of making new disciples and expanding the Kingdom—what a privilege. Aside from the joy of having more souls saved for Jesus, could you imagine what times of war and disaster would look like if there were more believers to share peace, love selflessly and bring hope to those who do not have it? It would be a beautiful reflection of our gracious and loving Father whose light no darkness can overcome (John 1:5).

Cru Media Ministry, established in 1975, is Cru Singapore's Christian bookstore and publishing arm, with the mission of "Winning Souls, Saving Minds" through Christ-centered resources. We offer tracts, booklets, books, eBooks, and other essentials to support evangelism, discipleship, and missions. By equipping the Christian community with biblical tools and organising seminars with partner churches, we aim to impact lives and make disciples locally and globally. Committed to excellence, stewardship, and unity, we strive to fulfil the Great Commission through strategic partnerships and dedicated service.