Israel-Iran, Russia-Ukraine, Trump-People

The earth is experiencing trauma at the hands of heads of state from all over the world. While many like to blame God for the evil in the world, the truth reveals a different perspective. People commit evil acts, creating travesties for all people.

As the earth experiences trauma, how can we respond? Some of my favorite people are responding by joining protests, others are sharing information through social media, and still others are planning the next candidate to run for office with the hope of bringing about change.

As for me, I am not one to attend a protest; I don't trust most of the information on social media, and spending time figuring out the next candidate does not provide an immediate solution. My participation could be to do nothing, but that is not helpful. As a pastor and a person who believes in God, I think we have a great answer in prayer. Scriptures instruct us to pray for those in positions of authority so that we may experience a peaceful life. (I Timothy 2:1-2) Scripture also states that we do not fight against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers of darkness. (Ephesians 6:12) Praying brings us into the battle of spiritual warfare, where we contend for peace.

As I write this blog post, presidents, prime ministers, and advisors are making decisions on the world's behalf. I do not have the "ear" of any head of state or their advisors, but I do have the ear of God. Human voices and spiritual voices are speaking to each leader. The leaders of the world need to hear the voice of God, who is peace. As Paul gave Timothy the command to pray, I encourage them to follow this command. Christians believe prayer can change the heart of man; prayer is not significant but influential.

Let's pray instead of criticizing; let's pray for leaders to make decisions that promote peace.