Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem
God commands believers to pray specifically for the city of Jerusalem.
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you” Psalm 122:6
Maybe you were like my pastor, who at one time used to believe that when the scripture mentioned “Jerusalem,” he thought it was a reference to “the Church.” One day, our very biblically-trained pastor was reading Psalm 122:6, and the Lord asked him to pray for literal Jerusalem. He argued, “But Lord, the Church is Israel.” He then heard God say, “No, I want you to pray exactly the way it is written in the psalm.” Suddenly, his eyes were opened.
By obeying the Lord that day, our pastor began to gain God’s heart for Israel and the Jewish people, and it has been a great source of blessing for him personally as well as Gateway Church ever since!
So today, let’s take our first step: pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6-9). The city itself is fascinating. A mix of ancient and present-day cultures, Jerusalem has many archeological layers of civilization that cover over four millennium—making even the physical ground unique. With three major religions (Judaism, Islam, Christianity) jostling for space and ownership of the land, there is great tension in the Holy City. The battle especially between the sons of Ishmael and sons of Isaac has raged for generation after generation, and still rages today.
The power of God working through the prayers of the saints has stayed back an untimely blood bath in the Holy City where He has chosen to display His love and fire. There are many true believers and seekers within her walls. The world’s attention focuses upon this tiny place, and the people within her gates need a revelation of their long-awaited Messiah, Jesus.
This will also be the location of the most amazing biblical prophecy ever: the return of Jesus to the Mount of Olives and entrance through Jerusalem’s Eastern Gate!
Let’s take a moment right now to pray for the peace of Jerusalem:
“Lord Jesus, You loved this city. I want to feel Your heart for this place and its people. Lord, I might not fully understand what I am praying about, but I ask that You reveal Your heart to me. I pray for the peace of Jerusalem according to Psalm 122:6. May all those within its walls have security. May shalom (peace and well-being) be known on every street corner. And Lord, I am willing to seek what is best for Jerusalem’s sake. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”
I encourage you to add prayer for Jerusalem to your regular prayer schedule. Over time, the things we pray for become things we deeply value. And when we value something, we are burdened for it.
May you who love Jerusalem prosper!