On Day 8 of our 10 Days of Global Prayer for Israel, we focus on praying for repentance and forgiveness between Arab and Jewish people in Israel. Our prayer is for a spirit of conviction and repentance to sweep across the land, bringing about genuine reconciliation, unity, and love among all its inhabitants.
Related Scriptures
- John 16:7-8: “But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment.”
- Ephesians 4:32: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
- 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
- Matthew 3:1-2: “In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.'”
The relationship between Jewish and Arab people in Israel is multifaceted, involving layers of historical, political, and social dynamics. Israeli Arabs make up about 20% of Israel’s population. They share the same ethnicity as Palestinians, but are Israeli citizens like their Jewish neighbours. Even though they are exempt from mandatory military service, some choose to serve in the IDF anyhow. Many Israeli Arabs prefer to live in Israel, valuing the democratic freedoms and economic opportunities it offers, but divisions and mistrust still exist and are often exacerbated during times of war and political unrest. Historical grievances and current conflicts can stir up old wounds, making reconciliation difficult. In this context, the call for forgiveness and unity is especially urgent and challenging.
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in bringing a deep conviction of sin and a longing for righteousness among both Jewish and Arab communities in Israel (John 16:7-8). We must pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Israel, fostering a genuine spirit of repentance and a longing for righteousness.
Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as Christ forgave us. This call to forgiveness is essential for reconciliation. We must pray for hearts softened by God’s love, willing to forgive past wrongs and seek peace with one another.
1 John 1:9 reminds us that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Confession and repentance are foundational for true reconciliation. We must pray for both Jewish and Arab people to turn to God, confess their sins, and seek His forgiveness and healing.
Matthew 3:1-2 calls us to repentance, recognising the nearness of God’s kingdom. Repentance involves a turning away from sinful ways and a commitment to walking in righteousness. Our prayers should focus on asking God to grant both communities the grace to turn from their sins and embrace His ways.
Prayer Points
- Pray for a spirit of conviction and repentance to come upon Jewish and Arab citizens of Israel, leading them to turn from their sinful ways and walk in righteousness with God and one another (John 16:7-8, Matthew 3:1-2).
- Pray for reconciliation between Jewish and Arab people, that they would seek to understand and forgive one another, fostering unity and peace (Ephesians 4:32, 1 John 1:9).
- Pray for genuine love to grow between these communities, breaking down barriers of hatred and mistrust (Romans 12:9-10).
- Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Israel, bringing about a revival that leads to widespread repentance and reconciliation (Joel 2:28-29).
- Pray for Christian leaders in Israel, both Jewish and Arab, to model forgiveness and unity, guiding their congregations towards peace and mutual respect (2 Corinthians 5:18-20).
- Pray for families affected by the war, that they would experience God’s healing and restoration in their relationships (Psalm 147:3).
- Pray for young people in Israel, that they would grow up with a heart for peace and reconciliation, becoming future leaders who advocate for unity (Psalm 133:1).
Conclusion
Let us lift up the nation of Israel in our prayers today, asking for a powerful move of the Holy Spirit to bring repentance, forgiveness, and reconciliation between Jewish and Arab people. May God’s love and peace prevail in their hearts and relationships, transforming the land into a beacon of unity and hope.
Prayer Meeting Reminder
Our final public virtual prayer meeting for Israel will be held on Monday, 27th May at 7:00 PM UK time. The Zoom link will be sent out on the day. Please join us as we conclude our 10 days of prayer with a powerful time of intercession and worship.
