I wrote the following email to our Ignite City Church community on the Monday after Israel was attacked by Hamas. I pray that it brings comfort to you and reminds you that we can trust God in the midst of all that we see going on around us.

I wanted to send this out to you as a source of comfort and encouragement as we see world events unfolding around us. As most of you know, Israel was attacked on Saturday and is now at war with Hamas. I wasn’t aware that anything had happened until Sunday morning because I don’t have social media and wasn’t on my computer to see any of the updates. My heart hurts for the people of Israel, especially for those who have been impacted in such a horrible way during this terrible attack.

I wanted to share with you what I believe the Lord has as a reminder for us that comes from Friday’s reading from our Bible reading plan. Please read through this psalm slowly and prayerfully as the Holy Spirit reminds us of his sovereignty and power over all things:

Psalm 46

1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, 3 though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. 

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. 5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns. 6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. 7 The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

8 Come, behold the works of the LORD, how he has brought desolations on the earth. 9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the chariots with fire. 10 Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” 11 The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.

So, let’s pray! Let’s not lose hope but continue to be in prayer. And as we do, let’s move deeper into our trust in the Lord so that our faith is increased. God will be glorified and will bring about his justice, peace, comfort, and deliverance in everything that he will accomplish in his time. 

I love you more than you know,

Brian