Today is the first day of a new year. As God’s people, we should understand the times we live in. That will help us to make sense of where we’re headed. I want to take this post give you some thoughts to pray on.
For many years, I’ve had a tradition when it comes to the New Year. I’ve only posted about it a few times.
A long time ago, I noticed that since 1901, the Psalms have pretty much lined up with what was happening in world events. For at least 20 years, I’ve been using them to prepare me, and those under my ministry, for the year ahead.
This year, Psalm 124, is absolutely on point. There’s no denying that God has His hand on world events. More than that, He’s still on His throne and in control. We just need to trust the Lord for the outcome.
First, let me say that this Psalm is specifically for the nation of Israel. It says that right in the first verse. But we can see right away that it applies here and now. It starts with a look back.
If the Lord had not been on our side — let Israel say — if the Lord had not been on our side when men attacked us, when their anger flared against us, they would have swallowed us alive…
Psalm 124:1-3 NIV
Wow! I couldn’t have put it better myself describing the events in Israel in 2023. King David saw a clear picture, in the spirit, of what was to unfold. He gets even more exact.
…the flood would have engulfed us, the torrent would have swept over us, the raging waters would have swept us away.
Psalm 124:4-5 NIV
That was obviously the intent of Hamas. Of course, the devil wants to see Israel destroyed. But God will never let that happen.
Praise be to the Lord, who has not let us be torn by their teeth. We have escaped like a bird out of the fowler’s snare; the snare has been broken, and we have escaped.
Psalm 124:6-7 NIV
Based upon this Scripture, I’m looking for a full restoration of the nation of Israel this year. They’ll be able to put this attack behind them and move forward.
But that’s not enough. They need to be evangelized. They need to see Jesus as their Messiah and Lord.
As believers, we should be praying for the peace of Israel. We should be interceding for their salvation. They must accept the Messianic message to fully enjoy the blessings of their God.
Then they can truly embrace the final statement of this beautiful Psalm.
Our help is in the name of the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
Psalm 124:8 NIV
My prayer for Israel and all God’s people is for a blessed and prosperous New Year!
Question: How often do you pray for Israel?
© 2024 Nick Zaccardi
The Spirit and the Word 