A Prayer of Protection for our Sisters Held Hostage

In a recent and impactful statement, Pramila Patten, the UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, shared harrowing insights during her meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog. She highlighted the grave reality faced by countless individuals in war zones: "Sexual violence is one of the most heinous crimes with devastating consequences that reverberate across generations. Sexual violence used as a tactic of terror, as a tactic of war, is designed to destabilize, instill fear, humiliate, and dehumanize not only the victims but also the families, companies, the nation, or the enemy."

These words echo through the corridors of our hearts, leaving us with a chilling reminder of the depth of human depravity and the unimaginable suffering endured by many of God's daughters, our sisters. It forces us to confront an unsettling question: How can a loving God allow such violence and pain to befall His children?

The psalmist in Psalm 34:18 offers a glimmer of understanding, "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." This scripture doesn't shy away from acknowledging the reality of suffering but instead assures us of God's presence amidst our deepest pains.

As Christian Women for Israel, we are called to grapple with these profound injustices, not from a place of despair but from a foundation of faith. Our belief in a just and compassionate God doesn't negate the existence of evil in the world. Instead, it compels us to be His hands and feet, to bring His light into the darkest places.

The existence of such atrocities challenges us to deepen our understanding of free will, the consequences of sin, and the ongoing spiritual battle that manifests in physical and emotional violence. It's a stark reminder of our fallen world's reality, where God's perfect creation is marred by human sinfulness.

Yet, in the midst of such darkness, we are not powerless. We are called to action – to pray fervently for the victims and survivors, to support CW4I partner organizations working on the ground to provide humanitarian aid for widows and orphans, and to advocate for policies that stand with Israel and the Jewish people.

Moreover, we are reminded of the transformative power of Christ's love. In a world marred by violence and suffering, Jesus offers hope and healing. His life and teachings guide us in responding to evil with love, compassion, and justice. Through Him, we find the strength to stand against injustice, to support those who suffer, and to work tirelessly for a world that reflects His kingdom.

Let us hold fast to our faith, not as an escape from reality but as our source of strength and action. Let us remember the words of Jesus in John 16:33, "In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." May this assurance inspire us to be relentless in our pursuit of justice, peace, and healing for all God's children.

Will you join now in lifting up our sisters held hostage, as we seek divine intervention and comfort for them by praying Psalm 91 over them?

Shalom and Love, 

Christian Women For Israel

A Prayer of Protection for the Hostages Based on Psalm 91:

Heavenly Father,

We lift up the hostages before You, placing them under the shelter of the Most High. May they dwell in Your shadow, Almighty God, finding refuge and fortress in You.

We declare, in Your name, that You are their refuge and fortress, their God in whom they trust. We pray earnestly that You will deliver them from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. Cover them with Your feathers, and under Your wings, let them find refuge; let Your faithfulness be their shield and rampart.

We ask that You shield them from the terror of the night, the arrow that flies by day, the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, and the destruction that wastes at noonday.

Though a thousand may fall at their side, ten thousand at their right hand, we pray that it will not come near them. May they only observe with their eyes and see the punishment of the wicked.

Because they have made You, Lord, their dwelling place—the Most High, who is their refuge—no evil shall be allowed to befall them, no plague come near their tent.

We beseech You to command Your angels concerning them, to guard them in all their ways. On their hands, may the angels bear them up, lest they strike their foot against a stone.

We pray for their strength to tread on the lion and the adder, to trample the young lion and the serpent underfoot.

May they call upon You in their trouble, and may You answer them. Be with them in trouble; rescue them and honor them. With long life, satisfy them, and show them Your salvation.

In the powerful and precious name of Jesus, we pray,

 Amen.