WAR WITH IRAQ: FAITH AND CONFLICT

‘The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; He leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honour to His name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me’. Psalm 23:1-4a.

The United States is preparing for withdrawal of all combat forces from Iraq by August 2010 and all soldiers by 2012. Tens of thousands of soldiers will be making journey from Iraq to Kuwait and then home.

The UK government’s current aim is to hand all responsibility to the current democratic government of Iraq.

As these changes begin to slowly take shape, wisdom is greatly needed by the UK, USA and Iraq governments. Let us seek God together on behal of these nations.

Please pray with us that:

• The soldiers currently fighting in Iraq: may God meet their needs where they are.

• The wounded soldiers: may God be with the them, bringing them peace, comfort and His plan and purpose for their lives.

• The deceased soldiers: may they rest in eternal peace.

• The families of injured or deceased soldiers: may they be comforted by the love of God.

• Iraq: that the nation be reconciled.

• The Iraqi people: may they be empowered and come to know the love of God and be strengthened in their faith.

• All affected by the war: may God provide His comfort and strength and that forgiveness, healing, peace and rest will come to pass.

• The leaders of the UK, Iraq and the USA: may God grant them wisdom, may He guide them through His word and strengthen their faith, allowing His perfect will to be done.

• The 'battle against powers and principalities': may they be silenced by the thunder of God’s voice.

‘I, Wisdom, live together with good judgement. I know where to discover knowledge and discernment. ‘ Proverbs 8: 12.

MADELEINE JONES, 26/10/2009