I don’t know about you, but I am an avid believer in the truth that there is always more to learn. Over the past few months, I’ve been deeply drawn to study what it means to navigate the terrain of life during a time of war—not just political or physical war, but also the wars raging in our hearts, homes, and headlines.
The Bible tells us clearly, “There is a time for war and a time for peace” (Ecclesiastes 3:8). That time is not merely about armed conflict; it’s also a reflection of the deeper spiritual war between truth and deception, light and darkness, righteousness and rebellion.
But here is the question that’s been stirring in my spirit:
What is the root of war in our modern times?
War in the Bible: More Than Just a Battle
Biblically speaking, war has often been used to purify, to judge, or to bring deliverance when God’s people turned back to Him. From the conquest of Canaan to the battles led by David, and even the exile of Israel and Judah, God allowed conflict as a mirror to reveal the heart of a nation. We are told over and over again: when people stray from God’s ways, disorder and unrest follow.
“When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain… if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray… then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” – 2 Chronicles 7:13-14
Our modern wars—be they ideological, physical, or cultural—are often symptoms of rebellion, unresolved history, and generational wounds. And yet, in every generation, God raises the righteous, those who will weep between the porch and the altar, those who will carry the burden in prayer rather than opinions alone.
Choose the Lord
While it’s tempting to side with the loudest voice, the Scripture compels us to be on the Lord’s side (Exodus 32:26). We are not called to amplify strife, but to intercede for peace (1 Timothy 2:1-2). This doesn’t mean we’re indifferent. Rather, we are spiritually positioned to see beyond politics, beyond headlines, and even beyond history.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” – Matthew 5:9
“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed…” – Matthew 24:6
Since the beginning of time, discord has been the devil’s strategy:
- Adam and Eve pointing fingers (Genesis 3:12)
- Cain rising against Abel out of jealousy (Genesis 4:8)
- Jacob and Esau, and the generational tensions that followed (Genesis 27)
What are the righteous to do? Pray. Prophesy. Persevere.
We are called to stand in the gap—to lift up our leaders, to speak peace over our homes, and to raise a sound of worship, not complaint.
Maintaining Peace in Times of War
So, how do we maintain our peace when the world feels like it’s burning?
1. Guard Your Heart and Mind
“Do not be anxious about anything… and the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Shut out unnecessary noise. Set boundaries around what you consume mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. It is okay to be informed, but don’t be overwhelmed.
2. Abide in the Word
“Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.” – Psalm 119:165
If you are anchored in the Word, you won’t be shaken by the waves of culture or chaos.
3. Stay Prayerful and Watchful
“Be still, and know that I am God… I will be exalted among the nations.” – Psalm 46:10
“Keep the fire burning on the altar; it must not go out.” – Leviticus 6:13
Maintain your personal altar of prayer. In the quiet, God gives you perspective, strength, and wisdom.
4. Walk by the Spirit, Not by the Flesh
“The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” – Romans 8:6
The Spirit of God will always lead you into truth, not confusion; peace, not panic; wisdom, not warfare.
A Kingdom Perspective
We are a generation who will seek Him, who will lift our eyes above the noise. The Kingdom of God is unshakable, even when the world is trembling (Hebrews 12:27-28). So let’s be careful not to echo chaos, but to release shalom.
“Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” – John 14:27
“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.” – Psalm 29:11
Practical Encouragement
As you raise children, cook meals, run businesses, plan summer activities, or simply try to keep your peace, know this:
The King of Glory is coming. Whether we are ready or not, whether the world acknowledges Him or not, He is faithful to finish the good work He started in you (Philippians 1:6).
So…
- Keep your lamp filled with oil.
- Keep your prayer life burning.
- Let your words be few, but powerful.
- Let your hope be loud, and your fear be silenced.
Peace is not the absence of war—it is the presence of Christ within you.
The scripture you chose, your bullet points, and your concluding statement are extraordinarily insightful. Thank you, Shenica! 🙂
Bless you, Nancy! I’m glad it resonated with you.