With all that has been occurring recently in Israel, it can be difficult to know exactly how to approach the subject with children. Even as adults, it can be hard for us to digest what has occurred, but it is vital that we approach all that is happening with a serious and prayerful heart so that we can help equip them not just now but in the time to come.
The most important aspect of sharing with the children in your life begins with asking God how, when, and to what extent to share. God knows your children better than you do, and He will kindly give us wisdom and discernment for how to approach complex subjects when we look to Him. James 1:5 reminds us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."
This can also be an opportunity to help your child grow in wisdom. I remember as a child how my parents approached sharing with me at the age of nine what had just occurred on September 11, 2001; their careful consideration helped me in my own worldview and outlook at horrific events moving forward. Keep in mind that depending on your child's age, you will need to use certain phrasing and tailored details as to what exactly is happening. Be mindful of little ears when turning on the television as well. Navigating with God even as you are talking to them in real-time will prove important not just in this moment but in the future as they see horrible events occur in their own life.
It is also important when sharing to keep the mindset that there is far more at play than just nations against each other. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."
It is not just human against human in this, but greater forces that are attempting to cause havoc in this world. This is where you need to teach your children that, yes, human beings do horrible things, but we serve a God who is far bigger than man and the Devil, who is ultimately the one trying to cause such horror. We must also be mindful in our own hearts that as easy as it is to see those who are killing and injuring as the enemy, they are humans deceived by Satan. These people are still creations of God, and they are made in His image (Genesis 1:27). They may not be His children, for being a son or daughter of God comes through spiritual rebirth through the Holy Spirit, John 3:5-8, "Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.' The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit."
Because of this, we can encourage our children to pray for these lost souls so that they may come under repentance and conviction, no longer under the hold and influence of Satan. When we humanize these people, it is then that we can see them as God sees them, as sinners believing the lies of Satan, desperately in need of a Savior. Humanizing them does not mean by any means that we agree with what they are doing, nor do we celebrate them, but we can pray for those who persecute God's children and creation. We can pray that the work of Satan may be stifled and ended because those who are being used as his puppets will no longer be beguiled.
Whatever your child's age, you can encourage them to be in prayer. These prayers can be said before bed, at mealtimes, or at a certain time of day so that they remember daily to lift God's chosen people of Israel in prayer, not just in this time but moving forward as well. Israel is the Promised Land and the land of God's chosen people. Because of this fact and all End Day prophesies, we know that the persecution of Israel does not end here. We entered End Times as soon as Jesus ascended to Heaven, and until He returns, the Devil will attempt to cause problems. We do not need to fear or instill anxiety in children; instead, encourage them to pray for Israel and love God's people. We can also encourage them to pray against evil, pray for God's hand in our world and events, and stand for God no matter what is happening. This can be a place where you encourage your child in their prayer life for things bigger than just our daily lives.
More than likely, at school or among friends, your children will hear various opinions on the topic of Israel, but this is a place where you can encourage your child to stand for God even if they are standing alone. Ephesians 6:11 reminds us to "Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil." This will not be the last time your child faces situations where those around them may not agree with what God's word says to do, but you can help instill in them what is needed for them to stand, if even alone in the situation. Depending upon the child's age, choose Bible verses on why we stand with Israel and what it means that God chose such a people to be His own. Also, take the opportunity to educate them on why hurting, harming, and killing others, especially the innocent, is morally, ethically, and inheritably wrong. Equipping them early on with the armor of God and educating them on how to view actions from others will help them as they grow into adults.
Father God,
Our hearts break as Your chosen people in Israel face senseless attack, especially the innocent children. Lord, help us as we navigate how to share with the children in our own lives what is happening. Give us wisdom on how much to share with them and in what specific way. Please help us remember that even if we do not have an answer to their questions, you do, and through prayer, the study of Your Word in the Bible, and through Your revelation, we can find answers together. Please help the children in our lives grow in their hearts compassion, love, and empathy as they grow into the people You made them to be. Lord, we also want to remember that You are ultimately in control and that, in the end, You will defeat all that Satan is attempting to do once and for all. Help us teach our children this vital truth and help our hearts as we grieve with Israel and await Your return.
In Jesus Name, Amen
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Cally Logan is an author and US History teacher from Richmond, Virginia. Her works have been featured on "The 700 Club Interactive," “Jesus Calling Blog,” and “Coffee and Bible Time,” among several notable outlets. She served as a mentor for young women for several years and enjoys challenging women to develop deeper relationships with God and to live fearlessly and authentically. She received her B.A. Degree from Regent University. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time in nature, having genuine chats over coffee, and woodworking. Her new book, The Wallflower That Bloomed, is available everywhere now. Connect with Cally: @CallyLogan Instagram CallyLogan.com