Daily devotion – The Lebanon offensive!
The events unfolding in the Middle East, particularly Israel’s ground offensive in Lebanon against Hezbollah and Iran’s response with over 180 ballistic missiles on October 2, are undeniably significant not only politically and militarily but also prophetically for those who follow Bible prophecy. The Bible has long spoken of a convergence of nations and conflicts surrounding Israel in the last days, and what we see today seems to echo these prophetic writings.
As Israel now fights on two fronts, both in Gaza and Lebanon, we observe the key players the Bible has warned us about stepping into the light. Hezbollah’s strength and persistence are undeniably supported by Iran, which provides financial and military backing to the group. Iran, in turn, does not act alone. It has forged strong ties with Russia, another nation significant in biblical prophecy. Russia has been training and equipping terrorist groups in both Gaza and Lebanon. The alliance of Russia and Iran is pivotal in understanding the prophecy spoken of by Ezekiel in chapters 38-39, often referred to as the “War of Gog and Magog.” These nations, along with others, are foretold to come against Israel in the last days.
Moreover, Israel’s increasing isolation from the West is also something to take note of. While Western nations may offer political advice or even call for ceasefires, Israel, by God’s design, often finds itself standing alone. This is exactly as Scripture foretells: that in the end times, Israel will become increasingly isolated, and the world will turn against God’s chosen people.
One of the more disturbing aspects of the current situation is the rise of antisemitism seen globally, as street protests and violent actions have escalated in many countries. This too seems to align with biblical teachings about the increasing hatred towards Israel and the Jewish people in the last days.
These events remind us that Jesus is coming soon for His Church. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17, gives us hope and assurance of the coming rapture. We are not to sorrow as those without hope, for we know that Jesus will come for His Church, raising the dead in Christ first, and then those of us who are alive will be caught up together with them to meet the Lord in the air. This event is imminent and serves as a comfort for believers as we witness the signs unfolding around us.
The signs are so clear now—wars, conflicts, rising antisemitism, alliances forming against Israel—that we are living in the days leading to the fulfillment of these prophecies. The Church is to remain vigilant, understanding that the rapture could occur at any time, and shortly after that, the seven-year tribulation will begin. This period, described in the book of Revelation, will bring about great suffering and upheaval in the world, but it will also set the stage for the rise of the antichrist. The instability in governments and the constant upheaval of leadership today creates the perfect environment for a charismatic world leader to step onto the scene, offering solutions in exchange for control. This is the “petri dish” for the coming antichrist, as spoken of in Revelation 6 and 13.
The events happening in Israel today are indeed a precursor to these major biblical events, reminding us just how close we are to seeing the Lord’s return. As believers, this is not a time for fear but a time for preparation and anticipation. Jesus told us to watch for the signs, and we see them so clearly now.
Therefore, I urge you to take these current events seriously and allow them to drive you closer to Christ. This is not a time to drift in our walk with the Lord but to walk closely with Him every day. Our mission now is urgent: to share the gospel with those around us, to pray fervently, and to remain steadfast in our faith. As Jesus said in Matthew 24:6, “See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.”
Let us live with a sense of expectancy, knowing that God’s plan is unfolding on the world’s stage. Even amidst the chaos, we have peace, knowing that God is in control and that His promises are true.