Why the War in Ukraine? 3/4/22
The war has taken center stage in world affairs. As we hear reports, we sympathize with a relatively innocent, peaceful population being attacked by the old Russian bear. But we also ask “why”? These are usually complex issues involved, but the simple answer is Evil– one nation’s unprovoked attack on another for what it thinks it can get. There has already been much suffering on both sides.
The reality is that this may be primarily the work of one man. Vladimir Putin is a former KGB agent who has spent his life bullying others. Sadly, because the Russian system is still basically a dictatorship, he holds the power for now. He is bringing great destruction and suffering to the people of Ukraine. But he could also end up ruining his own country through a needless war.
Evil is also the result of God allowing human beings to have and exercise our free will. When we choose evil, disobedience to God, disaster results. For most of us, that means personal relationships and struggles. But evil is magnified when it takes over leaders of countries. We take comfort in verses like, “Weeping remains for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” Ps. 30:5
We pray first of all for the Ukrainian people and churches during this time. They have tasted freedom for 30 years and don’t want to go back. But we also pray for the Russian people to have the courage to hold their leaders accountable.
A big issue is religious freedom. Ukraine has it and there are many Christian workers and churches there. Russia has not had it and we pray for believers there who have been restricted and persecuted for so long.
May the nations of Europe increasingly apply pressure against Russia. May Putin’s attacks, and threats of nuclear attacks, be thwarted. May Ukraine be able to hold out until peace comes.
Lord, we pray that you will do a work in both Ukraine and Russia. We know there are many peace loving people in both countries who follow the Prince of Peace instead of the rulers of this world. We know that you are in ultimate control of leaders and countries, but sometimes we have to suffer for a while in order to bring forth your ultimate purposes. Forgive us for our selfish interests that so often predominate in our lives. We often see evil schemes triumph for a time. But we pray that your will be done in earth as it is in heaven. We pray that our country will take a righteous stand in this situation and for our leaders to have wisdom. Lord, protect the president of Ukraine and his family and so many other families that are in the danger zone. Lord, may your people shine brightly through the darkness, and may many souls turn to you. Be with those who are suffering through the long night. We pray that there will soon be a morning of rejoicing. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.