(Speaking on behalf of our magazine staff, our prayers and support go out to the troops who are fighting and to their families. We wish all our troops a safe return home.)
I want to start this article by emphasizing that I support our troops completely. Without hesitation I can tell you I am behind them 110%. I am proud of them, but like so many others, I must confess, a part of me has asked the question, “Why must our men and women in uniform lay their lives on the line like this?”
Why, indeed? Well, I have come up with at least one answer to the question. America has some of the most highly trained and bravest soldiers in the world. Our troops are at war in Iraq to free a people that God wants free. And, rest assured, our soldiers will win the war. They cannot lose because God is on our side.
Why is God on America’s side? Because, like I said, He wants to free those who are under the rule of a dictatorship. So, although we may not like it, war sometimes is necessary—and this is one of those times.
So, What Does the Bible Say About War?
Matthew 24:6, "And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet."
This scripture permits us to know that, no matter what is going on in the earth, there will always be wars and rumors of wars. Jesus also tells us in this scripture that we are not to be troubled. I know it is very hard not to feel troubled, at some point, when you know soldiers are fighting over there and some are going to be captured and killed! It just breaks your heart. But, Jesus said not to be troubled, so I really feel we need to take hold of this scripture and trust God for the outcome.
What Others Are Saying
I heard someone say, “War, what is it good for?” Many years ago someone came out with a song that was written a long these same lines. Now, I am not endorsing the song, I don’t even know all the words, but I do recall one line that sticks out in my mind, “It ain’t nothing but a heartbreak.”
I am sure that many families who have lost sons and daughters in this war, will agree right now that it’s caused them nothing but heartbreak. I know my heart breaks each time I hear reports of casualties from the live coverage of the war on CNN. As for the statement, “War, what is it good for?” If I were speaking on behalf of those who have lost loved ones in this war I’d probably say, “They are wondering the same thing.” On the other hand, those who haven’t lost a loved one would probably say they want the war to go on and Saddam Hussein removed from power. It really depends on which side of the fence you’re on as to how you would view the situation. (Saddam Hussein was taken out of power, went to trial for all the horrible things he had done, and then put to death by hanging)
Personally…
I am praying this war will be over soon and our men and women in uniform will return home safe. Until then, I will stand by them and support them the best I can!
