Prayer and War

In the midst of Solomon’s prayer of dedication for the Temple, he says:

When your people go to war against their enemies, wherever you send them, and when they pray to the LORD toward the city you have chosen and the temple I have built for your Name, then hear from heaven their prayer and their plea, and uphold their cause (1 Kings 8:44-45, NIV).

This prayer is not specifically for any people except the Israelites.  How does it apply to American Christians today?

This is a particuarly difficult topic considering today’s assassination attempt.

When is war rhetoric appropriate, and when does it go too far?  The Bible allows and expects both war and peace.  History illustrates that both are part of the fabric of life.

King Solomon specifically requested God’s special intervention while at war.  But I reject the proposition that a belief in God creates war.  Petroleum is plenty reason enough to go to war today.

Jesus models a right response to violence.  We should face our enemies with strength and humility, relying upon our Heavenly Father to make things right.