Is it important to stand with Israel and why should we do so? In a series of 10 blogs, Benjamin Kroese who lives in Israel, will share about the importance of developing a love for God’s people Israel. This week part 1: ‘God loves Israel’.
The prophet Jeremiah makes it very clear:
‘This is what the Lord says: “The people who survive the sword will find favor in the wilderness; I will come to give rest to Israel.” The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness. I will build you up again, and you, Virgin Israel, will be rebuilt. Again you will take up your timbrels and go out to dance with the joyful.’ (Jeremiah 31:2-4)
After a time of judgment (‘the sword’), God is motivated by His ‘everlasting love’ to restore Israel. It is remarkable that it is an everlasting love, ceaseless, never ending! It was the same love that gave birth to God’s plan with Israel.
‘The Lord did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the Lord loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery, from the power of Pharaoh king of Egypt.’ (Deuteronomy 7:7-8)
Unconditional love
This same love will also bring it to a glorious end (Romans 11:25-28). People regularly ask me: “How can God love a sinful nation like Israel?” The answer is simple: through the same unconditional love the Lord has for the church. ‘While we were still sinners, Christ died for us’ (Romans 5:8).
We are asked to love like Jesus loves. Jesus clearly loves His people. There is so much of God that is available for us. James says we don’t have, because we don’t ask. Ask God to give you His love for the Jewish people. He wants to share it with you!
This blog is written by Benjamin Kroese. Benjamin is married to Rebecca and together with their three sons they live in Israel. They have their own video production company ‘Frontline Media’ and are founders of ‘Until He Returns Ministries’. Benjamin and Rebecca have a passion for revival in Israel and have a desire to reach other nations to stand with Israel.
