Hi friends! I’ve been thinking a lot about what’s going on in Israel, as well as what’s going on in America. There is a common element among the two and I think it is important to get back to Bible basics to understand just what that element is.

Our world is full of chaos and so much is happening in Ukraine, Russia, China, Iran, Brazil, Venezuela, Europe and other places across the globe. But let’s narrow our focus to simply Israel and the US, and let’s push Israel’s war and America’s elections to the back burner for a moment. Those are only the “shiny objects” that have caught our attention, but I believe there is something much more significant to focus on.

In the history of the world there have only been two nations absolutely without argument founded on Biblical principles: Israel, who God established as His chosen land and people, and America, whose foundation was expressly for the purpose of escaping religious tyranny and gaining freedom to worship according to one’s conviction. Each, through nothing special of themselves, received a unique calling. To fulfill His plan, God needed a Jewish nation and a Christian nation who would be witnesses of Him. (Isaiah 43:10-12, Acts 1:8) For more about that, see Judeo-Christian Values and Our Moral Foundation.

With that truth as a foundation, I want to go a step further.

To whom much is given, much is required (Luke 12:42-48). To those uniquely called by God, there are bigger expectations, as well as potentially greater discipline for failing to walk in obedience. The book of Judges describes the Jewish cycle of disobedience, the removal of God’s hand of favor, destruction (usually at the hands of enemies), repentance, and return to God’s favor, leading to obedience. The pattern repeated itself throughout the pages of recorded history of the Hebrew people. The nations of the world experience a similar cycle, though the US faces a higher standard than others due to our unique calling.

Which brings us to today’s key point. While Israel looks to its military might to save the day, the US focuses on a savior who will fly in on Air Force One. In both cases, our aim is off target.

Friends, I believe the Lord God who called both nations into existence and ordained them with unique callings is working in the hearts and minds of both Jews and Christians to wake up and realize that He is our Redeemer. He is our Savior. He is our King. He is our Commander in Chief!

Israel’s battle would be over if the Jewish people simply turned to the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, repented and put their faith in Him. Likewise, chaos in America would end if we as believers would collectively humble ourselves and pray and seek His face and turn from our wicked ways. God would hear us and would heal our land. (2 Chronicles 7:14) Sorry, but no presidential candidate can do that!

As long as military might and electing the right president remains the primary focus of God’s uniquely called nations, we will remain mired in chaos. Yes, I pray for Israel’s military victory, and yes, I think it is important for Christians in America to vote our values. However, those should be the fruit that is produced on the tree of righteousness of repentant people! If we live out our WHOLE lives devoted to Him, we WILL stand with Israel and we WILL engage our culture at the ballot box and in every other area of life.

It is time for both Israel and America to turn to God! As Yom Kippur (the Jewish time of repentance/atonement) draws near, let’s all step into a lifestyle of repentance and see what God will do!