Your Prayers Are a Spiritual Shield

May 19, 2024

In the heat of battle, stories of heroism and sacrifice illuminate the incredible challenges faced by Israel’s brave soldiers. One such story is that of Sgt. Gaya Zubery, a valiant paramedic in the Israel Defense Forces, who exemplified unwavering dedication and remarkable bravery.

Sgt. Zubery, serving with the 53rd Battalion of the 188th Armored Brigade, responded with unyielding resolve to aid wounded soldiers amidst the intensity of battle. Alerted to a tank hit by an explosive device during fierce fighting in Gaza City’s Shejaiya neighborhood, Sgt. Zubery and her medical team courageously ventured deep into the battlefield to provide critical care and support.

Tragically, amidst their efforts to tend to the injured, disaster struck.

A sudden explosion claimed the lives of two of the tank soldiers and Sgt. Zubery herself was severely wounded by gunfire while providing lifesaving aid to her comrades. Yet, despite her injuries, she exhibited remarkable composure and courage, embodying the spirit of selfless service that defines our brave men and women in uniform.

Sgt. Zubery’s brave story calls on us to reflect on the nature of courage and devotion in the face of challenges. What drives individuals like Sgt. Zubery, who at the young age of twenty years old decided to risk everything for the sake of others? How can we offer our support knowing the true dangers our soldiers face in their fight?

This heroic narrative shows us just how significant our prayers for the IDF really are. The Prayer for the Israeli Defense Forces, which requests divine protection and blessing upon our soldiers, resonates deeply during times of conflict. And, as believers of the Bible, we stand in solidarity with the defenders of Israel, lifting them up in prayer and seeking God’s providence over their lives.

In Psalm 122 we are called to pray for the peace of Jerusalem:

This verse captures our heartfelt prayers for Israel and its courageous soldiers, including those like Sgt. Gaya Zubery, who embody the highest ideals of service and sacrifice.

Photo Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo.phpfbid=955022659317152&id=100044282803756&set=a.258252692327489

Of course, the Bible provides constant insights into the Biblical heroes and what drove them to make the sacrifices that they did.

In the book of Joshua, we encounter the story of Rahab, a courageous woman who risked her life to protect the Israelite spies in Jericho. Rahab’s bravery and faith in God demonstrate the transformative power of courage and selflessness in the face of evil.

Similarly, the story of David and Goliath illustrates the triumph of faith over seemingly insurmountable odds. David’s unwavering trust in God enabled him to defeat the massive giant, despite David’s small stature. You can read more about the incredible heroic parallels of David to more of our IDF soldiers, here.

Here we are today. You and I are are called to emulate the example of these biblical heroes, standing firm in our faith and lifting our voices in prayer for the protection and well-being of our soldiers. Even if we aren’t on the physical frontlines in Israel, our prayers serve as a powerful expression of solidarity and support – and even more so, our prayers serve as a spiritual shield.

The current war against Hamas has shown just how important our prayers for the IDF are. As you and I both know, our soldiers face incredible challenges and constant threats – all of the time. And one of the greatest weapons we have is the power of our prayers. So let us unite in prayer and solidarity, standing with Israel and upholding our defenders in their hour of need.

Recently, Israel365 artist Inbal Rose produced a stunning new IDF print, featuring an emotional portrait of an IDF soldier alongside the inspirational Prayer for the Israeli Defense Forces. This piece serves as a tangible symbol of our unwavering support and commitment.

Display this artwork in your home as a daily reminder to lift up our soldiers in prayer and stand with Israel in its defense.

Together, let us pray for God’s blessing and protection over our brave men and women in uniform. With all of our heart, let’s say: May God grant them strength, courage, and victory in their noble mission of safeguarding our nation and defending our homeland.

Israeli soldiers are risking their lives to protect us all from Islamic terrorism. But they need our help. Sign up for Israel365 Action to receive updates on how YOU can help fight Hamas and its supporters in the United States and around the world.

Rabbi Elie Mischel

Rabbi Elie Mischel is the Director of Education at Israel365. Before making Aliyah in 2021, he served as the Rabbi of Congregation Suburban Torah in Livingston, NJ. He also worked for several years as a corporate attorney at Day Pitney, LLP. Rabbi Mischel received rabbinic ordination from Yeshiva University’s Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary. Rabbi Mischel also holds a J.D. from the Cardozo School of Law and an M.A. in Modern Jewish History from the Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies. He is also the editor of HaMizrachi Magazine.

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