Today, we turn our hearts and prayers toward the resilient civilians in Israel’s north, particularly the farmers who are facing tremendous challenges. The northern region, known for its lush landscapes and agricultural significance, is currently enduring immense pressures that threaten the livelihood of many. As followers of our Jesus, we are called to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Israel, especially during times of hardship. Through this prayer alert, we hope to build empathy and support for these steadfast individuals.
Protection for Farmers and Their Families
Farmers like Shlomo Yifrah from Tirosh are enduring tremendous hardships due to the ongoing conflict. “My workers left, the supermarket chains imported from Turkey, and we still don’t know if the government is going to help us,” he said. “My only consolation is the volunteers” (The Times of Israel). Let us pray for their protection and peace, asking the Lord to shield them from harm.
Scripture: “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold” (Psalm 18:2 NKJV).
Provision of Resources
Farmers are struggling with a lack of resources and support. Warberg Block from Kibbutz Alumim shared, “Not only was all this damage done, but there is as much as 100,000 hectares of unharvestable crops, and farmers can’t get income from that” (The Times of Israel). Let us pray for the provision of necessary resources and financial aid to sustain their livelihoods.
Scripture: “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19 NKJV).
Strength and Endurance
The physical and emotional toll on the farmers is immense. Wasser, an immigrant from Argentina, continues to care for his cows despite the dangers. “I’m scared for my life, not the cows’ lives,” he said. “I don’t know how much longer I can do this” (The Times of Israel). Pray for strength and endurance for these farmers to keep going despite the challenges.
Scripture: “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31 NKJV).
Emotional Healing and Comfort
The psychological impact of the conflict is profound. Sara Goldsmith, a volunteer from Kibbutz Sde Eliyahu, mentioned how helping farmers has been a way to cope with the crisis. “We are in a helpless situation, so when you do something you feel a little less helpless” (The Times of Israel). Pray for emotional healing and comfort for all those affected.
Scripture: “The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit” (Psalm 34:18 NKJV).
Community and Volunteer Support
Community initiatives have been vital. Yehudit Goddard, an art therapist from Ma’ale Adumim, said, “I came here to help save Israeli agriculture” (The Times of Israel). Pray for the continued support and collaboration among community members and volunteers to aid these farmers.
Scripture: “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NKJV).
Government Assistance and Intervention
There is a pressing need for effective government intervention. The government has proposed compensation plans, but farmers like Yifrah still feel uncertain about the future (The Times of Israel). Pray for timely and adequate government assistance to reach those in need.
Scripture: “For the Lord will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught” (Proverbs 3:26 NKJV).
How Leket Israel is Helping
Leket Israel, the National Food Bank, is playing a crucial role in supporting those affected in Israel’s north. By rescuing surplus agricultural produce and distributing it to those in need, Leket Israel ensures that the vulnerable populations, including struggling farmers, receive much-needed food supplies. This assistance is vital in times of crisis, providing both physical sustenance and hope.