June 22nd, 2025
by Joey Hufstedler
by Joey Hufstedler
Hey Guys,
As news breaks across the world of U.S. military strikes in Iran, hearts are heavy and minds are stirred. These moments remind us that we live in a fallen world marked by conflict, rebellion, and the ever-present tension between peace and justice. I feel compelled to speak—not from a place of political reaction, but from a biblical conviction that we are called to truth, to prayer, and to a Christlike posture in every storm.
Understanding Presidential Authority in Military Action
According to the U.S. Constitution, the president serves as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. This gives the executive branch authority to respond swiftly to immediate threats against national security. While long-term military engagement requires Congressional approval, targeted military actions—like the one we've witnessed—fall within the president’s constitutional powers.
That authority, however, is not absolute. It is subject to the rule of law, congressional oversight, and, most importantly, moral responsibility before Almighty God. Romans 13 reminds us that governing authorities are "established by God" to reward good and punish evil. Government has the solemn responsibility to defend its people, protect the innocent, and seek justice. Yet that same passage reminds us that these leaders are servants—not gods—and they too will give an account before the Judge of all the earth.
Biblical Reflections on War and Peace
The Bible is not silent on the matters of war, peace, and justice. Ecclesiastes 3:8 tells us there is “a time for war and a time for peace.” While the Scriptures do not glorify war, they do acknowledge its presence in a broken world. There are moments when evil must be restrained. Psalm 82:4 instructs, “Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” When rogue regimes or terrorist factions seek to kill, oppress, or destabilize the world, action may be necessary.
However, the Christian response must never be bloodthirsty or vengeful. Jesus taught us, “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9), and Paul urged Timothy that “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions” (1 Timothy 2:1-2). In the face of global unrest, we don’t celebrate destruction—we fall to our knees in prayer.
A Call to Compassion and Intercession
Let us be clear: every soul matters to God. American, Iranian, Israeli, Palestinian, Afghan—God created every person in His image. Our deepest hope is not merely for political stability but for spiritual salvation. No military strike, no foreign policy decision, no election, no regime change can do what only the gospel can: transform hearts and reconcile people to God.
This is a sobering hour. Soldiers are on alert. Families are bracing for more uncertainty. Leaders are carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. Let us not add to the noise with partisan shouting or simplistic answers. Instead, let us be found on our knees.
Here’s how we can pray:
The Ultimate Battle Has Already Been Won
We do not fear the future. While we grieve over war, we also know the Prince of Peace is coming again. Until then, we do not put our trust in horses or chariots, or presidents or policies—we trust in the name of the Lord our God (Psalm 20:7).
As followers of Christ, may our response to international conflict be marked not by panic or apathy, but by biblical truth, unshakable faith, and unwavering love. Our calling in this moment is not to inflame, but to intercede. Not to curse the darkness, but to shine the light of Jesus. Not to live in fear, but to walk in faith.
Let us be watchful. Let us be compassionate. Let us be prayerful. And may we always be ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us—even in a world that feels like it’s unraveling.
"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." — Psalm 34:18
Let us pray and act like those who know the end of the story.
Serving Him,
Bro. Joey
As news breaks across the world of U.S. military strikes in Iran, hearts are heavy and minds are stirred. These moments remind us that we live in a fallen world marked by conflict, rebellion, and the ever-present tension between peace and justice. I feel compelled to speak—not from a place of political reaction, but from a biblical conviction that we are called to truth, to prayer, and to a Christlike posture in every storm.
Understanding Presidential Authority in Military Action
According to the U.S. Constitution, the president serves as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. This gives the executive branch authority to respond swiftly to immediate threats against national security. While long-term military engagement requires Congressional approval, targeted military actions—like the one we've witnessed—fall within the president’s constitutional powers.
That authority, however, is not absolute. It is subject to the rule of law, congressional oversight, and, most importantly, moral responsibility before Almighty God. Romans 13 reminds us that governing authorities are "established by God" to reward good and punish evil. Government has the solemn responsibility to defend its people, protect the innocent, and seek justice. Yet that same passage reminds us that these leaders are servants—not gods—and they too will give an account before the Judge of all the earth.
Biblical Reflections on War and Peace
The Bible is not silent on the matters of war, peace, and justice. Ecclesiastes 3:8 tells us there is “a time for war and a time for peace.” While the Scriptures do not glorify war, they do acknowledge its presence in a broken world. There are moments when evil must be restrained. Psalm 82:4 instructs, “Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” When rogue regimes or terrorist factions seek to kill, oppress, or destabilize the world, action may be necessary.
However, the Christian response must never be bloodthirsty or vengeful. Jesus taught us, “Blessed are the peacemakers” (Matthew 5:9), and Paul urged Timothy that “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions” (1 Timothy 2:1-2). In the face of global unrest, we don’t celebrate destruction—we fall to our knees in prayer.
A Call to Compassion and Intercession
Let us be clear: every soul matters to God. American, Iranian, Israeli, Palestinian, Afghan—God created every person in His image. Our deepest hope is not merely for political stability but for spiritual salvation. No military strike, no foreign policy decision, no election, no regime change can do what only the gospel can: transform hearts and reconcile people to God.
This is a sobering hour. Soldiers are on alert. Families are bracing for more uncertainty. Leaders are carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. Let us not add to the noise with partisan shouting or simplistic answers. Instead, let us be found on our knees.
Here’s how we can pray:
- Pray for our President and leaders – that they would act with wisdom, courage, and a fear of the Lord.
- Pray for our military personnel and their families – for protection, strength, and clarity in their mission.
- Pray for peace in the Middle East – for restrained hearts, diplomacy, and the protection of innocent lives.
- Pray for the Church worldwide – that we would rise up not with swords, but with the Word of God, proclaiming the hope of Christ.
- Pray for the lost – that in the chaos of this world, people from every nation would turn to the Savior who died for all.
The Ultimate Battle Has Already Been Won
We do not fear the future. While we grieve over war, we also know the Prince of Peace is coming again. Until then, we do not put our trust in horses or chariots, or presidents or policies—we trust in the name of the Lord our God (Psalm 20:7).
As followers of Christ, may our response to international conflict be marked not by panic or apathy, but by biblical truth, unshakable faith, and unwavering love. Our calling in this moment is not to inflame, but to intercede. Not to curse the darkness, but to shine the light of Jesus. Not to live in fear, but to walk in faith.
Let us be watchful. Let us be compassionate. Let us be prayerful. And may we always be ready to give a reason for the hope that is in us—even in a world that feels like it’s unraveling.
"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." — Psalm 34:18
Let us pray and act like those who know the end of the story.
Serving Him,
Bro. Joey
Recent
A Time for Clairity and Compassion
June 22nd, 2025
We Can Do Better: Reflections on the 2025 SBC Annual Meeting
June 19th, 2025
The Right Track: Finding Refuge in the Lord — A Message to Launch VBS Week
June 19th, 2025
After the Call: Living the Mission Everyday
June 16th, 2025
Man on a Mission: A Father's Day Message Every Man Needs To Hear
June 12th, 2025
Archive
2025
January
That You May BelieveReflections on: That You May BelieveThe Importance of Being Active in ChurchThe Word That Brings LifeReflecting on The Word That Brings LifeBiblical Masculinity: Leading With Strength And HumilityThe Light Revealed, The Heart TransformedReflecting on The Light Revealed, The Heart TransformedGrace Upon Grace: The Overflowing Gift of JesusMale and Female He Created Them: A Biblical View of Gender and SexualityReflecting on Grace Upon Grace: The Overflowing Gift of JesusFearfully and Wonderfully Made: A Biblical View of Life's ValueGod's Image Bearers: Honoring Life From Conception to EternityBehold The Lamb of God: A Message of Hope and SalvationAbolishing Abortion: A Biblical Mandate for Life
February
Reflecting on The Preparer and the Promised OneThe Forgotten Discipline: Why the Church Must Return to Biblical MeditationWhat It Really Means to Follow Christ: Discipleship Beyond Sunday MorningCome and See: A Call to Follow JesusTeaching Our Children the Word: The Role of Parents and the Church in DiscipleshipWhat Happens When You Truly Follow Jesus?The First Sign: Revealing the Glory of ChristWhen Jesus Steps in: Reflections on the First Sign at Cana
March
Finding Rest in His Word: Why You Need the Bible More Than EverResting in God's Word: Applying the Truth We've HeardJesus Knows Your Faith: Is Your Belief Genuine?Jesus Knows Your Faith: A Moment of ReflectionA Conversation That Changed Everything: Are You Born Again?Born Again: What Will You Do With The Truth?
April
A Model For Ministry: Faithful, Focused, and FruitfulLiving Out A Model For MinistryLess of Me, More of Him: A Message we all Need to HearHe Must Increase: Living The Message Beyond SundayThe Death of Death: A Message of HopeLiving in the Victory of the Risen ChristBelieve in the Savior Who Breaks BarriersAfter the Well: What Happens When Jesus Breaks Through
May
The Mission Before Us: Why The Gospel Must Be Above AllAfter the Amen, The Mission is Still Before UsThe Marks of a Godly MotherLooking Back: The Marks of a Godly MotherWhen Faith Hears and Obeys: A Journey That Changes EverythingAfter the Walk—What Happens When Faith Hears and ObeysDo You Want To Be Made Well?
June
He Still Asks the Question: “Do You Want to Be Made Well?”Man on a Mission: A Father's Day Message Every Man Needs To HearAfter the Call: Living the Mission EverydayThe Right Track: Finding Refuge in the Lord — A Message to Launch VBS WeekWe Can Do Better: Reflections on the 2025 SBC Annual MeetingA Time for Clairity and Compassion
2024
October
The True Light That Gives LifeBlessed or Barren: A Reflection on Matthew 13:54-58Come to Jesus: The Bread of Life and Our Eternal HopeCome to Jesus: Finding Satisfaction in the Bread of LifeHeld in His Hands: The Eternal Security in ChristReflecting on Held in His Hands: The Eternal Security in ChristCelebrating 110 years of Faith: Building on the Past, Looking Forward
November
Reflecting on Our 110th Anniversary Celebration: Embracing Unity and Looking Ahead with FaithAre You Ready?Looking Back on "Ready and Waiting: Living in Anticipation of His ReturnAuthority & Mission: Embracing Christ's MandateReflecting on Authority & Mission: Embracing Christ's MandateDon't Give Up: The Blessing of EnduranceReflecting on Don't Give Up: The Blessing of EnduranceThe Cost of Freedom: Serving Others to Glorify God
December
Reflecting on The Cost of Freedom: Serving Others to Glorify GodIn the Mirror of God's WordReflecting after In the Mirror of God's WordServing Well Without the Spotlight: Lessons from EpaphrasReflecting on Serving Well Without the SpotlightFrom Eternity to the Manger: Discovering the Majesty of ChristReflecting on From Eternity to the MangerLiving in Light of Eternity: A Life Changing Message From Revelation 22Reflecting on Living in the Light of Eternity
2023
May
We Have An Assignment We Cannot FulfillWe Have A Privilege We Cannot ForsakeWe Have A Family We Cannot ForgetWe Have A God We Cannot FathomGod Loves You & Created You To Know Him PersonallyMan Is Sinful And Separated From GodJesus Christ Is The Only Provision For Man's SinWe Must, Individually, Accept Jesus Christ As SaviorThe Sadness Of A MotherThe Pursuit Of A MotherThe Faithfulness Of A MotherFor God So Loved The WorldGod Demonstrated His LoveThe Greatest Gift Ever GivenThe Gospel Is For AllWe Deserve Hell, Jesus Offers Grace
Categories
Tags
no tags
No Comments