Violence across the world today can make us feel powerless. Yet God’s call to us encourages us to pursue peace and hold on to hope.
At Christian Aid, we're inspired by scripture to help those affected by violence and conflict, to stand in solidarity with the oppressed and to foster peace. Our commitment to these values shapes our response to crises and guides our efforts to bring relief and support to those who suffer the consequences of conflict.
These ten Bible verses reflect God’s heart for peace and justice, encouraging us to live as peacemakers and trust in God’s guidance.
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What the Bible says about war and conflict:
- Psalm 34:14 - Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.'
- Isaiah 2:4 - 'He shall judge between the nations, and shall arbitrate for many peoples; they shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.'
- Isaiah 9:6 - For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders, and he is named Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
- Matthew 5:9 - 'Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.'
- Matthew 5:43-44 – ‘“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you’
- Matthew 26:52 - 'Then Jesus said to him, 'Put your sword back into its place; for all who take the sword will die perish by the sword.'
- Romans 12:18 and 21 - 'If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. … Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.'
- 2 Corinthians 13:11 – ‘Be restored; encourage one another; live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.’
- 2 Thessalonians 3:16a – ‘Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways.’
- James 3:18 – ‘And the fruit of justice is sown in peace by those who make peace.’
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Donate and share hope
This devastating crisis has tragically escalated. Please donate today if you can.
Keep peace in your prayers
At Christian Aid, we encourage churches and individuals to lift up those affected by war and conflict in prayer. We hope these Bible verses inspire you to seek peace and justice for those living in fear and uncertainty. Prayer can be a powerful tool for healing and restoration, reminding us of our shared humanity in times of strife.
You can find prayers for peace and justice, and support for communities facing conflict on our prayer and worship page.
A prayer for peace in times of conflict
Lord God, our refuge and our strength,
we look to you in times of war and conflict.
Help us to turn our swords into ploughshares
and to live in unity with one another,
seeking justice through our words and actions.
God of peace,
You challenge us to love our enemies.
Guide us that we may overcome the forces of division.
Strengthen us to be true peacemakers,
carrying Your light into the darkest places.
God of hope,
grant peace to the oppressed.
Renew the spirits of those who are weary.
Bring comfort to those who mourn.
As we work in Your name,
may we live out your call o free the world from strife.
We pray that love and justice will come to reign,
now and forever.
We believe the world can be restored and transformed, and that God calls us to speak and act prophetically to bring change. We hope you and your church will join with us in our mission to help end injustice.
Christian Aid’s response to conflict
In times of turmoil, we believe in the power of community and the strength of faith. Our work focuses on providing both immediate and long-term support to those affected by violence and displacement. We understand that every conflict affects real people, each with their own story of loss, resilience and hope.
Through our ongoing projects we provide food, shelter and essential services to vulnerable communities. After the immediate need has reduced, we turn our efforts to addressing the impact add help to rebuild local communities.
By working alongside those directly impacted, we strive to bring about lasting change, ensuring that the voices of the marginalised are heard.
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When conflict erupted in her community, Shede's world was turned upside down. Her home was destroyed and she was forced to flee, leaving behind everything she knew.
With the help of Christian Aid, Shede found refuge and support. Our partners provided her with essential supplies, access to medical care and resources to help her rebuild her life.
Through our programs, Shede received training and support to develop new skills, enabling her to regain her independence and provide for her family once again.
Today, Shede’s life is a testament to the transformative power of hope and community support. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the many families around the world who have been forced to flee their homes in search of safety.
Meet Daniel Ayuen, a South Sudan programme manager working to bring hope and change to those struck by crisis.
