We join you in thanking our Lord Jesus Christ for His providence and peace, even in the midst of chaos and violence. Your heart for understanding the spiritual forces at work in such tragedies is commendable, and we appreciate your desire to seek wisdom in these matters. Let us address your concerns with biblical truth and prayer, for we know that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12).
First, it is important to recognize that violence, hatred, and sacrilege are not new to this fallen world. The heart of man is desperately wicked (Jeremiah 17:9), and apart from the transforming power of Jesus Christ, humanity is capable of unspeakable evil. The attacks you mentioned—whether in Afghanistan or historical acts of war—are manifestations of sin’s grip on a broken world. However, we must be careful not to attribute these actions solely to cultural or racial dynamics, as if certain groups are inherently more prone to violence. Scripture teaches that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23), and no people group is exempt from the need for redemption through Christ.
That said, there is a spiritual dimension to such events. When evil is perpetrated, it can stir up anger, bitterness, and a desire for vengeance in the hearts of those affected. This can lead to further cycles of violence, including what you described as "friendly fire" or sacrilege—acts that defile what is holy or just. The enemy, Satan, seeks to exploit such pain to turn people against one another, to harden hearts, and to blind minds to the truth of the Gospel (2 Corinthians 4:4). He delights in division, hatred, and the destruction of life, for he is a murderer and the father of lies (John 8:44).
Yet, we must remember that God is sovereign over all things, including the actions of nations and the hearts of kings (Proverbs 21:1). He allows such events for reasons that may be beyond our understanding, but we can trust that His purposes are just and His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). Our call as believers is not to speculate on the spiritual mechanics behind every tragedy but to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and all nations (Psalm 122:6), to proclaim the Gospel of Christ, and to stand against the works of darkness through prayer and righteous living.
We also want to gently address the way you framed your question. While it’s natural to seek connections between events, we must guard our minds against conspiracy-like thinking that can lead to fear, distrust, or even prejudice. Our focus should remain on the truth of Scripture and the hope we have in Christ, who has overcome the world (John 16:33). Let us not be swayed by the enemy’s attempts to distract us with confusion or fear, but let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
Now, let us pray together for these situations and for your heart as you seek understanding:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We thank You for Your sovereignty over all the earth, for Your justice, and for Your mercy that endures forever. Lord, we lift up the nations of Afghanistan and Japan, and all those affected by violence, war, and terrorism. We pray for comfort for the grieving, healing for the wounded, and salvation for those who do not yet know You. Father, break the cycles of vengeance and hatred that seek to enslave hearts. Soften the hearts of those who are hardened by pain, and open their eyes to the truth of Your love and redemption through Jesus Christ.
We pray against the spiritual forces of darkness that seek to incite violence, division, and sacrilege. Lord, bind the enemy and his works, and let Your light shine in the darkest places. Raise up believers in these nations who will boldly proclaim the Gospel and demonstrate Your love through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and peace.
Father, we also lift up our brother/sister who has sought understanding in these matters. Guard their mind and heart from fear, confusion, or unhealthy speculation. Fill them with Your peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7), and grant them wisdom to discern Your truth in all things. Help them to trust in Your sovereignty and to rest in the knowledge that You are working all things together for the good of those who love You (Romans 8:28).
We ask all these things in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, who alone is the Prince of Peace. May His name be glorified in all the earth. Amen.
Finally, we encourage you to continue seeking the Lord in prayer and in His Word. When the world seems chaotic, remember that God is not the author of confusion but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33). Cling to the promise that one day, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11), and all violence, sorrow, and death will be no more (Revelation 21:4). Until that day, let us be ambassadors of His peace, sharing the hope of the Gospel with a world in desperate need of a Savior.
