War is a tragic reality in a fallen world, and while the Bible does not glorify it, it recognizes that war sometimes becomes necessary in the context of justice and defense. Ecclesiastes 3:8 says there is “a time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.” Scripture acknowledges that certain times call for battle.
God Himself commanded Israel to go to war in the Old Testament, such as in Deuteronomy 20:1-4, where He promises to fight for His people when they go to battle in obedience. These were not wars of aggression, but of judgment and preservation of His covenant people.
David, a man after God’s own heart, was a warrior-king. Many of the Psalms reflect his cries to God during times of battle. Psalm 144:1 says, “Blessed be the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle.”
However, the Lord also values peace. Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” Believers are called to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9), but not pacifists when injustice and evil require defense.
Jesus will one day return not just as Savior, but as Judge and King. Revelation 19:11 says, “In righteousness He judges and makes war.” The final war will bring justice, crush evil, and establish His righteous reign.
War is not the ideal, it is the result of sin. Yet in certain cases, it serves God’s purpose of judgment, defense, or deliverance. Believers must discern with wisdom, and above all, long for the peace only Christ can bring.