Standing With Israel’s Lone Soldiers on the Frontlines of Faith and Courage

Today we had the privilege of spending time with Israel’s lone soldiers in Raanana. These are young men and women who come from all over the world South Africa Canada the United States Holland France Finland and even Latin America. They leave their families and everything familiar behind to volunteer in the Israel Defense Forces. Most of them are Jewish with no parents or close relatives here yet they choose to call Israel their home and dedicate themselves to defending it.

When I spoke with them I was struck by their honesty and courage. One young soldier told me “I come to fight for Israel not because I hate the enemy but because I feel I am fighting for my home.” These words stayed with me. They are still so young many of them barely out of school yet their commitment and faith are stronger than most of us could imagine.

Here is a clean version without the organization name and still clear:

Together we brought food, new shoes and snacks. Some soldiers got massages and others needed someone to listen. I shared my personal testimony with them. A few even had their hair cut by volunteers. The girls received a treat prepared by our sisters. These small acts of care matter, especially since tomorrow several of them, Max, Alex, Ben and Levi, will head to fight in Gaza. Please keep them in your prayers.

The Israel Gaza war is in every headline and you can read about it daily in Israel news but what we witnessed today was the human side behind the stories. These soldiers are not just statistics they are real young people with dreams fears and families far away who miss them. Standing with them reminded me how important it is for us as friends of Israel to show up comfort them and remind them that they are not alone.

I encourage you to keep praying for both Arabs and Jews and to support the ongoing work that helps people on the ground. What they do goes beyond simple aid. It shows real love and faith in action. Being with these young soldiers today was humbling and inspiring. They fight for Israel and for the hope of peace.

“Be strong and courageous Do not be afraid or terrified because of them for the Lord your God goes with you He will never leave you nor forsake you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6