God Is in Your Camp

For the LORD your God moves about in your camp to protect you and to deliver your enemies to you. Your camp must be holy, so that he will not see among you anything indecent and turn away from you. — Deuteronomy 23:14-15

Each week in synagogue, Jews read through the Torah from Genesis to Deuteronomy. The Torah portion for this week is Ki Teitzei, which means “when you go out,” from Deuteronomy 21:10–25:19.

One of the biggest differences living in Israel versus being raised in North America is the threats of conflict at any moment. Just a few months ago, we experienced yet another flare-up when Hamas terrorists began firing rockets at Israeli civilian population centers. Thankfully, in the words of Psalm 121:4, “he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” God protects Israel and gives strength and success, time after time.

God Is in Your Camp

This week’s Torah portion describes how God is with Israel. The Bible does not simply say that God protected Israel or granted them victory. Rather, God actually “moves about in your camp.” It is as though the Bible is placing God right there with the people, joining them as they prepare and enter the field of battle.

Living in Israel, we must never forget that God’s protection and love for Israel is for a purpose. God wants us to spread the light of faith, justice, and love to the entire world. This is what the covenant of Abraham is all about. By guarding our morality, we invite God’s protection on the entire nation.

Let’s pray for the welfare of Israel and her people. May God give them strength and protection as He “moves about” in their camp.

Your turn: Find out how you can support Israel and her people through IFCJ Canada’s Poverty programs.