20 Bible Verses about War

The Bible addresses the topic of war with a mixture of historical context, moral lessons, and spiritual guidance. Here are 20 verses that reflect on the themes of conflict, divine intervention, and the pursuit of peace:

1. Ephesians 6:12

"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places."

• This verse reminds us that our battles are often spiritual rather than physical.

2. Psalm 144:1

"Blessed be the LORD my Rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle."

• Acknowledging God's role in preparing us for conflict, both physical and spiritual.

3. 2 Samuel 22:35

"He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze."

• A testament to the strength God provides to face challenges.

4. Isaiah 2:4

"He shall judge between the nations, and shall decide disputes for many peoples; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore."

• A prophetic vision of peace and the end of conflict.

5. Psalm 46:9

"He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the chariots with fire."

• A declaration of God’s power to end warfare.

6. Matthew 24:6

"And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet."

• Jesus warns of future conflicts but encourages followers to remain steadfast.

7. James 4:1

"What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you?"

• A reminder that internal conflicts often lead to external strife.

8. Jeremiah 51:20

"You are my hammer and weapon of war: with you I break nations in pieces; with you I destroy kingdoms."

• God’s instruments are often used for judgment and battle.

9. 1 Timothy 6:12

"Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses."

• Encouraging believers to engage in the fight of faith.

10. Exodus 15:3

"The LORD is a man of war; the LORD is his name."

• A declaration of God’s might in battles and conflicts.

11. Proverbs 20:18

"Plans are established by counsel; by wise guidance wage war."

• This verse emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom in strategic decisions.

12. Psalm 20:7

"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God."

• A reminder to place our faith in God rather than worldly power.

13. Isaiah 9:5

"For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire."

• A vision of peace, where conflict is ultimately replaced by prosperity.

14. Revelation 19:11

"Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness, he judges and makes war."

• A depiction of Christ’s role as a righteous warrior in the final battle.

15. Joshua 1:9

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."

• God encourages Joshua as he prepares for battle, highlighting courage in the face of war.

16. Romans 8:31

"What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"

• A powerful reminder of divine support, even in times of conflict.

17. 2 Chronicles 20:15

"And he said, 'Listen, all Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem and King Jehoshaphat: Thus says the LORD to you, Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed at this great horde, for the battle is not yours but God's.'"

• This verse reassures believers of God’s presence in their battles.

18. Proverbs 21:31

"The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD."

• A reminder that, despite our preparations, ultimate victory comes from God.

19. Luke 14:31

"Or what king, going out to encounter another king in war, will not sit down first and deliberate whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand?"

• Jesus underscores the necessity of careful planning before engaging in conflict.

20. Philippians 4:7

"And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

• Emphasizing the power of God’s peace amidst turmoil and conflict.

Conclusion

These verses offer a multifaceted view on war, reflecting on God’s sovereignty, the human condition, and the ultimate goal of peace. Whether through battles fought in the physical realm or the spiritual struggles in our everyday lives, these scriptures guide believers in seeking strength, wisdom, and solace.