What It Means to Pray for Jerusalem
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem” comes from Psalm 122:6, a powerful call for God’s people to lift up the city of Jerusalem in prayer. This verse reminds us of the importance of interceding for peace, unity, and God’s blessings over His chosen city.
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May they prosper who love you.” — Psalm 122:6 (NKJV)
Jerusalem holds deep spiritual meaning for believers. It’s the city where God chose to place His name (1 Kings 11:36) and where Jesus was crucified and rose again. Praying for its peace isn’t only about political stability—it’s about asking God to bring His peace, shalom, which means wholeness, blessing, and harmony to His people.
Why We Should Pray for Jerusalem
Praying for Jerusalem aligns our hearts with God’s promises. The Bible calls Jerusalem “the city of the great King” (Matthew 5:35) and speaks of its future restoration and peace when Christ returns.
| Reason | Bible Reference | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| God commands it | Psalm 122:6 | Obedience to His Word |
| Jerusalem is central to God’s plan | Zechariah 8:3 | God’s presence dwells there |
| Jesus wept over it | Luke 19:41–42 | He longed for its peace |
| Peace in Jerusalem affects the world | Isaiah 2:2–4 | God’s truth flows from there |
| Blessing for those who pray | Psalm 122:6–7 | “May they prosper who love you” |
How to Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem
Praying for Jerusalem can take many forms. You can pray for:
- Peace between people groups in the land
- Protection for innocent lives
- Salvation for both Jews and Gentiles
- God’s Word to go forth from Zion
- The soon return of Jesus, the Prince of Peace
Key Scriptures for Prayer
May peace be within your walls, prosperity within your palaces. — Psalm 122:7
They shall prosper that love thee. — Psalm 122:6 (KJV)
For Zion’s sake I will not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until her righteousness goes forth as brightness. — Isaiah 62:1
God’s Plan for Jerusalem’s Future
Jerusalem has faced centuries of conflict, yet Scripture points to a day when the Messiah will reign there in perfect peace. Zechariah 14:9 says:
And the Lord shall be King over all the earth. In that day it shall be—“The Lord is one,” and His name one. — Zechariah 14:9
This prophecy looks forward to the return of Christ, when the New Jerusalem will descend from heaven (Revelation 21:2)—a symbol of eternal peace and God’s dwelling among His people.
Real-Life Example
Many believers worldwide observe Jerusalem Day or set aside time each week to pray for the city. Churches often use Psalm 122 in worship or prayer gatherings, reminding everyone that God’s peace begins with prayer.
A simple daily prayer might be:
Lord, bless Jerusalem with Your peace. Protect her people and fulfill Your promises in Your perfect time. May Your Word and love shine from that city to all nations.
The Blessing of Obedience
When we pray for the peace of Jerusalem, we take part in God’s heart for His people. It’s not only about interceding for one place—it’s about joining God’s redemptive plan for the world.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. — Matthew 5:9
Praying for peace brings peace to our own hearts, and it connects us to God’s purpose for Israel and all humanity.
