25 Bible Verses About War

War is a harsh reality that has been part of human history since the beginning of time. It’s a subject that evokes a range of emotions—fear, anger, sorrow, and sometimes even a sense of duty. While the world around us may seem chaotic and uncertain, it’s important to remember that these struggles are not new. The Bible, with its timeless wisdom, offers insight and guidance on the complexities of war and conflict.

In the midst of turmoil, it can be comforting to turn to scripture for perspective and understanding. The Bible doesn’t shy away from the realities of war; instead, it provides a lens through which we can view these events with hope and faith. Whether you’re seeking solace, strength, or simply a deeper understanding of how faith intersects with conflict, these 25 Bible verses about war offer a profound exploration of the human condition and divine purpose.

As you delve into these passages, may you find not only the courage to face the battles in your own life but also the peace that comes from knowing that God’s wisdom and love are ever-present, even in the most challenging times.

25 Bible Verses About War

Verses About Causes of War
Verses About God’s Sovereignty in War
Verses About Peace and Reconciliation
Verses About War as a Metaphor for Spiritual Battle
Verses About Consequences of War

Throughout history, the Bible has depicted various causes of war, often rooted in human desires and conflicts. From the battles of ancient Israel to the disputes among nations, the scriptures reveal how pride, greed, and the quest for power can lead to strife. The story of Cain and Abel, for instance, illustrates how jealousy and anger can escalate into violence, setting a precedent for the many conflicts that follow. These narratives serve as a reminder of the underlying motivations that can drive humanity to war.

James 4:1–2: “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God.”

Proverbs 13:10: “Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.”

Matthew 24:6–7: “You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.”

Galatians 5:19–21: “The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

In the midst of chaos and conflict, the Bible often highlights God’s sovereignty over all events, including war. The story of Gideon and the Midianites is a powerful example of how divine intervention can turn the tide of battle, demonstrating that ultimate control rests with the divine. This perspective offers a sense of assurance that, despite the turmoil, there is a greater plan at work, and that divine wisdom guides the course of history.

Proverbs 21:31: “The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.”

Psalm 46:9: “He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire.”

Isaiah 45:7: “I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster; I, the LORD, do all these things.”

1 Samuel 17:47: “All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.”

Daniel 2:21: “He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.”

The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of peace and reconciliation, even in the aftermath of war. The teachings of Jesus, particularly the Sermon on the Mount, encourage believers to seek peace and resolve conflicts through forgiveness and understanding. The reconciliation between Jacob and Esau after years of estrangement is a testament to the healing power of forgiveness and the possibility of restoring broken relationships. These stories inspire us to pursue peace in our own lives and communities.

Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

Romans 12:18: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

Isaiah 2:4: “He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.”

Hebrews 12:14: “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”

2 Corinthians 5:18: “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”

Psalm 34:14: “Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.”

War is often used as a metaphor for spiritual battles in the Bible, illustrating the struggle between good and evil. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, speaks of putting on the “armor of God” to stand firm against spiritual adversaries. This metaphorical language encourages believers to remain vigilant and steadfast in their faith, recognizing that the true battle lies not in the physical realm but in the spiritual one. It serves as a call to arms for the soul, urging individuals to fight for righteousness and truth.

Ephesians 6:12: “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

2 Corinthians 10:3–4: “For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.”

1 Timothy 6:12: “Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.”

1 Peter 5:8–9: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”

Romans 13:12: “The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.”

The consequences of war are vividly portrayed in the Bible, highlighting the devastation and suffering that often accompany conflict. The destruction of Jerusalem and the subsequent exile of the Israelites serve as stark reminders of the toll that war can take on a nation and its people. These accounts underscore the importance of seeking peace and avoiding unnecessary conflict, as the aftermath of war can leave lasting scars on both individuals and communities.

Jeremiah 4:20: “Disaster follows disaster; the whole land lies in ruins. In an instant my tents are destroyed, my shelter in a moment.”

Isaiah 24:6: “Therefore a curse consumes the earth; its people must bear their guilt. Therefore earth’s inhabitants are burned up, and very few are left.”

Joel 3:9–10: “Proclaim this among the nations: Prepare for war! Rouse the warriors! Let all the fighting men draw near and attack. Beat your plowshares into swords and your pruning hooks into spears. Let the weakling say, ‘I am strong!’”

Revelation 6:4: “Then another horse came out, a fiery red one. Its rider was given power to take peace from the earth and to make people kill each other. To him was given a large sword.”

Matthew 24:7–8: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.”