As we prepare our hearts for Shabbat here in Israel, we are reminded again of one of the most reassuring promises in Scripture: God never stops watching over His people. In times when the world feels unstable and many people are carrying fear, pressure, and uncertainty, the Lord remains faithful. He does not become tired, distracted, or absent from the lives of His children.
The prophet Isaiah wrote:
“I have posted watchmen on your walls, Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night.”
Isaiah 62:6, NIV
This verse is more than a historical picture from the Bible. It is still a living calling today. God continues to stir believers around the world to pray for Jerusalem, to stand spiritually on the walls through intercession, and to remain connected to His purposes for Israel.
Living here in the land, we feel this very personally. Jerusalem is not simply an important city in history. It is deeply connected to the story of God throughout Scripture. Even today, you can sense how this city carries both spiritual significance and spiritual tension. Yet through every generation, God has remained faithful to His covenant promises.
Sometimes, while walking on the walls of Jerusalem, I stop and pray over the city and over this nation. In moments like that, I am reminded that the God of the Bible is not distant from our present reality. The same Lord who watched over Israel in biblical times is still watching over Israel today.
Psalm 121 says:
“Indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.”
Psalm 121:4, NIV
In Hebrew, the phrase is “Shomer Yisrael” — the Keeper of Israel. The word “shomer” means guardian, protector, or one who carefully watches over something precious. This is such a powerful picture of God’s heart toward His people. He is attentive. He is present. He is continually watching over Israel with faithfulness and mercy.
And the beautiful thing is that this promise also becomes personal for every believer.
“The Lord watches over you—the Lord is your shade at your right hand.”
Psalm 121:5, NIV
Here in Israel, shade is a picture people understand very well. Under the strong Middle Eastern sun, shade brings relief, protection, and rest. Scripture uses this image to remind us that God stays close to His people in the middle of life’s pressures and difficulties.
Many believers today are carrying heavy burdens quietly. Some are facing financial challenges. Others are dealing with health struggles, family concerns, emotional exhaustion, or uncertainty about the future. It is easy to become overwhelmed by the weight of life and by everything happening in the world around us.
But the Lord remains faithful.
The same God who keeps Israel is also watching over your life. He sees the struggles nobody else sees. He understands the prayers that have not yet been answered. He remains near even in seasons when we feel weak or weary.
There is also a beautiful spiritual principle connected to blessing Israel. Throughout Scripture, we see that when believers align themselves with God’s heart and purposes, blessing follows. As you pray for Israel and stand with the people of Israel, God also releases encouragement, strength, protection, and blessing into your own family, church, ministry, and personal walk with Him.
This is not simply about current events or politics. It is about participating in the spiritual purposes of God.
As we enter this Shabbat, let us remember that our security is not found in human systems or worldly stability. Our confidence is found in the Lord, the Keeper of Israel, who never sleeps nor slumbers.
Through Yeshua, we have the assurance that God is personally involved in our lives. He is our protector, our peace, and our salvation.
May the Lord bless and strengthen you this Shabbat.
May He cover your family with peace.
And may you rest in the faithful care of the One who watches over Israel day and night.
Shabbat shalom from Israel,
Pastor Israel Pochtar