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Responding wisely to the Middle East crisis

Matt Holderness portrait Matt Holderness
4 min

Christian generosity demands action. But it also requires wisdom.

As the Middle East finds itself in the midst of a deepening regional conflict, with bombings adding to the regions ongoing turmoil, the situation has escalated quickly. Homes are being destroyed, lives lost, and communities torn apart by violence and fear.

For those of us witnessing this from afar, the sheer scale of suffering can feel overwhelming but, as Christians, we are reminded of our calling: to reflect Christ’s love in practical, compassionate and generous ways, especially in times of crisis.

In a complex and volatile situation like this, it can be difficult to know how to help effectively. That is why it is essential to approach our giving with both a heart of compassion and a mind of discernment.

Here are some thoughts to help guide you at this time:

Donating money is the most effective response

According to the British Red Cross, “If you are in the UK, the best and quickest way to help support people in affected areas like Lebanon is to donate. These donations enable a quick response and help wherever the need is greatest.”[1]

If you’d like to support those on the frontlines by giving financially, we’ve compiled a list of charities that we know are active and responding to those affected on all sides of the conflict at this time.

If you represent a church or a charity currently considering or raising funds towards relief efforts relating to conflict, you may wish to read our advice on responding in generosity during times of war (originally written following the invasion of Ukraine).

Donating money with discernment

When giving in a conflict zone, it is crucial to partner with trusted organisations that have a proven track record of operating in these areas. These groups understand the local context and have the experience to deliver aid efficiently and responsibly.

As Christians, we should also consider giving to support faith-based organisations that not only provide physical aid but also offer spiritual encouragement and comfort to those affected by the conflict.

When you give with Stewardship you can be reassured that all UK-registered charities partnered with us have been checked and verified with the Charity Commission. For overseas organisations we also review against their local in-country equivalents where possible, for added security when you give.

You can check your chosen charity either with Stewardship: Support a cause or the Government charity register. With a Stewardship Giving Account, you can be confident in your giving, knowing that Stewardship has undertaken the appropriate checks.

Praying as an act of generosity

In addition to financial support, we must also remember the power of prayer in dark times. Prayer is an essential part of our response to any crisis.

While it may feel intangible compared to giving money or resources, prayer is a deeply generous act. Through prayer, we acknowledge that we are dependent on God’s grace to bring peace, healing, and restoration.

We can pray for peace in Lebanon, for protection over the innocent, and for wisdom for leaders on all sides to pursue justice and reconciliation. We can also pray for the local churches in Lebanon, that they would be strengthened and empowered to minister to those in their communities during this time of crisis.

Be an advocate for peace

In addition to financially supporting charities and praying, you can also use your voice to raise awareness of the situation in Lebanon, encouraging others to  join you in prayer and action.

Our generosity is more than just a practical response to the crisis—it is an expression of hope. As Christians, we are called to be bearers of peace in a broken world. When we give to those in need, stand with them in prayer and  be vocal in our support, we declare our belief that God is still at work, even amid conflict and suffering.

Responding wisely reflects the love of God

The crisis in the Middle East demands a generous and thoughtful response from the global Christian community. As we give, pray, and advocate for peace, we are not just addressing immediate needs - we are living out our calling to be Christ’s hands and feet in the world and expressing the love of God.

We’ve curated a list of our charity partners who are providing medical care, food, and shelter to those affected.

FIND OUT MORE

[1] Donate to Crisis Appeal - British Red Cross

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Profile image of Matt Holderness
Written by

Matt Holderness

Matt joined Stewardship in 2022 with over twenty years of marketing experience from roles at Kendal College and Capernwray Bible School. He has degrees in Business and Marketing, Theology, Management and most recently a Masters in Hermeneutics. 

Through raising awareness of Stewardship’s services, Matt helps people explore the impact their generosity can have on the church and Christian charities. He’s passionate about supporting Evangelism and Bible causes, and has a particular interest in charities that are helping people in Poverty and Debt in the UK.