Israel is experiencing its worst tragedy in decades, with Oct. 7, 2023, being the deadliest day for Jewish people since the Holocaust. The situation on the ground in Israel is changing by the minute.

The number of Israeli men, women and children murdered, injured or taken as hostages is staggering.

All of us outside Israel are left asking ourselves: What can we do to help? How can we let the people of Israel know they are not alone? What are some of the ways we can make a difference right now?

Here are some suggestions:

1. Stay up to date. Look to reliable news sources, especially those with firsthand, on the ground perspectives. Look at YNetNews.com, The Jerusalem Post, HaAretz, Arutz Sheva and The Times of Israel. As they’re reporting from amidst the situation as it unfolds, they will be the most accurate sources for updates.

2. Reach out. Extend support to your Israeli friends. Many have family members directly affected by the attack; others are stuck and cannot return home. Send them a meal, speak a kind word or say a prayer. Look for ways you can love and serve them, whatever that may look like. And share words from our Hebrew Scriptures that contain ancient yet relevant messages of hope for our people.

3. Inform others in your sphere of influence. If you are Jewish, use your own voice to raise awareness among your friends, coworkers and neighbors—both about what’s happening in Israel and what you’re experiencing as a Jewish person living elsewhere. It affects us all. Whether through conversation or by sharing credible information on social media (see No. 1), you can make those around you more aware.

If you are a Christian, make sure your local church and/or small group is informed and positioned to help. Encourage your pastor to call local rabbis and offer support.

Suggest that your church post something on its website and social media platforms to show they care. Mobilize your friends to pray and give to relief efforts. And make sure to let your Jewish friends know that an attack on Israel is personal to you and that you grieve alongside them.

4. Look for opportunities to stand publicly. It can be isolating to watch or read the news alone in our homes. Check online for local walks, vigils and community acts of solidarity with Israel and the Jewish people. Find a way to stand with your community and show support to the Jewish people in Israel and around the world.

5. Pray. Even if we’re hundreds or thousands of miles away, we’re not helpless. Prayer is a very practical way to help. “The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working” (James 5:16b, ESV). The God of Israel is always present. Whether you are Jewish, Christian or both, be assured that God is hearing the prayers you bring to His throne. Here are some things to pray for:

— Pray for the safety of those who have been taken hostage.

— Pray for the Israel Defense Forces soldiers in Gaza and the North, who are routing out the Hamas and Hezbollah terrorists.

— Pray for recovery for those who have been wounded by rocket fire and face-to-face attacks by the terrorists.