War has lasting effects. No one knows this better than the 19 million Veterans living in America today.

Many of these brave men and women still grapple with the psychological effects of war. It’s estimated that 31 percent of Vietnam War Veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). And nearly 20 percent of troops returning from Iraq and 11 percent returning from Afghanistan report symptoms of major depression or PTSD. Still other war Veterans struggle with survivor’s guilt, anger, and substance abuse or addiction.

But amid this pain, God can bring hope! He longs to heal painful memories of the past and calm all fears. The Bible reminds us in Psalm 23:3, that God restores our soul.

Caring for the Soul of our Nation’s Veterans

To meet the spiritual needs of Veterans across America, American Bible Society’s Armed Services Ministry, together with various partners, is providing the healing power of Scripture. Through God’s Word, thousands of Veterans are experiencing Jesus’s peace and comfort. And today many are being healed from trauma. Praise God!

In 2018, Scripture resources were provided to 191,158 Veterans and their family members. Veterans were also able to connect with God’s Word through the following:

  • God Understands. This set of eight booklets addresses spiritual injuries such as anger, grief, despair, and hopelessness. It allows God’s Word to answer the critical questions and concerns facing Veterans today.
  • NeverAloneMilitary.com. Veterans view the video stories of others who have experienced PTSD and were healed through the power of Jesus.
  • Military Bible Challenge. This website gave Veterans access to free Bible studies and devotionals designed for them. They can also interact with groups and invite others to join.
  • VA hospitals. Chaplains and caregivers provide Bibles and Scripture engagement materials to Veterans through VA hospitals and medical centers.

We thank God for providing hope to military Veterans across our nation. But there are still so many in need of the peace that God offers. Will you pray for them?

Let’s Pray Together:

God, we pray that you heal Veterans suffering from PTSD and other issues connected to their service in the military. Heal their body, mind, and emotions. We pray that a spirit of heaviness would be lifted and replaced with a spirit of joy.