Why does God allow war?

War has been part of the story of mankind on this earth since almost the beginning. But the Lord, the Prince of Peace, does not want us to wage war with one another. He weeps when people choose not to love one another and “are without affection, and … hate their own blood” (Moses 7:33), corrupting the earth through violence (see Genesis 6:11–13). Those whose wickedness brings war to the earth will be judged for their actions.

The Lord has commanded His people to “renounce war and proclaim peace” (D&C 98:16). However, when nations do take up arms against each other, the Lord has also said that we are sometimes justified in defending our families, nations, and freedoms against destruction, tyranny, and oppression (see Alma 43:45–47; Alma 46:12–13; D&C 134:11). And Latter-day Saints who serve in their nations’ militaries are upholding the principle of “being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates” (Articles of Faith 1:12).