God Sends Dream AND Messenger To Lapsed Church Member!

From a friend in a Middle Eastern Country

This past Wednesday, while walking down a small back street on the other side of the city, I gave a church Christmas invitation to a guy who, when realizing what I'd given him, asked (in English!), "Do you believe in destiny?" He went on to tell that he'd been a member of another protestant church here in the city 10 years ago, but JUST THE NIGHT BEFORE had a dream where he saw his old church friends, and they came and hugged him.

It gets better: when I excitedly told him that the church was just a couple blocks away, he said that sadly he lives far away from here. I asked where and he said "M*"--the very district where our own church is (highly unlikely when you consider how big the city is!). I just happened to have invitations to our own church's Christmas program in my front pocket, and quickly pulled one out and held it out in front of him--his jaw dropped when he saw it. Tears came to my eyes and I said, "Like your friends in the dream, let me hug you as well; God hasn't forgotten you!"

God is incredible, what more can I say?...

Country of Prayer Focus:Kuwait

According to the 2010 “Reporters Without Borders” report, Kuwait holds firstplace among the Gulf States in press freedom. Pray that this freedom might be used to further the proclamation of the Gospel in Kuwait, and then onto the rest of
the Gulf.
• “I am talking to my Christian friends everyday on Facebook and Skype,” smiled
the Kuwaiti teenager, one of more than a million internet users in the country.
Although the internet is heavily censored by the authorities, many young people are still exposed to new ideas and critical thinking as they explore it. The Arabic Bible is one of the most popular books being downloaded from the internet, showing a real hunger for eternal truth. Please pray for Christians who spend their time in the virtual world sharing the Gospel, and for those who meet them, looking for the Truth

North Korea

This morning we found out that the North Korean leader, Jong Il Kim, died two days ago on the 17th December.

While we don't know exactly what will happen now this does bring change to the situation in and with North Korea.


First and foremost, please pray for peace.

Secondly, please pray for our South Korean President Myong Bak Lee, who is a Christian. Pray that he will have wisdom, guidance and peace from God during whatever the near future might bring.

And thirdly, that the South Korean church would be united in her goal of showing God's love to the family she has long been separated from. That we would soon see the restoration of the church in the city once known as the 'Jerusalem of the East', that is Pyongyang, and the rest of the nation.

Prayer for Oman

Omanis have historically made their living as fishermen, traders, date farmers, and traditional Bedouin nomad camel herders. In ancient times, there was a flourishing trade in frankincense. Oman embraced Islam in the eighth century. Since 1744, Oman has been ruled by the Al Bu Saidi dynasty and is one of the few true monarchies in the world. In 1970, Sultan Qaboos bin Said seized power from his father and started a revolution of modern development, reform and stability. Since then, the standard of living has improved dramatically, as have the expectations and aspirations of the people. Oman has not been affected by the recent global recession. Development and building has continued to flourish. To retain the traditional life-style, many young Omanis commute to the cities for work, and raise their families in the villages. Young Omanis have a desire for freedom.

*Pray that this search for freedom will bring them to the Cross of Christ as they look for answers in the world around them. The fear of evil spirits is a reality to most rural Omanis. They often carry out practices to appease the spirits.

*Pray that God would release them from fear and reveal Himself to them in dreams or visions.

The Freedom Climb

Tanzania: THE FREEDOM CLIMB. Women from across the globe will begin their ascent of Mt. Kilimanjaro on 11 January, 2012, the National Human Trafficking Awareness Day in the USA. Climbers will be raising awareness, prayer, and finances for women and children being oppressed, enslaved, exploited and trafficked. The goal for 2012 is to affect the lives of 10,000 women through projects that break the cycles of poverty, shame, slavery, and despair. These projects include micro-loans, education, skills training, and protection from exploitation.
The highest mountain in Africa, Mt. Kilimanjaro’s summit is known as Uhuru Peak (Swahili for freedom). Climbing Kilimanjaro is symbolic of the huge climb to freedom faced daily by millions of enslaved women and children worldwide. The climb will be documented each day, escalating the voice of advocacy on behalf of women’s freedom issues. Pray for last-minute preparations, successful fund-raising and that this will lead to sustained awareness and advocacy in Christ’s name.

Yemen Special: 2.5 Years Since Kidnapping

Monday 12th December 2011 marks two and a half years since the kidnapping of nine foreigners in Saada, north-west Yemen, three of whom were murdered shortly afterwards while two children were freed on 17th May 2010.

There continues to be no news of Johannes and Sabine (a German couple), Simon (their son, aged 3) or of Tony (a British man). Lydia and Anna (7 and 5, daughters of Johannes and Sabine) who were freed in May 2010 are with relatives in Germany and are reported to be in good health. It is a challenge for these relatives to function as Lydia and Anna's parents in light of their unique needs and in the context of their own children.

Some of those close to the situation are hopeful that the recent agreement to transfer power from President Saleh to the Vice President and the formation of a unity government may lead to the release of information about the four missing foreigners. These political changes have not yet led to much positive change in the country as a whole, and protests and violent clashes continue in many parts.
Prayer
Those close to this situation thank us for our prayers and request our continued intercession. They ask us to pray that:
• The missing four (assuming they are alive) will know the peace, presence and daily provision of Jesus and will be released unharmed shortly.
• Information about their whereabouts will be forthcoming.
• The country will be governed in a Godly manner, respecting all ethnic, tribal and religious groups.
• The families and colleagues of those missing will know the peace of Jesus amidst continuing uncertainty.
• The perpetrators will be convicted by the Spirit and drawn to the forgiveness, love and true life offered by Jesus.
Adapted from Middle East Concern

www.meconcern.org

Week Of Prayer For Oman

Young Omanis have a desire for freedom. Pray that this search for freedom
will bring them to the Cross of Christ as they look for answers in the world around
them.
• The fear of evil spirits is a reality to most rural Omanis. They often carry out
practices to appease the spirits. Pray that God would release them from fear and
reveal Himself to them in dreams or visions.
• There are parts of Oman known for witchcraft. Pray that the many strongholds
of fear and shame will be broken by the power of Christ's finished work on the cross.
• The social media has come quickly to Oman. Pray that this media will be a means
for Omanis to be exposed to the Truth of Christ.
• Pray for the Christians who are working in Oman. Pray they will be open in their
faith and love for Christ and be able share it daily with Omanis.
• Many Omanis study abroad. Pray that Christians in these countries will reach out
to them with hospitality and love.
• Important decisions are made in families, clans, and tribes. Pray that whole
families would believe the Gospel.
• Many areas of Oman are almost completely untouched with the Gospel
message. Pray that God would call workers for these unreached areas. Pray that by 2014 every town and city in Oman will have been visited and prayed for by a prayer team.
• Praise the Lord for all those who believe in the Son and live in the Arabian Peninsula! They come from the all nations of the Arabian Peninsula and from countless
countries around the world. Omanis, however, are very few. Please pray for more
locals to hear the Good News, and give their hearts & lives to Jesus. Pray that a church of Omani believers will one day be there.
• Oman had a milder Arab Spring than some of its neighbors. The government
responded positively to those who raised issues. Universities and businesses responded to the demands brought to them. Young Arabs have a new voice, and they love
having a say in the affairs surrounding their lives. A new pride, open thoughts, and
energy are among the Omani young people. Pray that this openness will lead them to the cross.

Shiite Muslims Celebrate their Most Important Festival of the Year

Over these last days, Shiite Muslims around the world are observing Ashura, and it finishes on Monday. This festival commemorates the death of Imam Hussein, the grandson of Muhammad, and 72 others in a bloody massacre in 680 AD.

Ashura is considered the most important festival of the year for Shiites. Numbering between 130 and 195 million people (10-15% of the world's Muslims), Shiites are distinguished from Sunni Muslims by their belief that Ali, Muhammad's son-in-law, was the successor to the prophet. Shia (from which we get "Shiites") means "partisans of Ali." Today, Shiites are located in many countries, but are especially concentrated in Iran, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, and Iraq.

Ashura is a holy time of grief and remembrance Through collective lamentation, symbolic rituals, and self-flagellation, Shiites commemorate the sufferings of Imam Hussein...

During Ashura, Shiites wear black to represent mourning. They also fast, pray and weep. On the last day of the festival, they march through the streets chanting, "Oh, Hussein!" Males often cut their scalps and allow blood to flow down over their faces. They also beat themselves with chains.

The word Ashura means "ten." Shiites believe that on the tenth and final day of the festival, God hears their prayers, answers them, and offers forgiveness for their sins.

Similar to the strategy of interceding for Muslims during the festival of Ramadan, many Believers around the world are choosing to fast and pray for Shiites during Ashura.

Watch a video on Ashura produced to mobilize prayer in 2009: Ashura


CryOut to the Father
• the Lord to use this time of spiritual seeking to direct eyes, minds and hearts away from the lies of Islam and toward the Truth of Jesus Christ. (The Bible, II Corinthians 4:4-6)
• a great awakening among Shiites that will result in their freedom from the bondage of false religion. (Psalm 119:45)
• the Light of the Gospel to penetrate the darkness holding Shiites captive. (I Peter 2:9)
• Shiites to learn that Jesus took the punishment for their sin, and His blood flowed for them also on the cross. Pray for this Good News to turn their mourning into dancing. (Colossians 1:19,20; Psalm 30:11)
• Shiites to hear and receive the message of salvation. Pray for them to understand that God listens to and answers prayers faithfully when they are offered in the name of Jesus Christ. (John 14:14)
• the Lord to reveal Himself to Shiites in powerful dreams, visions, signs and wonders. (Job 9:10)
• Believers among the Shiites to be bold and faithful witnesses, sharing the love and salvation of Jesus Christ as the Holy Spirit directs them. Pray for their protection and for opportunities and open doors for the Gospel to be presented. (Ephesians 6:19,20; Colossians 4:3)
• Shiites in Iran, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Iraq, and throughout the world to encounter Jesus Christ and receive Him as Savior and Lord. ( II Peter 3:18)
• Pray that multitudes of Shiites will accept Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord by the time the Ashura is over, and pray they will all be properly discipled in the ways of the Kingdom of God.
Resources WIN 1040

Egypt and the Ongoing Protests

The situation in the heart of Cairo just before the national election on Monday, the 28th, is very serious and needs our prayers at this time. One of our Egyptian colleagues sent this report from a local Christian leader whose church is close to what is happening:

I am writing to ask for your urgent, persistent prayer for Egypt. Yesterday hundreds of thousands of Egyptians gathered in Tahrir square in downtown Cairo, right in front of the church building, to express their frustration against what the army is doing in the country. The army and police used many techniques to try to force the people to leave the square, including live ammunition, rubber bullets, smaller types of ammunition, tear gas and what we think is some kind of nerve gas. Thousands have been affected by these gases. We don't know exactly what they are using but it seems they are using several kinds, including CS, CR and nerve gases. We are quite sure that more than 50 people have been killed and over 1,000 wounded. The doctors are making analyses to try to understand what these gases are so they can treat them appropriately, as some of them are not responding to the usual medication and we are not sure what to do.

We need the Church worldwide to follow what is going on with us and support us in prayer for Divine protection, healing of those who have been injured and inhaled and come in contact with dangerous gases, and for God to intervene in this conflict and accomplish His will and purposes in our country. Please pray for strength and protection for all the volunteers helping in the church medical clinic and those who are going to and from the front lines of the conflict to bring gas masks and other supplies to the protestors.

Another colleague who lives there said, "It's kind of Power Show from the extremists to spread fear & intimidation" before the election.

"Barring an election delay, Egyptian voters heading to the polls next week could put their country on the road to becoming Turkey, that regional beacon of Muslim democracy, or Iran, that dark, authoritarian theocracy - or a military state somewhere in between. Some 6,000 candidates from over 50 political parties are running, but Islamist groups led by the Muslim Brotherhood are likely to gain a near-majority of parliamentary seats." (The National, Nov. 23, 2012)

It is crucial for us to pray for Egypt at this precarious time. Let's pray for His peace and order to be restored, for honest, good officials to be chosen and that extremists and radical Islamists do not take over power. Pray for the binding of evil forces (spiritual and human) and for the protection of Christ's followers in the midst of all this tumult. May a new day dawn for Egypt by His grace and mercy and through our combined prayers!

Prayer for Egypt and the Elections

Stage one in Egypt's first parliamentary elections since President Hosni Mubarak was driven from office will be held on November 28, 2011. The unrest in Egypt is being called "the unfinished revolution" and has many citizens worried about the future of the nation. Demonstrations against the government of Egypt forced President Hosni Mubarak to step down from office in February 2011. But after the military took over, protests continued. In November 2011, more civilians were killed as security forces attempted to maintain control. Christians Copts, the largest religious minority, are at special risk. Violence against them has been fierce and ongoing. More than two dozen were killed in October 2011. The first stage in parliamentary elections will take place on November 28. Stage two will be held December 14, with presidential elections scheduled for March 2012.

Ask the Lord to guide and direct this nation. Ask Him to raise up leaders who will govern with integrity and in the fear of the Lord. Pray for the elections to be fair.

Praying for Van Turkey

Thank you for praying for Van. The second earthquake a few weeks ago was, in some ways, even more of a shock to people who were just managing to get their lives back together. It was also difficult for the believers in the region who are helping – many of the plans they had made for the rehabilitation are no longer possible.

But God is doing some amazing things! Though this is not the ‘outreach’ we would have chosen, six people have come to know Jesus in the last month as a result of the love shown to them by Christians, particularly through the hot food kitchen. Workers there for many years have not seen this kind of fruit! Please pray for them, that they would grow in Christ.

We have now sent to the relief team several hundred copies of a book about fear, with the Bible Correspondence Course’s contact details prominently displayed. Please pray that these would end up in the hands of those who are questioning and that the Holy Spirit would anoint the message.

Thank you for your commitment that Turkey will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord!

Prayer for Egypt and Elections

EGYPT ELECTIONS - THE UNFINISHED REVOLUTION

Stage one in Egypt's first parliamentary elections since President Hosni Mubarak was driven from office will be held on November 28, 2011.

The unrest in Egypt is being called "the unfinished revolution" and has many citizens worried about the future of the nation. Demonstrations against the government of Egypt forced President Hosni Mubarak to step down from office in February 2011. But after the military took over, protests continued.
In November 2011, more civilians were killed as security forces attempted to maintain control. Christians Copts, the largest religious minority, are at special risk. Violence against them has been fierce and ongoing. More than two dozen were killed in October 2011.
"The latest wave of violence adds further pressure on the military junta," notes The Guardian, "ahead of this month's parliamentary elections, with opposition to the ruling generals seemingly beginning to spread beyond Cairo and Alexandria and into rural areas."
The first stage in parliamentary elections will take place on November 28. Stage two will be held December 14, with presidential elections scheduled for March 2012.
As one News source noted: "Unless the Islamists and liberals can find a way to coexist in Egyptian politics, Egypt risks falling into a new authoritarianism."

PRAY FOR:
• The Lord to guide and direct this nation. Ask Him to raise up leaders who will govern with integrity and in the fear of the Lord. (Daniel 2:21)
• The elections to be fair. Pray for any ballot rigging schemes to be exposed and fail to influence the outcome. (Mark 4:22)
• Peace to be maintained. (II Corinthians 13:11)
• This time of uncertainty to be an open door for the Gospel. (I Corinthians 16:9)
• Christians in Egypt to be strong in the Lord and the power of His might. Ask the Lord to protect them and encourage them. (Ephesians 6:10)
• A great harvest of souls to come to the Lord from Egypt. Pray for the Kingdom of God to come to this nation with great power, signs, wonders, miracles, visions, and dreams. (I Corinthians 4:20; Acts 2:17)
SOURCE: Window International http://www.win1040.com/ or e-mail win@win1040.com
For more prayer points visit: http://incontext.webs.com/prayforegypt.htm

Hajj Day 4 - November 7, 2011

Sacred Act #4: Sa'y (running between)  

Lastly, the pilgrims go to the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Inside, the pilgrims walk around the Ka'aba seven times and point to the stone or kiss it. Then they pray in the "Place of Abraham," the spot within the Grand Mosque where Muslims believe the patriarch prayed*. After this prayer time, pilgrims reenact the running between the hills of Safa and Marwa, and drink from the well of Zamzam**. This reenactment is the Islamic version of Hagar's (Abraham's second wife) desperate search for water for her son, Ishmael. Islamic tradition say she repeatedly ran between the hills of Safa and Marwah, climbing them to get a better view of the landscape, attempting to find someone who had water. Upon her return to her son after one of her runs, she discovered that a spring had miraculously sprouted near the infant. Muslims believe the Zamzam Well is this source of water and millions of Muslims still drink from it. Muslims affirm their commitment to Allah on this day. 

Key Scripture to pray  

But God shows his great love for us in this way, 

Christ died for us 

while we were still sinners.

Romans 5:8

Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labour on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare. Give ear and come to me; hear me, that your soul may live. 

Isaiah 55:2-3

Going before the Father

• As Muslims circle the Ka'aba and run through the hills, ask that they will see the futility of these acts. They can have peace with God and a commitment to Him, but it is through what Christ did for them. Pray that they will hear this good news and believe.
• In John 4, Jesus is interacting with the woman at the well. He says to her that He will give her this living water if she asks. Pray that Muslims across the world desire the living water that only Jesus can give.
• Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life" (John 14:6). As the pilgrims leave after all these spiritual experiences and the exercises they have done, may they still feel extreme emptiness and a lack of peace until they know the Redeemer of their souls, Jesus.
• Pray that they may learn that they can meet God wherever they live, without having to save up money in order to make the pilgrimage.

• "God is opposed to the proud and gives grace to the humble" (James 4:6). As Muslims head home, some take great pride in being referred to by the title "Hajji." Pray that they will learn that God opposes the proud. Pray that they will see that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

For the pilgrim, there is a heart's deep longing for living water to cleanse, revive and bring life.

People literally run around the hot desert, searching for water. They buy liters of Zamzam water to carry home with them, giving it to eager relatives. How desperate is the need! The Living Water is right there, willing to give them all of Himself. He gives Water to cleanse them of sins, Water to revive the thirsty soul and Water which brings abundant life. Pray that pilgrims will "bathe and soak" in these promises.

What does the Bible say?

*     There is no reference in the Bible that Abraham was ever in Mecca.

**   The story of Hagar and Ishmael is found in Genesis 21:8-20, but it does not talk

       about this "running between." It does place the location as the desert of Beersheba,

       probably in the Negev desert of today.

Hajj Day 3 - November 6, 2011

Stoning and Sacrifice - Sacred Act #3

As the pilgrims leave Muzdalifah, they pass through Mina again. They head to the three pillars, which represent Satan coming to Abraham three times*, to tempt him to ignore the instructions of God concerning the sacrifice of Ishmael**. Muslims believe that Abraham threw stones at Satan. Using the stones or pebbles that they have collected, they throw them at the pillars, which represent Satan. In the stoning, pilgrims renounce evil and declare their willingness to sacrifice all they have to God.

After this victory over Satan, pilgrims will kill a sheep, a goat or maybe a camel in remembrance of God's provision of a sheep sacrificed instead of Abraham's son. This sacrifice ends the formal time of Hajj. It is on this day, as well, that Muslims all over the world will sacrifice a sheep or some other animal. This is the biggest Islamic feast of the year, called Eid el Kabir (literally the Big Feast) or Eid el Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice).

Key Scripture

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him. John said, "Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world." John 1:29

Going before the Father 

• Ephesians 6 states "Our battle is not against flesh and blood but against the forces of wickedness in the heavenly places." Muslims understand there is a spiritual battle caused by Satan. Throwing rocks at Satan during the day of stoning is meaningless apart from the Cross and Resurrection which defeated Satan.  Pray that they would see that only Jesus defeated sin, Satan, and death. May they know that in Christ, we have mighty weapons "for the tearing down of strongholds." (2 Corinthians 10:4)
• Thank the Lord that Muslims see the importance of sacrificing an animal. In the Old Testament, it meant forgiveness of sins. After Jesus died on the cross, animals no longer were sacrificed, for His death covered all of our sins. Pray that they will understand the meaning behind it.
• Ask that God would overwhelm people with the truth and reality of Jesus' death on the cross. Ask that the Holy Spirit move in people's hearts so that they can receive this as truth.
• Ask God to give Muslims understanding that Christ has overcome all the powers of Satan on the cross and pray that they will experience the reality of that victory in their lives through spontaneous healings and deliverances by calling on Jesus' name.

What does the Bible say?

*The Bible does not talk about Satan visiting Abraham, nor stones, Genesis 22.

**The Quran does not actually say which son of Abraham it was. It is Islamic tradition that says Ishmael. The Bible says that it was Isaac, Genesis 22. 

Hajj Day 2 - November, 2011

Wuqoof - Standing at Arafat - Sacred Act #2
In the morning, after prayers, the pilgrims proceed to the Plain of Arafat where they perform the central ritual of the Hajj, the standing (wuqoof). In a shame and honor society (most Muslims come from this type of society), the seeking of the forgiveness of sins (shame) brings freedom. Abu Qataadah reported that Muhammad was said to say, "fasting on the Day of Arafat expiates (atone for guilt) the sins of the preceding year and the coming year.*"

The pilgrims face Mecca and pray from noon to sundown. These prayers are done in a prescribed way: they should remember God, ask for forgiveness and pray other Islamic prayers. It is believed that Muhammad delivered his final sermon from a hill above this plain, called Mount Arafat, during his last pilgrimage. Muslims believe that they leave this day cleansed of sin.

As the sun sets, the people are not required to quote any prescribed prayers. During these sacred moments, pilgrims are to be alone with God. They should ask that their sins and lifelong shortcomings be forgiven.

At sunset, a cannon sounds. Pilgrims leave Arafat going to Muzdalifah, where they sleep or stay up all night under the stars. On the way, many will pick up stones and pebbles. For Muslims not on the Hajj, many will fast on this day of wuqoof.

Key Scripture

Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, you and all the people in your house. 

Acts 16:31

Going before the Father

• As the pilgrims head to Muzdalifah, may what happened to Paul in Romans 7:7-13 well up in them, that theirs sins would continue to overwhelm them. Pray for conviction of sin deep in their hearts and minds. Pray that God would reveal His heart - that He is grieved by our sin, but that He offers a way to receive His forgiveness. Jesus takes guilt and shame away which brings real freedom.
• Pray that God would reveal His heart of love for the people. He loves them so much. Pray that people will have encounters of God's love for them.
• Pray that God will speak to them in dreams and visions, as they spend the second night of the Hajj praying for their shortcomings and needs. Ask God for an open heaven for many who are genuinely seeking an encounter with God.
• Muslims pray five times a day "Show us the straight way, the way of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy Grace, those whose (portion) is not wrath, and who go not astray." Pray that God will answer their prayer in such a way that they can grasp God's grace through Jesus Christ.

What does the Bible say?

*  The Bible talks about sins being cleansed by the blood of Jesus. Matthew 26:28, Acts 2:38, 1 John 1:7

Hajj Day 1 - November 4, 2011

Ihram - Sacred Act #1
There are six different places to enter Mecca for Ihram (ritual cleansing), so it is at the Miqat, "a stated place," where Muslims actually enter into the Hajj. After performing this ritual, the pilgrims will wear white cloths, wrapped around them, a sign showing that all pilgrims are equal in Islam, kings and servants are all dressed alike. More crucial than wearing the white clothing, Ihram is the state of sacred purity the Muslim faithful must enter before conducting the Hajj.

From the Miqat entry point, most pilgrims head to the Kaaba in the Grand Mosque. As they enter Mecca, they will shout the Talbiyah, a Muslim prayer."Here I am at Thy service O Lord, here I am. Here I am at Thy service and Thou hast no partners*. Thine alone is All Praise and All Bounty, and Thine alone is The Sovereignty. Thou hast no partners*. 

"After the Kaaba visit, the pilgrims will walk to a tent city called Mina, continuing to quote the Talbiyah prayer. They must spend the night in prayer and meditation.

Key Scriptures

They will call on me, and I will answer them. I will say, you are my people and they will say, The Lord is our God. Zechariah 13:9b 

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. 2 Corinthians 13:14

Going before the Father

• Purification rituals may cleanse the body, but they don't cleanse the heart. Only Jesus can cleanse our hearts and we can only do that through repentance. Pray that the Holy Spirit would issue a call to genuine repentance that seeking hearts hear and respond to.
• Thank Jesus that it is through His blood sins can be forgiven and pray that Muslims would understand that He is the only way to the Father. John 1:29, Hebrews 1:3, Acts 10:43
• Ask the Lord to bring to memory Scripture verses they may have heard over the TV or radio or internet about the white robes God provides for those who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 7:9). Pray they may understand and desire to be clothed with Christ's righteousness.
• Two to three million people come together from all over the world for the Hajj. Pray for physical safety (protection from stampedes and disease - like the "Mecca flu").

The Kaaba contains a black stone believed to have been given to Abraham by the angel Gabriel**, according to some sources. Others say the stone was simply part of the original structure of the Kaaba. 

In pre-Islamic times, the Kaaba was an object of pilgrimage, housing idols, jahiliyyah (the age of ignorance) and, according to Islamic tradition, was cleansed by Muhammad of idols and then dedicated to the worship of the one God.

What does the Bible say?

*     It would be in statements like these that Muslims would not allow room for the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:18-20, Luke 10:21-23, Galatians 4:6

**   There is nothing in the Bible about Abraham receiving this stone.

The Hajj, 11/4-11/7

Prayer Update

Wonderful answer to prayer from our workers in Tunisia!!

Election
Update                                                              

Thank you for
praying for the first ever free elections here in our North African country on
October 23.   God heard the prayers of the many and answered.
The day of the elections, the process went smoothly and peacefully.  All
over the country people lined up outside schools and other public buildings
waiting their turn to freely vote for the person they individually chose.

The Islamic
party many were worried about did fairly win the majority of the seats in the
constitutional assembly.  They will be forming a new coalition government
that should be announced within the next few days to a week. Realizing fear
about their leadership has spread, they have made great attempts to calm the concerns
of the general population by publicly re-emphasizing their moderacy, and their
desire not to change the freedoms of women or the nonreligious law system of
the country.   There have been pockets of protests and disputes in
several places in the country, but overall the atmosphere is peaceful and
calm.  For months we have seen an increase in armed policemen around our
city, but have not felt our safety threatened in any way since the
elections.  Incredible how "strange" becomes the "norm"
after a while.  It is not unusual to now drive down the street to the
supermarket and pass a police officer with an uzi machine gun in his hands.

Though this new
Islamic leadership professes to remain moderate, we are wondering what longer
term changes will happen in the country.  We might see a completely
different country 10 years from now.  This re-emphasizes to us the reality
that we have an open window of opportunity in this country now that might not be
here in a decade.  But wow, what God can do in a country in a
decade!!!  Amen!

Pray for Tunisian Elections

Join us as we pray for Tunisia this Sunday, 23 October

This Sunday, October 23, Tunisians will go to the polls to elect a 217 person constituent assembly that will be tasked with writing a new constitution for the country within a year. Just as Tunisia led the Arab world in overthrowing its dictator, it continues to lead in moving toward a new political system. While Tunisians feel justifiably proud in their political progress, there is nevertheless considerable tension and pessimism in the lead-up to this symbolic election.


Please pray:

• For peaceful and calm elections
• For the security at voting stations
• For the right persons to be selected as much is at stake for the political climate in the country
• For voters to make the right decisions as most of the voters are still uncertain who to vote for.

Update Regarding Syria:

Thank you for praying for Syria during this time of unrest. The situation is getting worse and it is unclear how it will develop in the coming months.

One friend writes, “During the past four months, I have traveled to Syria several times. People are confused and afraid by all that is taking place, especially by the government’s actions as they try to stop the demonstrations. Despite the forcefulness of the secret police and the army, the demonstrations continue particularly in poorer communities. Twice, I have gone to demonstrations to listen to what the protesters are saying. Initially, they sought freedom and a good life; however, as time continues, they are more in favor of the fall of the president’s dictatorship. I have heard that fighting has broken out among the Alawite and Sunni in different cities. Despite the many difficulties within the country, I am pleased to see believers reach out to the community by providing food for them. As you may know, many people have been out of work for months and are unable to feed their families. The families, who we’ve helped, have heard the Message. They are thankful for what the church is doing for them and genuinely want to help others. It is very unclear what the future holds for Syria, so I ask that you please keep this situation in your prayers.”

Please pray with us for Syria, for its people, for a peaceful resolution, for the believers there and that in the midst of it all the Gospel would go forth and the church grow.

REGISTRATION GRANTED TO ALGERIA'S CHURCHES

For the first time in 20 years, the Protestant Church of Algeria (EPA) has been given government permission to officially register its congregations throughout the country. The decision came 3 months after the governor and police commissioner in the province of Béjaia ordered 7 EPA churches to close for "exercising religious worship other than Islam without authorization." Similar orders had been issued in the past, enforcing a 2006 law prohibiting Christians from religious practices that conflict with the government's interpretation of Sharia (Islamic law). In spite of such opposition, the Algerian Church has grown from just a handful of national believers two decades ago to an estimated 80,000. (Religion Today)

Prayer for Egypt

Due to the very tragic events which happened on Sunday night, 9th of October in Cairo (24 Christians have been killed and over 200 people injured during demonstrations which started peacefully), the Pope Shenouda made a call of prayer to all Coptic Christians around the world starting from Tuesday the 11th of October. His call is to encourage anyone to pray and fast during 3 days for our country.

With this message we would like to kindly ask you to join us, according to your possibilities and capacities, during the 3 days of fasting and prayers for our land which needs so much your intercession. Let's stand with our brothers and sisters who are passing by a terrible tragedy, sorrow, fear and incredible challenges we have not seen or heard of since the revolution.

Together, let's cry to our heavenly Father so that the situation in our area may change and that the leadership may recognize the existence of the Christians and the rights of 15 million Christians in Egypt. In the media, in the social aspect, there is a total ignorance of the Christians and their rights.

This afternoon, thousands of people were at the funerals which took place in the large cathedral in El Embassyia, Cairo. A great sadness and sorrow was on the entire attendance.

Thank you for your precious intercession and receive our sincere blessings.
Fiends in Egypt

Ramadan. Day 24. Back to Jerusalem Movement in China

The Back To Jerusalem Movement in China

[Day 24] For Wednesday, 24th August, Ramadan 2011. Praying in Faith, Hope and Love for the Muslim World…
In the 1940s God spoke to several Chinese believers about spreading the Gospel starting with the western Chinese province of Xinjiang through Muslim countries all the way to Jerusalem. They called themselves “The Preach Everywhere Gospel Band”; Western missionaries called them “The Back to Jerusalem Evangelistic Band.”
Cross-cultural outreach is still very young in China, yet some believers are praying continually about their role in reaching the Muslim nations with the Good News of the Kingdom.
Prayer ideas:
• Worship the Lord, Proclaim the truths of Isaiah 66:18-23 in prayer. May God open doors for many Chinese to proclaim his glory among the nations.
• Some Chinese believers have already made courageous efforts to proclaim their faith cross culturally but the results have not always been positive. There is a huge need for effective and in depth cross cultural outreach training for those who want to take the Gospel to other peoples. Training is a major priority. Zeal is not enough.

30 Days of Prayer during Ramadan

Spiritual Realities (1)

For Monday, 1st August, Ramadan 2011. Praying in Faith, Hope and Love for the Muslim World
Like all other peoples around the world, Muslims have to deal with certain evil, invisible spiritual realities. These negative spiritual realities are influencing and dominating Islamic civilization (as well as civilizations in general) (1 John 5:19). These forces can often be overcome by people who do things the opposite way (or “in the opposite spirit”).
Today and tomorrow we ask you to worship the Lord. Draw near to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from us. Then pray for the following subjects for yourself and Muslims in your town, region or country:
Where there is pride --- humility. Proverbs 8:13, 16:18, 29:23
Where there is legalism--- freedom. Mt 7:3-5
Where there is suspicion---trust. Acts 16:14

Jesus has shown us his way to do this through the cross. In his weakness he actually manifested strength. God has given us a commandment: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21).

In praying for Muslims and in living with them we need to exhibit the life of God. If we allow ourselves to be motivated by fear, self preservation, and suspicion instead of faith, hope and love we will not be able to bring the Gospel to Muslims.

Complete article, Audio, Video and Comments: http://www.30-days.net/muslims/featured/spiritual-realities-1/

Pray for Muslims during Ramadan

August 1-30 is the month of Ramadan. Ramadan is a holy time for Muslims; their day is spent fasting from sun-up to sun-down. During this time they seek to purify their souls, practice self sacrifice and desire that God be more attentive to their prayers. We would like to encourage you to focus in prayer for Muslims during this month

We can pray with the knowledge that:

- Every Muslim is unique and wonderful in God's eyes.

- Every Muslim is someone God loves. We can pray with a heart of love and compassion. (John 14: 12-14)

- According to Islam, Allah holds himself apart from mankind. When praying for Muslims, pray that they will have a full revelation of the true God and His loving character. (Hebrews 8:8-9)

- The Muslim worldview is strongly influenced by an awareness of the supernatural and the presence of good and evil spirits known as jinn. Superstitions control many aspects of a Muslim's everyday life and often result in them living in constant fear. (1 John 4:18)

- Islam teaches that a person must do enough good deeds to outweigh the bad deeds in order to make it to paradise. Even then, there is no guarantee for a Muslim of salvation. As a result of this belief, it is difficult for many Muslims to understand forgiveness of sins, repentance and assurance of salvation. (Ephesians 2:8-9.) (1 Peter 5:6) (Matthew 6:14-15)

- Vast numbers of Muslims have come to Christ as a result of supernatural encounters. Many have dreams and visions of Jesus.

- The Christian church globally is united to pray for the Muslim World each Ramadan. Let us join that prayer movement. Let us pray and fast during Ramadan. All the details are on the Internet. And as we start to pray during Ramadan together, let us remember the very real battle for the lost. Let us pray that blind eyes will be opened and that many will experience a true and lasting salvation. (Romans 8:26) (John 16:8)

Go to http://pray4muslimpeoples.org/index.php/resources to download a prayer guide for this next 30 days. This is available in weekly sections


Please pray that the love of the Father will enter the hearts of Muslims worldwide. Pray that they will confess and accept Jesus Christ as the Son of God. Proclaim over the lives of Muslims: Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Jesus Christ. (John 14:6).

Prayer this week for Qatar

Qatar, a former pearl-fishing center and once one of the poorest Gulf states, is now one of the richest countries in the region thanks to the exploitation of large oil and gas fields. Dominated by the Thani family for almost 150 years, the mainly barren country was a British protectorate until 1971, when it declared its independence.summer holidays. We are so encouraged to hear of many people who have heard the Gospel and taken literature. Please pray for God's Word to penetrate their hearts.
Praise
Qatar's expatriate Christian community has land on which to build churches in Qatar. There will be Catholic facility, Anglican and Protestant buildings. Pray that this will enable greater unity, effective discipling of believers and sensitive sharing of faith.
Prayer
• The affluence of Qatari families means nannies and other servants are in these homes. Many of them are Christians from Asian countries, influencing, particularly the little ones with their Christian values and worldview. These kids are raised on Bible stories and songs through the persistent witness of believing nannies. Pray for these nannies and other servants to be bold for His name.
• Due to the large expatriate community in Qatar, churches meet in homes and other buildings every week for prayer and Bible studies. Some expatriates became Christians while working in Qatar, while others found new depth in their faith while living in the Islamic world. Pray that many of these believers who are living in Qatar would grow to be bold witnesses to the Glory of God.
• The expatriate churches in the country were quick to meet the needs of the poor in the labor camps. Cheap labor from Nepal, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh are involved with the many building projects, but many of them remained poor. Compassionate Christians reached out to them in a variety of projects. "I became a believer in Jesus due to the church's outreach to me in my labor camp. My family back home knows I am a Christian now," smiled a Nepali laborer.Pray for the poor in Qatar, pray also for the Qatari people - very rich, but still in need of Jesus.

Prayer for Egypt This Week

Elections for the government and President are due in September and coming
months. If Egypt is to progress economically the country needs a forward looking
government. This will help many businesses; especially tourism as 70 / 80% of all work is tourism related. If either the Muslim Brotherhood or any strong Islamic government is elected this could make life very hard for many people. Issues such as "can women work?" and the case of whether or not a person's religion can appear on their ID is also critical!

Someone has said that Muslims will vote however the Imam tells them! Pray that they
won't. Pray that Muslims will not vote for or support a government that is led by the
Brotherhood!If a strongly Islamic government was elected and the people rose up against it there could be great tension across the country which would have a significant effect on tourism and other areas of life here too.

Prayer for Egypt This Week

“In that day there will be an altar to the LORD in the heart of Egypt, and a
monument to the LORD at its border. It will be a sign and witness to the
LORD Almighty in the land of Egypt. When they cry out to the LORD
because of their oppressors, he will send them a savior and defender, and he will
rescue them. So the LORD will make himself known to the Egyptians, and in
that day they will acknowledge the LORD.” Isaiah 19:19-21

South Sudan and Independance

"Once again we are facing the nightmare of genocide of our people in a final attempt to erase our culture and society from the face of the earth. It is not a war between armies that is being fought in our land, but the utter destruction of our way of life and our history, as demonstrated by the genocide of our neighbors and relatives in Darfur. This is a war of domination and eradication; at its core it is a war of terror by the government of Sudan against their people.

As we approach the July 9 day of independence for the New South Sudan, President Bashir has declared for all the world to hear that Sharia will be the law of the land for the North, refusing to recognize the legitimate presence of the Christian minority. It is a declaration of their determination to also end the remembrance of our Christian heritage that dates back two thousand years to the story of the Ethiopian eunuch (who was from modern day Sudan)...There is a meeting in Ethiopia with the different parties of Sudan, the African Union and other international parties seeking to find a true path of peace that recognizes our right to survive and thrive as a people, both Muslim and Christian alike, with equality and justice for all. Please pray and fast with us as you are able for a solution to this crisis."

Rt. Rev / Andudu Adam Elnail, Bishop of Episcopal Diocese of Kadugli, Sudan

According to reports we are receiving on the email from concerned brothers and sisters who are close to the scene, the "escalating violence against civilians in Sudan's South Kordofan state is a major humanitarian catastrophe in the making, with an estimated 300,000 people besieged, cut off from relief aid, and unable to escape fighting." Estimates are that up to 40,000 people have fled fighting between Sudanese government troops, Sudan Armed Forces (SAF), and members of the former southern rebel group, the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA), in Kadugli, the capital of Sudan's oil-producing border state of South Kordofan. Shelling and aerial bombardment has been going on in civilian areas. People have locked themselves in their homes without food or water, for fear of being killed. Others have fled to the Nuba mountains, where they are being hunted down like animals by helicopter gunships, says the Sudan Council of Churches, an umbrella organization representing all Sudanese churches.

Compass Direct News reports that: "Military intelligence agents killed one Christian, and Islamic militants sympathetic to the government slaughtered another last week after attacking churches in Sudan's embattled South Kordofan state... Armed conflict in Kadugli broke out between southern and northern militaries on June 6 after northern forces seized Abyei last month. On June 8, Islamic militants loyal to the SAF slaughtered a young Christian man by sword in Kadugli Market, the sources said... The Islamic militias were heard shouting Allahu-akbar (God is greater) as they began shooting at a Roman Catholic Church building the same day... On Sunday (June 12), North Kordofan Gov. Mutasim Mirghani Zaki El-deendeclared jihad (holy war) on the Nuba people, most of whom are Christians. Christians in the area said they are still traumatized as result of the atrocities committed against them by Sudan security forces and militias loyal to the government military. Sources in Sudan said Christians are calling their brothers and sisters worldwide to pray for the crisis in South Kordofan." Let us join them in praying that the spirit of violence and death will be bound and that peace will be restored between North and South Sudan.

God is Still on the Move!

TRANSFORM 2011: FIFTY YEARS LATER, GOD STILL ON THE MOVE - International
Transform 2011 kicked off Monday, 3 July with an inspired evening of worship, prayer and sharing from Operation Mobilisation co-founder Dale Rhoton. Addressing over 250 participants from various countries, including Brazil, Australia, Croatia, Faroe Islands and Albania, Dale encouraged them to expect "God to work in very special ways".

This year also marks a milestone in Operation Mobilisation's history - the 50th year of ministry to Muslims around the globe. Recalling their humble beginnings when OM was a series of "long prayer meetings" at the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, Dale could hardly imagine then the amazing ways in which God would reveal Himself over the last five decades. Dale shared from a wealth of experiences from his time on the field, but his conclusion was clear. "God is on the throne and always remember this - He works in hidden ways."

But the presence of believers from so many cultures was witness to God's power on display. During the closing prayer time, the room exploded with the sound of many languages, reminiscent of the Pentecost scene in Acts.

Transform 2011 is a five-day conference that equips believers in evangelism and discipleship training. After the conference, participants will go to various places around the Mediterranean to share the love of Christ. For more stories, photos, prayer requests and info, visit www.transform.org.

Wasting Our Lives on Jesus

Jesus Christ loves the world, and He loves the Church, but there is a special bread He feeds those who love Him in private. There is a divine manna He reserves for those who extravagantly waste themselves in His presence.

How do you waste your life on Jesus? Easy. Its no secret.

1. Make the decision in your mind, and your heart will catch up.
2. Get in His presence.
3. Reject sin.
4. Cry out to Him in prayer.
5. Lift your soul to Him in worship.
6. Read and mediate on the Word until your heart is filled with the things that fill God's heart.
7. Utterly abandon yourself to Him, for intimacy with God takes time, and there is no substitute for waiting in His presence.
8. Like Mary, choose to forego some of the less important things going on around you in order to make more time to cultivate a relationship with Him.
9. Lavishly, extravagantly pour out your life as a drink offering upon the holy altar of God. Allow yourself to be broken and spilled out for the priceless One whose body was broken and whose precious life's blood was spilled out for you.

Lord Jesus, in sweet abandon, let me be spilled out and used up for you.

Is that your prayer? Then rearrange your schedule to make time for Him

Quoted from Mike Bickle from his book "Passion for Jesus"

Global Day of Prayer: Prayer for the World

“They lifted their voices to God with one accord…” –Acts 4:24

Almighty God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
Together with believers all over the world,
We gather today to glorify Your Name.
You are the Creator of heaven and earth.
There is no one like You, holy and righteous in all Your ways.
We submit to Your authority as the King of the universe.
We pray with one voice to enthrone You in our hearts
and to honour You before the world.

Lord God, You alone are worthy of our praise and adoration.


Our Father in heaven,
Thank You for loving the world so greatly.
You gave Your only Son, Jesus Christ,
to die on the cross for our sins
so that we could be reconciled to You.
We are grateful to call You Father and to be called Your children.
Nothing can separate us from Your love.

Thank You Father, for adopting us into Your family
because of Jesus Christ our Saviour.


Lord Jesus Christ,
You alone are worthy to open the scrolls of history,
for You were slain and have redeemed us to the Father by Your blood.
We confess that You are Head of the Church
and Lord of all heaven and earth.
May people from every tribe and language become Your followers
so that Your blessing brings transformation among all peoples.
Let Your kingdom be established in every nation of the world
so that governments will rule with righteousness and justice.
And may Your Name be great, from the rising of the sun to its setting.

Jesus Christ, You are the Saviour of the world and the Lord of all.

Father of mercy and grace,
We acknowledge that we have sinned
and that our world is gripped by the power of sin.
Our hearts are grieved by injustice, hatred and violence.
We are shamed by oppression, racism and bloodshed in our land.
We mourn all loss of life in murder, war and terrorism.
Our homes are broken and our churches are divided by rebellion and pride.
Our lives are polluted by selfishness, greed, idolatry and sexual sin.
We have grieved Your heart and brought shame to Your Name.
Have mercy on us as we repent with all our hearts.

God of mercy, forgive our sins.
Pour out Your grace and heal our land.


Spirit of the living God,
Apart from You, we can do nothing.
Transform Your Church into the image of Jesus Christ.
Release Your power to bring healing to the sick,
freedom to the oppressed and comfort to those who mourn.
Pour Your love into our hearts and fill us with compassion
to answer the call of the homeless and the hungry
and to enfold orphans, widows and the elderly in Your care.
Give us wisdom and insight for the complex problems we face today.
Help us to use the resources of the earth for the well-being of all.

Holy Spirit, we need Your comfort
and guidance. Transform our hearts.

Lord Jesus Christ,
Because You were dead, but are now risen,
and the Father has given You a Name above all names,
You will defeat all powers of evil.
Tear down strongholds and ideologies that resist the knowledge of God.
Remove the veil of darkness that covers the peoples.
Restrain the evil that promotes violence and death.
Bring deliverance from demonic oppression.
Break the hold of slavery, tyranny and disease.
Fill us with courage to preach Your word fearlessly,
and to intercede for the lost faithfully.

Almighty God, deliver us from evil.


King of Glory,
Come and finish Your work in our cities, our peoples and our nations.
We lift our voices in unison with believers from Africa and Asia,
from the Middle East and Europe, from North and South America,
and from Australia and the Pacific Islands—together we cry:

Lift up your heads, O you gates!
Be lifted up ancient doors
so that the King of glory may come in!

As Your deeds increase throughout the earth,
and as Your blessings abound to all the nations,
they will seek You, asking, “Who is this King of glory?”
Together we will answer:

He is the Lord Almighty!
Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!

Come fill the earth with Your glory as the waters cover the sea.
The Spirit and the Bride say:

Amen! Come Lord Jesus!

10 Days of Prayer Leading to Global Day of Prayer. Day 2.

REVEAL! …sanctify Your name…
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, You are the High and Lofty One who inhabits eternity, and your Name is holy.
You revealed your Fatherhood to us, through Jesus Christ, who is exalted, and at His Name every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.
We call upon this name for salvation.
Your Name has been profaned among the nations and many people have forgotten your Name and have stretched out their hands to other gods.
Please forgive us, and sanctify your Name so that all nations, even your adversaries, shall know that You are Lord and fear your Name.
Unite my heart to fear your Name so that I will depart from iniquity and will hold fast to your Name and not deny You.
With all those who know your Name, we put our trust in You and wait on your Name.
May your Word be translated and made available for every person on this earth to hear your Word and your Name proclaimed in their own language.
Blessed be Your Name, and let the whole earth be filled with your glory!
From the rising of the sun, to its going down, your Name shall be great and in your Name the nations will trust!
AMEN

10 Days of Prayer Leading to Global Day of Prayer. Day 1

DAY 1: THURSDAY, 2 June 2011
REVIVE! …Our Father who is in heaven…
Father God, You are the creator and father of all nations. |

You sustain us by the power of your word.

We acknowledge that You alone are worthy to receive all praise and honour and glory. As Christians from around the world, we enter into your presence through the new and living way that Jesus Christ opened for us by his blood, to kneel at the throne of grace.

We pray that you will revive the Church again through your Holy Spirit.

Answer the prayer of Jesus that we, as Church, will unite and stand as one family before You.

We pray for those believers who have fallen away that You will draw them back to You and bring them to repentance.

You are faithful and true to your promises.

Please reveal to us your loving, compassionate and merciful father’s heart.

Help us to obey your commandments and to trust You completely for our salvation, our sanctification and our daily walk.

Touch the hearts of millions of believers around the world to persist in prayer until we see the fulfilment of all your promises.

Release fresh movements of prayer in every nation of the world so that this generation may accomplish the purposes You have for each one of us.
Here am I, Lord, send me.
AMEN

Pray for North Africa

We need to pray for the situation in Algeria:

1. That the ruling against a Christian brother (5 years imprisonment/2000 Euro fine) will be overturned!
2. That the churches will remain open in spite of orders for at least some to close.
3. That the Church will remain strong.
4. That the Church will have special grace.
5. That many world governments will respond to this, calling for a change in policy.

The Most Effective Strategy for Finishing the Task

Mission experts from all over the world now readily acknowledge that the most effective strategy for finishing the task of world evangelism is the power of God released through prayer. God Himself chose that way to accomplish His plans and purposes upon the earth. Unleashing God's power for the completion of the Great Commission is one of His primary purposes for the gift of prayer" David Butts

40 Days of Global Prayer for Nepal

This month, the Nepali Christian Church Community has organized 40 Days of Global Prayer for Nepal, beginning May 4th and concluding with the Global Day of Prayer on June 12th. This time is enormously important for the Church in Nepal because the Gospel first arrived here in the 1950’s as a direct result of decades of prayer from around the world. Now the country is experiencing the fruits of those prayers with tremendous growth in the national church.

Over sixty years later, God has opened the door even wider, with recent religious freedom that has never before been experienced here. Following 10 years of political turmoil that resulted in over 15,000 deaths, Nepal is praying for peace and political transformation. Currently a new constitution, which is already a year overdue, is being written. As the May 28th extended deadline for the constitution approaches, there are renewed fears of more violence and unrest if it is not completed by the promised date. Despite this situation, God is able to bring this nation into a new time of blessing, peace and prosperity - if the church joins together in prayer.
So please join us in praying for Nepal.

Praying from the heart

I took this prayer, and response from God, out of a book i’m reading now entitled “At the Masters Feet” by Sadhu Sundar Singh. Sundar had 2 visions, in the first he saw a beggar and not having anything to give him, he advised the beggar to go to the next town, only to realize that it was the Lord who wanted to bless him. In the 2de vision Sundar saw a good looking “devote” believer, but in his eyes he saw an evil “craft and cunning”. The man offered him kingdoms if Sundar only renounce his love for God. Sundar chased him away and then proceeded to pray this prayer. 

I love it because it’s so true! God has created our hearts with a longing that only He can satisfy. Sometimes if i feel restless and i feel “out of sync” with life, that’s the times i realize now that i’m longing for my Friend, my God. For fellowship with Him. And then was is so cool is God’s response to Sundar... He shows up and proceeds to fill Sundars heart with the presence that He longed for, that actually came from God. It’s like God creates opportunities, so that we can respond, so that He can meet with us. That is love. :-) Enjoy. 

“And I, in tears, thus poured out my soul to God in prayer, “My Lord God, my all in all, life of my life, and spirit of my spirit, look in mercy upon me and so fill me with Thy Holy Spirit that my heart shall have no room for love of aught but Thee. I seek from Thee no other gift but Thyself, who art the Giver of life and all its blessings. From Thee I ask not for the world or its treasures, nor yet for heaven even make request, but Thee alone do I desire and long for, and where Thou art there is Heaven. The hunger and the thirst of this heart of mine can be satisfied only with Thee who hast given it birth. O Creator mine! Thou hast created my heart for Thyself alone, and not for another, therefore this my heart can find no rest or ease save in Thee, in Thee who hast both created it and set in it this very longing for rest. Take away then from my heart all that is opposed to Thee, and enter and abide and rule for ever. Amen.”

When I rose up from this prayer I beheld a glowing Being, arrayed in light and beauty, standing before me. Though He spoke not a word, and because my eyes were suffused with tears I saw Him not too clearly, there poured from Him lightning-like rays of life-giving love with such power that they entered in and bathed my very soul. At once I knew that my dear Saviour stood before me. I rose at once from the rock where I was seated and fell at His feet. He held in His hand the key of my heart. Opening the inner chamber of my heart with His key of love, He filled it with His presence, and wherever I looked, inside or out, I saw but Him.”

Becoming Silent

by Soren Kierkegaard

As a person becomes more earnest in prayer, he has less and less to say, and in the end he is quite silent. He become silent. Indeed he becomes a hearer. He thoughts that to pray was to speak. He learned that prayer is not only to keep silence, but to listen. 

And so it is. Prayer is not to hear oneself speak, but to arrive at silence, and continue being silent; to wait till one hears God speak. 

Hence it is that the word of Gospel, “Seek ye first God’s kingdom,” not only says “No” to every question as to whether it is this we must do, but says, “You shall begin by praying.” Not as though prayer always begins in silence, but because when prayer really has become prayer, then is has become silence, and that is to seek first God’s kingdom. 

------------------

From meditations from Kierkegaard, translated and edited by T.H. Croxall (Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1955).

Praying Today For The Crisis in Syria

Would you pray for Syria today and in the coming days? Would you consider fasting for a day or longer during this crucial time? The whole world seemed to stop and focus on Tunisia, Egypt, Libya and Japan. Syria is in the worse crisis it has seen since 1982. Because of other headlines and news many people are not able to follow what is happening there.


Specifically if you could pray:

1. That God would show His mercy in the person of Jesus to Syrian Muslims through dreams and visions, through laborers, and through literature and media.

2. That the bloodshed would stop and people would learn about the Prince of Peace.

3. That God would answer decades of prayers asking that Syria would open up so that people could go and live and work there and raise families while sharing the good news.

4. For protection of people who have left their countries to live in Syria to share the message of Christ and for their encouragement as most foreigners have left or are in the process of leaving. Pray for them as they ask God daily if they should stay or go and that they will trust God with their families in a nation on the brink.

40 Days of Global Prayer for Nepal

From May 4- June 12 the Church in Nepal is inviting the Global Church to prayer with them for their country!

Visit www.prayerfornepal.org to download a special prayer guide and join in with what God is doing there!

Kingdom Advance in the Middle East

For Real?!
By Rachel Fields

I’m not one who passes on those sensationalized, urban-legend-type stories about what God is allegedly doing in a given area. Please understand, though, that I totally expect some sort of massive spiritual awakening to occur in the Middle East during my lifetime and that there are already foretastes of that here and there.

But that’s not the point.

The point is: I don’t like passing things on that (a) aren’t true, (b) paint some sort of phony picture of how deliciously miraculous every moment of every day is, or (c) take away from the reality that sometimes we just have to buckle down and sweat hard to see one measly grape sprout from the vine of our ministry.

But today I want to pass on to you a story I think is pretty cool. I assure you it’s not exaggerated one bit, because I heard it firsthand from two very dear, level-headed friends of mine who are one hundred percent involved in it. To add to the credibility of the story, you should know that it takes place a stone’s throw from my apartment. For real! (If my arms weren't so weak, I could probably throw a rock from my balcony and break these people's window.) Here's the story.

Sixty-five years ago, “Hakeem” was born into a Muslim family. His two older siblings had died, so—reasoning from superstitions—Hakeem’s parents took their infant son to a church and had him baptized—something unheard of and potentially dangerous for Muslim parents to do.

Throughout his life, Hakeem was drawn to Jesus, although he never really knew much about him. As a child, when he was scared he would occasionally run to a church and hide in the back to feel safe—again, something extremely odd for a Muslim to do. As far as I know, he had no involvement with true followers of Jesus for most of his life.

Around the age of 55, through Christian broadcasts, Hakeem came to embrace the truth about Jesus. He had no real believers with whom to interact on a personal level—only the broadcasts and the Spirit of God. Under the tutelage of the Holy Spirit, he grew in his faith, and soon his whole family began to follow Jesus with him. A few years ago they all actively started to share their beliefs with other Muslims.

Just a few months ago, Hakeem began to realize he needed help with all that was happening, so he wrote to the Christian station to see if they could send someone to assist him. Station personnel contacted my friend “Ray,” who went to meet Hakeem.

As Ray sat with the now-65-year-old man, Hakeem began to pull out papers that contained the names of numerous people and showed how these people were networked together. It was like a family tree, with branches sprouting off here and there.

It was a chart of the fifty-five Muslim followers of Jesus for whom Hakeem was responsible…because he, one of his family members, or one of the newer believers had led them to Jesus! With absolutely no help—no in-person input from a single Christian, Hakeem had been “pastoring” all these people, who were spread out among multiple reproducing house groups throughout the city!


For real? For real! But that’s not all.

Since Ray has been helping Hakeem for the last few months (I emphasize the word "helping," because Ray emphasizes that Hakeem does not need Ray teaching him or showing him what to do, since the Holy Spirit has done a stellar job of that), the number of believers has grown from 55 to 124!

For real! I’m not exaggerating. Ray and his wife told me the update to this amazing story two weeks ago. I’m sure there are even more believers by now.

Ray, his wife, and I just laughed and laughed as we talked about how it just flies in the face of our whole paradigm for how God is supposed to work. Oh, how important and knowledgeable we think we are, but really…hmmm…

Please ask the Holy Spirit to breathe even more life into Hakeem's ministry. More, Lord, more!

Taken from Lausanne World Pulse

North Koreans Will Declare God's Glory to the Nations

Day 7:
I will set a sign among them and will send survivors from them to the nations…to the distant coastlands that have neither heard My fame nor seen My glory. And they will declare My glory among the nations. Isaiah 66:19

Open Doors supports North Korean Christians in secret with Bibles, books, education and relief aid. Often we receive thank you letters from North Korean underground church leaders. In each letter they thank the global Church for the support provided through Open Doors and for their love, and they ask for our prayers. In the words of one church leader, "I am very proud to see our believers' faithful lives becoming more and more stabilized. Their lives are in danger every day and still they follow the Lord. This could have not been possible if it wasn't for your endless effort and love towards our believers. Please continue to pray for us.".

North Korean Christians note that even in these dark times, the Kingdom of God is expanding in North Korea. One wrote, "Thank you so much for your dedication and devoted hearts towards our believers. If I look back, I realize how gracious God is for His grace and protection. We couldn't have come this far without the help of our foreign brothers and sisters. Every book that we received has been used effectively. They strengthen the believers and help us in accomplishing God's work. Your books are like fellow travelers on a very lonely road."

In time all will bow down before the one God, the Father of Jesus Christ." This is the source and secret of world peace. "For this is what the LORD says, 'I will extend peace to her like a river, and the wealth of nations like a flooding stream; you will nurse and be carried on her arm and dandled on her knees. As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem.'" (Isaiah 66:12-13) God will continue what he already has begun in North Korea and in His time will use Christians from North Korea to declare His glory
among nations!

READ ISAIAH 66:19-20
God is growing and purifying His church among the nations. He is using Open Doors to pray for, encourage and train His church in North Korea. And we in the "free world" are inspired by the faith and courage of His people in North Korea who stand in faithfulness in the midst of severe persecution. God indeed is preparing His church to "declare [His] glory among the nations."

PRAY
Father, thank You that You have called us into Your church along with Christians across the globe. One church, one faith, one God and Father of us all. We praise You for the way You are using Open Doors to encourage and train Your people, our brothers and sisters, in North Korea. Thank you for the encouragement we receive from them as they stand strong and faithful in the midst of their present persecution. Use their example in our lives here in the west as we face our own moments of darkness in this broken and sinful world. Move in our hearts and minds to call us to join with Open Doors in faithfully praying for North Korea, that You would soften the hearts of the leaders to embrace Your gospel; that those who are blinded by the deception of the archenemy, Satan, would hear Your Word and turn to You; and that Your church there would be filled with the light of Your presence and grace each day to face the darkness around them. And move in our hearts, along with Open Doors, to generously supply Bibles and other materials for the strengthening of Your people that they might know you both in Spirit and in truth.

Information from Open Doors

God is Leading His People in North Korea to Make for Himself a Glorious Name

Day 5:
…So He became their Savior. In all their affection He was afflicted, and the angel of His presence saved them; in His love and in His mercy He redeemed them, and He lifted them up and carried them all the days of old. Isaiah 63:8-9b
North Korea is often described as one huge prison. North Koreans can be imprisoned for virtually any state-defined crime, such as being a Christian, making a negative comment about the regime, traveling to China to look for food, failing to have a picture of Kim Il-Sung in their house or even failure to keep it clean enough. Punishment is not limited to the offender, but also three generations of the offender's family. What compounds these situations for citizens are the severe violations of human rights that occur throughout the North Korean penal system, including systematic use of torture, forced abortions, public and private executions, use of humans for chemical and biological testing and extreme starvation.
There are roughly two types of labor camps. One type is for re-education purposes, the other for political prisoners (who are considered hopeless). It is estimated that there 200,000 prisoners being held in just five of the 12 prison camps of North Korea. The number of additional prisoners in other known prisons and in "secret" prisons, some of which are said to be completely underground, is unknown. In addition, North Korea's State Security Agency maintains about 30 labor education and forced labor camps. At least two of these camps are larger in area than the District of Columbia. The numbers of how many people die or are released each year from labor camps is not published. No one knows the exact number, but in the last three decades it is estimated that at least 500,000 people are believed to have perished in North Korea's huge network of jails, prison camps and underground secret construction projects.
According to Open Doors' Christian sources we estimate the number of imprisoned Christians between 50 and 70 thousand. Most are imprisoned because of their faith in Christ, some for other reasons. Christians are considered political prisoners. Under normal circumstances, they will never be released.
READ ISAIAH 63:11-14

PRAY
God has visited His people in North Korea even during their oppression and extreme suffering and humiliation. But now the time has come for Christians around the world to lift up our voices in believing, confident prayer for God to intervene sovereignly and bring a mighty work of deliverance and restoration of His people in that land! As you read this PRAY!

Syria opposition demands reforms, vows protests

Syrian opposition figures said Wednesday their "massive grassroots revolution" will break the regime unless President Bashar al-Assad leads a transition to democracy, even as authorities intensified their crackdown on the country's uprising.

The statement from an umbrella group of opposition activists in Syria and abroad called the National Initiative for Change said a democratic transition will "safeguard the nation from falling into a period of violence, chaos and civil war."

"If the Syrian president does not wish to be recorded in history as a leader of this transition period, there is no alternative left for Syrians except to move forward along the same path as did the Tunisians, Egyptians and Libyans before them," the statement said.

Opposition More Organized

The opposition is getting more organized as the uprising gains momentum, but it is still largely a grassroots operation. There are no credible opposition leaders who have risen to the level of being considered as a possible successor to Assad.

A relentless crackdown since mid-March has killed more than 400 people across Syria, with 120 dead over the weekend. That has only emboldened protesters who started their revolt with calls for modest reforms but are now increasingly demanding Assad's downfall.

On Monday, the army sent tanks into Daraa, 80 miles (130 kilometers) south of Damascus, and there have been reports of shooting and raids there and in areas across the country ever since. Daraa is where the uprising began last month.

Tanks Deployed

On Wednesday, witnesses and human rights activists said the army also deployed tanks around the Damascus suburb of Douma and the coastal city of Banias, where there have been large demonstrations in recent weeks.

One Douma resident said security agents were going house-to-house, carrying lists of wanted people and conducting raids. If the agents did not find the person they were looking for, they took his relatives into custody, the resident said.

Two funerals were planned Wednesday, he said.

In Banias, a witness said the army redeployed tanks and armored personnel carriers near the main highway leading into the city.

Residents contacted by the AP spoke on condition of anonymity out of fear for their safety.

Foreign Media Banned

Syria has banned nearly all foreign media and restricted access to trouble spots since the uprising began, making it almost impossible to verify the dramatic events shaking one of the most authoritarian regimes in the Arab world.

Amnesty International said the UN Security Council must refer the situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court.

"The Syrian government is clearly trying to shatter the will of those peacefully expressing dissent by shelling them, firing on them and locking them up," said Salil Shetty, Amnesty International's Secretary General

The Lord Will Make North Korea a Praise in the Earth

The Lord has made proclamation to the ends of the earth; "Say to the Daughter of Zion, 'See, your Savior comes'! See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him.'" They will be called the Holy People the Redeemed of the Lord; and you will be called Sought After, the City No Longer Deserted. Isaiah 62:11-12
North Korea is the most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian. Believers risk imprisonment and death just to own a Bible. And yet the Word of God continues to go out and to bring true freedom, especially in the cities near the Chinese border. Every year North Koreans risk their lives to cross over the border into China. Once they have crossed, the danger continues, but there are also opportunities to hear the Good News of Christ when they fall under the care of Christian safe houses. As they receive Christ and are discipled, many refugees return to North Korea at great personal risk to bring the Gospel message to their fellow citizens at home.

For Christians in North Korea life is especially fragile. Many would feel forsaken were it not for the hope of Christ. Many wonder, "How long, Lord, must we suffer?" But as one Christian wrote, "There is no way that we can stop ourselves from falling from the cliff of despair if we only look at the reality. Jesus saves us from it. We try to be positive, always, whatever situation we face. We will keep marching toward the eternal heaven, where Jesus has prepared a place for us."
READ AND PRAY
Just as God beautified Pyongyang and other cities and villages of North Korea in the early 1900's, so He will do it again. He will give His people new names. No longer will they be called "forsaken," but their name will be Hephzibah, "My delight is in her." No longer will their land be "desolate," but rather Beulah, "Married to the Lord!" And God will rejoice over them!
Read aloud Isaiah chapter 62 and pray for North Korea by using Scripture as your prayer.

Pray Today for the Children of North Korea

: Pray that Children of North Korea Will be Known Among the Nations as Blessed of the Lord
Then their offspring will be known among the nations, and their descendants in the midst of peoples. All who see them will recognize them because they are the offspring whom the Lord has blessed! Isaiah 61:9

Can you imagine the sorrow of not being able to pass on your faith to your children? In North Korea this simple and natural act is dangerous for both believers and their children. Parents sometimes tell their children stories from the Bible as though they are fairy tales just so they can impart some of their faith to them. And they live out their lives as an example. But if caught overtly sharing their faith, they can be sent to prison…and their children with them. As soon as parents are arrested, their children are sent with them to the same prison camps where they then face an abysmal existence. They are forced into hard labor, and often their little bodies succumb to the physical toll. Not many children survive the prison camps, and any who do remain alive are severely traumatized.

Other children in North Korea are called kotjebis, a derogatory North Korean word for "wandering swallows." Abandoned by their parents these kotjebis mostly have only one set of clothes, and no shoes. Forced to live on the streets they struggle to survive. Timothy shares his story:

Like so many children, I was separated from my parents. My father had to flee the country in a hurry. For years, I lived on the streets. Every day, I had to manage to find food. I only slept for a few hours each night and tried to stay awake in order not to die of hunger. I survived by helping to carry luggage at stations. But after some time, I realized that I had no future in North Korea. So I wanted to flee. By then, my father was also trying to get me out of the country by means of human traffickers. While fleeing to China, I was detained by the border police. They took me back to North Korea where the guards tortured me severely. I kept praying to stay alive, because I had discovered that there was a God. After two weeks, I was sent home. Because of all the torture, I was no longer able to sit or to stand. Then my grandmother paid a woman to carry me across the river into China on her back. In the end, I gained freedom and I was reunited with my father. Whatever situation you are in, do not give up, but keep praying!

God will work in history to reverse Satan's plan for destruction of North Korea's children. God will heal and protect His "precious ones" and will use them as His ministers…His priests…His missionaries among the nations.
PRAY
As you pray, imagine the children of North Korea. Many are malnourished, sick, even dying. But now imagine them as God has destined them to be, His blessed missionaries to the world. Each child is precious in His sight whose names He called before the foundation of the world. Pray for them by name! Here are just some of them: Eunkyu, Kangchul, Kinam, Sangnyo, Hyewon, Okja, Daewon, Inchul, Suji, Nanhee, Kyungsuk, Sungme, Minhee, Minshul, Bongsoo, Soran, Yosep, and Sanghwa.

The Lord Will Glorify His Church in North Korea

Day 2:
And I shall glorify My glorious house. Isaiah 60:7b
In the midst of any crisis across the globe, Brother Andrew challenges us to ask the question "Is there a church?" In the midst of the current tension on the Korean peninsula, and in the wake of the announcement of heir-apparent Kim Jong-Un as the expected successor to the ailing current president, Kim Jong-Il, we ask, "Is there a church in North Korea?"

Currently, there is a church of approximately 400,000 believers in North Korea, but it is far different from the church you and I know. The church there is persecuted mercilessly with approximately 50,000 to 70,000 Christians in labor camps because of their faith. It is risky to worship with other believers and to share one's faith, even with family members. Singing and praying out loud or owning a Bible can result in death or severe punishment.

Despite virtually no freedom of religion in North Korea, the government has four "show" churches to demonstrate to tourists that there is freedom of religion in the country. There is one Catholic Church, one Orthodox Church and two Protestant churches in Pyongyang. North Koreans must receive permission to attend these churches and, according to the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) report titled "Thank You, Father Kim Il Sung," the waiting list is very long.
The church in North Korea may be thought of as "desolate" because of its suffering and lack of visible strength. Our hope is that church in North Korea will once again be a place of light, beauty and glory. As we intercede for North Korea in faith we will see His beauty unfolding. His glory being revealed. His light dispersing the darkness. Yes, there is a church in North Korea…and she is faithful.

READ AND PRAY
Read aloud Isaiah chapter 60 and pray for North Korea by using the Scripture as your prayer.

From Open Doors

Special Week of prayer for North Korea

Day 1: God's Spirit Will Never Leave North Korea

As for Me, this is My covenant with them," says the Lord: "My Spirit which is upon you, and My words which I have put in your mouth shall not depart from your mouth, nor from the mouth of your offspring, nor from the mouth of your offspring's offspring," says the Lord, "from now and forever. Isaiah 59:21

Around 1780 a Korean man, Yi Pyok, learned about Christianity through Christian literature and, along with a friend, began living out this new faith. They gained many followers and the Christian faith grew quickly in Korea. Soon, though, a law was established that forbid Koreans from following Christ and in 1786 ancestor worship became law. Five years later, the first 400 Christians were executed for refusing to worship their ancestors. In 1793, six preachers and 300 more Christians were killed.
In the mid 1800s, missionaries from France and Scotland came to the Korean shores, and though these missionaries were executed, the church began to grow quickly. When Scottish missionary Robert Thomas was executed, his Bible fell into the hands of his executioner. The seed of the Word that fell that day bore fruit when the cousin of the executioner later helped translate the Bible into Korean.

In 1945, before the Soviet Union took over North Korea, the city of Pyongyang was known as the "Jerusalem of the East" with 13% of its population being Christian. But under the leadership of Kim Il Sung, 2,300 Christian congregations vanished. In total, 300,000 Christians were arrested and 260 church buildings were destroyed.
The meaning of history is that God is creating a people with whom He can dwell. The process of history is still being worked out in all the affairs of man. The timing of when God will restore North Korea is unknown. But the fact that He will restore His people there is certain.

God has poured out His Holy Spirit on Korea. On the surface, the fruits of God's work are not evident in North Korea today…yet His Spirit is there…He is working in silence. His power is being made perfect.

PRAY
Open our eyes Lord to see You walking in blazing glory and splendor among the ashes of Your people, rekindling the healing holy fire of Your power. We join today in prayer for a mighty, overwhelming outpouring of Your Spirit all over the Korean peninsula, believing as we come to You on our knees, and petition on their behalf, that the next great revival in Korea will cover the entire nation, both North and South. Amen.