Why Study Persecution? Some historical background (Persecution 101, #2)

This post is #2 of a series. For other posts please see here: #1 - #2 - #3 - #4 - #5 - #6 - #7 - #8 - #9 

On a hot July morning in Afghanistan, 23 South Korean Christian aid workers awoke with plans for a busy day of service. Their intentions were honorable: with a team of medical providers, they hoped to contribute in a small way to the international development initiatives in this war-torn country, demonstrating the love of Christ as they served. As they proceeded throughout their day on the rented bus, they never dreamed their world would change so abruptly. They soon became pawns in a political battle, their motives questioned and their lives endangered. By the end of the day, they were prisoners of the Taliban.

The sufferings endured by this portion of the body of Christ affected the rest of the body of Christ – some directly, as the believers’ home church organized prayer groups and gathered to await word of their fate; others indirectly, as field workers had to decide whether to continue plans to minister in Afghanistan or forego those plans in light of the escalating situation. The world watched the unfolding of their drama as the pastor and another man were killed and new stories displaced the updates from the headlines. The questions raised became a fresh reminder to the modern church that persecution is not relegated to the pages of the New Testament.

Need for awareness

For much of the world, persecution is a daily reality. David Barrett notes that martyrdom “is a regular, ongoing feature of church life in the 25 percent of global Christianity that we call the underground church” (Reapsome, 1990:37). The widespread social, economic, and political unrest through the world exacerbate the spiritual motivations for persecution. While non-Christians are also tortured and punished in many countries, Christians “are the chief victims of this religious persecution,” suffering discrimination, bigotry, torture, imprisonment, and martyrdom (Shea, 1997:4-5).

Yet, despite the prevalence of persecution in the body of Christ today, our understanding of and preparation for it is woefully lacking. Christians in the West tend to know little about the persecution of the rest of the body of Christ, and have difficulty empathizing when they do learn of it (Shea, 1997:4-5). However, as Thomas Schirrmacher notes in his detailed effort at developing a theology of martyrdom for the German Evangelical Alliance, “…those who suffer for their faith are not Someone Else, but the Body of Christ. We are involved…we cannot evade the responsibility of bearing their burdens in prayer and petitioning the Lord to care for them in a special way” (Schirrmacher, 2001:9). He rightly observes that repression and persecution are far more common to Christians than the general state of religious liberty most Western believers experience (Schirrmacher, 2001:9).

Understanding persecution is also highly relevant for Christians in areas where persecution is likely, or even a reality. Bong Rin Ro underscores the need for a theology of suffering in Asia, noting both the increased persecution and the devastating poverty in the region (Ro, 1988:2). Ro draws parallels to the nationalism, religious climate, and type of governmental authorities faced by the early church to underscore the importance of the Asian church studying the New Testament and early church for biblical principles which can be applied in its specific situation (Ro, 1988:2).

Persecution in the early church

Persecution appears on the pages of Acts alongside the stories of miracles, preaching, and prayer that so characterized early church life. As soon as the church began to flourish, its leaders – the apostles – were arrested and threatened (Neely, 2000: 915). Before a single book of the New Testament was written, the apostles taught a theology of persecution by example. These men set the tone that thousands of martyrs would echo through the centuries when they saw their suffering as honorable and as a means of witness (Acts 5:41).

The earliest persecution of Christians was not by the Roman government, but by Jewish authorities (Clouse, 1993: 45-46). Specifically, they were attacked by Jewish leaders for proclaiming Jesus to be Savior and Lord and for accusing the Jewish leaders of killing Jesus (Ruffin, 1985: 17). Scripture records the death of the “first martyr,” Stephen, in great detail in Acts 6-7, and clearly lays the blame at the feet of the Sanhedrin (including Saul, soon to become Paul the Apostle). The dispersion of the church following Stephen’s death “had the opposite of the intended effect” (Moreau, 2000: 747); Christianity did not die but instead spread beyond Jerusalem into the Gentile lands. When the Gospel was expanded to the Gentiles, Jewish leaders’ hatred of Christianity increased (Frend, 1990: 5). James the Apostle was killed, and both Josephus and Eusebius record James the brother of Jesus’ death in A.D. 62 (Clouse, 1993: 45-46). As the church continued to grow and spread, its leaders came to expect suffering as part of the normal Christian experience and taught the young churches to see suffering as imitation of Christ (Frend, 1990: 5).

Part of the reason that Roman persecution did not begin sooner is that initially, Roman authorities did not distinguish Christianity as a separate religion from Judaism (Ferguson, 2003: 602). Acts shows that the earliest Christians remained in Jerusalem - worshipping in the temple, observing the Jewish prayer times, and using the Jewish Scriptures - until the stoning of Stephen forced their dispersal (Acts 2:41-8:1). As a result of its association with Judaism, Christianity shared the legal protection of Jews during this era (Ferguson, 2003:602).

The days of relative obscurity to the Roman government’s eyes came to an end, however, during the reign of Nero. The Roman historian Tacitus recorded how Nero first framed, and then persecuted, Christians in the wake of the fire that destroyed half of Rome in 64 A.D.:

Consequently, to get rid of the report, Nero fastened the guilt and inflicted the most exquisite tortures on a class hated for their abominations, called Christians by the populace. Christus, from whom the name had its origin, suffered the extreme penalty during the reign of Pontius Pilate....Mockery of every sort was added to their deaths. Covered with the skins of beasts, they were torn by dogs and perished, or were nailed to crosses, or were doomed by the flames and burnt, to serve as nightly illumination when daylight had expired. Nero offered his gardens for the spectacle. (Clouse, 1993: 45-46).

From that point, Ferguson observes, “Christians continued to be a convenient scapegoat to blame for political problems and natural disasters for a long time thereafter” (Ferguson, 2003: 593-594). Nero’s persecution, though furious, was regional and brief, and was followed by a period of relative peace. When Domitian came to the throne, however, he enacted strong persecution against many religious groups, including Christians (Workman, 1980: 83). Herbert Workman describes Domitian’s style of persecution as “a succession of sharp, sudden, partial assaults…harassing the Church with an agony of suspense” (Workman, 1980: 84). The Apostle John was likely exiled to Patmos during Domitian’s reign (Workman, 1980: 83).

Periods of peace punctuated by seasons of intense regional persecution remained the pattern for the church through 249 AD. There were respites of freedom – Emperor Hadrian in 122-123, for example, ordered that Christians had to be proven guilty of specific illegal acts before they could be condemned. Merely being called Christian was not grounds for persecution (Frend, 1990: 5). The church gained strength and recovered its missionary zeal. Tension increased in provinces where the church was strong, and under the Severan Dynasty localized persecution struck again (Frend, 1990: 5).

The persecuting emperors were not necessarily the ones who were most obviously demented and depraved; rather, those emperors who were determined to “crush out sedition and disorder” were the ones who targeted Christians (Workman, 1980: 84). The charges were rarely religious in nature – they were not on trial for their beliefs so much as their misunderstood actions or their failure to worship the state god, Caesar. Celsus, for example, accused Christians of being “unprofitable to society” because of their emphasis on sinners:

Those who summon people to the other mysteries make this preliminary proclamation: ‘Whosoever has pure hands and a wise tongue.’ And again, other says: ‘Whosoever is pure from all defilement, and whose soul knows nothing of evil, and who has lived well and righteously.’ Such are the preliminary exhortations of those who promise purification from sins. But let us hear what folk these Christians call. ‘Whosoever is a sinner,’ they say, ‘whosoever is unwise, whosoever is a child, and, in a word, whosoever is a wretch, the kingdom of God will receive him....Why on earth this preference for sinners? (Ferguson, 2003: 599-600).

Christians were accused of “atheism” for denying the existence and power of Rome’s gods (Frend, 1990: 5); their refusal to take part in pagan ceremonies and activities was labeled disloyal and antisocial (Clouse, 1993: 46); they were charged with immorality because of their love for each other and cannibalism because of the sacrament of Communion. Their stubborn refusal to worship Caesar when given the opportunity at trial earned them the labels of obstinacy and treason (Clouse, 1993: 46). As the church grew, so did the misunderstandings about their doctrine and the illogical accusations. Tertuallian, for example, confronts the illogic of claiming Christians offered bribes to avoid punishment: “If we save ourselves by a bribe…how is it that we are still oppressed?” (Tertullianus, 1885b).

In 249, Decius implemented the first empire-wide persecution, blaming Christians for the breakdown of morale and requiring an annual sacrifice to the gods of Rome. Christians could perform the sacrifice or purchase a libelli claiming they had done so. As a result, massive apostasies followed as few individuals openly defied the emperor. Even the Bishop of Smyrna performed sacrifice. The church was deeply divided as a result (Frend, 1990: 5).

Valerian first tolerated Christians, then exiled bishops and forbade assembly. Finally in 258-259 he ordered executions and confiscation of property (Frend, 1990: 5). This was the bloodiest period to that point, but the final, heavy punishment came in 303, under Diocletian, following some 40 years of peace. Diocletian’s emphasis on uniformity and discipline was challenged by Christians who failed to comply (Frend, 1990: 5). He issued four edicts of increasing severity after seeing Christians make the sign of the cross before pagan priests attempting divination. Diocletian was succeeded in 305 by Galerius, who issued an edict of toleration, and Constantine, who decreed that all people, including Christians, had “full authority to follow whatever worship each man has desired” (Clouse, 1993: 48). The era of Roman persecution was formally over, but the church would again see persecution.

Contemporary Realities

As the summary about the Korean church missionaries illustrates, modern persecution raises many of the same questions, and reflects many of the same patterns, as we see in the early church's persecutions. In Faith that Endures (pages 13-17), Ronald Boyd-Macmillan notes three overarching convictions that inform the work he does in raising awareness about persecution: 

1) The fuller story of the modern persecuted church is untold. We hear stories of deliverance and martyrdom, but not endurance. He writes, "There is a grander, greater narrative of God's action underneath the stories of individual pain, suffering, deliverance, and endurance." 

2) Helping the persecuted church requires understanding the complexity of persecution. We want to serve, not use, the persecuted. We also want to ensure effective intervention and assistance. 

3) We need the persecuted church to learn about our own faith. Boyd-Macmillan poignantly quotes a Chinese Bible teacher who vividly said: "Wherever you go in this earth, you will be seduced by a false prophet, or coerced by a beast, into worshiping some idol that is not God. That is apocalyptic reality. Your worship is what you put your energy into. The only difference between you and us is that here it happened so brutally, we saw it so clearly; where you live, it happens so subtly, you cannot see it at all...Don't miss this, please don't miss this - you need our faith to find your own." (Teacher Cheng, p. 15). 

As we continue this study, we will gather accurate facts, feel the power that God gives to those in persecution, and begin to discern the right strategies to best help them. As we move forward, please remember these two key quotes to help you identify with the persecuted: 

"Just because I live in a free country does not make the devil less interested in stealing my worship away from Jesus Christ." -  (Boyd-Macmillan, p. 16) 

"We may not all sit on the same thorn, but we all sit on the same branch." - (Chinese pastor, quoted in Boyd-Macmillan, p. 17).

YOUR TURN: Why are you working through this study? Let me know in the comments!

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REFERENCES: 

Clouse, Robert G., Richard V. Pierard, and Edwin M. Yamauchi. 1993. Two Kingdoms: The church and culture through the ages. Chicago: Moody Press. 

Ferguson, Everett. 2003. Backgrounds of Early Christianity, 3d ed. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans.

Frend, William H.C. 1990. Persecution in the early church. Christian History 9.3: 5.

Moreau, A. Scott. 2000. Persecution. In Evangelical Dictionary of World Missions, ed. A Scott Moreau. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Baker Books.

Neely, Alan. 2000. Suffering. In Evangelical Dictionary of World Missions, ed. A. Scott Moreau. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Baker Books. 

Reapsome, James. 1990. Persecuted Christians Today. Christian History 9.3: 37.

Ro, Dr. Bong Rin. 1988. Need for a Theology of Suffering. Asia Theological Association 14.3: 2-3. 

Ruffin, Bernard. 1985 The Days of the Martyrs: A history of the persecution of Christians from apostolic times to the time of Constantine. Huntington, Indiana: Our Sunday Visitor, Inc. 

Schirrmacher, Thomas. 2001. The Persecution of Christians Concerns us All: Toward a theology of martyrdom. 70 Biblical-Theological Theses Written for the German Evangelical Alliance. Retrieved August 23, 2007, from  http://www.contra-mundum.org/schirrmacher/Persecution.pdf.  

Shea, Nina. 1997. In the Lions’ Den: Persecuted Christians and what the Western Church can do about it . Nashville, Tenn.: Broadman & Holman. 

Tertullianus, Quintus Septimius Florens. 1885. Ad Nationes, Book I. Holmes, Dr. P., tr. Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol. III. Retrieved August 23, 2007 from http://www.tertullian.org/anf/anf03/anf03-15.htm 

Workman, Herbert B. 1980. Persecution in the Early Church. New York: Oxford University Press. 

Persecution, Warfare, and Perseverance (Persecution 101, #1)

This post is #1 of a series. For other posts please see here: #1 - #2 - #3 - #4 - #5 - #6 - #7 - #8 - #9 

One of the themes of 2013 for me seems to be what's commonly called "the persecuted church". Our family's daily devotional is Open Doors' "One With Them"; I'm using Open Doors' daily prayer points; and our church is focusing on the top 10 countries on the World Watch List. Alongside the prayer, I'm learning a lot through some readings on persecution.

Because I process by writing, and because I seem to get asked a lot of questions in this area, I'm jumping in with a series I'm calling Persecution 101. As I have prayed this year about what my new focus should be, persecution has zoomed up the list. I'm convinced that God has impressed this series on my heart - not because of any special knowledge or experience I have, but simply because He wants me to share what I'm learning with others. Along the way, I hope that you'll use the comments section so we can dialogue and continue to learn together.

What's on tap for this series? While I've previously written about persecution on this blog, and this series will likely draw from some of that earlier works especially as we discuss myths and prayer points, this series will have more of an academic or analytical bent (though hopefully, you will be encouraged and inspired along the way!). Here are my heart's goals for this series:

• That we will understand what persecution is and how to recognize it
• That we will personally identify with persecuted believers (Hebrews 13:3).
• That we will catch a personal vision for what it means to suffer with the parts of the body that suffer (1 Corinthians 12:21-26).
• That we will grow in discernment about how we can best help the suffering church "strengthen what remains" (Revelation 3:2).

At this point I envision about 8 posts (including this one). God may change my plans, but my tentative outline is:

#2: Why study persecution? Some background
#3: What is persecution? Legal and Biblical Definitions
#4: The Pattern of Persecution
#5: Sources of Persecution

#6: Who is Persecuted?
#7:Helping through prayer
#8: What next? Ways to help
#9: Lessons from the persecuted

My sources will include academic research (sources will be cited); a term paper that I wrote for my master's program; two books by Brother Andrew (Secret Believers and Light Force); and Faith That Endures by Ronald Boyd-MacMillan. Boyd-MacMillan's book structure provides the basic format of our series structure, but my posts will not simply be summaries of his book. However, if you wish to do your own study of the persecuted church, I cannot recommend his book highly enough! It's a great all-in-one reference point. The two books by Brother Andrew provide more of a ground-level view through stories on the ground, while Boyd-MacMillan provides a wide-angle view with a good theological basis for understanding many of the principles we see in place in Andrew's books.

Ok - let's get started! If you are "in" with this series, please pray for me as I write and for all who are reading this. Feel free to post your prayer in the comments. My prayer is below!

Heavenly Father, God of angel armies, we know that You have strengthened us for everything that You want us to do. We pray, Lord, for Your anointing on our minds and hearts as we study about persecution. We deeply desire to learn more about the suffering church, and how we can walk with them in a way that honors Your commands in Scripture. With knowledge comes responsibility. We pray that we will learn and act accordingly. In the precious name of Jesus, amen.

A New Year, a New Focus

Welcome to 2013!

For the past two weeks I've prayed for words to write this first blog of 2013 - the first one outside the focus I've had for 2012, which was praying through Operation World. I'm so blessed that God called me to that journey, but as it drew to a close I had a distinct sense of disorientation, like "what do I do with myself now?" It's not unlike a long trip you might make with your family - once you get home, do all the laundry, check the mail, and restock the fridge, you look around and try to remember what your normal life entails.

My feelings of disorientation have been enhanced because in addition to wrapping up this prayer  emphasis, my Bible read-through just ended yesterday (I don't read through in a year, so I rarely finish at the end of a calendar cycle), and I also completed the Bible study I was doing. The past two weeks of my vacation have been filled with busy-ness and fun and rest, as well as prayers asking God "what next"? While He's clearly guided me in some areas, others are still developing. I look forward to seeing what He wants to teach me this year.

One of the final video sessions of the study I just completed challenged us not to decide ahead of time what we're going to learn from Him next. I've taken that challenge, and will begin my Bible read-through today with that mindset. I will begin a study of Matthew as well, trusting God to guide me in how that should look. On the global prayer front, my 2013 focus will be the persecuted church - I'll be using the daily calendar and other resources from Open Doors.

[Update: Be careful when you commit not to decide ahead of time what you'll learn. God completely changed my study and I'm actually doing something I've never done before. I started with Genesis 1 and reading through one chapter a day. In the morning, I seek God for a devotional thought. In the evening, I go back through and read the NET Translator's Notes, highlighting what stands out and jotting down enough to help me go back and find it if I need to. I then create and outline of the chapter. It's cool to think in 3 years I will have outlines of every chapter in the Bible!] 

I honestly don't know where this blog fits in to the big picture of my life in 2013. I'll blog as God leads me, on topics He lays on my heart. I hope our paths will cross here from time to time, and as always, feel free to comment. I love dialogue!

May God bless you as you seek His face this year.

The Lord's Return: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 31

What an amazing place to end our journey.

Barring unforeseen events on this final day of 2012, Jesus Christ, the Messiah of Israel and hope of the nations, will not return in 2012. We will usher in 2013 knowing that there is still work to be done, but that His return is still something we can anticipate with hope. Please read page 978.

My prayer for today: "Come Lord Jesus". Oh Lord, we wait for Your coming and we long to hasten it by seeing the Gospel taken to all nations. We pray for the speediest possible evangelization fo the world, including every unreached people group, area, city, and nation. We pray that the church worldwide will restore the Great Commission to the heart of its ministry purposes. We pray for our individual role in Your message getting to the ends of the earth, and for our locals churches to grow in missionary zeal and commitment in 2013. Thank You for this journey. Use the prayers we have prayed for Your glory and Your kingdom purposes. Come, Lord Jesus.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I've learned so much. Whatever God calls you to focus on in prayer for the next year, please keep His kingdom purposes close to your heart. He is worthy to receive glory, and honor, and power, because He created all things - including the nations.

Operation World: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 30

Isn't Operation World an incredible resource? I have been so blessed the last couple of years by this updated edition, and trust that you will soon be wearing out your copies as well. Those working with OW are also missionaries, dependent upon support and prayers of other believers. Please read page 977 and let's pray for those who have made our journey much more feasible this year!

My prayer for today: Lord, we thank You for Operation World. We thank You for the impact it's had on the global church, for the way it's influenced world missions vision in the non-western world, and for the way it's awakened many of us in the west to countries we never would have heard of otherwise. Thank You for this incredible, incredible tool.We pray for distribution of this latest version into different languages, media, and formats. We pray for the completion of the Children's Prayer Atlas and the easy-English edition. We pray for continued accurate research to plan now for future editions of this great work. Give the leadership wisdom to know the role of Operation World in the future - what needs to be tweaked, adjusted, or totally changed. We pray for those who have assisted throughout the world to be blessed; give grace over all the dealings and communications with the different languages and cultures involved. We pray for Your anointing to be upon this effort, in Jesus' name, amen.   

World Leaders: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 29

Today we focus on prayers for world leaders. We'll be skipping ahead to page 976 in Operation World; appendices 4-9 also hold helpful information if you wish to review them for future reference, but today let's focus on page 976.

As we pray for these world leaders, you may wish to pray specifically. A couple of websites can assist with that information:

http://rulers.org
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/world-leaders-1

My prayer for today: Lord, Your Word tells us to pray for leaders and those in authority. We know that no power exists except that which You allow; we also know they are held accountable for their actions and judged when they do not act righteously. We pray for You to raise up good and just leaders to accomplish Your purposes on earth. We pray for unfit rulers to repent and change, or be removed. We lift up those facing major crises to have the courage to make right decisions and take decisive action without compromising righteousness. We pray for those who are already giving just and godly leadership to have great wisdom and guidance, not giving way to pressure by those who have their own interests or seek to compromise scripture. We pray for You to raise up Christians to promote justice, righteousness, honest government, and wise rule. We pray Christians in each country will become part of the solution, not putting their faith in the political process but not ignoring it either. Use the governments of the world for Your kingdom purposes, in Jesus' name, amen.

Missions Organizations: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 28

Today we pray for those involved in the global missions strategies that ultimately affect those on the "front lines" - the missions agencies. Please look through pages 930-952. Again, please focus on whatever groups God calls you to, but if you are serving with a specific agency I sense God giving me a special challenge: Pick a group other than your own to also pray for. Prayer is a great unifier!

My prayer for today: Lord, we are so thankful for the pages and pages of organizations that exist for the sole purpose of taking the Gospel to the nations in word and deed! We are grateful to live in a generation that sees the purpose and need for the Gospel to go to all nations. We pray that this generation will be faithful to finish the task You've set before us. Only You will know when that last people group has heard, so we just need to press on to take the Gospel to the nations for Your glory. Lord, for these agencies that are doing that we pray for You to bless them with resources, creative strategies, wisdom, and most of all unity. We pray for You to work within the leaders to maximize the resources they have and equip more people to be able to serve You to the ends of the earth. In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayer Networks: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 27

Over the course of this year, I've learned so much about committed prayer. I've learned how hard it is; how much warfare is involved; how it's easy to rush through it and not give into it with my whole heart. I've learned the importance of Scripture in my prayers, and I've learned they are pointless without a divine infusion of the Holy Spirit to take those words to God through Christ. I've learned that God is sovereign but He uses the prayers of His people. In short, like each of you I've learned that prayer IS the greater work.

Today we are privileged to pray for other prayer warriors. Please read pages 923-929. You'll see prayer networks, resources, focuses, and special days of prayer. God may use one of these to stir your focus for a region, country, or emphasis He has placed on your heart this year. However you pray, let's use what we've learned this year to pray for these prayer efforts.

My prayer for today: Oh Lord Jesus, we know like never before that prayer IS warfare. It matters a lot - more than we realize. So Lord, today we lift up to You the prayer networks, resources, focuses, and special days of prayer compiled in Operation World. We know there are many more unlisted, and we lift up those efforts too. Please infuse them with Your Holy Spirit. Take their words, combine them with Yours, and lift them up as an offering of love to God. We pray for faithfulness on the journeys these individuals are on. For the prayer leaders, I pray for a special anointing and sense of Your presence. Prayer is such an invisible work and it's sometimes easy to get discouraged; I pray that You will give them encouragement when they need it the most and enable them to persevere whether they have one prayer partner or a million, whether they get feedback or not, whether they see fruit or not. You know, Lord. And we pray that they will fight for unity in the Spirit, so they can keep pressing on in this great work of prayer. In Jesus' name, amen.

Global Facts and Figures: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 26

For the remainder of the year, our focus is on the appendices in Operation World. Just as we did at the beginning of the year, we will zoom our journey back out to a global scale - get off the ground and back into the airplane, flying us back home. As we travel at this global view, we'll once again be reminded of God's heart for the entire world, of the story HE is writing - a story of redemption and grace, of inclusion in His kingdom, of destroying the deeds of Satan. Today, please read Appendix 1 on pages 901-922. I know this is a lot of information, and you may want to zero in on a section or two that really jumped out at you. My prayer will focus on page 922, the 50 largest unreached people clusters.

My prayer for today: Lord, we are so thankful for this journey You've allowed us to be on this year. For most of the year we've been trudging through mountains, valleys, islands, deserts, and forests in the different countries of this world You created. Today, as we return to the global view, we are reminded that every square inch of this world belongs to YOU alone. Because you died and were resurrected, the world is Yours, its people groups are Yours. We need not fear, but we do know that You have asked US to partner with You for Your kingdom purposes. We commit to this anew, Lord Jesus. Specifically today we pray for the world's largest unreached people clusters - dominating the 10/40 window, overwhelmingly Muslim or Hindu, but also Buddhist and animist - Lord, they need You so desperately. They are lost, Lord. We pray for You to call laborers to this great harvest. For those already working among them - give them wisdom and creative ideas to share the unchanging message. We pray for these groups to have Scripture in their names and for Your Word to accomplish its purpose. Oh Lord, reach these groups with Your love! In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayer for Zimbabwe: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 25

Merry Christmas!

Sometimes it's hard to say those words. We look around and see crisis, tragedy, pain, death. We see places like Zimbabwe or we know people who are suffering and feel like we are somehow wrong for our joy.

It's important to remember for all the beauty and glory surrounding the birth of Jesus, He really did come into a pretty messed up world. Herod's murder of all boys under age 2 demonstrates just how brutal that regime was. It's easy to look at Zimbabwe or other tragic situations and want the white horse-riding Jesus, the one bringing armies from heaven (Revelation 19). That day is coming - but for now, living between the first and second advents, I have to remember that Jesus came into a messed up, broken world, to fix it one heart at a time. Matthew 2:16 reminds us that evil at Christmas is not a new story. Praise God for 1 John 3:8: Jesus came to destroy Satan's works! Let's pray for Zimbabwe today, and seek for the One whose birth we celebrate to destroy Satan's works in that land. 

My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, Your word tells us You came to destroy the works of Satan. We know that he has been working overtime to destroy Zimbabwe from within. We pray for You to intervene - through Your church, and sovereignly through either a heart change or a leadership change. We pray for the church to reject syncretism and idolatry and focus on pure love for Jesus. We pray for unity and guidance as they seek to minister to the hurting and share the Gospel. You are Victor, Lord Jesus. Demonstrate that to Zimbabwe today by shining Your light into the darkness, just as You did when You came to earth over 2000 years ago.

Prayers for Zimbabwe: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 24

Today and tomorrow we wrap up our journey through the nations. We will still have a week of prayers remaining, as we zoom back out from the narrow lens of countries to the broader lens of the world. I cannot encourage you enough to stay with us through that entire week!

As you celebrate the birth of Christ with family and friends today and tomorrow, please take a moment to pray for Zimbabwe ... part of the ends of the earth, and the last country on our worldwide tour. Please read pages 896-900.

My prayer for today: Lord, we thank You for the growth of the church in the middle of this failed state. We pray for wisdom for the churches to prioritize the many desperate needs they are facing. We pray for healthy churches and strong faith. We pray for leadership in Zimbabwe to turn around and start finding solutions. We pray against the state-endorsed violence. Bring humility and a servant attitude to the leadership or replace them with people who will govern for the sake of the people and the restoration of the nation. We know You are sovereign and we know you care. Lord, be gracious and compassionate to Zimbabwe. Restore education and health care; bring about fair and equitable land reform. We pray for righteousness and justice to reign in Zimbabwe. In Jesus' name, amen. 

Prayer for Zambia: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 23

We started with the world, then narrowed to an A to Z focus. Today, we hit the Z's. Please read pages 892-896, and join me in praying for Zambia today!

My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, we lift up Zambia and thank You for the freedom of religion and openness to Christianity. Thank You for the holistic ministries that have started, and we pray for more creative, ambitious, faith-filled individuals who seek the spiritual and economic transformation of their society. We thank You that the country chose to be a Christian nation, and we pray for a thorough national transformation along Biblical lines so that the country lives out what it has claimed. We pray for leaders to be dedicated to rooting out corruption and that the land will honor You. We pray for many to return to their land to be blessings and missionaries to their own people. We pray against the schemes of the enemy and ask You to be glorified in Zambia.

Prayers for Yemen: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 22

Today we continue to pray for Yemen. Please review pages 889-891.

My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, I praise You that You are working in Yemen, that so many are being drawn to You. Thank You for the wisdom You've given the church to sow the seed broadly, then carefully train potential believers in safe settings. Lord, we pray that You would protect these small groups from wolves who are not true seekers. We pray for strong discernment for the leaders of these groups so that they see red flags along the way. We pray for believers to continue to share their faith and be open even while being wise. We pray against fear and isolationist tendencies. We ask You to honor the sacrifices of those who could leave, but choose not to do so in order to reach their fellow Yemeni brothers. Meet their needs and minister to their spirits. In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayers for Yemen: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 21

Yemen has been in the news this year, with uprisings and threats of the "Arab Spring" revolts spilling into this land as well. Yet within Yemen there is a strong and growing hidden church. Though very much at risk, the church continues to grow because Jesus is showing Himself to be irresistably attractive to seeking Muslims. Please read pages 889-891, then watch this video (altered because of the risk to the speaker) and pray today.

http://youtu.be/aptMkUjeDvk

Prayers for US Virgin Islands, Wallis, and Fatuna: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 20

Today we pray for the final islands on our trip around the world. Our journey hops-skips from the US Virgin Islands in the Caribbean over to Wallis and Fatuna in the Pacific. Please read pages 886-888 and join me in prayer.

My prayer for today: Lord, Your Word tells us that the islands are Yours - they belong to You. Not only every nation that is an island, but every individual island, of the thousands on this globe, belongs to You. What joy that brings us as we pray today for the Virgin Islands, and ask You to work the Gospel into the fabric of the islands so that it permeates everything, impacting society, personal lifestyles, and family life. We pray for revival in the church so that vitality and vision are restored, and for churches to work together in evangelism and vision for the future. For Wallis and Fatuna, Lord Jesus, we praise You for the outreach of Pacific Islanders to reach their cultural "cousins". We pray for firsthand faith and that individuals will worship not out of cultural habit, but out of true love for Jesus. We pray for Scripture in the Wallisian language and that ample Christian resources will exist in both written and oral forms in the tribal languages. Bring glory to Yourself on these islands, in Jesus' name, amen.

Prayers for Vietnam: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Dec. 19

Today we continue to pray for Vietnam, especially for the unreached peoples there. Though known for Communism, Vietnam is actually held captive even more to ancestor worship that even crosses into the church. There is much wisdom needed for Christians to know how to respond in a way that honors those gone before without compromising the Gospel. Please review pages 882-886, then watch this video for more information and prayer points.

http://youtu.be/1zKNxfzfGOw

Prayers for Vietnam: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Dec. 18

Today and tomorrow we pray for a country famous for conflict. What's less known is a spiritual war that has raged within Vietnam. The church is emerging from years of serious persecution and there is a strong turning to God. Please read pages 882-886, then watch this video to learn more and pray for Vietnam.

http://youtu.be/M82ZYXJbVdE

Prayre for Venezuela: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Dec. 17

Today we conclude our prayers for Venezuela. Please review pages 878-881, then join me in prayer.

My prayer for today: Lord, we continue to lift up the church in Venezuela to You. We pray against spiritism, and all the forces that seek to draw Venezuelans away from Christ. We pray that they will not be led astray from sincerity and pure devotion to You, Jesus. We ask You to bind the powers that blind Venezuelans to the Gospel, and release Your Word to go forth with power through the church. We pray for believers to live lives of true discipleship, and for unity across theological lines. We pray for a renewal of Biblical truth within the church to correct the errors that have crept in. We ask You to deepen the church spiritually for Your purposes to be  fulfilled. In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayer for Venezuela: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Dec. 16

Today and tomorrow we pray for a country whose direction could literally change a region. Venezuela currently embraces dictators, provides safe havens for criminal leaders, and seeks to control its region and its people. A turnaround here could impact millions, both inside and outside Venezuela. Please read pages 878-881, and join me in prayer for Venezuela today.

My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, we are thankful that You are sovereign, You raise up leaders and remove them. We thank You that despite the hardships of Venezuela, the church is growing and believers are seeking to advance spiritually regardless of the country's situation. We pray for the success of their ministries. We do pray, Lord, for Venezuela's struggles. We pray for the people who are financially destitute, and for those for whom Venezuela is only a stopping point as they are trafficked elsewhere. Raise the awareness of this situation to the world, and stop this evil. Lord, we pray for Christians to be able to lead quiet, peaceful lives in godliness and dignity, as Your word describes. In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayer for Vanuatu: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Dec. 15

I simply cannot think of Vanuatu without remembering the title of a book I read by a missionary who went there. "The Man with the Bird on His Head" told the story of a man named John, from America, who went to Vanuatu as a side trip off a missions boat and walked right into the fulfillment of the beliefs of a "John Frum cargo cult" - groups set up after World War II that thought there would someday be loads of supplies coming from "John from America". The story beautifully tells how God used these presumptions to open a door for the islanders to hear the Gospel - and as a result, as Operation World notes, thousands have turned to Christ. The country was actually rededicated to the Lord in 2006. Please read pages 875-877 and pray with me today for a tiny speck in the Atlantic.

My prayer for today: Lord, how encouraging to read about Vanuatu and to see Your creativity in getting the Gospel to them. What a blessing to see a country devoted to You and standing on Your name! Please bless the church, bring unity to the Christians, and give them wisdom to fully evangelize the island. Lord Jesus, please guide the churches to know how to address their culture and respond to other belief systems that are taking room. We pray that the truth would be made manifest and the people to have a firm understanding of Your Word. In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayers for Uzbekistan: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Dec. 14

Yesterday we learned about Uzbekistan and its great persecution. Please review pages 872-875, then join me in prayer for Uzbekistan today.

My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, in a land with few missions workers, tight control, and intense persecution - we pray for a mighty move of Your Spirit. We pray for You to cause Uzbek believers to reject the evil that is so prevalent, and to demonstrate what it means to receive the word with humility and to live it out, showing their faith by their works. We pray that Uzbek believers' faith will be seen as pure and faultless as they minister to the needs of the weak and keep themselves from being stained by the world around them. We pray for them to show a different way. In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayers for Uzbekistan: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 13

Throughout the year we have prayed for countries that have experienced significant changes with the fall of Communism. In many of these lands, believers seek wisdom to apply relatively new freedoms. Uzbekistan is different. In this land, missionaries have been expelled, and the control of Communism has been replaced with the control of radical Islam. Please read pages 872-875. We'll pray for Uzbekistan today and tomorrow.

My prayer for today: Oh Lord, the strongholds over Uzbekistan are heartbreaking! The governmental control; the occult of folk Islam; the vestiges of Communism; and the deceptiveness of being one's own master are all versions of the old lie of the enemy. We know he doesn't want to loosen his grip on Uzbekistan and so Lord, we pray that You will break it down. We pray for You to raise up servants who recognize the warfare and pray accordingly; for You to equip the church in Uzbekistan with Your Word and every gift needed to fulfill its calling. We pray for Godly leaders and wise counsel. We ask for a breakthrough in Uzbekistan that will influence all of Central Asia. We pray for Christians to respond to persecution with love and to be joyful when their property is seized, focusing on their inheritance in heaven. We pray for strength and boldness; we ask for Christians to endure under pressure and not turn each other over to the authorities. Show Yourself strong in Uzbekistan, in Jesus' name, amen.

Prayer for Uruguay: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 12

The rapid evangelical church growth in Uruguay since 1995 is reminiscient of the book of Acts - doubling the number of believers in less than a generation. How exciting and what an answer to prayer! However, we sometimes forget that churches in the New Testament didn't immediately form with full doctrinal understanding. As most of Paul's letters indicate, the churches needed a lot of guidance to learn how to think correctly in their new faith. It's no different in Uruguay. Today's prayers focus on the church in Uruguay, but please read pages 870-872 for a fuller picture of what's going on in the country, before we pray together.

My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, thank You for the amazing growth of the church in Uruguay. Thank You for the unhindered gospel and the freedom of religion in this land. Lord, we pray for these churches to effectively know how to disciple the new believers. We pray for right, Biblical thinking and for all religious deceptions to be exposed and the demonic powers behind them defeated. Lord, we pray that Uruguayans will not tolerate any Gospel other than the truth, and we pray for the influential Catholic Church to emphasize Scripture and through Your Word, experience a resurgence of faith. Help the church to know how to move forward with evangelism and missions in Uruguay, Latin America, and the world.

Prayer for the United States of America: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 11

As we wrap up our prayer for the US today, my heart is to focus on our spiritual heritage. It's never been the case that every single person was a passionate follower of Jesus Christ, but the US definitely has solid, undeniable Christian roots that has influenced the country in ways many people don't even realize. That spiritual heritage is under attack, and frequently anti-Christian voices are the loudest in the public sphere. Let's pray for the church and the nation today in light of its spiritual heritage.

My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, thank You for the heritage of the USA. Thank You for those founding fathers and mothers who came over to take on a grand experiment in religious liberty. It's worked, Lord, far beyond anyone's wildest dreams. And yet that very liberty has allowed for voices that would stifle the predominant religion in the land. We pray for You to give wisdom and guidance to Christians and churches to know how to respond to this heritage. We thank You for the challenges which remind us that we are first and foremost followers of Jesus and that our national heritage is very much secondary. And yet, Lord, we long to see Christians being bold and courageous, not cowering in the public realm. Please give us a fresh infusion of Your Holy Spirit, and revive our hearts to fully demonstrate You to the world in which You've placed us. In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayer for the United States of America: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Dec. 10

The power of influence.

In a nutshell, that's one of the most important things we can pray about for the US. Like it or not, in the political, military, business, economic, and entertainment spheres - to name just a few - US influence is significant. People may disagree with the US, and there are times the country stands alone - but generally, its influence is significant on the global scale.

Today, let's focus our prayers for the US on that influence. Please review pages 861-872 and then lets' pray together.

My prayer for today: Lord, for reasons beyond our understanding You have allowed the USA to be an influential nation. Some of this influence has been for good, righteous, just reasons; much of it has been negative. We pray for the influence of the US on the world to be for purposes that focus on teh things of heaven, not the things of earth. We pray for our churches to pray and lead by actions that demonstrate our primary citizenship in heaven, and we pray for more Christians who have an interconnectedness with Your people throughout the world to be placed in positions of influence within the USA so that we can increase influence in the world in a way that is productive for the Gospel. Thank You for this gift of influence. We do not take it lightly. May we use it responsibly and well. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Prayer for the United States of America: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Dec. 9

How can we reach all the unreached nations of the world?

If I go as a missionary, I reach one people group, two or three at the most, and only a few people.

If my church adopts a people group we might penetrate deeply into one group.

But what if we can impact unreached people groups HERE, from the USA? I'm not talking about just financially supporting those going to the least-reached (though I strongly advocate that) ... I'm talking about personal involvement.

What if we can do it by just opening our homes and our lives?

If you live in or near a college town, you probably have that opportunity. 60% of international students studying in the US are from the 10/40 window. Many of these are from unreached people groups - even unengaged people groups. 25% of their countries prohibit missionaries. Amazingly, 40% of current world leaders studied in the US at some point - and the State Department estimates 25% of future leaders are currently studying here.

Think campus ministries are reaching them? Think again. Only 10% are touched by campus ministries - and a number of those are already believers. Furthermore, 80% of international students will return home having NEVER visited an American home.

When you add in other international visitors to the US - whether for tourism, asylum, or immigration -  the numbers only increase. We can make a difference. We certainly need to give more to reach the unreached - currently only 0.5% of offerings go to those ministries - but our churches have an amazing opportunity for personal involvement as well.

Today, let's pray for the unreached within the borders of the US, as well as for the church to grasp the bigger picture of missions and align its giving accordingly.
 (Sources: www.cafe1040.com, personal conversation with international student minister)

 My prayer for today: Oh Lord God, you are so creative. Though we haven't gone to the extent You commanded, to the ends of the earth, You have brought the ends of the earth to us. Lord Jesus, I pray for You to reveal this to Christians, individual believers as well as church leaders. We repent of any animosity or prejudice towards immigrants and instead see them for what they are - a harvest within our borders, and fellow brothers and sisters in Christ who can help with that harvest while they are here. We pray for You to show us how to minister to these precious ones, whether at universities or job sites or down the street. Fill us with Your love, give us the heart to open our homes, and enable us to have discerning hearts to know those who are seeking You. Help us love them all, and guide each one to the next step of discovering You. But for those who are ripe for the Gospel, teach us how to share it effectively and give us welcoming, open churches to receive them. Make our churches look like the throne room, with people from every tribe, tongue, and nation. And shape those believers into missionaries with beautiful feet, carrying the Gospel back to their homelands and reaching the rest of the unreached world. Guide the church so we do not waste this opportunity. In the precious name of Jesus, amen. 

Prayer for the United States of America: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Dec. 8

As I shared yesterday, it's been hard to discern how to pray for my own country. Last night, though, God woke me up with a clear indication of our prayer focus for today: We need to pray for our country - overwhelmingly filled with those who claim Christianity as their faith - to WAKE UP.

It's Advent - the days of preparation before Christmas Day, when we celebrate Jesus' coming. I haven't been able to get the words to Casting Crowns' "While You Were Sleeping" out of my head. What will we miss while we're sleeping? Are we a nation with room for its King? Or will we wake up and follow Him to the ends of the earth?

Please watch this video today, and pray with me for my country, its churches, and all those who claim to be Christians to wake up and open the doors so the King of Glory may come in.

http://youtu.be/sMN04mLd5ag

Prayers for United States of America: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 7

For the next 5 days we are praying for my own nation, the United States of America. This is one of the hardest areas of the prayer journey for me personally to write about. It's so hard to communicate my heart when I'm this close to the situation - to strike the right balance of prophetic challenge, humility, and hope. For the reality is this: Just as we need Jesus no less than anyone else in the world, the Gospel's power is no less effective for the United States than it is for all the war-torn corners of the world we've visited. We're not better than the rest of the world - but we're not worse either. Hallelujah, the ground is level at the foot of the cross.

Please read pages 861-870 to get an overview of where we're going the next few days, then watch this video to get started in prayers for my country, the USA.

http://youtu.be/8eAK1Su3b9I

Prayers for United Kingdom: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 6

Today we wrap up our prayer focus for United Kingdom by making quick side trips to Wales and Scotland, both with rich Christian heritages. Please read pages 859-860 and then watch and pray with these videos which will teach you much about these areas of the U.K.

http://youtu.be/KRRoNvnZNIw   
http://youtu.be/LqrIhr6MJXs

Prayers for United Kingdom: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 5

Today we continue praying for the United Kingdom. Please review pages 850-860, focusing on p. 858-859 (Northern Ireland), then watch this video to focus our attention on Northern Ireland today.

http://youtu.be/runlHW4h_po

Prayers for United Kingdom: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 4

For the next three days we pray for a nation that has played an indescribable role in the development of the world as we know it. 100 years ago, it was said that the sun never set on the British Empire. While that empire has broken down into various independent nations, the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, plus the Isle of Man and Channel Islands) still plays an incredible role on the world stage. It's still a destination point for many immigrants in the world who wish to make a better life for themselves. And, it remains influential over millions of adherents in the Anglican community. Please read pages 850-860 to learn more about this influential nation, then watch the video below for specific prayers over England.

http://youtu.be/3DPn3SsbKAs

Prayers for United Arab Emirates: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - Dec. 3

Today we pray for a nation that is a crossroads for much of the Arab world to the rest of the world - with a large immigrant population that makes it a great touchpoint for the Gospel for hundreds of people groups. Please read pages 848-850 and join me in prayer today for United Arab Emirates.

My prayer for today: Oh Lord, You designed the world so creatively. You tell us that You determine the times and boundaries of people's lives so that they might seek You. You have determined in this time period that United Arab Emirates is a place millions pass through on their way to somewhere else. The religious freedom in this land is significant to provide an opportunity to reach those who are in UAE for a season. We thank You for the overwhelming response to the Gospel! Lord, we ask that You guide the church in UAE to meet the challenges of this response. We pray for spiritual hunger for the people of UAE and for fruitfulness from the ministries that are there, both old and new. Let UAE be a dynamic launching pad for the Gospel. In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayers for Ukraine: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 2

Today we continue to pray for Ukraine, the "Bible Belt" of the former Soviet regime. God is working mightily to give spiritual vision and growth in this land, called the Antioch of the Slavic world for its missions impact! Please review pages 844-847.

My prayer for today: Oh Lord, we thank You for raising up Ukraine to be a sending country. Thank You for calling the church there to love missions and to set a great tone for the rest of Europe. We pray, Lord, for the church in Ukraine to shine righteousness, justice, and compassion into the circumstances facing Ukraine. We pray for the traditional churches to be governed by spiritual life and truth, not by power-politics, and for unity to develop across all spiritual lines within the church. We pray against competition and for spiritual fervor and a working together that will greatly enhance the gospel message. We ask for a generous spirit on the church so that there can be less reliance on outside dollars. Lord, continue to work in Ukraine for Your glory, in Jesus' name, amen.

ADVENT Devotional begins December 2, 2012

Tomorrow begins Advent, a season of focus on the coming of Jesus. Observing Advent has transformed my Christmas season from one of craziness to one of JOY. Please join me and my church on our Advent Journey this year with the devotional below. Have a blessed Advent!

http://calvaryfayar.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Behold-He-Comes-Advent-Devotional-Single-Page-Format.pdf

Prayers for Ukraine: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - December 1

Welcome to the final leg of our year-long journey! We have one month remaining. What a blessing that God has given us the privilege of getting to know His world so much better this year. The changes in the world in the past few decades mean that the maps look quite different than most of us studied in school. One of the things God seems to be doing is breaking things down so the church can focus on those individual people groups. Few regions of the world have broken down more than the former Soviet Union. Today and tomorrow, we focus on one of the countries that used to be tucked under that monolithic nation but today exults in its own identity. Please read pages 844-847, then watch this video to learn about Ukraine.

http://youtu.be/MDbe8DOb12Y

Prayers for Uganda: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 30

Today we continue lifting up Uganda. Please review pages 840-843.

My prayer for today: Lord, we bring Uganda before You. We lift up those ravaged by AIDS and pray for the churches to have wisdom in ministering to the suffering. We pray for the children who have been so victimized by AIDS, the LRA, as well as poverty. We pray especially for the street children who are so vulnerable. Your Word says that those who cause the little ones to stumble would be better off to have a millstone around their necks - we pray for justice for these little ones. We pray for the church to be in unity for Your glory, and for a true, deep Christianity to take root, a Christianity that is a personal relationship instead of a cultural identity. Give the church wisdom in the face of other religions and help them to uphold the name of Jesus in truth and love. In His name we pray, amen. 

Praying for Uganda: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 29

Today and tomorrow we focus our prayers on Uganda. Uganda is much more than Idi Amin's former place of rule; please read pages 840-843, then watch this video to pray today (click "read more" for a great description and challenge).

http://youtu.be/obXA6KCzjXk

Prayer for Turks & Caicos Islands and for Tuvalu: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 28

Today we pray for two island nations - Turks & Caicos in the Caribbean, and Tuvalu in the Pacific. Please read pages 838-840.

My prayer for today: Lord, we thank You for the religious freedom and heritage of these island nations. For Turks and Caicos, We pray for a righteousness that lines up with their faith - for the churches to address the money laundering, licentiousness and drug trafficking by living holy and faithful lives without compromise. We pray for overflowing love for the Haitian immigrants and for wisdom to address social issues in a way that benefits the entire population. For Tuvalu, we pray for dynamic biblical renewal and a turning to You in a personal way of all who call themselves Christians. Help their faith be more than a checkbox, Lord, help it be real in every area of their lives. In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayers for Turkmenistan: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 27

In many ways, Turkmenistan exemplifies a "closed country" - heavy restrictions on churches, required registration that is rarely granted, near-complete closure to missionaries - and yet, we can be encouraged that as in the days of Acts, God's word is always "unhindered" (the last Greek word in Acts). There are no chains on the word of God. Please read pages 836-838, and let's pray today for Turkmenistan.

My prayer for today: Lord, we are grieved when we realize the oppression of the people of Turkmenistan. We know that You long to see them free in You. We pray, as Paul did, that the Word of God would go forth speedily into Turkmenistan and that it would be honored when people hear it. We pray for the message of truth to be unhindered. You promise, Lord, that Your Word never returns void; we pray a special anointing on any portions of Your word disseminated throughout Turkmenistan. Multiply the return dramatically so that many can come to know You. We pray for the leaders of Turkmenistan, at this changing time, to realize the need to govern rightly. We pray they will make wise decisions that will enable Christians to live quiet, peaceful lives that result in the spread of the Gospel. Pour out Your grace upon them, and set them free in Jesus' name.

Prayers for Turkey: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 26

Today we conclude our prayers for Turkey. Please review pages 830-835.

Many of the New Testament locations are in modern-day Turkey - including all of the 7 churches of Revelation - and yet as a whole the country has rejected these roots. The church only accounts for .005% of the total population, and it is increasingly persecuted. The church needs to be united and focused on Biblical truth in order to survive. Today, let's focus our prayers on the church in Turkey using the 7 churches of Revelation as a scriptural foundation.

My prayer for today: Lord, we lift up the church in Turkey to You today. As You taught us through John centuries ago, You walk among the churches. You hold their leaders in Your hand. You are always at work among them, observing, shaping, correcting, growing. We pray for the church in Turkey - and each individual congregation - to know this truth about You deeply. We pray for them to realize they follow You, the faithful witness, and that You lead them into all truth and through all trials. We pray for them to be an overcoming church, as these verses describe: that they will practice righteous deeds; reject evil; test all claims against truth; persevere for Your name without growing weary; love You and others; endure tribulation and poverty without compromise. Enable them to remain faithful to death; hold fast to Your name without denying You in word or deed; reject idolatry; reject immorality; and complete all the deeds You give them to do. Help them remain alive and strengthened for Your purposes; use what they has; keep Your word without denying Your name; hold firmly to what You give and walk through the doors You open. May the church in Turkey be useful to Your kingdom; recognize its needs; have a proven faith; and be characterized by righteous deeds. And Lord, please give them spiritual vision; and most of all, enable them to  focus on relationship with You and not merely religion. Help them overcome, Lord Jesus, by Your grace and for Your glory.

Prayers for Turkey: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 25

Today we continue to pray for Turkey. We are blessed with insights from one currently serving in that land. Please review pages 830-835 and then read his words and pray along with this servant of the Lord!

The Republic of Turkey is a quickly growing, and changing nation, and a regional power located right in the middle of Europe, Asia and the Middle East. It is a fairly young nation, not even a century old yet. After the defeat of The Ottoman Empire in World War I, the people were without leadership, and they were occupied by the Allies, with seemingly no hope of a comeback. But just a few years later, under the extraordinary leadership and vision of a man name Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, they succeeded in regaining their homeland, and establishing a republic. Not stopping at that victory he introduced many radical reforms  completely transforming the political, social, economic, legal, educational landscape of the nation, and effectively taking huge steps in modernizing the country.

Turkey is considered the largest unreached nation in the world. Although it technically has a secular government, Islam is the predominant religion, exceeding 99%. The number of Christian believers in the nation is around 5,000. At that percentage the number of believers in the state of Arkansas would only be around 200. If they were spread out evenly there would only be 2 believers in Fayetteville! Although there is freedom of religion in Turkey believers do endure much persecution, sometimes religious, and sometimes social. Accepting Jesus in Turkey many times means being disowned by your entire family. Just across the border in Iran, Jesus is encountering his people, and many many are being saved. Even among Iranians within Turkey revival is happening. It seems that among the Turks it's just not time yet, but as we pray we feel that Turkey's time is coming. There have been reports of the dead being raised, of the sick being healed, and we believe, we know this is only the beginning.

Islam may be a big stronghold, but it is not Turkey's only stronghold, after the long and ancient history of this land, there are literally idols buried in the ground beneath our feet. But this is the land of Abraham, this is the land where Paul lived, this is the land of the seven churches of revelation!

Please pray for persecuted believers, for the protection, comfort, and strength that only the Lord can give, and then they would be able to be a witness of his love to their brothers, sisters, parents, and spouses.

Please pray that the Lord would raise up workers for the harvest, equipping them, providing for them, and sending them out with fire and vision in their hearts and faith for the impossible.

Please pray specifically for the health of the workers who are here, for their spouses, and children, for protection and healing from all illness and disease.

Pray that God would release His presence, that He would come and work supernaturally in signs, wonders, and miracles, and just as importantly that He would work supernaturally in the hearts and minds of every believer and worker, giving them His character, His mind, and His will so that they will be able to display the life changing power of Christ.

Prayers for Turkey: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 24

For the next 3 days we will focus our prayers on Turkey, a unique country within the Muslim world. It has historically been a secular Muslim country. Recently, though, it has been moving toward more Islamic structures. Please read about this land on pages 830-835, then watch this video and join in prayer today.

http://youtu.be/f_T0tgW1CII

Prayer for Tunisia: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 23

Tunisia is known to most of the world as the place where the "Arab Spring" started in 2011. Unfortunately, the end result for Tunisia as in much of North Africa and the Middle East remains to be seen. A spiritual war is definitely being fought in the heavenlies. Praise God that we know Jesus is victor, but let's be faithful to pray for these battles. As we've noted before on this journey, Jesus' words that "the gates of hell will not prevail" against the forward march of the church -- but as we get closer, we definitely can feel the flames tossed by the enemy. Often the battles we see in the political and physical worlds are reflections of this underlying spiritual battle. Let's read pages 827-829 today, and join this believer in prayer for Tunisia's battle.

http://youtu.be/Zcea5WZUNGU

Prayer for Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 22

Today is American Thanksgiving Day, and it's a good day to pause on our journey and thank God for how far He's brought us. This journey hasn't always been easy and if you're like me, sometimes you've really felt the uphill journey. But today, let's lift up thanks to God for calling us to this journey, enabling us to get this far, and allowing us the privilege of learning about all these countries so we can rejoice around the throne when we see some people from each of these tribes, tongues, nations, and people groups worshipping Jesus!

Today's prayer focus is Tonga as well as Trinidad and Tobago. Trinidad is literally named after the "Trinity". Please read pages 823-826, then join this Trinidad believer in praying for her land.

http://youtu.be/XQkTII11ync

Praying for Togo: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 21

Today we pray for Togo, which has experienced rapid growth in Christianity in the past 20 years. Please read pages 820-822, then watch this video to pray with a Togolese believer today.

http://youtu.be/7NMqqy10MvU

Praying for TImor Leste (East Timor) - A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 20

One of only two Asian nations with a Catholic Majority, Timor Leste still bears the scars of its birth. Peace is so needed in this land located between Indonesia and Australia. Please read pages 817-819, then join me in prayer for Timor.

My prayer for today: Oh Lord, the people of Timor live in poverty while sitting on so many potential resources. What a terrible indictment of occupation by multiple nations. Lord, we praise You for Timor's freedom and pray that this nation will be able to move forward in peace and wisdom. We pray for a new infrastructure and transformation at all levels. We pray for true faith, not just as a reaction against the Islam of Indonesia but as a true new birth in the hearts of people. Bring about full evanglization for this nation and build it on the solid foundation of Your word. Give hope to the people of Timor. In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayers for Thailand: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 19

Today we continue to lift up Thailand. It's significant that 65% of ethnic Thai church members are first generation believers. As Operation World notes, this is one reason many church and mission leaders see Thailand as poised for a true breakthrough of church growth! The emerging indigenous leadership is another key element - a people will never be fully reached until its believers start reaching it for themselves! Let's review pages 812-817, then pray together for Thailand today.

My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, we thank You for the work You have been doing in Thailand and for the progress toward Thai believers taking responsibility for reaching their own people. We see the enemy trying hard to hold on to his territory, with AIDS and trafficking as well as the structures that support sin remaining in place. We come strongly against his efforts to keep the Thai people in bondage when You want to set them free. We pray for the church in Thailand to be united, to effectively collaborate on projects, and to hold high standards of prayer, Scripture reading, witness, and ministry. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying for Thailand: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 18

Thailand means 'land of the free', and yet so much of Thailand is in bondage to Buddhism and idolatry. Yet in the midst of this Buddhist land, the church is growing and poised for its greatest breakthrough of church growth. Please read pages 812-817, then let's watch this video and pray with this Thai believer for her land today.

http://youtu.be/BXSDnI-rUxw

Praying for Tanzania: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 17

Today we continue to pray for Tanzania. Please review pages 807-811.

My prayer for today: Lord, we pray for the church in Tanzania to refocus on Your Word. We praise You for their heart for worship and for culturally appropriate worship services, but we know that worship must be in Spirit AND in truth. We pray for truth to be restored to worship services. We pray for discipleship to regain a prominent place and with it, a renewal of the worldviews to line up with Scriptural principles. We praise You for the fruitfulness of the church in Tanzania, and pray that You will correct what needs correcting so that fruitfulness will continue. In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayers for Tanzania: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 16

Today and tomorrow we pray for Tanzania, a country described as an "island of peace" yet with widespread poverty and negative impacts from AIDS. Please read pages 807-811, then pray with this passionate believer for Tanzania.

http://youtu.be/qlCZp_afoLo

Prayers for Tajikistan: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 15

Today our prayer focus is on Tajikistan, one of the former Soviet republics in Central Asia. Please read pages 805-807.

My prayer for today: Oh Lord, like the church at Philadelphia, the Tajik church has "only a little strength", and yet who knows how powerful it truly is for Your kingdom purposes! We ask for open doors that no one can shut for the Tajik church. We pray they will continue to keep Your word and not deny Your name. We pray for You to fight against those who persecute them and reveal Your love for Your church to those who deny the truth. We pray the church will hold on to what it has, to gain victory and the crown that can never perish. We pray the Tajik church will be sensitive to every word You are saying through Your Holy Spirit. Amen, Lord Jesus, let it be.

Prayers for Syria: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 14

Over the course of this year's prayer journey, you've probably seen news out of Syria. It's one of the hot spots this year, and everyone seems to have an opinion about it! One of the joys of kingdom-centered prayer is that we don't have to have the solutions - we just get the privilege of bringing the problems before God and trusting that He is doing something on His kingdom calendar that we can't see.

Today, please read pages 802-804, then watch this video and pray for Syria. (The summary under the video also has some great information about the country.)

http://youtu.be/uoueXfbRCZE

Prayers for Switzerland: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 13

Switzerland, perhaps most famous in modern days for its neutrality, has a growing number of evangelical believers who are anything but neutral about the Gospel! While there is much need for prayer because secularism and false belief systems grow, there is also much to be encouraged about. Please read pages 799-803 and then watch this video to join in prayer for Switzerland. 700 years ago it made a covenant to be a country that fears and follows the Lord. Let's pray He restores them to the fullness of that covenant in this generation!

http://youtu.be/j6vrc9BegnU

Prayers for Sweden: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 12

Today we pray for Sweden, one of many European countries with a Christian background that now is considered "post-Christian" and has a high degree of secularization. Please read pages 795-798 and then watch this video to join in prayer for Sweden.

http://youtu.be/RB3CjM-mYVU

Prayer for Suriname and Swaziland: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 11

Today, our prayer journey takes us to Latin American and Africa! Please read pages 790-795, then let's focus our prayers on Swaziland with this video and insights from one serving that country. My prayer for Suriname follows the video.

Swaziland: 

HIV

There are 150.000 vulnerable children in the country and it is estimated that there were 120.000 AIDS orphans in 2010

HIV in pregnant women is about 43%.

Pray for the HIV situation, the country has a big challenge, because of the HIV, everyday the kingdom need to deal with orphans and widows.

CHURCH

Pray for truly understanding of the gospel, pray against syncretism.

The church mixed the worship of the ancestors with the gospel.

Swazi culture is very strong, and they are proud to be Swazis what is very good, but as a Christians they need to understand that Jesus is the only one to be worshiped.

Pray for the kingdom. The King Mswati III ascended the throne in 1986 at the age of 18.   

Pray for rural areas, many areas of Swaziland they have water problem, most of Swazi population lives in rural areas.

Polygamy is legal in the kingdom.

http://youtu.be/-0ygZZNAEIA

 

My prayer for Suriname:Lord we praise You for the unity movements and the progress among Amerindians. Your Word tells us that our unity demonstrates Your love, and we pray for that to happen among Suriname believers as they walk out the unity that You've given them as a gift. We pray for leadership and for new Biblical foundations. We pray for leaders who will follow Paul's example in laying a foundation that is made not of wood, hay, and stubble but instead gold, silver, and precious stones of Your Word and the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ! Minister to those leaders and guide them to stay close to You, in Jesus' name, amen.

Pray for South Sudan: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 10

Today we'll shift slightly from Operation World to pray for South Sudan, a country formed after the book's publication. A mission agency working in South Sudan has put together a great prayer focus. Please read the following and pray accordingly.

PEACE for South Sudan

by Nate Kidder
6 June 2012

Over the last several decades, peace in South Sudan has been a fleeting notion. It rests upon the landscape as tantalizing to observers as a mirage in the desert. In desperation, one crawls close enough to experience it only to find that it vanishes in the wind.

It becomes vital, therefore, when we speak of peace in South Sudan, to consider first the spiritual peace that comes from the Lord Jesus. John 14:27 can be a helpful roadmap for us as we move toward this goal.

The peace spoken of here is:

1. Indwelling. In conjunction with verse 26, we observe that this peace is left in the context of the Holy Spirit’s arrival. Being that “peace” is a fruit, or evidence, of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22), this is not surprising. This peace, promised by Jesus, is planted by the Spirit in the hearts of His followers.
2. Eternal. Jesus refers to it as “my peace” and, in so doing, connects it to eternity. This is not a peace that depends on physical circumstances. It is not a peace that derives existence from government policy or military strength. This peace, which has dwelt in all eternity, now touches the lives of His disciples.
3. A Gift. An explanation of the gift is given by Jesus in saying, “… my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives.” There is no mirage associated with this peace – no vanishing act. It is the eternal and indwelling provision of the Lord for people in desperate need.

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." -Jesus

 

Let us pray primarily for the South Sudanese that this peace from Jesus would spread (through evangelism), take root (through discipleship), and encourage (by consideration of the heavenly reward) those who continually experience physical peace as a mirage.
Concerning the pursuit of physical and government-determined peace, we can see how God has granted South Sudan a promising start. Since separation from Sudan in July 2011, there have been several important steps. We can continue to pray for the many challenges:

• Pray that both sides will agree upon an official border.
• Pray that there will be agreement upon revenue sharing, particularly regarding oil production.
• Pray that international pressure would be strongly considered and that descent into full-scale war would be continually rejected by both governments.
• Pray that infrastructure (roads, schools, hospitals, etc) would continue to develop under the umbrella of peace.

Prayer for Sudan: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 9

Today we continue to pray for Sudan. Please review pages 783-790.

My prayer for today: Lord, we thank You for the openness within Sudan and for the growth of Christianity. We thank You for Christians working in Darfur and for Sudanese Christians who are leading the way in church planting there and even for those from Darfur who fled and are encountering the Gospel elsewhere. We pray for the church in its persecution to be bold and authentic in its witness. We ask for the church to bear good witness and become spiritually strong. We pray for unity and sound teaching for church leaders. We ask that Your Word would go forth and prosper in Sudan.

Prayer for Sudan: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 8

For the next 3 days, we pray for Sudan. We'll focus today and tomorrow on the requests in Operation World for Sudan, and on the 10th we'll focus on South Sudan - which became a separate country after the publication of Operation World. Please read pages 783-790, then watch this video. (Note: It's a little hard to understand as he speaks quickly, but his passion is evident and its worth the effort to listen.)

http://youtu.be/hnsBa91LxHs

Prayer for St. Martin, St. Pierre and Miquelon, and St. Vincent: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 7

As with yesterday's focus, today we lift up some additional island nations. Please read pages 780-783.

My prayer for today: Lord, we lift up these nations to You, knowing that the islands belong to You and You seek to claim hearts on these lands for Your glory. For St. Martin, we pray for the Christians to live lives that are filled with peace and hope, and that non-believers will see the emptiness of their lifestyles and seek to find out the reason for the hope that is within the Christians. In St. Pierre and Miquelon, Lord, our hearts break that there are no evangelical or Protestant churches. We pray for renewal within the Catholic church and for people to find hope in a living relationship with You. For St. Vincent, Lord, we pray for spiritual fruitfulness. Fill believers with Your Spirit and teach them to walk in the Spirit and not the flesh, so that fruit abounds - bring about the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. We pray for the church to be biblically-based and Spirit-led. It's Your Church Lord. Walk among it and speak Your words of life to the church on St. Vincent. In Jesus' name, amen.

Prayer for St. Barthelemy, St. Helena, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 6

Today we touch down on several islands throughout the Caribbean, and one off the coast of Africa. Please read pages 775-779 and as you do, remember that even though we are just barely skimming these lands, each of these island peoples are uniquely recognizeable in great detail to the Father!

My prayer for today: Lord, we pray for these islands, islands that need You. We pray for St. Barthelemy's churches to have wisdom to minister meaningfully to the people of the island as well as the many tourists that come through. We pray for St. Helena's Christians to remain committed to You and for the church to experience renewal. We pray for the Anglican church specifically to receive a fresh wind of Your Spirit. For St. Kitts and Nevis, we ask for the Holy Spirit to empower and embolden believers for the Gospel. We pray for You to extend Your hand to give Christians the power to speak Your Word with great boldness. In St. Lucia, Lord, we pray that You would use Christians to bring about a spiritual and moral transformation of society. Show the churches where they are not following Biblical truths. Enable them to remember what they have received and heard, and keep it and repent. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying for Sri Lanka: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 5

As we continue to pray for Sri Lanka, please review pages 769-774.

My prayer for today: Lord Jesus, we thank You that so many Sri Lankans have experienced that You are rich in mercy, and have been made alive with You, receiving the riches of Your kindness and being created for good words. We ask that each Christian in Sri Lanka would remember this, remember that formerly they were separate from you and You brought them near by Your blood. We pray that You Yourself would be their peace, tearing down every dividing wall between Tamil and Sinhalese, Catholic and Protestant, mainline and evangelical, older Pentecostal and new neo-Pentecostal. We pray that the Sri Lankan church would be made into one new man, reconciled through the cross, sharing access in one Spirit to the Father. We pray that this unity would be a testimony to the rest of the country of Your love. Let Christians in Sri Lankan come to be known by their love for one another and for You. In Jesus' name, amen.

Praying for Sri Lanka: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 4

As we move forward in our prayer journey, we focus today and tomorrow on Sri Lanka. Please read pages 769-774.

My prayer for today: We praise You, Father, from whom every family on heaven and earth receives its name, for those You have predetermined to live in Sri Lanka during this time, and pray that They would seek You! We thank You that You have brought a measure of peace, safety, and stability to facilitate them seeking You, and that the anti-conversion bill has not yet become reality. We pray it will never do so; we ask that the Sri Lankan government would just allow Christians to live quiet and peaceful lives in godliness and dignity in an atmosphere that facilitates the spread of the Gospel. We pray for the leaders of Sri Lanka to have wisdom and rule in righteousness and justice. We pray for the justice system to reflect justice that rolls like water, righteousness like the waves of the sea! Reveal Yourself increasingly through the church in Sri Lanka.

Praying for Spain: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 3

Today we continue to pray for Spain. With so many unreached cities and some major potential blocs for outreach, the church in Spain needs great wisdom to proceed. Scripture assumes a missional church; let's pray today for the church in Spain to take up that challenge with wisdom and discernment!

My prayer for today: Lord, we pray for the church in Spain. We pray for You to raise up visionaries who, like Paul, discern Your specific call to those who are pleading for someone to "come and help". We pray that as the church goes, You would lead them to seekers who are ready to hear the Gospel. We pray that missionaries from the churches in Spain will have the chance to proclaim the Gospel to entire households, and that the church in Spain would be a continual source of prayer and encouragement for those who are going. We pray the church will see the need to support such people, who go out for the sake of the Name, and see themselves as fellow workers with the truth. In Jesus' name, amen. 

Prayer for Spain: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 2

Paul planned to visit Spain (Romans 15:24). We don't have a biblical record that tells us he ever had that opportunity, but in recent years a liberated Spain has seen significant evangelical growth. Please learn about this country on pages 764-769. Today and tomorrow we'll add our prayers to those Paul surely prayed centuries ago for this country!

My prayer for today: Lord, we rejoice in the liberty Spain has and in the growth of evangelicals through immigration. We thank You for the gospel Filadelphia movement among the gypsies and praise You that You have been very much at work in Spain in recent years. We pray for the church's role in meeting the deep needs of modern Spain. With so many areas of darkness accepted as normal, and the church often rejected as irrelevant, believers in Spain face an uphill battle. We pray for them to exemplify Christ in all they do, remaining above reproach and always being prepared to have an answer for the hope that is within them. We  pray, Lord, that people will ASK! Lord, we ask You to empower them through their faith to diligently pursue moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and above all, love. You make it clear Lord, that this diligent pursuit is a surefire path to being useful and fruitful to know You and make You known - and we pray that as the church in Spain follows this path, they will see many opportunities to do just that! We ask this in the precious name of Jesus, amen.

Praying for South Africa: A 365 Day Global Prayer Journey - November 1

Today we continue lift up South Africa. As we do I have a confession that I hope will be an encouragement. Despite committing to this journey for almost a year now, and praying daily for these countries and other needs ... and despite following the Lord for over 15 years now ... and despite having prayed earnestly for Bible-saturated prayers and practicing in many areas of my prayer life ... I have forgotten to apply that principle here as a general rule. I know I've included Scripture and prayed ways that are consistent with Scripture - but my heart is for my words to fall to the ground and His words to remain. I am passionate about studying His word and internalizing it, and so want His words to drip from my tongue in prayer! Yet much of the time I haven't applied that here. Only today, as I write this week's blog posts, have I realized my oversight! So what's the encouragement? Simply this: God doesn't leave us hanging when we forget lessons He's taught us. He's faithful to bring us back to the things He's trying to get through our (often thick) skulls!

Please review South Africa on pages 757-763, and let's ask God to guide our prayers together!

My prayer for today: Lord, we praise You for the miracle of change in South Africa. Thank You for abolishing apartheid and strengthening the church through prayer. Thank you for the ministries in the country and the stable government. Lord, our biggest prayer today is for the Gospel to be manifest in every way throughout society. Let the Church live out the truth that Your grace has come, bringing salvation and transformation. We pray for Christian leaders to model, and Christians to follow, an example of denying ungodliness and worldly desires as they live sensible, righteous, and godly lives within their spheres of influence. Give them a hunger to look toward Your sure return and to see themselves as You see them - a redeemed people, being purified for Your own possession. Make them zealous for good deeds! In Jesus' name, amen.