International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church

International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church 13 November 2011

Today, Christian believers all over the world will be setting aside time to intercede on behalf of our Brothers and Sisters who are facing persecution for their faith.   The goal of this global concert of prayer is to increase awareness of the opposition and violence Christians are enduring worldwide, stand in the gap for these courageous men and women, and call the Church to action on their behalf.   "We believe prayer changes things," the sponsors of this event say.  "Exactly what happens is a mystery of faith.  God invites us to present to Him our requests and to pray without ceasing.  The most we can do is the least we can do - pray. " For more information on this important call to prayer, go to www.persecutedchurch.org.

PRAY FOR: those Christians who are being discriminated against, verbally and physically abused, detained, arrested, tortured, and even killed because they choose to serve the Lord Jesus Christ.  (The Bible, I Peter 4:13,14) these Brothers and Sisters to remain strong in the faith, boldly sharing the Gospel.  Pray for the Lord to use them as light and salt to oppressive authorities, guards, and fellow prisoners.  (The Bible, Matthew 5:13,14) families who have lost loved ones and seen family members attacked, imprisoned and murdered.  Ask the Lord to comfort and strengthen them, and help them remain faithful to Him.  (The Bible, II Corinthians 1:3,4) Christian Believers who are alone - in prisons, in secret jails, and in dungeon-like situations.  Pray for the Lord to draw near to them and make His presence known.  (The Bible, Hebrews 10:22) leaders and governments in nations of the 10/40 Window where this mistreatment takes place.  Pray for the Lord to soften and change their hearts - transforming them from "Sauls" to "Pauls."  (The Bible, Colossians 1:13) the Kingdom of God to come in great power and glory to every dark corner, bringing an end to the violence and hatred Christians are enduring.  (The Bible, I Corinthians 4:20)