Thursday, May 25, 2006

Christian Group Calls for Prayer for Iran

PrayForIran.org:
In response to the current crisis surrounding Iran, over 120 Iranian church leaders have pledged to 40 days of prayer and fasting for the salvation of Iran. The campaign began on Ascension Day, May 25, 2006 - the day the Lord Jesus asked His disciples to wait for God’s visitation. Participants will fast for different lengths of time and at different periods during the 40 days. READ MORE

Iranian Christians have issued a call to the global Church to join in praying for the strategic country of Iran. Together they are working to see that millions of Christians around the world will join this campaign. Many church leaders and prayer groups around the world have already begun to put their weight behind this campaign. Why Pray and Fast for Iran?

Because critical times demand dramatic action.

Iran has long played a leading role in the Islamic world. These days it is at the centre of a global crisis that could easily lead to war, deep political turmoil and economic chaos. We need to fall on our knees and pray that God, in His mercy, will intervene.

Also, the small but rapidly growing Iranian church is on the brink of unprecedented growth. Despite the prospect of persecution, men and women, young and old are putting their faith in Jesus Christ – many as a result of dreams and visions. We need to thank God for the open hearts and we want to cry out for a great revival. A strong church in Iran will impact the entire region.

What Are We Praying For?

For the persecuted Church in Iran – The Church has experienced severe persecution and restrictions since the 1979 revolution. In the last year, this intimidation of Christians has intensified. We will pray for protection, wisdom and boldness for our brothers and sisters in Iran.

For Revival in Iran – Most of Iran’s 70 million people have never had the opportunity to hear the Gospel. We want to pray that every Iranian will hear and understand the Gospel and that millions will repent and be saved.

For God to intervene in the political situation – We will pray that God will give Iran righteous and humble leaders who will act justly and love mercy.
How This Campaign Will Work

This prayer campaign has not been a long time in planning. It was first discussed on April 21, 2006. Because it is important, the idea has gathered pace. Because it is urgent, we cannot wait.

As a result of the time constraints, this will be a simple site – but it will provide you with all the information and prayer requests you need to be able to intercede.

From May 25 there will be daily prayer requests posted on this website. There will be three main requests each day covering (a) the church in Iran; (b) the people of Iran; (c) the political situation. You can choose to receive these prayer requests each day via email by subscribing. Your name and address will not be given out to anyone.

On the website every day will be a slide show with images from Iran accompanied by some Persian worship music. This is there to help you pray for five minutes or more every day.

And Finally

How we pray is important. We encourage you to pray with faith and love for the people of Iran, not with fear and prejudice. Let the Lord show you how much He loves and cares for the people of Iran, just as He loved and cared for the people of Nineveh as in the story of Jonah.

Secondly, please focus your prayers on the people of Iran – that they would come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Don’t concentrate only on the political situation.

Thank you so much for being a part of this campaign.