Bedouin, Laguat of Algeria

Bedouin, Laguat of Algeria Bedouin society is organized according to a series of overlapping kin groups. The family is the smallest unit, followed by the clan, then the tribe. In the past, it was shameful for a Bedouin to accept a wage-paying job. Today, however, many have been forced by economic circumstances into full or part-time employment. To endure the extreme heat of the desert, the Bedouin wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. It is very loose-fitting, allowing for the circulation of air and freedom of movement. While most Bedouin are Sunni Muslims there is still a basic belief in spirits known as jinnis. Ministry Obstacles There is always spiritual opposition when Jesus Christ is presented to people. Pray for workers to be prepared for this. Outreach Ideas There are a number of resources available in the language of the Algerian Bedouin, Gospel recordings and videos included. Pray for workers to take these resources to the people. Pray for the followers of Christ There are no known Christian believers among the Laguat Bedouin, but pray that even now God will be preparing their hearts. Pray they will be open and accepting of God's messengers when they come. Pray for the entire people group Pray for adequate rainfall to support the livestock of the Bedouin, and, as needed, for employment opportunities. Scripture Focus "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, 'Your God reigns!'" Isaiah 52:7		People Name: Bedouin, Laguat Country: Algeria 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 75,000 World Population: 75,000 Language: Arabic, Algerian Spoken Primary Religion: Islam Bible: New Testament Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: Yes Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1

GPN - 13/02/2015

13/02/2015

Dear Dave and church,

'God can turn winds of adversity into showers of blessing.' (Genesis 50:20)

Until tomorrow we have '4 days of Fasting & Prayer' with all The Blessing Churches. We believe and pray for breakthroughs for those who are in need and all who seek Him for an answer. Pray also for the pastors and for the ministry of the Johan Maasbach World Mission Foundation.

Tomorrow we will have the closing service of our '4 days of Fasting & Prayer' at the Immanuel Church in Utrecht. You are welcome to join us in prayer from 14.00 - 16.00 h. Do you have a need for yourself or someone close to you? E-mail us, so we can pray together for a miracle. 

Urgent: Pray for a miracle of healing for my daughter Shakira who has bonecancer and metastases in her body. According to the doctors he has only six months to live. Pray also for the evangelical tracts that we have spread at the hospital. Mrs. H.R.

Urgent: Pray for Mr. M.T. who has a severe metastatic cancer in the intestine and liver. Pray that God will do a miracle, but above all that he will come to repentance. Mr. G.d.H.

Pray for Bill, because he may have stomach cancer. He and his family are very scared. There was a lot of fluid in his stomach. Pray for God's healing. Ms. Vicky

Pray for God’s blessing, anointing and guidance during the mission trip to the USA from February 18th until March 3rd for John T.L. Maasbach and the MAP Band.

I need deliverance from watching junk on the internet. I want to repent and live a holy life. Please pray for me. Mr. F.R.

Pray for healing, comfort and new strength for Mrs. B. (94) She is cold and has recently lost her two sons. She has fallen and is now recovering from two broken ribs.

South Sudan: Please pray for God's provision, so I can pay the school fees for my children. Although we do not know how God is going to help us in paying them, yet we trust in Him. He will help us to go through, as He did in the past years. Evangelist K.F.

Pray for healing of chronic pneumonia for Mrs. E. Also for repentance and deliverance for her mother in law from witchcraft.

Pray for a breakthrough for my business with eBay in this really hard time. Pray that Mr. J.G. sr. will get the job that he applied for today and that Mr. J.G. jr. would get off drugs and go to a rehab center. Also agree in prayer for healing from God for the stomach of A.H. Mrs. D.G.

Pray for all preparations of All Kids 1st for the kids program this upcoming Easter. And for yourself, that God will put someone on your mind to invite to your church this Easter.

Mrs. G.B. asks us to pray for healing of her mom from pneumonia, COPD and arthrosis. For herself, for deliverance from a depression. She has a desire that her sons will live closer to her. And for an open door to help in her church.

Central Asia: Pray for Christians who are experiencing difficulties because of their faith, for God's protection and wisdom. Pray for Baurzhan, Nurzhamal and their families. They are afraid and tense for the possible consequences of a search of the secret service who had found a Bible with them. Pray for Sergey and his family. He is indicted for his involvement in the illegal distribution of religious literature and materials. The proof are several books and CDs with Christian content that were found in a house search. Open Doors

Mrs. v.K. (42) asks us to pray for deliverance from sleeping problems.

Pray for all those who want to follow Jesus and will be baptized at the Baptismal Service on Sunday March 22nd in The Hague. That God will bless them and keep them on His path, so they can be used in God's Kingdom.

Pray for the conversion of my son D. (32), who is an atheist. And for a partner for my daughter G.M. (40). Mrs. E.

Malawi: Pray for the land of our ministry, which we purchased on 2007. We have built a church and have plans to build a clinic and resthouse, grow maize meal, etc. Unfortunately, other people sold another part of the land illegally and some people have already erected some infrastructures. We really need God's intervention. Pray for the ministry of Aid for Trade and Savings Loan Association. Bishop T.C.

Continue to pray for Mr. L.D., for deliverance from insomnia, anxiety, restlessness and confused feelings.

Pray for open doors and open hearts during outreaches from various The Blessing Churches. Pray for each tract that will be spread, that people will accept the Lord and attend church.

PRAYER HELPS: He has answered our prayers, because I can move to a new home. Thank God that I can move on in peace and that I can close this chapter in my life. Pray that everything will go smooth, for enough help from people and the necessary finances. Ms. C.M.
NEW, MODERN AND SUPER FAST!
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Gilaki of Iran

Gilaki of Iran The Gilaki are one of the Caspian peoples, inhabiting the southern coastal region of the Caspian Sea. The inhabitants of Gilan province have often been the source of resistance and reform movements within Iran. For example, after World War I, the Gilaki demanded national reform and independence for their region. The Apostle Bartholomew may have spent time evangelizing in this area of the world around 50 A.D. Although Christianity was once a strong presence here, now it is extremely weak. Today, the Gilaki are virtually all Muslim. Ministry Obstacles Iran is hostile to any kind of overt Christian evangelistic effort. Outreach Ideas Scripture portions are available in the Gilaki language, as are other resources such as the Jesus film. But workers are needed to take these to the people. Creative means of access will be necessary to do this. Pray for the followers of Christ There may very well be no followers of Jesus among the Gilaki people today. If there are some, they need prayer support. Also, pray for those the Lord will soon draw to himself. Pray that scripture and other teaching resources will become available to them. Pray for the entire people group Pray the Gilaki people will increasingly hunger to know forgiveness for their sin, forgiveness that only Jesus Christ can offer. Pray they will not be satisfied with a religion that offers no forgiveness for sin and no power for living. Scripture Focus "Let the peoples praise You, O God; Let all the peoples praise You." Psalm 67:3		People Name: Gilaki Country: Iran 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 4,112,000 World Population: 4,112,000 Language: Gilaki Primary Religion: Islam Bible: Portions Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: Yes Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1

Kaseng of Laos

Kaseng of Laos Between the first and sixth centuries AD, the area inhabited by the Kaseng was a center of the Mon-Khmer Funan Kingdom, and then part of the Chenla Kingdom (sixth to eighth centuries). Many ruins remain today from that golden area of the Khmer civilization. The Kaseng today are animists. They have never embraced Buddhism. The Kaseng believe spirits can destroy crops, bring sickness and epidemics, and can disguise themselves as people or animals. A host of different deities and spirits are appeased, in order to bring peace and prosperity to their community. Ministry Obstacles Laos does not provide easy access to Christian workers coming from outside the country. The Kaseng are such a small group they may be difficult to find. Outreach Ideas Two Gospel recordings exist in their language. Pray for the vision of nearby believers to use these tools to bring them the gospel. Pray for the followers of Christ There are likely no followers of Jesus Christ in this tribe today, but pray that hearts will even now be prepared to receive the Gospel and its messengers. Pray for the entire people group Ask the Lord to protect the Kaseng from the control of evil spiritual influences. Pray for freedom for them to understand and believe the Gospel when it comes. Scripture Focus "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, 'Your God reigns!'" Isaiah 52:7		People Name: Kaseng Country: Laos 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 1,500 World Population: 1,500 Language: Kasseng Primary Religion: Ethnic Religions Bible: None Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: No Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1

Tatar, Chulym of Russia

Tatar, Chulym of Russia The core part of the Chulym Tatars is descended from the Khants and/or Kets, and was probably influenced from the 6th century on by the Altai and Uighur tribes. In the late 16th century, the Chulym Tatars began to pay tribute to the Tsar in Moscow. In 1621 the fortified settlement of Melotsk was founded on their land and, secured by military footholds; some peasants from European Russia were settled in Siberia. Tribe by tribe, the natives were subjugated by the Russians, although with the Chulym the struggle went on through the whole of the 17th century. In 1720 the Chulym Tatars were forcibly Christianized. Ministry Obstacles The Chulym have probably been somewhat inoculated from a true faith in Christ because of their previous forcible conversion to Christianity. Outreach Ideas Perhaps workers can help the Chulym improve their situation of lack of health care and safe drinking water while pointing them to the Giver of Life. Pray for the followers of Christ There probably are no followers of Jesus among the Chulym people, but pray for those who will soon come to Christ as Savior and Lord. Pray they will not mix animistic beliefs with the purity of the Gospel. Pray for the entire people group Pray this small tribe living in a harsh land will be able to support their families adequately and will have improved medical care. Scripture Focus "And those who lead many to righteousness [will shine] like the stars for ever and ever." Daniel 12:3		People Name: Tatar, Chulym Country: Russia 10/40 Window: No Population: 400 World Population: 400 Language: Chulym Primary Religion: Ethnic Religions Bible: None Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: No Audio Recordings: No Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1

Aimaq, Char of Afghanistan

Aimaq, Char of Afghanistan The Char Aimaq were first known as the chahar (four) Eimaks (Mongolian for tribes), a designation recognizing its make-up of four major tribes: Taimani, Firozkohi, Timuri and Jamshidi. Never politically united, tribal alliances joined for protection against invaders. Aimaq are known as formidable warriors. Once nomadic peoples, they were forced by cycles of severe drought and war into semi-nomadic lives, traveling seasonally to graze decimated herds and/or subsisting as sedentary farmers and carpet weavers in mud-brick villages. Aimaq tribal customs remain stronger than Afghan nationalism, due in part to long-enjoyed independence and geographical distance from the central government in Kabul. Ministry Obstacles Afghanistan remains a dangerous place, especially for any kind of Christian witness. Outreach Ideas Pray that community leaders among the Aimaq Char may encounter Jesus in dreams and visions and that God will send workers who will tell them of the One they encountered. Pray for the followers of Christ If there are any Christian believers among the Char Aimaq they are quite few in number. They need prayer support for protection and to help them become firmly established in the mercy and grace of Jesus Christ. Pray the Lord will encourage them and sustain them. Pray for the new believers the Lord will soon call to himself. Pray for the entire people group Pray for peace in Afghanistan. Pray for stability, and for the government to become strong enough to maintain order. Scripture Focus "that all the peoples of the earth may know that the Lord is God; there is no one else." 1 Kings 8:60		People Name: Aimaq, Char Country: Afghanistan 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 299,000 World Population: 299,000 Language: Aimaq Primary Religion: Islam Bible: None Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: No Audio Recordings: No Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1

Crisis Escalates for Cyclone Victims in India

Crisis Escalates for Cyclone Victims in India

October 30, 2013

Thousands of coastal homes were seriously damaged or destroyed by Cyclone Phailin in mid-October. Cleanup efforts are underway, but rebuilding will take time and many families have no place to go.

Several ministries in eastern India assisted by Christian Aid report staggering needs as they seek to help victims of Cyclone Phailin. The situation has become critical for hundreds of thousands who remain homeless and destitute.
Two weeks after the superstorm washed away homes and destroyed crops, misery continues for residents of coastal areas in the most severely affected states of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. Conditions worsened over the weekend when another storm dropped three days of heavy rain on districts still reeling from the devastation of Phailin.
One ministry leader in Andhra Pradesh described the plight of the people as “pitiable” and appealed for an immediate response to the disaster:

“I have received call after call from pastors, missionaries, and evangelists that the rains have been unprecedented [compared to anything we have experienced] the past 30 years. Bridges have been cut off and washed away. More than 80 villages in Prakasam district have been marooned and lost communications with the outside world. Rice, soybeans, cotton, corn and a few other crops due to be harvested are ruined. Over 95,000 acres of agricultural produce has been devastated and the farmers who are new believers are crying out for help.”
“A good number of our missionaries have lost all their belongings in Karimnagar, Nalgonda and Warangal districts. They have no food, clothing, shelter, medical help, cell phones, or transportation. Literally everything has been lost in the floods and severe rains. The government’s help is not reaching Christian brothers and sisters because other groups are given priority, having the contacts and the favor of the political leaders who are from a majority religious community. It is now our responsibility to meet the critical needs of our people who are in VERY DESPERATE NEED OF HELP.”

The Category 4 cyclone affected an estimated 20 million people in India. Loss of life was minimal, however, as the government ordered the evacuation of nearly one million residents in anticipation of the storm.
As floodwaters receded, families left inland shelters and returned to find their homes and entire villages wrecked with little to salvage. Recovery efforts and restoration of electricity have been slowed by miles of washed out roads.
Recent torrential rain added insult to injury when structures partially damaged by the cyclone became inundated a second time. Impoverished Christian families living in the Nalgonda district lost their thatch huts and have nowhere to go.

With little to eat for days, this group of women enjoyed the lunch provided by a Christian Aid-assisted ministry.

In Odisha, some 12 million people were impacted and 17 out of 30 districts sustained serious damage in the aftermath of Phailin. One of our ministry partners has targeted 30 of the hardest hit villages near Gopalpur for emergency relief. Much-needed items include food, medicine, clothing, blankets, plastic sheeting to make temporary shelters, kerosene oil, and matches.
Food packages are being assembled that include 5 kilograms of rice, 1 kilogram of lentils, 1 kilogram of cooking oil, curry powder, and salt packets.
Because of poor sanitation and polluted drinking water, the Odisha ministry leader expressed concern over potential outbreaks of disease. Water purification tablets are also among their most pressing needs.
“Urgently we need resources and emergency materials for the vast number of victims awaiting aid,” he said. “The disaster response work by the government and other organizations needs more outside partners to work together to address the severity of this ongoing calamity. We need to unite to restore the living conditions of the people, before conditions become further aggravated.”
Local believers who lost everything in the cyclone and latest flood event need our prayers and financial assistance to rebuild their lives. The cost to provide food, water, and other essentials for one family for a week ranges in price from $50 to $100. Christian Aid has already sent $10,000 to assist ministries in India in their disaster relief efforts, but much more is needed during this critical recovery phase.

Use the form below to contribute online to help cyclone victims in India. Or call 434-977-5650 to contribute by phone. If you prefer to mail your gift, please mail to Christian Aid, P.O. Box 9037, Charlottesville, VA 22906. Please use Gift Code: 600 DIS. Thank you!

Pray for Persecuted Believers Around the World

China	Colombia	Egypt	Kazakhstan	Laos	Nigeria	Pakistan

Pray for Persecuted Believers Around the World

Christian Aid Mission is asking believers to pray for our brothers and sisters around the globe who face harassment, imprisonment, and even death because of their faith in Jesus Christ.
While persecution is an ongoing reality in many parts of the world, the problem has received greater attention this year from secular media who reported malicious attacks on Christians in places like Egypt, Pakistan, and Nigeria.
The International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church is designated for Sunday, November 3. The annual initiative encourages Christians to set aside time to remember and pray for fellow believers who endure great adversity for the sake of the gospel.
Indigenous ministries assisted by Christian Aid Mission work on the frontlines in many of these difficult and dangerous areas. Some of their missionaries have been directly impacted by acts of violence and, in some instances, gave the ultimate sacrifice so that they may “finish [their] race with joy, and the ministry which [they] received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20: 24b, NKJV).
Click on the country links below the map for seven stories of persecution and a list of prayer needs. These examples reveal some of the challenges our ministry partners, their missionaries, and local believers confront as they faithfully follow the Lord Jesus and seek to fulfill the Great Commission to the ends of the earth.

Druze of Syria

Druze of Syria "Druze" is a word derived from el-Drzi, the name of one of the early propagandists of the Druze religion. The religion of the Druze began in the 9th century AD, as a sect of Islam. Druze hold the Qur'an to be sacred, but look upon it as an outer shell, holding an "inner, esoteric meaning". They can be found in Israel, Lebanon, and Syria, and follow a lifestyle of isolation. Ministry Obstacles The Druze see Jesus as a major prophet, but not the Son of God. Also, their life of isolation makes them resistant to outside influences. Outreach Ideas Christian Arabs may have special rapport with the Druze. Perhaps the Lord will grant a burden for the Druze to some Middle Eastern Christian Arabs, and also to Messianic Jews in Israel. Pray for the followers of Christ Pray for the few believers among the Druze, that the Lord may strengthen them out of his glorious riches so that Christ may dwell in their hearts through faith. Pray these believers will fellowship together, and grow as the body of Christ. Pray for the entire people group Pray each individual in the Druze community will soon become persuaded that Jesus is truly the Son of God, and will place their faith in his finished work on the cross. Pray for multiplying disciples among the Druze. Scripture Focus "All nations you have made will come and worship before you, O Lord, they will bring glory to your name." Psalm 86:9		People Name: Druze Country: Syria 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 482,000 World Population: 868,000 Language: Arabic, North Levantine Spoken Primary Religion: Other / Small Bible: Portions Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: No Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1

GPN 04-30-2013

GPN 04-30-2013

‘You can preach a better sermon with your life than with your lips.’ (1 Timothy 4:7) Pray this week that God’s presence will be seen in our life. Marga Hooglugt – GPN Please pray for the healing of my mother (85). She has a lump in her breast and the doctor recommends surgery. Mrs. J.M. Please pray for a breakthrough of God for a new visa at the embassy for Mr. and Mrs. R. They want to work in an orphanage. Our family is being attacked by disease. My grandmother has cancer in her head. My mother has problems with her kidneys and pain in her abdomen. My brother has pain in his chest. And I am being attacked spiritually. Please pray that God will heal and deliver us. Mrs. D.d.R. Burma: Persecution is increasing in Burma as more people turn to Jesus Christ. Buddhists who convert to Christianity have difficulty keeping jobs and are often driven from their homes. Two families lost their jobs and homes after coming to faith in Christ last July. One family is living in a hut used for secret worship services, while the other is living in a hut where fish feed is stored. Pray that God will grant grace and strength to believers in Burma. Please pray for my health. I have headache due to tension, sadness and my sleep is disturbed by dreams. Mr. J.M.C. Maldives: Pray for weekly radio broadcasts that bring the gospel to this very closed archipelago nation. Radio programs are one of the best ways to reach Maldivians. Kazakhstan: Seven members of a small Baptist church in Ayagoz, East Kazakhstan Province, were fined recently for holding unregistered religious services. Police raided the group’s prayer service on April 4th, and all seven were fined the equivalent of nearly two months’ average wages. Two of those fined were grandmothers in their late 70s. Although appeals for dismissal of the fines were unsuccessful, media attention has helped the case of another Baptist, Vyacheslav Cherkasov. The court has overturned a previous decision to destroy Bibles that were confiscated from Cherkasov. Under Kazakhstan’s legal code, both ‘Leadership of an unregistered or banned social or religious organization’ and ‘missionary activity without registration’ are illegal. Please pray for a miracle, that my lost wallet, drivers licence and wedding ring will be found or dropped at the police station. Mr. P.M. Mrs. S.V. (78) asks our prayer for God's healing. She has abdominal pain and blood loss. Nepal: Pastor Chedar Nhote Lhomi was arrested and imprisoned after local people accused him of killing a cow. Before his arrest, the local people destroyed his family’s home and possessions. Pastor Lhomi, a husband and father of three young children, has also been accused of spreading the gospel and making Hindus eat beef. He is now facing a prison sentence of 12 years. Help us pray for achieve of Pastor Lhomi’s release from prison and for help for his family. He will not be allowed to receive Christian visitors while in prison. Pastor Lhomi has been working in ministry since 2003 and leads an established church that meets regularly. VOM Contact I am very glad that you always pray for me and for my disabled parents. I hope for more miracles. Pray for healing of my inflamed skin. Ms. R.H. Would you pray for and like to listen to uplifting Christian music? Tune in at MAASBACHRADIO.COM

Marga Hooglugt
Global Prayer Network

Gujar, Muslim of Pakistan

Gujar, Muslim of Pakistan The Gujur are located in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and several states in northeastern India. In addition, the Gujarat district of western India is named after the historic Gujur peoples. Ever since their conversion to Islam in the eleventh century, the Gujur have been bound by a life of poverty, illiteracy, and social oppression. In general, they are a simple, inoffensive people with a generous, hospitable nature. Ministry Obstacles To accept the Christian Gospel means to disturb established ways of living and relating within the community. Outreach Ideas Workers are needed to carry the Gospel message to this community, using means such as films, recordings and stories from Scripture. Pray for the followers of Christ There are few Christian believers among the Gujuri community, but pray for the beginnings of the church, followers of Jesus. Pray they will honor Jesus with their lives, and become mature disciples. Pray for the entire people group Pray the Gujuri community may be able to improve their standard of living, and have good schools available for their children. Scripture Focus "Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples. For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised." 1 Chronicles 16:24-25		People Name: Gujar, Muslim Country: Pakistan 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 4,263,000 World Population: 4,732,000 Language: Panjabi, Western Primary Religion: Islam Bible: New Testament Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: Yes Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1

Ghao-Xong, Western, Red Meo of China

Ghao-Xong, Western, Red Meo of China The Ghao-Xong worship Pan Hu, the dragon-dog they claim as the forefather of their race. Today, the majority of Ghao-Xong have never heard the Gospel. The virtually inaccessible mountains where the provinces of Hunan, Sichuan, and Guizhou meet were the site of countless wars involving the Ghao-Xong. It took the Chinese 18 years (1855-1872) to crush one rebellion. Ministry Obstacles Lack of knowledge of the Gospel of Christ stands as a great barrier to acceptance. They live in an area that is difficult to enter. Outreach Ideas Chinese believers may be able to enter the region of the Ghao-Xong, and carry the Gospel to them. Pray for the followers of Christ Pray for the Christian believers among the Ghao-Xong, that they will clearly understand the basis of their relationship with Christ, that it is based upon faith in the finished work of Christ. Pray for the entire people group Pray for the Ghao-Xong community, that they will be able to live in peace and security, and be able to provide adequately for their families. Scripture Focus "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, 'Your God reigns!'" Isaiah 52:7		People Name: Ghao-Xong, Western, Red Meo Country: China 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 1,300,000 World Population: 1,524,000 Language: Miao, Western Xiangxi Primary Religion: Ethnic Religions Bible: None Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: No Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.2

How Long?

Apr 25 2013

“The Lord said to Moses, ‘How long will these people treat me with contempt? How long will they refuse to believe in me, in spite of all the signs I have performed among them?’” – Numbers 14:11

*Drawing by a former North Korean prisoner, depicting North Korean prisoners eating plants in a labor camp.

Imagine yourself a Christian living in North Korea, a land that is barren... a land that is silent. You have no church, no freedom to share your faith, no Bible, and no contact with other Christians. You are alone. 

We can only imagine that Christians in North Korea today are echoing these exact words found in Numbers, but instead of God crying to Moses, they are crying to God! “How Long?” In our perspective, Christians in North Korea have been suffering for long enough. But they are not without hope. In the book of Isaiah God tells us through His Word some of His plans and promises for His people, including His people in North Korea.

How Long?

Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, was once called the Jerusalem of the East. Beginning on January 14, 1907, when a group of Korean Christians and Western missionaries met in Pyongyang for a Bible study …God began to move. Realizing their sin, and the need for Jesus, the group fell on their knees in repentance. In that instant a revival began that lasted 40 years.

When Japan was defeated in 1945 during World War II, Korea was divided into the North (under Soviet Union rule) and the South (under US rule). After the North established the Democratic People’s Republic (DPRK) in 1948 severe persecution began. That was over 65 years ago…in comparison the Israelites wandered in the desert for only 40 years.

In the book of Isaiah God tells us through His Word some of His plans and promises for His people.Holding on to these promises join today in intercessory prayer, through His Word, for North Korea.

THE LORD WILL MAKE NORTH KOREA A PRAISE IN THE EARTH

The Lord has made proclamation to the ends of the earth; “Say to the Daughter of Zion, ‘See, your Savior comes’! See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him.’” They will be called the Holy People the Redeemed of the Lord; and you will be called Sought After, the City No Longer Deserted. – Isaiah 62:11-12

North Korea is the most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian. And yet the Word of God continues to go out, especially in the cities near the Chinese border. Every year North Koreans risk their lives to cross into China. If they are fortunate enough to arrive safely, the danger continues. But if they fall under the care of Christian’s operating safe houses, the gospel message is shared… for many this is the first time hearing the name of Jesus. After receiving Christ, many return to North Korea, at great personal risk, to bring the gospel message to their family at home.

THE LORD WILL GLORIFY HIS CHURCH IN NORTH KOREA

…So He became their Savior. In all their affection He was afflicted, and the angel of His presence saved them; in His love and in His mercy He redeemed them, and He lifted them up and carried them all the days of old. – Isaiah 63:8-9b

On the surface, the fruits of God’s work are not evident in North Korea today. The church may be thought of as “desolate” because of its suffering and lack of visible strength. And yet, His Spirit is there, working in silence. Open Doors supports North Korean Christians in secret with Bibles, books, education and relief aid. Often we receive thank you letters from underground church leaders; oneNorth Korean Christian wrote:

“I am very proud to see our believers’ faithful lives becoming more mature. Their lives are in danger and still they follow the Lord. This could have not been possible if it wasn’t for your endless effort and love. Please continue to pray for us.”

GOD’S SPIRIT WILL NEVER LEAVE NORTH KOREA!

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

Imagine not being able to pass on your faith to your children? In North Korea this desire is dangerous for both believers and their children. If their faith is discovered, they, with their children, are sent to prison and forced into hard labor. Other North Korean children may have been abandoned by their parents due to hardships, for others, their parents may have died. Living on the streets struggling to survive; Timothy, shares his story:

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

GOD WILL REVEAL HIMSELF TO ALL 
“I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call my name. I said ‘Here am I, her am I.’” Isaiah 65:1

Kim Il Sung, the founder of the DPRK, understood the power of worship and set himself up to be the only one.. Statues of him were erected; people were required to bow down before them. Kim Il Sung created a belief system called Juche which twisted the Holy Trinity of Christianity by teaching that Kim Il Sung is god, his son Kim Jong Il is the Christ figure, and the ideology of Juche replaces the Holy Spirit. Kim Jong Il referred to it as “Kimilsungism.” All North Koreans are indoctrinated with this belief system from cradle to grave.  But God has permitted Himself to be found by people who did not seek Him. That grace… guaranteed on the cross of Jesus Christ… is available to everyone, including the leaders of North Korea.  

JOIN IN PRAYING THIS PRAYER

Father God, when will the promise, “For they will be a people blessed by the Lord.”(Is 65:23) be fulfilled completely? Will it be upon the return of Your Son Jesus Christ when all earthly kingdoms will be destroyed and only Your Kingdom remains?  Father, we know that we are to wait for Your perfect time, but our hearts break for those in North Korea who are blinded by the lies. Father, remove the scales from their eyes so that they can see Your glory. We join today in prayer for a mighty, overwhelming outpouring of Your Spirit over the Korean peninsula, believing as we come to You on our knees, and petition on their behalf, that the next great revival in Korea will come soon, and that Your splendor will be spread over the entire nation. Praying in Jesus Name, our Redeemer. Amen.