Praying for Iran
The turmoil in Iran has spurred a number of believers in Israel, the Middle East and around the world to pray for Iran and the Iranian people. Below are some excerpts from a blog by a local believer who travels throughout the Middle East.
There is a huge shift of allegiance within Iran regarding issues of faith and truth, with unprecedented numbers of new believers being reported. The current political climate, although discouraging in the immediate future in terms of human rights, may well fan the flames of the revival higher. Yesterday in two different prayer meetings, Jewish and International believers gathered to pray into the events happening there. Finally, the future plight of hundreds if not thousands of Iranian believers hangs in the balance. Our prayers at this time may determine history. Let us stand in the gap for those who have lived under incredible oppression for many years. His grace and strength to you as you enter into prayer intercession on behalf of the people of Iran.
In addition, Sat-7, a Christian satellite television service that broadcasts throughout the Middle East, sent out the following appeal for prayer a few days ago:
Nicosia, Cyprus, June 25, 2009: SAT-7 is urging its friends and supporters to continue to pray for peace in Iran, where street demonstrations following recent elections have led to bloodshed and loss of life. Sara Afshari, SAT-7 PARS executive director, is very concerned about how people in Iran are being treated, 'We have many young viewers and we worry about those who have been caught up in the violence.' Ms. Afshari believes the current political unrest in Iran reflects an even greater disillusionment with life in general.
'Everything in Iran is difficult. Even before the election, many people in Iran had become disillusioned. Some have turned to drugs, immoral lifestyles and even suicide. Others have been seeking hope elsewhere. This factor has led to the unprecedented interest so many have to find out more about the Christian faith."
SAT-7 PARS; the ministry's Persian language channel has begun broadcasting prayers for peace in Iran and placing encouraging scriptures on the screen. Verses include those from the 23rd Psalm and , which urges viewers to "cast your anxieties on Him, for He cares for you." SAT-7 PARS producers are scrambling to adjust their broadcast schedule to include new programs designed to comfort viewers. They also plan to send scripture verses to all SAT-7 PARS viewers who have registered a cell phone number or an email.
However, reaching people living inside Iran is difficult. Cell phone and Internet service have been partially or fully blocked in many areas and even land-line phones seem to be working only sporadically. While information is hard to access, some Iranians report that they are able to see SAT-7 PARS' broadcasts, while others say all satellite TV has been blocked in their area during daytime hours.
Several SAT-7 PARS staff members have friends and relatives who have been directly impacted by the recent violence and the PARS team worries that the situation could worsen. SAT-7 PARS is urging all friends of SAT-7 to set aside some time each day at 12:00 noon to join them in praying for Iran ….'
Many here in the Middle East - and in Israel itself - are contending in prayer for the spiritual destiny of Iran. They're praying that many in this nation will come to know the Lord and hope others around the world will join them - at this strategic time - to pray for one of the key nations in the Middle East and the world.
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