North Africa 2024

ISOLATED BELIEVERS

Because believers are so few in number, it is not uncommon for them to be the only Christian in their family and known community. Some are afraid of being known as a Christian, fearing the potential repercussions, and don’t tell their families and friends, sometimes for a long time. As a result, they also don’t belong to a church community. For those who are known as Christians, family and community persecution is common but varies in intensity. Ramadan can be an especially hard time for Christians like this because pressure to fast with others, go to the mosque, etc. often ramps up. 

PRAISE

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?…No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:35, 37)

Praise to You, O LORD, for Your great love that never fails and can never be taken from Your people, no matter the cost. Praise You, that every persecution and trial can be conquered through You and Your love.

CONFESSION

“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28)

Forgive us LORD, for fearing men more than You, for not fearing You as we ought. Forgive us for prioritizing our temporary comfort and safety over eternal realities.

THANKS

“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6)

Thank You, Father, for always completing Your work in us from beginning to end. Thank You that Your people can never be taken out of Your hand, and that You make us able to stand until the day of Jesus Christ.

REQUEST

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting the meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)

Please give boldness to Your people in North Africa, to be known as Your followers, to embrace the shame and persecution that comes with that, and to boldly witness to their friends and families. Please give them spiritual brothers and sisters in Christ for encouragement; may they not neglect to meet together. Please give them a true appreciation of the local church, and perseverance to the very end. Please help them at all times, and especially during Ramadan.