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A Response of Prayer in Troubled Times

With the ongoing Middle East crisis affecting millions of people across the region, as believers we turn to a powerful tool: prayer. Throughout Scripture we see the importance of prayer. Jesus Himself prayed, communicating with our Father in heaven (Luke 22:39-46). Paul encourages us not to be anxious about anything, but in every situation to present our requests to God (Philippians 4:6-7). The psalmist also speaks of prayer as incense before the Lord, rising to heaven like a pleasing fragrance (Psalm 141:2).  We are called to pray without ceasing, and during this time of global uncertainty, we want to encourage our Fellowship family to remain in prayer and to be reminded of how great His faithfulness is. God is always at work, even in troubled times.  

In the book of Acts, we see Jesus’ followers multiplying in the midst of persecution. After Stephen’s death at the end of chapter 7, what seemed like tragedy led to the spreading of the Gospel throughout Judea and Samaria, just as Jesus had said in Acts 1:8 (NASB95):

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”

These events remind us of God’s sovereignty, that, even in difficulty, He is still in control and able to work all things for good. As we pray for the Middle East, let us also pray that during this time His name would be lifted high, and that all glory would be His, as more people in unreached areas come to know Him.

Here are some key areas in which we can be praying:

1. Peace in the Middle East
   Pray for peace across the Middle East and North Africa. Ask God to guide leaders and decision-makers toward wisdom and restraint, and pray that the conflict would come to an end with the least possible harm and suffering.
2. Safety for civilians
   Lift up civilians affected by the conflict, especially children and vulnerable families. Pray for protection, provision, and strength for those facing fear, displacement, and uncertainty.
3. Believers and the local church
   Ask God to strengthen believers and local churches across the region. Pray that they would bring encouragement, practical help, and the hope of the Gospel to those affected by the conflict.
4. Ministry in Lebanon
   Pray for safety and security for our missionaries serving in Lebanon: Karim and Rita Anayssi, Michael and Maha Ghiz, Bechara and Roula Karkafi, and Dani and Gladys Sebali. Ask God to sustain them as they continue ministering in difficult circumstances. Pray for the ongoing ministry programs and that many would come to know Christ.