Pain, fullness, and hope.
\nWhen three Arabic letters are \u201crearranged\u201d, they can make these three different words. It was this emotive blend that infused content for around 200 students at a recent regional conference in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
\nAmid war, violence, political instability, economic insecurity, and persecution, the students from nine different countries had much to lament. But they were also encouraged that the fullness of Christ brings hope and healing.
\nThese candid comments give a sense of their experiences:
\n\u201cI was a very committed member of another faith. So, when a pastor I met gave me a Bible, I only read it to prove it all wrong. But Jesus opened my eyes. Now I\u2019ve become his follower, and my goal is to bring to Jesus the many people around me who are also searching and dissatisfied. Even though it\u2019s very dangerous, I\u2019m constantly seeing people put their trust in Jesus.\u201d (Hassan from B city)
\n\u201cIn one of the talks, we were encouraged as a Christian minority not to leave our country so that the Christian presence doesn\u2019t further decrease. I agree with that. But it seems impossible \u2013 as an English teacher working two jobs, I don’t even earn enough to make ends meet.\u201d (Malika from Cairo)
\n\u201cI love Jesus more than anything and want to be a witness for him in my community. But the suffering I experienced as a child in my family, a terrible explosion in my city, and recent months of bombing \u2013 all this has left its mark on me. I suffer from panic attacks and anxiety disorders. Can Jesus heal me?\u201d (Rabiaa from Lebanon)
\n\u201cI was allowed to come here with some other female students. All men under 40 were denied visas. For most of us, this is our first trip outside the country. It\u2019s the first time we\u2019ve seen the sea or touched sand, even though it\u2019s not that far from our hometown. Our lives are really complicated, and our presence as Christians in the West Bank is made very difficult. How long can we endure? Which of our brothers and sisters outside our region are interested in us?\u201d (Selima from Palestine \u2013 pictured above)
\n\u201cWith two fellow believers, I made the dangerous journey from our country. We drove through the desert for 33 hours so that we could leave without attracting attention. And what a special experience it has been to praise God together with so many Christians, to listen to his Word, to share with one another. Please pray for us, for our safety as Christians, and for our witness to Jesus to bear fruit.\u201d (Karim from a country on the Arabian Peninsula)
\n(Names changed to protect identities)
\nThe post Feeling Pain and Hope appeared first on IFES.
\n", "content_text": "Pain, fullness, and hope. \n\n\n\nWhen three Arabic letters are \u201crearranged\u201d, they can make these three different words. It was this emotive blend that infused content for around 200 students at a recent regional conference in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. \n\n\n\nAmid war, violence, political instability, economic insecurity, and persecution, the students from nine different countries had much to lament. But they were also encouraged that the fullness of Christ brings hope and healing. \n\n\n\nVoicing Pain and Hope \n\n\n\nThese candid comments give a sense of their experiences: \n\n\n\n\u201cI was a very committed member of another faith. So, when a pastor I met gave me a Bible, I only read it to prove it all wrong. But Jesus opened my eyes. Now I\u2019ve become his follower, and my goal is to bring to Jesus the many people around me who are also searching and dissatisfied. Even though it\u2019s very dangerous, I\u2019m constantly seeing people put their trust in Jesus.\u201d (Hassan from B city) \n\n\n\n\u201cIn one of the talks, we were encouraged as a Christian minority not to leave our country so that the Christian presence doesn\u2019t further decrease. I agree with that. But it seems impossible \u2013 as an English teacher working two jobs, I don’t even earn enough to make ends meet.\u201d (Malika from Cairo) \n\n\n\n\u201cI love Jesus more than anything and want to be a witness for him in my community. But the suffering I experienced as a child in my family, a terrible explosion in my city, and recent months of bombing \u2013 all this has left its mark on me. I suffer from panic attacks and anxiety disorders. Can Jesus heal me?\u201d (Rabiaa from Lebanon) \n\n\n\n\u201cI was allowed to come here with some other female students. All men under 40 were denied visas. For most of us, this is our first trip outside the country. It\u2019s the first time we\u2019ve seen the sea or touched sand, even though it\u2019s not that far from our hometown. Our lives are really complicated, and our presence as Christians in the West Bank is made very difficult. How long can we endure? Which of our brothers and sisters outside our region are interested in us?\u201d (Selima from Palestine \u2013 pictured above) \n\n\n\n\u201cWith two fellow believers, I made the dangerous journey from our country. We drove through the desert for 33 hours so that we could leave without attracting attention. And what a special experience it has been to praise God together with so many Christians, to listen to his Word, to share with one another. Please pray for us, for our safety as Christians, and for our witness to Jesus to bear fruit.\u201d (Karim from a country on the Arabian Peninsula) \n\n\n\n(Names changed to protect identities) \n\n\n\nPray \n\n\n\n\nPraise God that students from across MENA enjoyed worship, fellowship, and learning together \u2013 \u201ca wonderful blessing united us under the blood of Jesus Christ\u201d. Pray for those processing deep pain and trauma \u2013 that they will find healing in the fullness of Christ and know the love of his people. \n\n\n\n\n\nPraise God that a significant number of participants had turned to Christ from a different faith background. Pray that they will be fruitful in sharing their faith among peers and that believers from a Christian background will be encouraged to reach across religious divides. \n\n\n\n\n\nPray for an end to war and violence in the region. And ask the Lord to guide and provide for young graduates grappling with difficult decisions about work and witness. \n\nThe post Feeling Pain and Hope appeared first on IFES.", "date_published": "2025-09-30T08:34:39+01:00", "date_modified": "2025-09-30T15:59:05+01:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Roja Jacob", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/roja-jacob/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/270fe6ae830fb4ad45dd518c8013666f.jpg?ver=1760274904" } ], "author": { "name": "Roja Jacob", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/roja-jacob/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/270fe6ae830fb4ad45dd518c8013666f.jpg?ver=1760274904" }, "image": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Participants-from-Palestine-e1759217600139.jpg" }, { "id": "https://ifesworld.org/?post_type=prayerline&p=45978", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/prayerline/a-different-type-of-influencer/", "title": "A Different Type of Influencer", "content_html": "\u201cOur greatest need is not for more preachers but for more catalysts. We\u2019ll benefit most from encouragers behind the scenes rather than speakers in the limelight.\u201d
\n\u2013 Hussam, Associate Regional Secretary for Training in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA)
\nThis is why student leaders and staff from three North African movements explored the character of Barnabas earlier this year. As they engaged with Scripture together at a four-day IFES gathering, perspectives shifted. A fresh vision for ministry emerged.
\nFollowers of Christ in this region often need to keep their faith out of the limelight due to widespread persecution from family or government \u2013 we previously described how students in one of these three countries must now meet in secret.
\nYet, behind the scenes, the church has been growing, and new opportunities for student ministry have emerged. Until recently, the movement in another of these countries mostly consisted of international students from sub-Saharan Africa. But links have developed with six locals \u2013 a graduate couple and four students \u2013 who are eager to build indigenous ministry.
\nIt was one of those students who clearly grasped the influence she could have:
\n\u201cI\u2019d never thought that I could be a Barnabas. But I learned that I could encourage others and help the church grow in this way \u2013 you don\u2019t have to be a pastor or worship leader to do that. I want to take this back to my country and be a Barnabas in my church and at my university.\u201d
\nThis is good news for campus. Behind-the-scenes encouragement will boost the spirits of young believers facing persecution. And this ministry will have a broader impact. It can also positively influence the many students who face struggles like depression, homelessness, addiction, and identity crises.
\nTo help the catalysts-in-training navigate such issues, another MENA movement\u2019s general secretary was present at the conference. As a professionally trained counsellor, Dr Fuad offered biblical and clinical input on mental and emotional health, including anxiety and addiction.
\nOne student noted how their perspective was enlarged:
\n\u201cThe session on addiction was so important \u2013 it wasn\u2019t just about cigarettes and alcohol but showed how we can be addicted to anything that pulls our focus away from God. It\u2019s really important to talk about this.\u201d
\nThe students returned inspired and better equipped to be Barnabas-like influencers, sharing God\u2019s encouragement behind the scenes. Let\u2019s pray for them:
\nThe post A Different Type of Influencer appeared first on IFES.
\n", "content_text": "\u201cOur greatest need is not for more preachers but for more catalysts. We\u2019ll benefit most from encouragers behind the scenes rather than speakers in the limelight.\u201d \n\n\n\n\u2013 Hussam, Associate Regional Secretary for Training in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) \n\n\n\nThis is why student leaders and staff from three North African movements explored the character of Barnabas earlier this year. As they engaged with Scripture together at a four-day IFES gathering, perspectives shifted. A fresh vision for ministry emerged. \n\n\n\nBehind the Scenes \n\n\n\nFollowers of Christ in this region often need to keep their faith out of the limelight due to widespread persecution from family or government \u2013 we previously described how students in one of these three countries must now meet in secret. \n\n\n\nYet, behind the scenes, the church has been growing, and new opportunities for student ministry have emerged. Until recently, the movement in another of these countries mostly consisted of international students from sub-Saharan Africa. But links have developed with six locals \u2013 a graduate couple and four students \u2013 who are eager to build indigenous ministry. \n\n\n\nIt was one of those students who clearly grasped the influence she could have: \n\n\n\n\u201cI\u2019d never thought that I could be a Barnabas. But I learned that I could encourage others and help the church grow in this way \u2013 you don\u2019t have to be a pastor or worship leader to do that. I want to take this back to my country and be a Barnabas in my church and at my university.\u201d \n\n\n\nThe Need for Influence \n\n\n\nThis is good news for campus. Behind-the-scenes encouragement will boost the spirits of young believers facing persecution. And this ministry will have a broader impact. It can also positively influence the many students who face struggles like depression, homelessness, addiction, and identity crises. \n\n\n\nTo help the catalysts-in-training navigate such issues, another MENA movement\u2019s general secretary was present at the conference. As a professionally trained counsellor, Dr Fuad offered biblical and clinical input on mental and emotional health, including anxiety and addiction. \n\n\n\nOne student noted how their perspective was enlarged: \n\n\n\n\u201cThe session on addiction was so important \u2013 it wasn\u2019t just about cigarettes and alcohol but showed how we can be addicted to anything that pulls our focus away from God. It\u2019s really important to talk about this.\u201d \n\n\n\nThe students returned inspired and better equipped to be Barnabas-like influencers, sharing God\u2019s encouragement behind the scenes. Let\u2019s pray for them: \n\n\n\nPray \n\n\n\n\nGive thanks for these student leaders and for their enthusiasm to become influential catalysts. Pray especially for those who attended for the first time \u2013 that the Lord will guide their efforts to build an indigenous witness for Christ. \n\n\n\n\n\nPlease continue to pray for all in this region amid the tragedy and trauma of war. One leader recently shared how discouraging and disruptive the bombings are to their ministry. Pray for an end to the violence and killing. \n\n\n\n\n\nThank God for a recent conference in the Persian Gulf, which brought together 50 church leaders, graduates, and students to further the pioneering of student ministry there. \n\n\n\n\n\nPray that a MENA student conference (27 August \u2013 2 September) will provide much-needed fellowship and support across the region. Ask for Spirit-led preparations and for the overcoming of any hindrances to student attendance. \n\nThe post A Different Type of Influencer appeared first on IFES.", "date_published": "2025-04-15T13:00:00+01:00", "date_modified": "2025-08-08T10:27:06+01:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Tim.Boland", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/tim-boland/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/2021787e4b2a866a6efcc474e3c84514.jpg?ver=1760274904" } ], "author": { "name": "Tim.Boland", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/tim-boland/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/2021787e4b2a866a6efcc474e3c84514.jpg?ver=1760274904" }, "image": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/image-10-1-scaled.jpg" }, { "id": "https://ifesworld.org/?post_type=prayerline&p=43109", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/prayerline/pray-for-war-to-cease/", "title": "Pray for War to Cease", "content_html": "\u201cWe\u2019re facing a catastrophic situation\u201d, says Jamil, Regional Secretary for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). \u201cIn Lebanon, Israel, and Gaza, as well as in Syria, Yemen, and Iraq, daily bombings continue. There is no safe place in the region.\u201d
\nToday, we\u2019re not spotlighting grassroots ministry in a national movement. We\u2019re simply asking you to intercede for the Middle East \u2013 and its students and staff.
\nIt\u2019s been humbling to share heartening MENA stories of courageous student witness in Prayerline. But to tell one more such story risks the impression that it\u2019s \u2018business as usual\u2019, when the reality is so far from that.
\nJamil continues, \u201cWe are in grief in a deeply painful situation. We need prayer. We need God\u2019s intervention.\u201d
\nAs their new academic year began, students in the Lebanon Inter Varsity Fellowship (LIVF) were looking forward to resuming their weekly Bible study groups. Some even had plans to start new groups. And more than 20 graduates were scheduled to fly to an IFES MENA conference (24-28 October) \u2013 for much-needed fellowship and biblical reflection with others in the region.
\nBut when Israel\u2019s September offensive against Hezbollah began, everything changed. Universities closed. Students left Beirut, heading back to their families. Those in the south of Lebanon had to flee, losing homes and lands. Flights were cancelled, preventing the graduates from joining the MENA conference.
\nThe attacks have disrupted the lives of all, without distinction. Thousands have been killed, tens of thousands injured, and over a million displaced. Lives and livelihoods have been destroyed.
\nRoula, General Secretary of LIVF, says, \u201cas believers, we\u2019re taking refuge in the Lord, interceding for this country, and showing love and hospitality to our neighbours, regardless of their background. We trust that, as Christians, our call is to pray, love, and proclaim life where God has placed us.\u201d
\nYet, the reality is hard. She says that many are distressed and desperate, fearful that their towns and cities will soon be rubble like Gaza.
\nOn World Student Day, God\u2019s Word in Psalm 46 inspired us to \u201cbe still\u201d and pray that students facing troubles would find refuge in God. Today, we call for prayer that takes the word in the ninth verse at face value \u2013 that the Lord Almighty \u201cmakes wars cease to the ends of the earth\u201d.
\nThe Devotional Guide encouraged us to explore the Psalm\u2019s application by paraphrasing it for ourselves: \u201cHe stops conflicts all around the globe. He defuses the bombs and dismantles the guns; he sends the tanks to the scrapyard.\u201d (v.9)
\nWith whatever words we can muster, let\u2019s take the Spirit-inspired Word from centuries past and pray Spirit-led words \u2013 and groans (Romans 8:26) \u2013 for the manifestation of its truth today.
\nOver a year on from the Hamas attacks and hostage-taking that led to spiralling conflict and widespread devastation in the Middle East, let\u2019s persevere in prayer. Let\u2019s pray in faith for God\u2019s intervention. Let\u2019s pray for a sudden cessation of war in Gaza, Israel, and Lebanon \u2013 and all across the Middle East.
\nLet\u2019s join with Roula in prayer:
\u201cFather, as darkness, threats, and death surround us, our hearts sink in despair. We lift our weary souls to you, seeking peace and healing in your presence. Grant us patience. Help us find strength and grace in our time of need, as you promise. Give us courage to choose love over fear. Visit our land and region, in Jesus\u2019 name, Amen.\u201d
The post Pray for War to Cease appeared first on IFES.
\n", "content_text": "\u201cWe\u2019re facing a catastrophic situation\u201d, says Jamil, Regional Secretary for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). \u201cIn Lebanon, Israel, and Gaza, as well as in Syria, Yemen, and Iraq, daily bombings continue. There is no safe place in the region.\u201d \n\n\n\nToday, we\u2019re not spotlighting grassroots ministry in a national movement. We\u2019re simply asking you to intercede for the Middle East \u2013 and its students and staff. \n\n\n\nIt\u2019s been humbling to share heartening MENA stories of courageous student witness in Prayerline. But to tell one more such story risks the impression that it\u2019s \u2018business as usual\u2019, when the reality is so far from that. \n\n\n\nJamil continues, \u201cWe are in grief in a deeply painful situation. We need prayer. We need God\u2019s intervention.\u201d \n\n\n\nPlans Thwarted, Lives Destroyed \n\n\n\nAs their new academic year began, students in the Lebanon Inter Varsity Fellowship (LIVF) were looking forward to resuming their weekly Bible study groups. Some even had plans to start new groups. And more than 20 graduates were scheduled to fly to an IFES MENA conference (24-28 October) \u2013 for much-needed fellowship and biblical reflection with others in the region. \n\n\n\nBut when Israel\u2019s September offensive against Hezbollah began, everything changed. Universities closed. Students left Beirut, heading back to their families. Those in the south of Lebanon had to flee, losing homes and lands. Flights were cancelled, preventing the graduates from joining the MENA conference. \n\n\n\nThe attacks have disrupted the lives of all, without distinction. Thousands have been killed, tens of thousands injured, and over a million displaced. Lives and livelihoods have been destroyed. \n\n\n\nRoula, General Secretary of LIVF, says, \u201cas believers, we\u2019re taking refuge in the Lord, interceding for this country, and showing love and hospitality to our neighbours, regardless of their background. We trust that, as Christians, our call is to pray, love, and proclaim life where God has placed us.\u201d \n\n\n\nYet, the reality is hard. She says that many are distressed and desperate, fearful that their towns and cities will soon be rubble like Gaza. \n\n\n\nHe Makes Wars to Cease \n\n\n\nOn World Student Day, God\u2019s Word in Psalm 46 inspired us to \u201cbe still\u201d and pray that students facing troubles would find refuge in God. Today, we call for prayer that takes the word in the ninth verse at face value \u2013 that the Lord Almighty \u201cmakes wars cease to the ends of the earth\u201d. \n\n\n\nThe Devotional Guide encouraged us to explore the Psalm\u2019s application by paraphrasing it for ourselves: \u201cHe stops conflicts all around the globe. He defuses the bombs and dismantles the guns; he sends the tanks to the scrapyard.\u201d (v.9) \n\n\n\nWith whatever words we can muster, let\u2019s take the Spirit-inspired Word from centuries past and pray Spirit-led words \u2013 and groans (Romans 8:26) \u2013 for the manifestation of its truth today. \n\n\n\nOver a year on from the Hamas attacks and hostage-taking that led to spiralling conflict and widespread devastation in the Middle East, let\u2019s persevere in prayer. Let\u2019s pray in faith for God\u2019s intervention. Let\u2019s pray for a sudden cessation of war in Gaza, Israel, and Lebanon \u2013 and all across the Middle East. \n\n\n\nLet\u2019s join with Roula in prayer: \u201cFather, as darkness, threats, and death surround us, our hearts sink in despair. We lift our weary souls to you, seeking peace and healing in your presence. Grant us patience. Help us find strength and grace in our time of need, as you promise. Give us courage to choose love over fear. Visit our land and region, in Jesus\u2019 name, Amen.\u201d \nThe post Pray for War to Cease appeared first on IFES.", "date_published": "2024-10-28T17:43:25+00:00", "date_modified": "2024-11-13T10:11:00+00:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Roja Jacob", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/roja-jacob/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/270fe6ae830fb4ad45dd518c8013666f.jpg?ver=1760274904" } ], "author": { "name": "Roja Jacob", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/roja-jacob/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/270fe6ae830fb4ad45dd518c8013666f.jpg?ver=1760274904" }, "image": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Copy-of-Prayerline-header-11.png" }, { "id": "https://ifesworld.org/?post_type=prayerline&p=36644", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/prayerline/coffee-and-fire/", "title": "Coffee and fire\u00a0", "content_html": "A chat about discipleship over fresh coffee, open-air prayers around a glowing bonfire \u2013 to many of us this might sound idyllic.
\nBut this setting was far from relaxed for Karim* because he was secretly meeting with IFES staff. \u201cThis is the only way we can give ministry support in his country without putting the local group at risk,\u201d says Jamil, regional secretary for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
\nIn recent months, one young woman, a secret attendee of their fellowship group, was exposed when her family spotted a message on her phone. She is now \u201csanctioned\u201d at home.
\nKarim has also faced hostility for his faith. When he was just 16, his family rejected him for turning from Islam to follow Jesus. He was left to fend for himself on the streets.
\nBut God is faithful. Thanks to the kindness of school friends, Karim was periodically invited to wash his clothes, eat a good meal, and have a bed for the night. As they offered care, he offered faith, leading all six friends to know Christ.
\nAs students, these friends lived out their faith and connected with others; now, the ministry in their city involves around 16 students and graduates.
\nWith such growth, the need for fellowship and discipleship is great, especially since they cannot attend the few churches that exist \u2013 as converts, they would put the church at risk of being persecuted for having proselytes. So, in February, Karim reached out to Jamil, asking for help with leadership training.
\nA month later, seven students and graduates were invited to a different Muslim-majority country, where IFES MENA staff were able to provide training on leadership and Bible study. Having seen their enthusiasm and faith, Jamil anticipates the strategic impact the newly equipped leaders can have: \u201cThese believers represent the future of the church in that city!\u201d
\nThe formal training was then followed by an informal visit by IFES staff to the country. The mentoring continued \u2013 but inconspicuously, in a cafe, over coffee.
\nAnd when finished, wanting to pray together, they drove for an hour out of the city, into the desert. Away from spying eyes, they lit a fire and prayed for God\u2019s flame to burn bright among them.
\nLet\u2019s pray for this group and their witness in this Middle Eastern country:
\n* Name changed to protect identity.
\nThe post Coffee and fire\u00a0 appeared first on IFES.
\n", "content_text": "A chat about discipleship over fresh coffee, open-air prayers around a glowing bonfire \u2013 to many of us this might sound idyllic. \n\n\n\nBut this setting was far from relaxed for Karim* because he was secretly meeting with IFES staff. \u201cThis is the only way we can give ministry support in his country without putting the local group at risk,\u201d says Jamil, regional secretary for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. \n\n\n\nThe Cost of Following Christ\u00a0\n\n\n\nIn recent months, one young woman, a secret attendee of their fellowship group, was exposed when her family spotted a message on her phone. She is now \u201csanctioned\u201d at home. \n\n\n\nKarim has also faced hostility for his faith. When he was just 16, his family rejected him for turning from Islam to follow Jesus. He was left to fend for himself on the streets. \n\n\n\nA Growing Group and Need\u00a0\u00a0\n\n\n\nBut God is faithful. Thanks to the kindness of school friends, Karim was periodically invited to wash his clothes, eat a good meal, and have a bed for the night. As they offered care, he offered faith, leading all six friends to know Christ. \n\n\n\nAs students, these friends lived out their faith and connected with others; now, the ministry in their city involves around 16 students and graduates. \n\n\n\nWith such growth, the need for fellowship and discipleship is great, especially since they cannot attend the few churches that exist \u2013 as converts, they would put the church at risk of being persecuted for having proselytes. So, in February, Karim reached out to Jamil, asking for help with leadership training. \n\n\n\nCreative Solutions for a Bright Future\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\n\n\nA month later, seven students and graduates were invited to a different Muslim-majority country, where IFES MENA staff were able to provide training on leadership and Bible study. Having seen their enthusiasm and faith, Jamil anticipates the strategic impact the newly equipped leaders can have: \u201cThese believers represent the future of the church in that city!\u201d \n\n\n\nThe formal training was then followed by an informal visit by IFES staff to the country. The mentoring continued \u2013 but inconspicuously, in a cafe, over coffee. \n\n\n\nAnd when finished, wanting to pray together, they drove for an hour out of the city, into the desert. Away from spying eyes, they lit a fire and prayed for God\u2019s flame to burn bright among them. \n\n\n\nPray \n\n\n\nLet\u2019s pray for this group and their witness in this Middle Eastern country: \n\n\n\n\nGive thanks for Karim* and the way God used him to raise up student witness in his city. \n\n\n\nPray that God will protect all those involved in the group and change the hearts of family members who stand opposed to Christ. \n\n\n\nPray for the seven leaders who recently received training \u2013 that they will remain steadfast in their faith and be used by God to multiply the group and establish its witness. \n\n\n\n\n* Name changed to protect identity. \nThe post Coffee and fire\u00a0 appeared first on IFES.", "date_published": "2024-05-14T07:44:00+01:00", "date_modified": "2024-05-24T10:16:01+01:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Roja Jacob", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/roja-jacob/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/270fe6ae830fb4ad45dd518c8013666f.jpg?ver=1760274904" } ], "author": { "name": "Roja Jacob", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/roja-jacob/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/270fe6ae830fb4ad45dd518c8013666f.jpg?ver=1760274904" }, "image": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/joris-voeten-gL84ogFsV6s-unsplash-e1716542153366.jpg" }, { "id": "https://ifesworld.org/?post_type=prayerline&p=30410", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/prayerline/closed-doors-and-open-windows/", "title": "Closed doors and open windows\u202f", "content_html": "Last September, we brought you news from a sensitive north African country where a political revolution had resulted in the closure of churches and persecution of Christians. Following on from the theme of this year\u2019s World Student Day \u2013 persevere \u2013 we spoke to Jamil, IFES Regional Secretary for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), to find out more about the situation in that country \u2013 and how the movement has been responding.\u202f\u202f
\n\n\n\u201cThe door might be closed but the window is open!\u201d\u202f
\n
Jamil recalls how the door was sharply closed there in recent years when government policies not only led to the closure of churches and the arrest and imprisonment of church pastors, but also the interrogation of all those who had links to international organisations.\u202f
\nThe relatively new student movement, which had been growing steadily over the prior fifteen years, was deeply affected by the national shutdown. Due to restrictions on campus and closure of church buildings, the students could no longer meet in their usual places for small group Bible studies. Moreover, the annual national conferences, which had been gathering and motivating around 150-180 students, could no longer be held. The head of the national movement knew his name was on \u2018the list\u2019 of those who might be arrested. Anxious that he would soon be taken in for questioning, he wiped his devices of sensitive data and emailed Jamil, \u201cI\u2019m ready for them \u2013 they\u2019ll come soon!\u201d. The door was closed.\u202f
\nBut the window was open. Jamil remembers that the same email continued with the head of student ministry describing how the movement was prayerfully considering ways to seek the support to fund one more staff worker. Almost within the same breath, fear had turned to hope. \u201cKnowing their determination and passion, the ministry will never end there!\u201d, Jamil tells us.\u202f
\nIt seems he is right: the students have not been discouraged or deterred by the closed doors of campuses and churches. They\u2019ve taken their Bible studies out into the cafes and forests instead (see this Prayerline). One year on, the political situation is unchanged, but the enthusiasm of the students and staff continues. Impressed and humbled by their perspective and dreams, Jamil asks, \u201cAre we willing to continue to live this adventure with them?\u201d\u202f
\nLet\u2019s adventure with them now by praying for student ministry in this MENA country:\u202f
\nThank you for the support you show to IFES movements in MENA with your prayers. If you feel led to further support the movement described above by contributing to their efforts to fund another staff worker, then you can do so here.
\nThe post Closed doors and open windows\u202f appeared first on IFES.
\n", "content_text": "Last September, we brought you news from a sensitive north African country where a political revolution had resulted in the closure of churches and persecution of Christians. Following on from the theme of this year\u2019s World Student Day \u2013 persevere \u2013 we spoke to Jamil, IFES Regional Secretary for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), to find out more about the situation in that country \u2013 and how the movement has been responding.\u202f\u202f \n\n\n\n\n\u201cThe door might be closed but the window is open!\u201d\u202f \n\n\n\n\nJamil recalls how the door was sharply closed there in recent years when government policies not only led to the closure of churches and the arrest and imprisonment of church pastors, but also the interrogation of all those who had links to international organisations.\u202f \n\n\n\nThe relatively new student movement, which had been growing steadily over the prior fifteen years, was deeply affected by the national shutdown. Due to restrictions on campus and closure of church buildings, the students could no longer meet in their usual places for small group Bible studies. Moreover, the annual national conferences, which had been gathering and motivating around 150-180 students, could no longer be held. The head of the national movement knew his name was on \u2018the list\u2019 of those who might be arrested. Anxious that he would soon be taken in for questioning, he wiped his devices of sensitive data and emailed Jamil, \u201cI\u2019m ready for them \u2013 they\u2019ll come soon!\u201d. The door was closed.\u202f \n\n\n\nBut the window was open. Jamil remembers that the same email continued with the head of student ministry describing how the movement was prayerfully considering ways to seek the support to fund one more staff worker. Almost within the same breath, fear had turned to hope. \u201cKnowing their determination and passion, the ministry will never end there!\u201d, Jamil tells us.\u202f \n\n\n\nIt seems he is right: the students have not been discouraged or deterred by the closed doors of campuses and churches. They\u2019ve taken their Bible studies out into the cafes and forests instead (see this Prayerline). One year on, the political situation is unchanged, but the enthusiasm of the students and staff continues. Impressed and humbled by their perspective and dreams, Jamil asks, \u201cAre we willing to continue to live this adventure with them?\u201d\u202f \n\n\n\nLet\u2019s adventure with them now by praying for student ministry in this MENA country:\u202f \n\n\n\n\nGive thanks for the open windows despite the closed doors \u2013 and for the students and staff whose brave faith is fuelling their determination and dreams.\u202f \n\n\n\nPray for God\u2019s protection and blessing on the students and staff as they faithfully persevere with student ministry in creative ways. Pray that questioning students will find out about the open-air Bible studies and have the courage to attend.\u202f\u202f \n\n\n\nPray that God will provide the financial resources the movement needs to maintain \u2013 and even expand \u2013 its staff, so that students can be fully supported in their witness. And persevere in prayer for a change of heart in government so that the country can enjoy freedom of religion and open campuses.\u202f \n\n\n\n\nThank you for the support you show to IFES movements in MENA with your prayers. If you feel led to further support the movement described above by contributing to their efforts to fund another staff worker, then you can do so here.\nThe post Closed doors and open windows\u202f appeared first on IFES.", "date_published": "2023-10-31T05:01:00+00:00", "date_modified": "2023-10-30T16:06:15+00:00", "authors": [ { "name": "admin", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/3021a3e3433971d777b4933267a9b6db.jpg?ver=1760286604" } ], "author": { "name": "admin", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/3021a3e3433971d777b4933267a9b6db.jpg?ver=1760286604" }, "image": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/WA23-praying-together-outside-1-1-scaled.jpg" }, { "id": "https://ifesworld.org/?post_type=prayerline&p=24320", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/prayerline/lord-calm-the-storm/", "title": "Lord, calm the storm", "content_html": "A climate of caution still pervades among international students in Tunisia following a recent wave of racist attacks targeting sub-Saharan Africans. Our contacts in Tunisia have asked for prayer as they continue to provide moral, spiritual, and material support to hundreds of international students in this North African nation.
\n\u201cThe last few weeks have been very, very difficult. Several Sub-Saharans \u2013 including students \u2013 have been assaulted and arbitrarily imprisoned,\u201d explains Armand. \u201cWe have struggled a lot between dealing with our own fears and reassuring students at the national level. We are asking the Lord to calm this storm.\u201d
\nThe surge of racist attacks began in late February following remarks by the country\u2019s president about Black African migrants. In early March, many international students were too fearful to venture out of their homes. The national movement cancelled face-to-face meetings for two weeks and even cancelled its national Bible camp.
\nA month on, Armand reports that the intense fear and anxiety among sub-Saharan African students has diminished somewhat, but many students remain cautious and are waiting to see how things will progress day by day.
\n\u201cSeveral of our students were ready to leave Tunisia permanently before the end of their studies, but we tried to reassure them and their parents,\u201d he said. \u201cBut it is not easy. I fear that many students will leave at the end of the academic year and will not return, and that we will have fewer new international students coming into the country.\u201d
\nTunisia is a popular destination for international students from Sub-Saharan Africa who are attracted by the quality of the country\u2019s universities, as well as the fact that Tunisia has lower living costs and less strict visa requirements compared to European countries. In response, the Tunisian national movement has developed a vibrant ministry among international students.
\nIn this predominantly Muslim nation, international students make up the vast majority of the national movement. Approximately 500 international students attend weekly bible studies and other activities across 10 cities. Alongside this, Christian students play an important role in providing friendship, welcome, and orientation to international students, many of whom face culture shock, language barriers, and financial and academic challenges.
\nArmand explains that the Lord has opened wonderful opportunities through this international student ministry: \u201cIt really is the humour of the Lord that we have several testimonies of international students who meet the Lord here in an Islamic country. But doing pastoral care work with students in an Islamic context is very difficult and our ministry requires a lot of creativity.\u201d
\nPlease join with us in prayer for students in Tunisia:
\nFor more information about international student ministry in Tunisia, listen to this recent Voices of IFES podcast interview (in French) with Armand.
\nThe post Lord, calm the storm appeared first on IFES.
\n", "content_text": "A climate of caution still pervades among international students in Tunisia following a recent wave of racist attacks targeting sub-Saharan Africans. Our contacts in Tunisia have asked for prayer as they continue to provide moral, spiritual, and material support to hundreds of international students in this North African nation.\n\n\n\n\u201cThe last few weeks have been very, very difficult. Several Sub-Saharans \u2013 including students \u2013 have been assaulted and arbitrarily imprisoned,\u201d explains Armand. \u201cWe have struggled a lot between dealing with our own fears and reassuring students at the national level. We are asking the Lord to calm this storm.\u201d\n\n\n\nThe surge of racist attacks began in late February following remarks by the country\u2019s president about Black African migrants. In early March, many international students were too fearful to venture out of their homes. The national movement cancelled face-to-face meetings for two weeks and even cancelled its national Bible camp.\n\n\n\nA month on, Armand reports that the intense fear and anxiety among sub-Saharan African students has diminished somewhat, but many students remain cautious and are waiting to see how things will progress day by day.\n\n\n\n\u201cSeveral of our students were ready to leave Tunisia permanently before the end of their studies, but we tried to reassure them and their parents,\u201d he said. \u201cBut it is not easy. I fear that many students will leave at the end of the academic year and will not return, and that we will have fewer new international students coming into the country.\u201d\n\n\n\nTunisia is a popular destination for international students from Sub-Saharan Africa who are attracted by the quality of the country\u2019s universities, as well as the fact that Tunisia has lower living costs and less strict visa requirements compared to European countries. In response, the Tunisian national movement has developed a vibrant ministry among international students.\n\n\n\nIn this predominantly Muslim nation, international students make up the vast majority of the national movement. Approximately 500 international students attend weekly bible studies and other activities across 10 cities. Alongside this, Christian students play an important role in providing friendship, welcome, and orientation to international students, many of whom face culture shock, language barriers, and financial and academic challenges.\n\n\n\nArmand explains that the Lord has opened wonderful opportunities through this international student ministry: \u201cIt really is the humour of the Lord that we have several testimonies of international students who meet the Lord here in an Islamic country. But doing pastoral care work with students in an Islamic context is very difficult and our ministry requires a lot of creativity.\u201d\n\n\n\nPlease join with us in prayer for students in Tunisia:\n\n\n\nPray for the Lord to bring His peace and consolation to the sub-Saharan students who have been traumatized by this crisisPray for the authorities to take action to end these racist attacksAsk God to turn this situation into an opportunity for Christian students to be witnesses to His love.Pray for the Lord to provide for the material needs of sub-Saharan students (food, for example)\n\n\n\nFor more information about international student ministry in Tunisia, listen to this recent Voices of IFES podcast interview (in French) with Armand.\nThe post Lord, calm the storm appeared first on IFES.", "date_published": "2023-04-04T05:37:00+01:00", "date_modified": "2023-04-11T09:27:27+01:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Tim.Boland", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/tim-boland/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/2021787e4b2a866a6efcc474e3c84514.jpg?ver=1760274904" } ], "author": { "name": "Tim.Boland", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/tim-boland/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/2021787e4b2a866a6efcc474e3c84514.jpg?ver=1760274904" }, "image": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/WhatsApp-Image-2023-03-31-at-10.52.43.jpeg" }, { "id": "https://ifesworld.org/?post_type=prayerline&p=20678", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/prayerline/running-towards-christmas/", "title": "Running Towards Christmas", "content_html": "Christmas can be a tricky time of year \u2013 taxing on the emotions as well as the bank account. Though we may wish to respond to every opportunity for generosity in this season, it is not always realistic to do so. The sense that we can\u2019t do \u2018enough\u2019 may leave us feeling like there\u2019s no point in doing anything. This Prayerline, however, provides a reminder of what God might do when we step forward anyway.
\nWhen a massive explosion rocked Beirut in August 2020, a country that had just begun to find its feet was brought to its knees. Over the last two years, this tragedy was compounded by the pandemic, political unrest, economic sanctions, grain shortages, and a currency that has, to date, lost 95% of its value. Consequently, Lebanon and her people exist in a state of ongoing crisis.
\nSpeaking to this reality, Roula Abi Hanna, General Secretary of Lebanon InterVarsity Fellowship (LIVF), found herself discussing social altruism with Reina, a LIVF member, as they drove to a Bible study. They wondered especially about the question of giving in the light of the upcoming Christmas season. The current situation in Lebanon was, they felt, making \u201cstudents and people in general think only of themselves and forget others\u201d \u2013 a reasonable response when people are forced to make dramatic choices just to survive.
\nIn response, Reina declared her wish to give gifts \u201cto needy kids or elderly people\u201d that Christmas. Roula, encouraged by the idea, suggested they might raise funds for Cedar Home, a Christian society that cares for abandoned, orphaned, and at-risk girls. The LIVF Student Planning Committee readily agreed, but the question remained as to how Roula and her students would raise funds to buy these gifts.
\nIn the process of brainstorming, Roula mentioned that she\u2019d run the Beirut Marathon some 15 years earlier for charity and that asking her friends for sponsorship had \u201cworked surprisingly very well\u201d. But even as she recalled this, Roula had no idea that a new Beirut Marathon was due to be run the following month, on 13 November! The group couldn\u2019t believe it. The opportunity felt even more providential when they realized that registration for the event was about to close.
\nRoula challenged the LIVF students\u2019 coordinator, Heba, to run the marathon and she agreed on the condition that two other \u201csporty students\u201d, Miguel and Michel, joined her. Reina, whose convictions led to this project, also signed up to run for her cause. So, the LIVF team of four was ready to face the 10km route, but first had to face the donors.
\nGiven the economic situation in Lebanon, they managed their expectations. But God was at work in people\u2019s hearts, igniting their sense of generosity, and fundraising efforts were more successful than the group could have anticipated. The LIVF runners came away with USD 200 enough to buy gifts and a Christmas cake for the children at Cedar Home.
\nAlong with their gifts, the students also prepared \u201csome Christmas cards, a skit, and other things to present to the kids\u201d during their visit on 17 December. This project has been especially poignant for Heba, who grew up as an orphan in a similar Christian center. On the morning of their visit to Cedar Home, she shared \u201ca small testimony on how God intervened in her life and gave her hope as an orphan and also a foreigner.\u201d
\nRoula is \u201cvery thankful to see how God led this project from its beginning and how it challenged our students and people to think of others even in the hard current situation.\u201d Indeed, the spirit of this season is found in every act of generosity, as illustrated by the students of LIVF. \u201cHow beautiful it is\u201d, observes Roula, \u201cto see them giving to others from their time, energy and talents.\u201d
\nPlease pray with us for LIVF Lebanon:
\nThank you for supporting LIVF Lebanon in prayer. If you feel led to contribute to their movement financially, you can do so here.
\nPlease note that, due to the holiday break, our next Prayerline will be published on 10 January.
\nThe post Running Towards Christmas appeared first on IFES.
\n", "content_text": "Christmas can be a tricky time of year \u2013 taxing on the emotions as well as the bank account. Though we may wish to respond to every opportunity for generosity in this season, it is not always realistic to do so. The sense that we can\u2019t do \u2018enough\u2019 may leave us feeling like there\u2019s no point in doing anything. This Prayerline, however, provides a reminder of what God might do when we step forward anyway.\n\n\n\nWhen a massive explosion rocked Beirut in August 2020, a country that had just begun to find its feet was brought to its knees. Over the last two years, this tragedy was compounded by the pandemic, political unrest, economic sanctions, grain shortages, and a currency that has, to date, lost 95% of its value. Consequently, Lebanon and her people exist in a state of ongoing crisis.\n\n\n\nSpeaking to this reality, Roula Abi Hanna, General Secretary of Lebanon InterVarsity Fellowship (LIVF), found herself discussing social altruism with Reina, a LIVF member, as they drove to a Bible study. They wondered especially about the question of giving in the light of the upcoming Christmas season. The current situation in Lebanon was, they felt, making \u201cstudents and people in general think only of themselves and forget others\u201d \u2013 a reasonable response when people are forced to make dramatic choices just to survive.\n\n\n\nIn response, Reina declared her wish to give gifts \u201cto needy kids or elderly people\u201d that Christmas. Roula, encouraged by the idea, suggested they might raise funds for Cedar Home, a Christian society that cares for abandoned, orphaned, and at-risk girls. The LIVF Student Planning Committee readily agreed, but the question remained as to how Roula and her students would raise funds to buy these gifts.\n\n\n\nIn the process of brainstorming, Roula mentioned that she\u2019d run the Beirut Marathon some 15 years earlier for charity and that asking her friends for sponsorship had \u201cworked surprisingly very well\u201d. But even as she recalled this, Roula had no idea that a new Beirut Marathon was due to be run the following month, on 13 November! The group couldn\u2019t believe it. The opportunity felt even more providential when they realized that registration for the event was about to close.\n\n\n\nRoula challenged the LIVF students\u2019 coordinator, Heba, to run the marathon and she agreed on the condition that two other \u201csporty students\u201d, Miguel and Michel, joined her. Reina, whose convictions led to this project, also signed up to run for her cause. So, the LIVF team of four was ready to face the 10km route, but first had to face the donors. \n\n\n\nGiven the economic situation in Lebanon, they managed their expectations. But God was at work in people\u2019s hearts, igniting their sense of generosity, and fundraising efforts were more successful than the group could have anticipated. The LIVF runners came away with USD 200 enough to buy gifts and a Christmas cake for the children at Cedar Home.\n\n\n\nAlong with their gifts, the students also prepared \u201csome Christmas cards, a skit, and other things to present to the kids\u201d during their visit on 17 December. This project has been especially poignant for Heba, who grew up as an orphan in a similar Christian center. On the morning of their visit to Cedar Home, she shared \u201ca small testimony on how God intervened in her life and gave her hope as an orphan and also a foreigner.\u201d\n\n\n\nRoula is \u201cvery thankful to see how God led this project from its beginning and how it challenged our students and people to think of others even in the hard current situation.\u201d Indeed, the spirit of this season is found in every act of generosity, as illustrated by the students of LIVF. \u201cHow beautiful it is\u201d, observes Roula, \u201cto see them giving to others from their time, energy and talents.\u201d \n\n\n\nPlease pray with us for LIVF Lebanon:\n\n\n\nThank God for guiding this generous effort from start to finish and pray that he would continue to inspire LIVF students to think of and help others, even in the difficult current situation.Pray that Roula, who began as LIVF General Secretary earlier this year, would have wisdom, compassion, and perseverance to lead the movement amidst the current challenges.Pray that LIVF Lebanon would be able to witness powerfully and creatively to the hope that Christ offers.\n\n\n\nThank you for supporting LIVF Lebanon in prayer. If you feel led to contribute to their movement financially, you can do so here.\n\n\n\nPlease note that, due to the holiday break, our next Prayerline will be published on 10 January.\nThe post Running Towards Christmas appeared first on IFES.", "date_published": "2022-12-20T06:12:00+00:00", "date_modified": "2022-12-20T10:56:42+00:00", "authors": [ { "name": "admin", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/3021a3e3433971d777b4933267a9b6db.jpg?ver=1760286604" } ], "author": { "name": "admin", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/3021a3e3433971d777b4933267a9b6db.jpg?ver=1760286604" }, "image": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/MicrosoftTeams-image-10.jpg" }, { "id": "https://ifesworld.org/?post_type=prayerline&p=19777", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/prayerline/meetings-in-forests-for-gods-kingdom/", "title": "Meetings in forests for God\u2019s kingdom", "content_html": "In recent years, a sweeping revolution in one north African country has changed everything for the local IFES movement. Under the control of a new government, churches have been closed, church leaders and other believers prosecuted, and Christian activities officially frozen.
\nCourageously, however, brothers and sisters in the student movement continue to carry out their activities. The general secretary quotes the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 4:9 in insisting they are \u201cpersecuted but not abandoned, struck down but not destroyed.\u201d As there are few options for safe places to meet, and even fewer churches to host Christian activities, the students are gathering for prayer and Bible study in cafeterias, forests, and gardens. A few places of worship do remain open, so small groups of students take advantage of this to carry out secret ministry training.
\n\u201cThe Lord continues, day by day, to encourage us and give us hope\u201d, says the general secretary. \u201cBut please pray for the faith of the students, so that the Lord gives them hope to continue serving him.\u201d
\nPray with us today for this national movement:
\nThe post Meetings in forests for God\u2019s kingdom appeared first on IFES.
\n", "content_text": "In recent years, a sweeping revolution in one north African country has changed everything for the local IFES movement. Under the control of a new government, churches have been closed, church leaders and other believers prosecuted, and Christian activities officially frozen. \n\n\n\nCourageously, however, brothers and sisters in the student movement continue to carry out their activities. The general secretary quotes the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 4:9 in insisting they are \u201cpersecuted but not abandoned, struck down but not destroyed.\u201d As there are few options for safe places to meet, and even fewer churches to host Christian activities, the students are gathering for prayer and Bible study in cafeterias, forests, and gardens. A few places of worship do remain open, so small groups of students take advantage of this to carry out secret ministry training. \n\n\n\n\u201cThe Lord continues, day by day, to encourage us and give us hope\u201d, says the general secretary. \u201cBut please pray for the faith of the students, so that the Lord gives them hope to continue serving him.\u201d \n\n\n\nPray with us today for this national movement: \n\n\n\nThank God for keeping and guarding his people, even in places which are hostile to the gospel, and for their courageous continuation of ministry in the face of strong opposition. Pray that God would arm the students with all the grace they need to keep living for Jesus, and joyfully share their faith with their peers at university. Pray for the student leaders and staff to persevere, knowing that God will supply everything they need to accomplish what he has given them to do. Pray that the Holy Spirit would move in this nation, bringing the hope of Jesus to many, and greater freedom to God\u2019s people. \nThe post Meetings in forests for God\u2019s kingdom appeared first on IFES.", "date_published": "2022-09-27T06:04:00+01:00", "date_modified": "2022-09-26T14:22:16+01:00", "authors": [ { "name": "admin", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/3021a3e3433971d777b4933267a9b6db.jpg?ver=1760286604" } ], "author": { "name": "admin", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/3021a3e3433971d777b4933267a9b6db.jpg?ver=1760286604" }, "image": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/marita-kavelashvili-ugnrXk1129g-unsplash-scaled.jpg" }, { "id": "https://ifesworld.org/?post_type=prayerline&p=18667", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/prayerline/strength-to-continue-for-young-emerging-leaders-in-closed-countries/", "title": "Strength to continue for young emerging leaders in closed countries", "content_html": "Some places in the Middle East have been experiencing extreme humanitarian crisis for many years. The country we\u2019re featuring in this edition of Prayerline has been embroiled in conflict for a long time, with different groups holding power in different regions. A huge proportion of the population are in need of food aid. Most people do not have electricity, and the most powerful wings of extreme Islamic thought are spreading, affecting the security of everyone in the country.
\nNonetheless, there is life in the desert. God has been at work, bringing people to himself. The underground church is alive and well, and student ministry is thriving. There are four IFES staff working there.
\nRecently, the general secretary of the student movement in this country was exposed, threatened, and forced to leave the country. This was the catalyst to bring together around ten brothers for a training conference, to strengthen and equip them to continue student ministry. For a few days, they studied the Bible intensely. One attendee, who is known by his neighbours for talking about Jesus, rejoiced in \u2018a complete training on the whole Bible. Now I have more confidence in what I believe and it has strengthened my faith\u2019.
\nIFES MENA Regional Secretary, Jamil, shares that \u2018it was humbling to be in the presence of these believers, so eager, enthusiastic, courageous and passionate in their love for Jesus and desire to share the gospel.\u2019
\nHere is one of many testimonies shared at the conference:
\n\u2018Not long ago I was stopped by the police. An officer found a piece of paper in my car with the following words from Isaiah, written in Arabic:
\n\u201cDo not fear because I am with you; do not be anxious because I am your God; I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my right hand.\u201d
\n\u2018The paper didn\u2019t include any reference to where the words came from. Imagine my mixed emotions when I heard the officer reading the verse aloud; the same man who had been ordered to stop me, was inadvertently bringing me comfort and reassurance by reading this verse.
\n\u2018I spent a week at the police station. During this time, police went to my house, took my computer, and told my wife to leave me. She responded that all she sees from me is love, care and compassion for others. It was eventually decided that I would be taken to a detention centre. This place is far from the city. There is no record of your detention there, and no possibility of connecting with anyone in the outside world. It\u2019s a place of torture, and people can be there for months, or years, or disappear completely. When we were on the way there, however, the commissioner received a call asking him to turn around and return to the station.
\n\u2018I don\u2019t know what had happened. But the commissioner said to me back at the station, \u2018you have caused us problems\u2019. I asked his forgiveness for that. Six hours later, the commissioner asked for my forgiveness for causing me so much trouble, and declared me free to go.
\n\u2018I don\u2019t know why I had that piece of paper in my car. I do give out a lot of gospel leaflets and New Testaments to people I meet. I\u2019m glad that the police commissioner now has been able to read a copy of those words from Isaiah.\u2019
\nPray for these strategic leaders from this country:
\nThe post Strength to continue for young emerging leaders in closed countries appeared first on IFES.
\n", "content_text": "Some places in the Middle East have been experiencing extreme humanitarian crisis for many years. The country we\u2019re featuring in this edition of Prayerline has been embroiled in conflict for a long time, with different groups holding power in different regions. A huge proportion of the population are in need of food aid. Most people do not have electricity, and the most powerful wings of extreme Islamic thought are spreading, affecting the security of everyone in the country.\n\n\n\nNonetheless, there is life in the desert. God has been at work, bringing people to himself. The underground church is alive and well, and student ministry is thriving. There are four IFES staff working there.\n\n\n\nRecently, the general secretary of the student movement in this country was exposed, threatened, and forced to leave the country. This was the catalyst to bring together around ten brothers for a training conference, to strengthen and equip them to continue student ministry. For a few days, they studied the Bible intensely. One attendee, who is known by his neighbours for talking about Jesus, rejoiced in \u2018a complete training on the whole Bible. Now I have more confidence in what I believe and it has strengthened my faith\u2019.\n\n\n\nIFES MENA Regional Secretary, Jamil, shares that \u2018it was humbling to be in the presence of these believers, so eager, enthusiastic, courageous and passionate in their love for Jesus and desire to share the gospel.\u2019\n\n\n\nHere is one of many testimonies shared at the conference:\n\n\n\n\u2018Not long ago I was stopped by the police. An officer found a piece of paper in my car with the following words from Isaiah, written in Arabic:\n\n\n\n\u201cDo not fear because I am with you; do not be anxious because I am your God; I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my right hand.\u201d\n\n\n\n\u2018The paper didn\u2019t include any reference to where the words came from. Imagine my mixed emotions when I heard the officer reading the verse aloud; the same man who had been ordered to stop me, was inadvertently bringing me comfort and reassurance by reading this verse.\n\n\n\n\u2018I spent a week at the police station. During this time, police went to my house, took my computer, and told my wife to leave me. She responded that all she sees from me is love, care and compassion for others. It was eventually decided that I would be taken to a detention centre. This place is far from the city. There is no record of your detention there, and no possibility of connecting with anyone in the outside world. It\u2019s a place of torture, and people can be there for months, or years, or disappear completely. When we were on the way there, however, the commissioner received a call asking him to turn around and return to the station.\n\n\n\n\u2018I don\u2019t know what had happened. But the commissioner said to me back at the station, \u2018you have caused us problems\u2019. I asked his forgiveness for that. Six hours later, the commissioner asked for my forgiveness for causing me so much trouble, and declared me free to go.\n\n\n\n\u2018I don\u2019t know why I had that piece of paper in my car. I do give out a lot of gospel leaflets and New Testaments to people I meet. I\u2019m glad that the police commissioner now has been able to read a copy of those words from Isaiah.\u2019\n\n\n\nPray for these strategic leaders from this country:\n\n\n\nPlease pray for the safety of staff. The brother in the above testimony spent two or three months in a safer country, but has now returned to his home country, saying \u2018if I die, I will die in my country\u2019.Praise God for the spiritual growth, security and fruitfulness of those who attended this conference, and a great harvest of believers among students in the coming months.Pray for the hope, peace and light of Jesus to be made manifest in the Middle East.\nThe post Strength to continue for young emerging leaders in closed countries appeared first on IFES.", "date_published": "2022-04-26T06:17:00+01:00", "date_modified": "2022-04-25T10:42:30+01:00", "authors": [ { "name": "admin", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/3021a3e3433971d777b4933267a9b6db.jpg?ver=1760286604" } ], "author": { "name": "admin", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/admin/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/3021a3e3433971d777b4933267a9b6db.jpg?ver=1760286604" }, "image": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/papaioannou-kostas-tysecUm5HJA-unsplash-scaled.jpg" }, { "id": "https://ifesworld.org/?post_type=prayerline&p=14696", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/prayerline/pray-for-graduates-in-yemen/", "title": "Pray for Graduates in Yemen", "content_html": "Between religious persecution and political instability, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region continues to be a difficult place for Christian students and graduates. Dr. Nader, General Secretary of Yemen, shares his thoughts on the growth and perseverance of graduates in his country.
\n\u201cAccording to the United Nations, Yemen is experiencing the worst humanitarian crisis in the world. The country is engaged in armed conflicts. Nearly 80% of the total population needs aid. The most powerful wings of extremist Islamic groups and radical Islamic thought are spreading among the tribes along with more than 60 million weapons. Article Three of the Constitution of the Republic of Yemen 1994 states that Islamic Sharia is the source of all legislation. In summary, Yemen is not only one of the worst countries to live in, but one of the worst countries for Christianity.
\nIt is strange that Yemen has grown the fastest underground church in the Arabian Peninsula. Despite the challenges facing the church amid a strict Islamic society, many Yemenis are able meet Jesus Christ and believe in him as Lord and Savior. The Lord has his miracles and gifts for this church and its people in this land.
\nI find it difficult to publish or speak directly about the Christian religion,\u00a0especially in a way\u00a0that contradicts\u00a0the prevailing Islamic thought.\u00a0I feel\u00a0frustrated\u00a0with the public\u00a0environment\u00a0and what I personally face in terms of psychological crises, frustration,\u00a0pain,\u00a0and\u00a0financial and\u00a0social\u00a0challenges.\u00a0In spite of\u00a0that, the Lord\u2019s interventions\u00a0make me stand amazed at his miracles and how\u00a0he\u00a0makes\u00a0\u201call things work together for the good of those who love God.\u201d This verse\u00a0gives hope\u00a0to\u00a0those who love God\u00a0because he is the one who will create opportunities and use them to his will.\u00a0\u00a0
\nI find no logical explanation for the opportunities in which our Lord Jesus Christ works to spread the word. But those who taste the love of Jesus and experience a personal relationship with him know that he has extraordinary ways through which they can face all challenges.\u201d
\nAmidst life\u2019s difficulties, Dr. Nader says that he stays motivated through prayer, investing in his direct relationship with the Lord, remembering God\u2019s wonderful interventions in his life and ministry, and witnessing the fruit of many years of work. He asks the Fellowship to pray for graduates in Yemen and throughout MENA, that they may persevere in faith.
\nThis article is titled \u201cAre there factors motivating hope amid failure, despair, & wars?\u201d It was taken from The Journey, a magazine produced in French and English for IFES graduates from MENA. To learn more, get in touch with us at hello@ifesworld.org.
\nThe post Pray for Graduates in Yemen appeared first on IFES.
\n", "content_text": "Between religious persecution and political instability, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region continues to be a difficult place for Christian students and graduates. Dr. Nader, General Secretary of Yemen, shares his thoughts on the growth and perseverance of graduates in his country. \n\n\n\n\u201cAccording to the United Nations, Yemen is experiencing the worst humanitarian crisis in the world. The country is engaged in armed conflicts. Nearly 80% of the total population needs aid. The most powerful wings of extremist Islamic groups and radical Islamic thought are spreading among the tribes along with more than 60 million weapons. Article Three of the Constitution of the Republic of Yemen 1994 states that Islamic Sharia is the source of all legislation. In summary, Yemen is not only one of the worst countries to live in, but one of the worst countries for Christianity. \n\n\n\nIt is strange that Yemen has grown the fastest underground church in the Arabian Peninsula. Despite the challenges facing the church amid a strict Islamic society, many Yemenis are able meet Jesus Christ and believe in him as Lord and Savior. The Lord has his miracles and gifts for this church and its people in this land. \n\n\n\nI find it difficult to publish or speak directly about the Christian religion,\u00a0especially in a way\u00a0that contradicts\u00a0the prevailing Islamic thought.\u00a0I feel\u00a0frustrated\u00a0with the public\u00a0environment\u00a0and what I personally face in terms of psychological crises, frustration,\u00a0pain,\u00a0and\u00a0financial and\u00a0social\u00a0challenges.\u00a0In spite of\u00a0that, the Lord\u2019s interventions\u00a0make me stand amazed at his miracles and how\u00a0he\u00a0makes\u00a0\u201call things work together for the good of those who love God.\u201d This verse\u00a0gives hope\u00a0to\u00a0those who love God\u00a0because he is the one who will create opportunities and use them to his will.\u00a0\u00a0\n\n\n\nI find no logical explanation for the opportunities in which our Lord Jesus Christ works to spread the word. But those who taste the love of Jesus and experience a personal relationship with him know that he has extraordinary ways through which they can face all challenges.\u201d \n\n\n\nAmidst life\u2019s difficulties, Dr. Nader says that he stays motivated through prayer, investing in his direct relationship with the Lord, remembering God\u2019s wonderful interventions in his life and ministry, and witnessing the fruit of many years of work. He asks the Fellowship to pray for graduates in Yemen and throughout MENA, that they may persevere in faith. \n\n\n\nPray that MENA students will have hope and endurance in an unstable situation. Pray for MENA graduates who are in leadership positions. Pray also for their personal and spiritual life, and for their families and work. \n\n\n\nPray that the year 2021 will be fruitful, with meaningful steps towards peace and health in the MENA region. \n\n\n\nThis article is titled \u201cAre there factors motivating hope amid failure, despair, & wars?\u201d It was taken from The Journey, a magazine produced in French and English for IFES graduates from MENA. To learn more, get in touch with us at hello@ifesworld.org. \nThe post Pray for Graduates in Yemen appeared first on IFES.", "date_published": "2021-02-02T05:51:00+00:00", "date_modified": "2021-02-11T14:43:48+00:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Tim.Boland", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/tim-boland/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/2021787e4b2a866a6efcc474e3c84514.jpg?ver=1760274904" } ], "author": { "name": "Tim.Boland", "url": "https://ifesworld.org/en/author/tim-boland/", "avatar": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/litespeed/avatar/2021787e4b2a866a6efcc474e3c84514.jpg?ver=1760274904" }, "image": "https://ifesworld.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/By-M.Huwais-AFP-scaled.jpg" } ] }