There are a few requests we would like to bring before the Bride of Christ.
1. The situation in Ukraine is serious. The Ukrainian government is preparing for war against the Russian-backed separatists, and there are a few believers who may be called upon to fight (for either side). Russia is a powerful country with the means to overrun any Ukrainian resistance, if they decide to officially enter the conflict. There is a church of about 200 believers in the embattled city of Donetsk who would also appreciate your prayers.
2. Ebola is one of the most deadly diseases known to man, and it has again reared its ugly face in West Africa. It’s the largest outbreak in history, with more than 670 deaths across Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. The disease is fatal in 60% of the cases. If it spreads eastward, there are tens of thousands of believers in Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Nigeria who could be at risk.
3. The fighting rages on in eastern Nigeria. The militant Islamic group, Boko Haram, continues to kidnap and murder scores of people, with Christians especially in their crosshairs. Thousands have died to this point. Nigeria has one of the highest populations of believers in the world, with about 70,000, and many of them live in areas where Boko Haram terrorizes.
4. The believers in Iran live under constant fear of persecution because of their faith. The Iranian persecution seems to be widening, with a number of brothers recently arrested and imprisoned. Right now, we know of at least 11 believers who have been arrested and are inside Iranian jails. Many of these brothers are pastors.
These are troublesome times for our brothers and sisters in different parts of the world. Please lift them up in your prayers.