This week, we're praying for Somalia. There are less than 1000 Christians in Somalia in part because the persecution level is extreme and dangers stem from Islamic and clan oppression as well as organized corruption and crime. Most, if not all, of the Christ followers are converts from Muslim backgrounds, making them a high-value target for al-Shabab, a militant group that has repeatedly expressed its desire to eradicate Christians from the country. If discovered, believers could be killed on the spot. Somali society is overwhelmingly conservative, and leaving Islam is regarded in many places as a betrayal of the Somali culture and clan. Christian converts face intense pressure from their family and local community, which can lead to harassment, intimidation and even death. Even being suspected of converting from Islam to Christianity can lead to life-threatening danger. Church life in Somalia is non-existent, and in recent years the dangers facing Christians appear to have worsened, as Islamic militants have intensified their hunt for Christian leaders. Attempts to establish or re-open churches have been met with fierce resistance. How can we pray for Somalia? - Pray that believers who risk everything to follow Jesus will have strength to persevere in their faith despite the dangers. - Pray for protection for Christians who are at risk from Islamic militants and their own families and communities. - Ask that isolated believers will have opportunities for fellowship, and that they'll be given wisdom and courage to know how to live out their faith. Join us in prayer 👇

Posted by Paulo Lopes at 2025-01-09 18:16:38 UTC