Father, our right to pursue happiness and our own destiny is diminishing in America. We humbly request that You intervene on behalf of Your people, God. As the Creator of life and rights, we trust in Your wisdom to remind those in power of their sacred duty before You to safeguard our rights, which are not granted by human hands, but by Your divine will.
But the righteous shall be glad; they shall exult before God; they shall be jubilant with joy! Psalm 68:3
You do well to wish to learn our arts and ways of life, and above all, the religion of Jesus Christ. These will make you a greater and happier people than you are. ~ President George Washington A Speech to the Delaware Indian Chiefs May 12, 1779
Operation World Pray for Uzbekistan : Uzbek believers continue to increase despite great opposition. The prospect of retribution from three sides – the government, local Muslim leaders and the community (family and neighbours) – has not halted growth. There are now probably more than 10,000 Uzbek believers, where there were possibly none only a generation ago. But much prayer is still needed:
* For the discipling and mentoring of new believers. No one knows how many isolated individuals and clusters exist, but there are far more than those affiliated with officially recognized churches. Many fall away when difficulties intensify; pray that Christians might be integrated quickly into home groups or fellowships where they can grow. Many others find their witness curtailed by fear; pray for boldness for them.
* For local believers who are accused of being cultural/religious traitors and “rice Christians”. Pray for gentleness and humility as well as right motives for all those who seek to integrate into the churches.
* For the distribution of believers. Most Uzbek Christians live in Tashkent and other cities, despite half of Uzbeks living in rural areas.
* For indigenous leadership to be raised up. Bible training for this infant Church is urgently needed, as is spiritual maturity and godliness. Fast-growing churches need quality leaders even more urgently.
* For cultural authenticity. Ask the Lord to raise up culturally appropriate Uzbek Christian literature, music, worship styles and fellowship structures. There are Uzbek ministry-training courses, led and taught completely by Uzbeks. These things are beginning to emerge, with significant fruit as a result.
You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. James 5:8 (NIV)
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