Prayer Focus with Keith

Welcome to China Cry


Hello once again as I share about life in China and within the Unregistered church. Please take time to share these articles with all your friends and groups.. esp facebook.. if you like to tweet.. please tweet the website at the bottom.


Thanks and God Bless


Keith


FALSE LIGHTNING

This week I wish to make you aware of one of the most dangerous things, I have ever seen in my life. As you know the church in China is unique and of course that has caught the attention of the devil.


In the west, we have many dangerous cults, such as the Jws and Mormons, who deny who Jesus is and deny that Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone. This cult is called Eastern Lightning, and although similar to the two already mentioned, has methods of recruiting that are downright terrible.


This cult seeks to destroy the local church from the inside by taking a Trojan horse approach. It goes all out to destroy local churches, using methods that are underhand and deadly, isn't this typical of the devil, he doesn't play by the rules.

They use financial inducements to trap church leaders and then if they try to leave, they are beaten, threatened and sometimes killed.

We have had our own experiences of this cult, I was walking down the street and was stopped by a girl on a bicycle, she pointed to the sky and said God in Chinese.. I Gave one of our little cards which has Helen's phone no and e-mail on, and she received a text saying " Do you want to be part of a new work in China". Then 3 days later, we had them at our door, they visited all the flats in our complex, and people are now very confused about the truth of the gospel.

Although I find all their ideas crazy and wrong, the need to be admired, the having a false truth, take time to spread their false nonsense, no effort is spared, no sacrifice in time and money is too much. When the Christan believer sits in front of their TV or Computer, they are out there, out in the street corners, in the cafe's and university campuses. It is time to say clear off to these false teachers and to reclaim these places for Christ.

Helen saw two young girls in the university area proclaiming this stuff...we can ignore it, like we have done in the west or we can pray against it and challenge it.

So what Can you do

You Can pray effectively binding this cult and all false teachers in the precious name of Jesus

You can read the article at the bottom and be aware of what this dangerous cult is doing

You can share the gospel with everyone you meet.. get your church out of it's ivory tower and onto the streets

You can share this article with all your friends

You can get to now your bible.. from cover to cover.

I have talked to Muslims, Jws etc and they know their doctrine so well, they know exactly what to say. We have to be people of the book.. and one book, it is time to put away that novel and newspaper and start to study the scriptures.

Please would you please pray for the Church we attend in Nanjing China.. Family Church. Many members of our little church have had visits from members of the Eastern Lightning cult.. please see link below to see how dangerous they are. This cult needs to be bound and prayed against in warfare prayer. Please stand with us in Jesus name.

http://www.blessedquietness. com/journal/housechu/ lightning.htm



Thanks
Keith and Helen

Please go to the gems page and view the excellent articles and also the wonderful sermons there for you to read and listen to.. oh and also take time to read the other pages on site


http://www.ourchurch.com/ member/p/preciouspromise/ index.php?p=1_8_Gems



Please post these devotions on all your groups and forward them to your friends. If anyone would like to receive the devotions direct to their inbox, please e-mail me at
faithhopelovefellowship@ hotmail.com


God Bless you


Keith and Helen

In this week's edition: reports from Kuwait, China, India and Syria.
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1. Update: Kuwait leader rejects death sentence
(Source: International Christian Concern)

Kuwait's ruler has refused to pass a bill previously voted through by parliament that would allow Muslims who insult Islam to be put to death and would harshly penalize Christians and other non-Muslims.

The bill seeking to institute the death penalty for Muslims who insult Allah, the Qu'ran, Muslim prophets or Muhammad's wives was passed with an overwhelming majority last May, and it stipulates that Christians and other non-Muslims will be given a minimum sentence of 10 years for the same offense (for more, go to www.persecution.net/kw-2012-05-17.htm).

Kuwait's leader has the power to refuse the bill, but the elected parliament can overturn his decision with a two-thirds majority vote.

Praise God that this bill has not been approved. Please pray that the Emir's decision will win the support of parliament and that this unjust law will not be passed. Pray that those who oppress Christians may experience repentance and salvation, just as Paul did (Acts 9:1-19).

For more information on persecution in Kuwait, go to www.persecution.net/kuwait.htm.
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2. House church baptism disrupted by raid in China
(Source: China Aid Association)

Seventeen believers were detained during a baptism service when officials and police raided a Han Chinese house church in the far west region of Xinjiang. The raid on the Bajiahu house church in Jinghe county occurred early in June during a gathering of more than 20 Christians. The church has also been ordered to stop holding meetings.

Police officers burst into the meeting, followed by officials overseeing religion and domestic security. The 17 believers were taken into custody and held until that evening, when they were escorted home by police.

Wang Lili, the leader of the house church, was not on site during the raid. However, the purse she left at the meeting site, which contained her government ID card, keys and more than 3,600 yuan (approximately $580 CAD), was confiscated. At last report, her belongings had not been returned.

The husband of one of the detainees, who is not himself a Christian, was required to sign a guarantee that his wife will no longer attend the house church's meetings. He reportedly became very angry with his wife.

Praise God for the baptism of these believers! Pray that these believers will continue to grow in their faith in Jesus. Please pray that Wang's belongings will be returned to her. Please pray that the unbelieving husband will see Christ through his wife's faithfulness (1 Peter 3:1).

Go to www.persecution.net/china.htm for more on the suffering Church in China.
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3. Attacks on Christians in Odisha, India
(Source: Global Council of Indian Christians)

After believers rescued a pastor in Odisha (formally called Orissa) state, India, who was brutally beaten on his way home from a prayer service, about 50 Hindu militants terrorized the 12 Christian families, beating them, looting their homes and attempting to rape some of the girls. Some of the attacked Christians remain unaccounted for and it is believed they have fled into the jungle.

Violence is not new to this area of India. In August 2008, Hindu militants launched attacks on Christians in Kandhamal district. The violence left dozens of Christians dead and thousands of homes and churches destroyed. Many more were forced to leave their homes (for more, go to www.persecution.net/in-2008-08-27.htm).

A few days prior to the recent attacks on Christian families, local police seized more than 50 homemade bombs and 12 charges of dynamite hidden in a hut in the village of Gambhari in the district of Puri. Police believe the explosives would have been used in anti-Christian attacks.

Please pray that the injured pastor will fully recover from his attack and be empowered to continue to preach the gospel. Please pray that the Lord will protect believers throughout Odisha and guard their hearts with the peace that can only be found in Christ (Philippians 4:7). Pray that the Church in Odisha state will continue to grow.

For more on persecution in India, go to www.persecution.net/india.htm. To post a prayer of encouragement for Christians in India, visit the Persecuted Church Prayer Wall at www.persecution.net/prayerwall.
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4. War brings additional trials for Syrian believers
(Source: VOM-USA)

Christians in Syria who share their faith have always faced danger, but the escalating civil war is making evangelistic efforts even more dangerous. Several evangelists who work with VOM have lost family members.

"In some cases, people were killed because of their Christian identity," said VOM's program officer for the region. "We are checking into how we can be of assistance to those who have been injured for their faith, including one whose face was mutilated as a warning to other Christians."

The war has also displaced many Christians. As Christians flee the fighting and leave their houses behind, Muslims and members of the rebel groups take possession of them.

In addition, one church was closed by the government in recent months, and other churches remain under threat of closure.

Pray for peace and for the protection of Syrian believers. Pray that Syrian believers will rest in the knowledge that the Good Shepherd walks with them through this difficult time (Psalm 23). Pray that Christians will show Christ-like love to their neighbours, even those who persecute them.

To learn more about Syria's persecuted Church, go to www.persecution.net/syria.htm.
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The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. [color:2aa4=#49535A !important] (905) 670.9721 . Website: www.persecution.net

In this week's edition: reports from Indonesia, Sudan, Pakistan and Egypt.
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1. Churches sealed shut in Indonesia
(Sources: Compass Direct News, Jakarta Globe)

Seventeen churches have been forcibly closed in Indonesia's Aceh province following last month's election of a hard-line Islamic governor.

Emboldened by the April election of Zaini Abdullah of the staunchly Islamic Aceh Party, hundreds of Islamic demonstrators gathered and demanded that church buildings be demolished and not just closed.

Officials said grounds for the closures included improper permits and a more than a decade-old agreement that stated that only one church and four small houses that function as churches could be built in the entire district. About 12,000 people in the district are Christian -- accounting for about one-sixth of the population, and the number of churches in the area had grown to 22.

Please pray that the decisions to close these places of worship will be overturned. Pray that the number of believers in Aceh will continue to multiply. Please pray that Zaini Abdullah and other authorities in Aceh will come to know and love Christ. Pray that believers will be encouraged to continue to meet together despite opposition (Hebrews 10:23-25).

Go to www.persecution.net/indonesia.htm for more on persecution in Indonesia.
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2. Sudanese officials close Christian offices in South Darfur
(Source: Compass Direct News)

Authorities in South Darfur shut down offices of the Sudan Council of Churches (SCC) and Sudan Aid, ordering staff off the property and arresting three employees of Sudan Aid.

Agents from the Sudanese National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) arrived without notice or explanation at the organizations' offices in Nyala early in the morning on April 22, demanding SCC staff hand over keys to the buildings and vehicles and ordering them to leave. NISS agents also closed down a church clinic that was serving the needy in the area.

The day after the closure of the offices in South Darfur, staff members arrived back at work to find more than a dozen security personnel, some carrying arms, cordoning off the compound. The security agents told the employees the offices were closed and to go home. Two days after the closure, Sudan's federal Humanitarian Aid Commission froze the bank accounts of the SCC in Nyala.

Christianity is being treated as a foreign faith in Sudan following the secession of the largely Christian South Sudan last year. About 350,000 ethnic South Sudanese, many of them Christians with no ties to South Sudan, remain in the north under intense pressure to leave.

Pray that believers affected by these closures will not be fearful but trust God (Revelation 2:10). Please pray that southerners living in the north will be protected from harm. Pray that those travelling to the south will make it there safely and will be warmly received and cared for by Christian brothers and sisters.

For more information on the trials Christians face in Sudan, go to www.persecution.net/sudan.htm. To post a prayer of encouragement for Sudan's Christians, visit our Persecuted Church Prayer Wall at www.persecution.net/prayerwall.
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3. Families trust in Christ in Pakistan
(Source: VOM-USA)

An evangelist in Pakistan supported by VOM has asked for prayer for several people who have recently been receiving the gospel message.

The evangelist, "Sam," had been praying for his good friend Hadi for months, but had never had the opportunity to share his faith. Hadi recently asked for a copy of the New Testament and has been reading it.

Sam was invited to pray for a girl with chronic kidney pain, and after Sam prayed for her in her home, the pain suddenly disappeared. The girl's family was amazed and asked how this was possible. Sam said, "Everything is possible in the Lord Jesus Christ." The entire family made the decision to follow Jesus.

A few Sundays ago, after Sam preached in a church service, a man confessed to him that he was feeling suicidal. His family was pressuring him to divorce his wife because they had no children, but after talking with Sam and praying with his family, the whole family gave their lives to Christ.

While there is a notable degree of religious freedom promised to minorities by law, non-Muslims must practice their faith cautiously and under varying degrees of threat from Islamists. Christians in Pakistan face severe opposition from militant Islamic groups, including imprisonment, torture and even death.

Please pray that Hadi will be saved. Pray that the faith of the two families will grow strong so they can also effectively share the gospel. Ask God to continue growing His Church in Pakistan. Pray that Christians facing persecution for their faith in Pakistan will look to God for their strength.

For more on the persecution of Pakistani Christians, go to www.persecution.net/pakistan.htm.
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4. Judge upholds Christian's prison sentence in Egypt
(Source: VOM-USA)

A judge in Upper Egypt has upheld a six-year sentence of a Christian man convicted of blasphemy against Islam.

The charges resulted from an argument between 49-year-old Makarem Diab and a co-worker about differences between Jesus and Muhammad. Diab was sentenced on February 29 in a 10-minute hearing during which he had no defense attorney.

At his first appeals hearing on March 16, Diab's co-worker instigated a riot by Muslim attorneys outside the courthouse. The angry lawyers interrupted Diab's hearing, assaulted his attorneys and blocked access to the courtroom. Diab's lawyer, who said the judge upheld the sentence out of fear, is attempting to appeal the sentence again. Diab is being held in Assiut General Prison.

Pray that Diab will get a fair hearing and that he will remain strong during his imprisonment. Pray that he will exemplify the love of God through consistent love and prayer for those who persecute him (Matthew 5:43-48).

Please visit www.persecution.net/egypt.htm for more on Egypt's persecuted Church.
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The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. [color:5d86=#49535A !important] (905) 670.9721 . Website: www.persecution.net

The Persecution & Prayer Alert
The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada
www.persecution.net
Thursday, May 10, 2012

Against the persecution of a tyrant the godly have no remedy but prayer.
- John Calvin

Sign up now to receive our free Monthly Newsletter at www.persecution.net/nlorder.htm.
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In this week's edition: reports from China, Vietnam, Iran and Azerbaijan.
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1. Chinese government plans to eradicate house churches
(Source: China Aid Association, Compass Direct News)

China's government is engaged in a three-phase campaign to eradicate Protestant house churches. The government's strategy was clearly outlined in a document released last September during a training class for "Patriots in the Christian Community" run by the State Administration for Religious Affairs.

From January through June of this year, the document called for local authorities to conduct a thorough investigation of house churches nationwide and create reports on each of them. In phase two, for the following two to three years, authorities would strongly encourage unregistered churches to affiliate with the government-approved Three-Self Patriotic Movement (TSPM). In phase three, to be completed within 10 years, churches refusing to comply would be shut down. Officials would also ban the words "house church" and all reports on house churches from websites and other media and replace the term with "house gatherings" -- a term that would refer to group meeting in sites affiliated with the TSPM. In a recent random survey conducted by China Aid's source in several provinces, it was discovered that over 95% of house church leaders said they had already felt the impact of these investigations, while 85% said local religious affairs departments had already created a dossier for their group. "Since the beginning of 2012, we have noticed an increase in the frequency of persecution," China Aid said in its report. "In addition to the continuing persecution of Shouwang Church in Beijing, the number of similar cases has risen 20% over last year and has spread into other areas, including Christian education, publication and bookstores." (For more information on the Shouwang Church, go towww.tinyurl.com/ShouwangChurch).

Pray that Chinese churches will not be daunted by threats and pressures from the government, but will remain faithful to Jesus (Hebrews 10:23). Pray that believers throughout China will be bold in sharing the gospel despite the difficulties they face. Pray that Christians in China will encourage one another in the face of persecution. Pray that God will prevent the local authorities from attempting to stop house churches meeting.

Go to www.persecution.net/china.htm for more on the suffering Church in China.
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2. New believers expelled from villages in Vietnam
(Source: VOM-USA)

Hmong believers in Vietnam are facing opposition from village authorities because of their faith in Christ.

Three families were expelled from their village in Cao Bang province, in northern Vietnam, because of their recent adoption of Christianity. Each family came to faith after a Hmong Christian worker prayed for an ill family member and the family member recovered from illness. The families, which include a total of 13 people, must find a new place to live because officials will not allow Christians in their village.

Likewise, in Thai Nguyen province, also in northern Vietnam, a Hmong family was compelled to leave their village because village leaders opposed their Christian faith. One family member was very ill, but she recovered after moving to a Christian village and receiving prayer.

Praise God for His work among the Hmong people and for using them as His witnesses. Pray for these families who have lost everything to follow Christ. Ask the Lord to supply all their needs. Pray that they will grow stronger in their faith, and that their testimony will encourage others to know Jesus.

Please visit www.persecution.net/vietnam.htm to learn more about our persecuted brothers and sisters in Vietnam. To post a prayer of support for these brothers and sisters in Christ, visit our Persecuted Church Prayer Wall atwww.persecution.net/prayerwall.
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3. Update: Lawyer of Iranian pastor faces 9 year prison sentence
(Source: Compass Direct News, ACLJ)

The main defense lawyer for Youcef Nadarkhani, an Iranian pastor who is appealing a death sentence, may be facing imminent imprisonment for defending the rights of Iranians, reports Amnesty International. Mohammad Ali Dadkhah, a prominent human rights activist, had been sentenced in July to a nine-year prison sentence and a 10-year ban on legal practice and teaching. On April 28, he learned that an appeals court has upheld the sentence. Charges against him include "membership of an association seeking the soft overthrow of the government" and "spreading propaganda against the system through interviews with foreign media."

Mohammad's imprisonment will leave Pastor Youcef, who was found guilty of apostasy and sentenced to death in September 2010, without legal representation. Mohammad has previously stated that if the sentence against him were carried out, no attorney would be willing to represent Pastor Youcef for fear of being imprisoned or disbarred for representing the persecuted pastor (for more on Youcef's case, go to www.persecution.net/ir-2012-02-23.htm).

Pray for those in positions of authority in Iran. Pray that they will come to know Jesus Christ, and that they will act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). Pray that God will work powerfully in the lives of Youcef and Mohammad. Ask God to be near to their families and loved ones. Pray that many more in Iran will come to know the Good News.

For more on Iran's persecuted Church, please visit www.persecution.net/iran.htm.
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4. Update: Judge rules to liquidate church in Azerbaijan
(Sources: VOM-USA, Forum 18 News Service)

In the first known case of a church closure under Azerbaijan's new religion law, a judge in Baku ruled on April 25 to liquidate Greater Grace Protestant Church. Under terms of the ruling, religious activity by the church or its members is illegal and is subject to punishment. The church intends to appeal the ruling. Although Greater Grace registered with the state in 1993, it did not re-register in 2009 when the new religion law passed because leaders believed the church was already registered (for more information, go to www.persecution.net/az-2012-04-19.htm).

Hundreds of churches that re-registered in 2009 are still waiting for the State Committee to respond to their applications. In some cases, churches were denied registration because of unspecified errors in their applications. Christians fear that the ruling against Greater Grace sets a dangerous precedent for other churches in the country.

Pray that Christians in Azerbaijan will continue to gather together for worship despite restrictions. Pray that believers will confidently entrust themselves to Christ so that they can preach the gospel without hesitation (2 Timothy 1:7-12). Pray that religious freedom will be respected in Azerbaijan.

For more on the trials Christians face in Azerbaijan, visit www.persecution.net/azerbaijan.htm.
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The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. (905) 670.9721. Website: www.persecution.net

IMPORTANT ANNOUCEMENT FROM KEITH
Admin Today at 7:29




Hello my beloved friends


I wish to thank everyone of you for sharing in the ministry God has given me, it is such an awesome privilege and responsibility to share the word of God.


It is an honour to be able to share with so many people from different countries, I know the devotions go to every single continent every week.. what I can I say but thank you Lord.


Over the past months, God has been dealing with me in a remarkable way. God revealed the secret of the Christian life is the secret place.. there is nothing else that will suffice other than God himself.. it is only when the believer spends time in the presence of His God and Lord, can he truly experience freedom. There is not one book to read, not one programme to follow. The only book that can suffice is the Holy Bible, because when we know the word of God, we get to know the Author.


THE SECRET OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE IS THE SECRET PLACE

Church , HE also wants you to stop reading those books about HIM and listening to those sermons, however good , they are and meet HIM in that secret place of prayer. Maybe you will not say a a lot in that place, maybe it is time to remain silent and let God speak, I know because, I can't half go on .. talking that is. Sometimes, the Lord cant get a word in edgeways


I really feel due to several things to cut down on ministry once again. So from this Friday I will no longer be sending out Persecuted Church news or Prayer Focus. Let me give you the reasons


First of all. I want to spend more time with God in prayer and get into the word of God.. I need and want to spend more time in the secret place


Does this mean I will stop writing.. no it doesn't.. indeed the devotions will continue every Wednesday and Thursday. But they will be once a week


Secondly as some of you know I have met a wonderful christian lady called Helen.. she and I are a couple and we will meet later this year.. that is because I am in the UK and Helen is in China. What can I say about Helen.. that she is my sweetheart, my love and God's gift to me. We both feel that God has brought us together. Please pray as we proceed in God's time and to do His will.


Thirdly there are resources to help you with with both.


Prayer Focus


Here is the operation world website. I hope you will be blessed. Please purchase the book and pray through the book.. it is very cheap


http://www.operationworld.org/


If you are not able to get any of the resources from your local christian bookshop here is where you can get it on amazon


http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=operation+world+2010&tag=googhydr-21&index=stripbooks&hvadid=10152152806&ref=pd_sl_2vdbn60s1u_b




I will still be praying through this book.. Please join me




Persecuted Church


I still have a real passion to pray for my brothers and sisters of the persecuted church and encourage you to do the same. I ask that you would gain more details by accessing the information on these websites, please sign up for updates via e-mail or through the mail.


http://www.persecution.net/


http://www.opendoorsuk.org/


http://www.compassdirect.org/


My Heart for the persecuted church still burns bright




Devotions


As I said these devotions will be either Simply Scripture Bible study, Noonday Devotion or Spirit Steps studies in Acts. They will have links to songs, sermons and websites and I hope you will take time to pass them on. These will be sent out every Wednesday and Thursday. There primary focus will be to draw you closer to God, remember they are an aid to helping you know God. Dig into the word for yourself, seek HIM in prayer for yourself. They will have links to websites (if you know any good websites.. please let me know), links to songs (again please let me know your favourite spiritual song or hymn) and a link to a sermon to stir and encourage your faith. You saw the first one on the last simply Scripture.. they will usually but not always come fromwww.oneplace.com


I also would like to invite you to join me to pray for revival every Wednesday at 8pm in your time zone. Please pray at 8pm for a few minutes in your time for revival in the following 4 areas.


In your own life
In the life of your church
In the life of your community
In the life of your nation


Also on the last day of every month, I ask you to join me as I fast from food from 8am to 8pm, so that we can seek God.


I hope that you fully understand what I have shared. what Matters most is our closeness to God, not how many devotions we write or read, not how many sermons we listen to, but how much time we spend in the Father's presence.. Jesus said Learn of me.. he didn't say.. learn all about me. Friends whatever I share and whatever links there will be.. it must drive you to one place and one place alone and that is straight to the secret place of prayer, because it is there that we get our power. Isaiah 40:28-31


God bless you my friend

Welcome everyone to Prayer Focus

This is a real joy and privilege to do this. Let me tell you why.

In 1979. I was taken to see the MV logos at Liverpool and heard George Verwer speak. He had a great influnce on my christian life.

The Lord has told me to start at Israel and work forward. I am undertaking this venture with fear and trembling, but with much excitement as we touch the world for the Glory of God.

Please purchase the book Operation World, ask your Pastor to buy it in bulk, get your house group to use it. The link below shows you the resources available

http://www.operationworld.org/resources

Coupled with Prayer Focus, we will be praying for India and China shortly (China Cry and India Interest)

Some ways you can help

Print out these prayer needs
Share them with your church/house group
Forward them to all your friends
Pray through them
Tell your pastor about them and the book

Whatever you do, please do not delete these prayer needs. We can and will change the world my friends, because God is pleased to answer the fervent prayers of His saints.. amen James 5:16-18

Let us start my friends with God's people


Israel

Area 20,700 sq km

Population 7 million

Capital Jerusalem

Main Religion Jewish

Evangelical Population 31,045

Growth Rate per year 5 %

Praise

The number of Messianic Jews is increasing and God is pouring out his Spirit in a real way

The wonderful response of Jews outside of Israel


Prayer

Pray for the restoration of Israel. That there would be a great turning to Christ Ezekiel 20:32-34 and Romans 11:25-31

Pray for a resolution of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, that this is fair and just on both sides

Many Jews have a mindset against Christianity. Please pray fervently that this is broken down and many turn to Jesus and accept him as Messiah and Redeemer

Please pray fervently for unity, between the Israeli believers, the Arab believers and Missionaries. Pray that barriers will be broken down and that All Israel will see the joy of God's people living in Unity - Psalm 133

Pray for the Churches and believers in Israel, that they have the following:

Boldness to share the Gospel without fear or compromise

Full Immigration and Legal rights

For the training of Godly pastors. there are now training Colleges in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

For the Arab Believers, that they grow in Faith and are able to stand strong in their faith

Much persecution happens. Pray that the Church and Individual believer, would stand strong in the Lord

Major Outreach Challenges

The Haredi are the modern Day Pharisees, and wield great power. But even among them, there has been a moving of the Spirit. Pray they, like Nicodemus, might come to a living faith

Jews that have immigrated from Russia and Poland are more receptive to the gospel, but many still need to be reached. Pray that the Lord will send labourers into the harvest.

The Ethiopian Jews number over 1.2 million and are a despised underclass. There are many who need to be reached with the Gospel

The Arabs, need to hear the Gospel. Please pray that God would send out people to harvest them

The Druze Community in Israel, the Golan Heights and the West Bank. A move of the Spirit, has already started, but people who do trust Jesus come under intense persecution. Pray for protection and this work to grow.

Guest workers..Many who serve in Israel are believers

Young People and Children. Pray that they would hear the Gospel


Supportive Ministries

Pray for the bible society, which distributes over 100,000 bibles annually. Also for the 4 Messanic Magazines that have a large readership. Please pray for fruit as the word of God goes forth in Israel

Pray for the ministries of Fellowship of Christian Students and hearts to serve as they seek to reach the Student population. Pray for the 150 Christian students linked to 10 groups

The Jesus film is available in 10 languages and has already had great impact. Pray that this continues.

Radio.. Several radio broadcasts in Russian , Hebrew and Arabic.

The Internet is used widely. Please pray that there will be a number of sites that can speak to the people and apply the truths of the bible in a culturally relevant setting

Father in the Name of Jesus, we thank you that you have given us the opportunity to prayer for your people and we ask that your church is given power like in Acts 1:8, to change the whole country of Israel. We ask that you would energise your church and enable it to share the gospel and to change Israel


Thank you for joining me in prayer


God bless you


Keith

Featured website

Please pray for this ministry and support it by your gifts if the Lord Leads

http://www.jewsforjesus.org/


Special Song


I hope you enjoy this beautiful song


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzwd6JTaXPQ&feature=related

In this week's edition: reports from Sudan, China, Algeria, Egypt and Nigeria
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1. Bible college bombed in Sudan
(Source: Samaritan's Purse)

A Bible school supported by Samaritan's Purse was destroyed on February 1 in the latest bombing raid to hit South Kordofan, a Sudanese province that borders the newly created independent country of South Sudan (for more on South Sudan, go to www.persecution.net/sd-2011-07-21.htm). Eight bombs were dropped in the area of Heiban Bible College during the school's first day of classes. According to eyewitness accounts, the bombing required a sustained effort with at least four flyover passes.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported. "We have been working for years in Sudan," Samaritan's Purse President Franklin Graham said after the attack. "Today our Bible school in Heiban in the Nuba Mountains was bombed by the Sudanese Air Force. No one was killed or hurt, but buildings were destroyed. Please pray for the safety of believers, and that God would intervene." Since early August, at least four churches built by Samaritan's Purse have been destroyed by bombing or burning.

Thank the Lord no one was injured or killed. Pray the Lord will strengthen the faith of the students and other believers after this attack and ask Him to provide for them. Pray the Holy Spirit will bring new life and faith to the people around the Nuba Mountains. Pray for those behind these attacks.

For more information on persecution in Sudan, go to www.persecution.net/sudan.htm. To post a prayer of solidarity with suffering believers in Sudan, visit our Persecuted Church Prayer Wall atwww.persecution.net/prayerwall.
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2. Government persecution of Christians in China worsened in 2011
(Source: ChinaAid Assocation)

Government persecution of Christians and churches in China worsened significantly in 2011. From 2010 to 2011, the total number of people persecuted, detained, sentenced, or abused jumped 42.5 per cent. Compared with the statistics in past ChinaAid annual reports, the trend of worsening persecution has persisted for the past six years, with an average annual increase of 33.1 per cent.

Two major cases are representative of the 2011 practise of targeting influential house churches for persecution: the large-scale suppression of Beijing Shouwang Church for 38 continuous weeks (for more, visit www.persecution.net/cn-2012-01-19.htm), and the continued strict surveillance and suppression of the Linfen church in Shanxi province since it was banned in 2009 (go to www.persecution.net/cn-2011-09-15.htm to learn more).

ChinaAid founder and president Bob Fu said, "House churches in China which are committed to the sole headship of Christ in the church and to evangelism must operate as illegal groups conducting so-called 'illegal religious activities,' and consequently must be ready to suffer the administrative penalties inflicted by the state."

Thank the Lord for the extraordinary faithfulness of Christians in China who continue to serve the Lord though they face intimidation, threats and arrest. Pray they will exemplify the love of God through consistent love and prayer for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:43-48). Ask the Lord to continue to grow His church in China.

To learn more about China's suffering Church, visit www.persecution.net/china.htm.
***********************************

3. Church ransacked in eastern Algeria
(Source: International Christian Concern)

The Protestant Church of Ouargla in eastern Algeria was vandalized by an unknown number of armed men on the evening of February 1. After the assailants broke through the gate, they ransacked the church building. "We heard noises on the terrace, but we could not get out because the threat was real. They could kill us," said Pastor Mourad, who was inside the building with his wife and children.

The Church of Ouargla is the only church in the region and has been recognized by the government since its establishment in 1958. Pastor Mourad has been repeatedly threatened and attacked since being ordained as pastor in 2007. In the summer of 2009, his wife was beaten and seriously injured by a group of unknown men. Then, in late 2011, rubbish was thrown over the compound walls while an angry mob shouted death threats at Pastor Mourad.

Pray the Lord will protect Pastor Mourad, his family and church members. Pray the believers will take heart and place their hope in Him. Ask the Lord to grow the Church in Algeria, in number and in faithfulness.

Go to www.persecution.net/algeria.htm for more on the trials believers face in Algeria.
***********************************

4. Christian teenager abducted in Egypt
(Source: Australian Evangelical Alliance Religious Liberty Commission)

Amira Gamal Saber, a 16-year-old Egyptian Christian, was abducted in early December 2011 from Saft-el-Khamar village, Minya Province. The head of security in Minya confirmed her kidnapping but failed to act. A few weeks later, a man phoned Amira's family demanding a ransom. The family travelled to Giza with the ransom money, but once they arrived they were directed to the police station and informed that government prosecutors were handling the case. In court, a prosecutor backed by 12 lawyers told Amira's parents that their daughter wanted to convert to Islam. He ruled therefore, that Amira be sent to a state-run care facility in Giza until she turns 18 and may legally profess Islam for herself. Her father is appealing to the Attorney General.

Please pray the Lord will intervene in Amira's situation. Ask Him to give her and her family the strength to endure this current hardship. Pray for all believers in Egypt; may they keep their eyes on Jesus, persevere in their faith, and not grow weary or lose heart (Hebrews 10:32-39; 12:1-3).

To learn more about the suffering of believers in Egypt, go to www.persecution.net/egypt.htm.
***********************************

5. Update: Attack sparks revival in Nigeria
(Source: The Voice of the Martyrs)

Increasing violence in Nigeria has only strengthened local Christians' faith, even sparking a revival at the Deeper Life Bible Church in Gombe, where nine Christians were martyred in a January 5 attack (for more information, go to www.persecution.net/ng-2012-01-12.htm).

During a funeral service on January 19 for those killed, many believers rededicated their lives to Christ, and others came to faith in Christ for the first time. Weeping and singing while on their knees, a choir led about 500 attendees and 50 pastors in worship. The martyrs' relatives and other dignitaries -- including the deputy governor speaking on behalf of the state's governor -- spoke about each murdered Christian. The four-hour service then moved on to intercessory prayer for the Church in Nigeria, the nation at large, Muslims in Nigeria, and the Muslim extremist group Boko Haram.

"The leader of the prayers based most of the prayers from the book of Isaiah 61:1–4, among other scriptures, which strengthen and encourage the Church. He encouraged the Church to be more prayerful than complaining," said a VOM worker. "He said the Lord knows how to fight His own battle in His own way, and we should not revenge whatsoever."

Pray that the Lord will continue to comfort and provide for those mourning. Pray that He will sustain the faith of believers in Nigeria during these difficult trials. Pray that Christians in Nigeria will receive a crown of beauty, the oil of joy and the garment of praise from the Lord (Isaiah 61:3).

To learn more about persecution in Nigeria, go to www.persecution.net/nigeria.htm.
***********************************
The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. (905) 670.9721 . Website: www.persecution.net

I've been contacted by Engin & Nurcan Duran, Turkish Christians who receive our Notes of Encouragement and have been instrumental in starting churches there. Recently they and their children were driven from their home. Please read the following communication from Engin and pray for them and their children. I will keep you posted as we receive updates.



Take care & be God's,



Chuck



Brothers and sisters, I'm writing to tell you about our very frightening night. This morning around 3 am, while Nurcan, the children and I were sleeping together in the living room, we heard some people banging on our front door. It was as if they were trying to break it down. The children awoke and, of course, were very frightened. I told Nurcan and the children to lie down in case they had guns. We tried to be very quiet.



Nurcan called the police and they arrived within fifteen minutes. After they arrived we heard seven gunshots. One of the police tried to go somewhere but was told to go back. After a while we asked the police to escort us to a hotel. Unfortunately we couldn't wake the hotel manager. So we called a Christian sister and she let us stay with her for the night.



Later in the day we went to a hotel. Now I am at home while Nurcan and the children are there. I asked the police for a copy of their report, but they refused to give it to me. They did allow me to read the report. I asked them why they didn't mention the gunshots and they did not respond.



Also today two members of the terrorism police in Izmir called me and said he wanted to meet with me. When we met I asked him for protection. He said they could not promise that. The police said the same thing to me.



Brothers and sisters we are intending to leave Cesme. To be honest we don't know how this will happen. We don't know where we can go or when. And the schools are starting again on Monday, so this is a concern. I have informed the pastors and believers around Turkey so they can pray for us. And they have assured us that we are in their prayers. Also today three believers came to Cesme to visit us. They stayed for a while, praying with and encouraging us. They did offer to take us to Izmir with them. Please join the Turkish believers in praying for us and our children. We need wisdom, favor and protection to get through this difficult time.



Thank you so much for standing with us during these trials.



Engin

Welcome to the second part of this urgent prayer focus


You know my friends the great evangelist DL moody said


'every great movement of God, can be traced to a kneeling figure'


Another great man of God AT Pierson said


'There has never been a spiritual awakening in any country or locality that did not begin in united prayer'


This is the most repressive country on the planet, but God can and will change it. Please take time to pray... last week you had part 1 here is part 2.


Please take time to view the links and to post a comment on the prayer wall of the featured website link


God bless you


Keith






North Korea Part 2

Present Ministry opportunities

Radio from many broadcasters go into North Korea, but most radio's are tuned to government frequencies. Please pray that these broadcasts would be heard by many people on radios smuggled into the country.


Christian literature and Bibles are in desperate need and in very short supply. Believers do try and smuggle in these things, but are liable to shot if caught. Balloons have been used to float in literature in the past with varying results.


Korean and Chinese Christian's can enter the country as technical experts and businessmen. Please pray that as they do this, they would be shining witnesses for Jesus


Prayer networks which are to many to number provide a round the clock prayer focus. Just put prayer networks for North Korea in any search engine. This is one of the best.


http://northkoreanchristians.com/


Many north Koreans seek to flee to china, at a rate of 300,000 per year. If they are caught it will mean either prison , torture or even death.


Please pray and join with millions all over the world, who are praying for this country. I know many of you have much to pray for and many many requests, but please don't forget these dear brothers and sisters.


Father in Jesus Name, we ask that you would touch North Korea. We pray as the Body of Christ that you would protect and grow your Church in this country and that it would emerge Strong and mature. We ask for each and every believer who is in prison camp, that they would know the power and presence of God in their lives and that they would know that they are being loved and prayed for


In Jesus precious name


Amen


Thanks for praying.. please don't stop.. ever and please share this


God bless you


Keith




Featured Website

Please post a prayer on this wall. Please stand with your brothers sand sisters in Christ

http://www.voiceofnorthkorea.com/



Special MUST SEE VIDEO

Please watch this video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO6jTPA7Uio

Welcome to this very important prayer Focus


My Friends, we talk about persecution, but North Korea is the harshest regime for persecuting Christian's.


They are not tolerated at all, and therefore I ask you to create a wave of prayer for this nation.


Get your church involved
Get your prayer group involved
Send these prayer needs to all your friends and contacts
Post them on all your groups


Let us storm the gates of heaven. Let us make known our requests unto God. Let's get serious about praying for this nation


I WANT YOU TO CLICK ON THIS LINK, THIS DEAR CHRISTIAN SISTER SPEAKS WITH SO MUCH PASSION, IT MADE ME WEEP, IT MAKES ME SO ASHAMED TO CALL MYSELF A CHRISTIAN. WHAT FAITH.. OH TO HAVE SUCH PASSION.. PLEASE GOD FILL ME WITH PASSION AND COMPASSION.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LMue6_RJhVI&feature=related


God bless you


Keith


Prayer focus


North Korea

Location The larger part of the Korean Peninsular


Population 24 million


Evangelical population 250,000 estimated but may be many more. No accurate records are available


Prayer Needs

The dear leader Kim Jong il has died and his son has taken his place. This is a time of real concern as nobody knows what he is like, he may be more repressive or even liberal. Pray for this man that He a would have his heart changed and that the gospel would penetrate every area of North Korea.


The Leaders have brought untold misery upon this country, the philosophy of Juche or self reliance is clearly untenable and the country now is seeking nuclear capacity and is a serious threat to the region. Pray that the country's leaders would come to their senses and repent of their sin and idolatry. They have built thousands of statues to themselves and are only interested in propagating their selves. Please pray that this repressive regime would come to an end.


The economy and environment are in a state of meltdown. Pray for a watershed moment in God's timing, that will bring change , freedom and liberty to this nation


Food shortages are chronic, with many people starving and many others having to resort to theft etc. Most food that arrives goes to the Government inner circle or the army


Christian agencies are on the ground in NK, but have never been allowed to open a church. Many Christian's are in NK on this basis. Please pray that the light of the gospel , would shine brightly through them.


Pyongyang the capital, was once called the Jerusalem of the north, but most Christian expression has been crushed with most of the Christian in prison camps or executed. Yes this is happening to day, so please write to your local representative and say that this is not acceptable. The church has survived and is growing, even under this terrible persecution. Pray that the believers, would be safe and secure under God's divine protection. Please pray that the church would grow and mature.


People in both North and South Korea long to be reunified. Please pray that this would happen in God's timing


My Heart really aches when I share about these precious believers, you know my friends, we have it so easy, but these men and women are real , they are my beloved brothers and sisters. Let us stand up in prayer, let us stand up alongside them with passion. I am writing this with tears welling up in my eyes.


One of the evidences you are saved is that you hurt for the persecuted church, if you don't you need to ask yourself, whether you are saved or not.. see this verse in 1 Corinthians 12


²⁶And if one member suffers, all the parts [share] the suffering; if one member is honored, all the members [share in] the enjoyment of it.




Father in the name of Jesus, I as a believer in Jesus and my friends in the body of Christ. Stand alongside every believer in north Korea. I ask your divine protection on them and your deep blessing and give upon each one of them and that one day you will transform this country, so that the name of Jesus is uplifted and glorified


In Jesus name


Amen


God Bless you and thanks for praying and sharing


Keith




Featured Website

Please read this wonderful website to gain more information on the situation in this country

http://www.globaljusticeprayernetwork.com/?q=node/4

Special Song

Instead of a song, we have this MUST SEE VIDEO

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Mg1wBLZbvk

Welcome to the final Part of Prayer for Kenya

I hope you have been blessed by sharing in prayer for this wonderful land. To my beloved friends in Kenya, such as Pastor Alex and Pastor Albert, I send my warmest greetings.

Please take time to click on the three links at the bottom of this message and please share these needs with your friends and prayer groups

Thanks

God bless you all

Keith

Kenya Part 5

Praise God that most people, have their own translations of the Bible. Please pray for the Bible society and SIL as they seek to translate and distribute the scriptures around the nation.

Aid Programmes operate through such agencies as Tearfund and World Vision. Please pray that hearts would be touched and opened as Christian's show the compassionate love of Christ, through relief aid.

MAF and others have extensive flying programmes, which enable ministry to go on, not only in Kenya, but across East Africa. Please pray for safety of planes and pilots.

Gospel recordings network has made recordings in 75 languages and dialects. Please pray that the gospel, would reach the most displaced people, through this ministry of cassette tapes.

The Jesus film, has been shown to large chunks of the population. Please pray for the safety of the teams, as they seek to show it in villages and public places throughout the country.

Nairobi is a key centre for Christian ministry. Please pray that this would remain so.

Continue to ask that God would rain down on his church in Kenya.. HIS REVIVAL POWER.. AMEN.


Father, we thank you, that we have been able to share in prayer for Kenya. We ask that you would stir your church. We know that revival has happened before and we ask that you would do it again Lord.

In Jesus Name

Thanks for Praying

Keith


Featured Site

Here is a ministry seeking to reach out

http://www.covenantcenterskenya.org/

Special Song

I hope you love this beautiful song

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08oZDbmn-AY

In this week's edition: reports from Pakistan, India, China, Iran and Yemen.
***********************************

1. Update: Christian sentenced to death in Pakistan fasting, praying and forgiving
(Source: VOM-USA, Atlas Shrugs)

Asia Bibi, a Christian wife and mother sentenced to die for allegedly committing blasphemy against Islam, says she has forgiven those who are persecuting her (for more, go towww.persecution.net/pk-2010-11-11.htm). She recently told a Pakistani journalist, who asked her a list of questions prepared by an American journalist, that she spends her time praying and fasting for her family and other persecuted Christians.

Asia is confined to a cell and is allowed to go outside 30 minutes each day. She sees her two daughters and husband one hour each week. Asia told her interviewer one of the prison workers recently tried to strangle her, and she must prepare her own food since it is feared she will be poisoned if workers in the prison prepare it. Life for All is supporting her family and has hired a lawyer to try and overturn the conviction. She says she is hopeful that she will be released, but there is a bounty of about $8,000 offered by the Islamic clerics to anyone who will kill her. Asia says she is content that her future is in God's hands and she will accept His will.

Please pray that Asia's young daughters and husband will rely on the Lord as a source of strength and hope. Pray that Asia's forgiving heart will be used by God to inspire others to forgive and show love. Please pray that the ongoing petition for Asia hosted by VOM-USA atwww.CallForMercy.com will help lead to her release.

Find out more about the trials facing Christians in Pakistan at www.persecution.net/pakistan.htm.
***********************************

2. Karnataka most dangerous state in India for Christians
(Source: Compass Direct News)

Christmas and New Year's holidays in the south Indian state of Karnataka brought a dramatic increase in attacks on believers, and the state was identified as the most unsafe place for Christians for the third consecutive year.

There were 49 cases of violence and hostility against Christians in the state last year, according to the Evangelical Fellowship of India's annual report. The Global Council of Indian Christians reported there were at least six anti-Christian attacks between Christmas Eve and New Year's Day alone. Services and prayer meetings were disrupted and pastors and worshippers were harassed and physically abused by groups of suspected Hindu extremists. In one case on Christmas Day, about 20 people beat Christians, including women and children, with stones and wooden clubs as the believers celebrated at a house a few miles from the city of Mangalore. Injuries in the attacks included fractures, chest injuries and head trauma. Christians account for at least 2.3 percent of India's population, which is more than 1 billion.

Please pray that eruptions of violence will cease and the storm of hostility will be stilled in this troubled state. Please pray for the physical and emotional healing of those who have been attacked and harmed. Please pray that Christians in Karnataka will be Christ's light and will overcome the spiritual darkness that is consuming this region.

For more information on India's suffering believers, please visit www.persecution.net/india.htm.
***********************************

3. Update: New year brings renewed efforts to prevent worship at Shouwang Church in China
(Source: ChinaAid)

Christian believers at Beijing Shouwang Church, who had arranged an outdoor worship service after the government continued to thwart their efforts to rent premises to worship indoors, were harassed, detained and prevented from worshipping together on January 1. The church has long been a target for the oppressive government (to learn more, visit www.persecution.net/cn-2011-06-30.htm). Believers report that at least 49 Christians were taken into custody either before they were able to depart for the outdoor service or as they made their way there. Most believers were sent to 13 local police stations. Many were released home late that night and all were released by January 3.

The church had rented three different locations to conduct indoor worship services, but by the evening of December 31, 2011, all three sites notified the church that they could not lease the space to the church and had to tear up the agreement as the result of government interference and pressure. Since then, China's state and domestic security have come out in force setting up guard stations and imposing martial law at the plaza where the outdoor service had been planned. Those who had been to the plaza in the past were confined to their homes by security guards, and pastors have been under house arrest.

Please pray that our brothers and sisters at Shouwang Church will be granted the freedom to worship indoors without fear of reprisal or harassment. Pray that these believers will continue to spread the gospel despite these trials as a testament to God's sovereign power and for His glory.

For more information on China's suffering Church, go to www.persecution.net/china.htm.
***********************************

4. Update: Iranian pastor Youcef Nadarkhani refuses to compromise faith for release
(Source: Christian Solidarity Worldwide)

Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani recently refused to state that the Muslim prophet Muhammad was a messenger sent by God despite the fact that it would have secured his release. On December 30, local authorities said they would release the pastor if he agreed to make the statement, but the pastor rejected the offer and remains in prison awaiting a final decision on his case. The request violates article 23 of the Iranian Constitution, which states that no one should be molested or taken to task simply for holding a certain belief.

The pastor at the Church of Iran was arrested in Rasht in 2009, and in September 2010, he was tried and found guilty of apostasy and sentenced to death (for more, visit www.persecution.net/ir-2011-11-17.htm). He was made three similar offers in 2011 where recanting his faith would have saved his life, but he refused each time. His case was eventually referred to Iran's Supreme Leader. Unconfirmed reports indicate that the case may have been passed on to the head of the Iranian judiciary, delaying execution for up to a year to allow time to convince the pastor to renounce his faith.

Please pray that Pastor Youcef's courage and faith will continue to be an example to the world that the Lord is more valuable than any earthly reward. Please pray that his steadfast resolve to protect the integrity of the gospel message will lead others to salvation. Please pray for his release.

For more on the trials believers face in Iran, go to www.persecution.net/iran.htm.
***********************************

5. Update: Pray for missing Christians in Yemen
(Source: Middle East Concern)

December 12, 2011, marked two-and-a-half years since the kidnapping of nine foreigners in Saada, north-west Yemen, three of whom were murdered shortly afterwards (for more, go towww.persecution.net/ye-2011-06-16.htm).

There continues to be no news of Johannes and Sabine (a German couple), Simon (their son, age 3) or of Tony (a British man). Lydia and Anna (7 and 5, daughters of Johannes and Sabine) who were freed in May 2010 are with relatives in Germany and are reported to be in good health. It is reportedly a challenge for these relatives to function as Lydia and Anna's parents in light of their unique needs and in the context of the other children in their home.

Christians close to the situation are hopeful that the recent agreement to transfer power from President Saleh to the Vice President and the formation of a unity government may lead to the release of information about the four missing foreigners. These political changes have not yet led to much positive change in the country as a whole, and protests and violent clashes continue in many parts.

Pray that the missing four, assuming they are alive, will know the peace, presence and daily provision of Jesus and will be released unharmed. Please pray that the families and colleagues of those missing and murdered will know the peace of Jesus amidst continuing uncertainty. Pray that the perpetrators will be convicted by the Spirit and drawn to the forgiveness, love and true life offered by Jesus.

To post a prayer for these believers, visit our Persecuted Church Prayer Wall atwww.persecution.net/prayerwall. For more information on persecution in Yemen, go towww.persecution.net/yemen.htm.
***********************************

6. Online persecution studies course beginning in February!

Are you looking for a new way to put the true cost of discipleship into perspective and help Christians around the globe suffering for the cause of Christ?

This February, our sister mission, VOM-USA, is offering an online workshop designed to inform, inspire, and educate Christians worldwide about the reality of persecution and the importance of becoming personally involved in ministry to suffering believers. Course subjects include biblical perspectives on persecution, the history of persecution, and how we should respond to persecution today.

The workshop is 12 weeks in length and costs $90 CAD. Students should anticipate spending 3-4 hours per week on the coursework, which includes lectures, sermons, videos, and student forums. This is a great opportunity to fellowship with believers from around North America while learning more about the persecuted Church!

Get started today! For more information or to register, please visit www.vomclassroom.com.
***********************************
The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. (905) 670.9721. Website: www.persecution.net

Welcome to Prayer Focus

As always, it is a joy to share with you and whether you have been receiving these messages for years or have just started, I wish to welcome you in the name of the Lord and thank you so much for you contribution, prayers and love.

Please feel free to print these out and post on your church notice board and please share this message with all your friends and contacts.

Please also take time to click on the featured page links at the bottom of the message, there are great sites to view and a wonderful song to hear

God bless you all

Keith


Kenya Part 4

Less Evangelised Peoples

4-5 % of the population haven't heard the gospel. Pray that every Kenyan would hear the gospel.

The animistic peoples of the North and West are responding to the gospel. Among these are:

Turkana (15% Christian)
Pokot and Endo (15 % Christian)
Sabaot, Rendille, Samburu and Daasenach ( less than 3 % Christian)

Please pray for mature strong churches among all these people groups.


The Muslim Oromo people of the Northeast, which include the Borana, Njemps, and Orma Groups. Please pray that these people would be reached with the gospel. The Njemps are only 1.5% christian, but are already sending out missionaries to other tribes and groups.

The Khoism, who are bushmen and include the Boni and Daholo groups. Pray that effective ministry, would be established to these nomadic people.

The peoples of the Coastal Hills. The Duruma and Chonyi, mix Muslim and African traditional beliefs, but they have a large minority of believers. Please pray that the believers, would reach out in love. The Digo,Segeju and Bajun are 100% muslim. Please pray that these people will be reached.

The Coastal Asian and Swahili people are virtually all muslim. They have been resistant to christian ministry. The church is seeking to reach them, please pray that this would be done in wisdom, power and love.

Somali people have left their country in their thousands to flee to Kenya. Numerous christian agencies are seeking to reach them. Please pray for the founding of a strong and mature Somali church.. At the moment there are 2-300 Somali believers in Kenya.

Asian people are an open door in Kenya. They feel very isolated and cut adrift from Kenyan society. Please pray for the many agencies that are seeking to reach them and pray for the planting of more churches among these needy people.

Father we ask that you would stir your church in Kenya, so that everyone in the country, would have the chance to hear your gospel. We pray that a church would be planted in every village, town and people group in Kenya.

God bless you

Thanks for praying

Keith

Featured Site

Please take time to click on the link below

http://harvestimpacteafrica.org/

Special Song

May God bless you as you listen to this song

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4skT9ndv6ng

Welcome to Prayer Focus

Thanks for standing with the believers in Kenya. It is an amazing joy to stand with these brothers and sisters in Christ.. amen.

Please take time to place these on your church notice boards, send to your prayer groups and pass on to your contacts.

Please take time to view the featured page links at the bottom of this message.

Thanks and God bless

Keith


Kenya Part 3

Specialised ministry needs include:

Kenya is a young country and so this is a great need. Please pray for Child evangelism fellowship amongst children, Scripture Union in primary and secondary schools and Focus\IFES in Universities and Colleges. Please pray for many young people to come to faith and to grow up to full maturity in Christ. Recently over 1,000 university students gave themselves to missionary service, please pray that this would grow and develop.

HIV\Aids.. Over 500 pass away each day. Please pray for the many ministries seeking to reach out and pray that the church, would have a compassionate heart for these people.

City Dwellers sometimes live in slums and have abject poverty. Please pray for the many ministries seeking to reach out both in spiritual and material ways. There are 100,000 street children, please pray that many would be won to Christ.

Islam is growing in influence. Please pray that Christian's, would meet this challenge and seek to reach out to the Muslims. Pray that tensions between the two communities are eased. Muslims converting to Christianity face persecution. Please hold up these dear people in prayer.

Father in the name of Jesus, we ask that you would touch every age range in Kenyan society and that you would bring in a real harvest of souls. Lift up the Lord Jesus in Kenya and may many come to Faith in Him.

Amen

God bless you

Keith


Featured Site

Here is another wonderful ministry

http://www.miakenya.org/


Special Song

Hope you can sing along and worship God

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=du0il6d-DAk

In this week's edition: reports from Nigeria, Laos, China and Uganda.
***********************************

1. Christians warned by Muslim militants to leave Nigeria's north within days
(Sources: CNN, Religious Liberty Prayer Bulletin)

On January 1, the militant Islamic group Boko Haram issued an
ultimatum giving Christians living in northern Nigeria three days to
leave the area amid a rising tide of violence. Boko Haram spokesman,
Abul Qaqa, also said that fighters were ready to confront soldiers
sent to the area under a state of emergency declared in parts of four
states by Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan.

Vowing to render Nigeria "ungovernable," Boko Haram targets anything
that does not support its fundamentalist Islamist ends and jihadist
means: universities, police, secular courts, Christian churches and
even liberal mosques.

The state of emergency came after a string of attacks in late
December, where churches, a state security building, and a mosque were
bombed. By December 31, President Jonathan had closed Nigeria's
borders with Chad and Niger Republic and declared the state of
emergency in 15 hard-hit local government areas of Borno, Yobe,
Plateau and Niger states, sending tanks and soldiers to patrol the
streets.

Pray for those who were injured or who lost loved ones over Christmas.
Pray the Lord will minister to them and help them overcome their
present sufferings. Pray that those responsible will be brought to
justice and that they will come to repentance and gain knowledge of
Christ. Pray that God will frustrate the plans of the enemy (Nehemiah
4:15) so the current threat will come to nothing.

To post a prayer of solidarity with believers in Nigeria, visit our
Persecuted Church Prayer Wall at www.persecution.net/prayerwall. For
more on persecution in Nigeria, please visit
www.persecution.net/nigeria.htm.
***********************************

2. Officials force Christians to recant in Laos
(Sources: Compass Direct News, Human Rights Watch for Lao Religious Freedom)

Officials forced Christians in a Lao village to give up their faith in
order to bury a family member in the village graveyard. In Huey,
Ad-Sapangthong district of Savannakhet Province, the village's eight
Christian families quickly began to arrange a funeral for a woman
named Wang who died on Christmas Day. On December 26, however, village
officials ordered that her body be buried according to Buddhist
funeral rites or be taken to a burial ground in Savannakhet city.
Lacking the resources for a city burial, the 40 Christians reluctantly
agreed. But the village monk then refused to carry out the ceremony
because Wang was a Christian. With Wang's body already decomposing and
officials demanding that they recant, the Christians verbally agreed
to cease practising their faith in order to bury her in the village
cemetery. Once the funeral was over, five of the families told church
leaders in another city that they regretted their decision and that
they would continue to worship God.

Meanwhile, authorities in Boukham village arrested eight Christian
leaders on December 16 for gathering some 200 church members for a
Christmas celebration. Officials have since moved seven of the leaders
to an animal pen, have blocked visits from family members, and have
banned direct delivery of food. The Christians are being held in
wooden stocks, causing swollen and infected legs and excruciating
pain.

Please pray the Lord will strengthen the faith of those who recanted
and give them courage to stand boldly for Him. Ask Him to comfort them
after this difficult trial. Pray that the believers being held will
soon be released. Pray the Lord will grow His Church in Laos.

For more on the trials Christians face in Laos, go to
www.persecution.net/laos.htm.
***********************************

3. Update: Human rights lawyer Gao Zhisheng remains imprisoned
(Source: ChinaAid)

For the first time since his most recent forced disappearance 20
months ago, the whereabouts of human rights lawyer Gao Zhisheng has
been confirmed. Gao Zhisheng's older brother, Gao Zhiyi, received
written notification of Gao's incarceration in Shaya Prison in the
Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in far western China. The
notification was signed and dated by the prison on December 19.

Gao Zhisheng has been repeatedly kidnapped, arrested, imprisoned and
tortured by Chinese authorities for defending the persecuted (for
more, go to www.persecution.net/cn-2011-08-25.htm). He disappeared
into police custody in April 2010, the most recent in a series of
forced disappearances since his 2006 conviction on a subversion
charge. On December 16, just days before his five-year probation
period was to have ended, the Chinese government announced that it was
sending him to prison for three years for violating his probation. It
was the first word that he was still alive, but no information of his
condition was released.

Thank the Lord that Gao's family has received word on his whereabouts.
Pray the Lord will strengthen and sustain him and his family. Pray
that Gao will be given the grace to exemplify the love of God through
consistent love and prayer for those who persecute him (Matthew
5:43-48). Pray for his release.

For more information on China's suffering Church, go to
www.persecution.net/china.htm.
***********************************

4. Muslim extremists in Uganda throw acid on church leader
(Source: Compass Direct News)

Islamic extremists threw acid on a church leader on Christmas Eve,
leaving him with severe burns that have blinded one eye and threaten
his sight in the other. Bishop Umar Mulinde, 37, who was previously a
sheikh (Islamic teacher), was attacked when a man who claimed to be a
Christian approached him.

"I heard him say in a loud voice, 'Pastor, pastor,' and as I made a
turn and looked at him, he poured the liquid onto my face as others
poured more liquid on my back and then fled away shouting, 'Allahu
akbar ,'" Mulinde said. At last report, his face, neck and arms bore
deep black scars from the acid and his lips were swollen. The wounds
are so severe that he may need plastic surgery. Police have reportedly
arrested one suspect.

Mulinde is married and has six children. He has faced several injuries
and attacks from Muslims since his conversion to Christianity in 1993.

Pray the Lord will heal Mulinde's physical and emotional wounds. Pray
that he will receive all the treatment he needs. Pray he will remain
steadfast in the faith (1 Peter 5:8-10). Pray that the perpetrators
will repent and turn to Christ. Pray for those in authority who are
dealing with this case.