Call of Moses

Most people think of Moses as a great leader, a hero, and a strong, worthy man of God. But a closer look reveals that he was just like anyone else who might share our church pew. In fact, Moses was shocked that God would call him. Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” (Exodus 3:11, NIV). We look at the list of excuses Moses used to prove to God that someone else would be better suited for the task. First Moses said, “I am not the right person.” Then, “I have no idea what to say,” followed by, “They will never believe me.” Then, “I stutter.” Finally, Moses just asked God to go find someone else for the job.

Many of us too are filled with excuses about why we cannot do what God calls us to do. We have too many responsibilities to get to church school on time; worship is too boring; we don't have time to serve those in need. We pass neighbours with a nod and a wave instead of listening to their concerns and allowing them to know ours. We miss opportunities to share God’s love in Jesus Christ because we assume that someone else will do the job. Yet, God calls us. God did not exempt Moses, and God does not exempt us.

Wouldn't it be simpler to say, “Yes” and to trust the One who made us, who loves us, who promises to be with us as we obey?

Profile Background:
Barbara S. Chalfant – (Pennsylvania, U.S.A), Upper Room Ministries

Prayer Response to this featured article:
Pray, we serve Christ works through faith as we reach out the world. Pray, God forgives our excuses and move us to say, “Yes!” Pray, for someone struggling with God's call.

(Written by Barbara S. Chalfant – (Pennsylvania, U.S.A), the unrecalled date/year of published time from Upper Room)

CHRISTIAN VIEWPOINT FEATURE #19

 Do You Feel Loved by God?
In this article by Marshall Segal, he lists down four pointers to show how God is lovely God who loves us so much despite our worst moments, and the struggles we face, just like how He loves His Son – Jesus Christ whom He sent to die for our sins.

(Do click the link – https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/do-you-feel-loved-by-god by Marshall Segal – 26th Oct 2025| inside Desiring God)

Why (Really) Do We Become Prayerless?
This article questions on how much joy do we forfeit when we allow disappointment, sin, or distraction to keep us from prayer? God wants to hear our words.

(Do click the link – https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/why-really-do-we-become-prayerless by Seth Troutt – 25th Oct 2025| inside Desiring God)

Are We 18 Months Away from the Rise of the Beast System?
This article questions whether the takeover of the beast system just a year and a half away? Looking ahead into the spring of 2027, prophetic voice Perry Stone is warning that artificial intelligence could dramatically reshape.

(Do click the link – https://mycharisma.com/propheticrevival/are-we-18-months-away-from-the-rise-of-the-beast-system/ by Abby Trivett (21st Oct 2025) inside Prophetic Insight)

Could the Latest Peace Agreement Signal the End Times?
This article recounts after years of bloodshed and political turmoil the recent peace agreement between Israel and Hamas has sparked hope across the world. Tears of relief were shed as hostages returned home.

(Do click the link – https://mycharisma.com/propheticrevival/could-the-latest-peace-agreement-signal-the-end-times/ by James Lasher (21st Oct 2025) inside Prophetic Insight)

How to Stay Human – C.S. Lewis on the Doctrine of Man:
This article by Louis Markos tells us that the pursuit of human flourishing requires knowing what humans are and what we are for, having C.S. Lewis to chart a path through the muddied waters of contemporary anthropology.

(Do click the link – https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/how-to-stay-human by Louis Markos – 22nd Oct 2025| inside Desiring God)

Heightened Hostility against Christianity in the West:
In this article by Dr Roland Chia, he highlighted how Christians must respond to the unjust treatment of others as they play their part in witnessing to their Lord, who has commanded them to love neighbours and enemies unconditionally (Mark 12:30 –31) characterised by God’s grace, a willingness to forgive, and compassion, while knowing how to dispel the fear of those who perpetrate in hostility and violence against a living religion and its followers.

(Do click the link – https://ethosinstitute.sg/heightened-hostility-against-christianity-in-the-west/ by Dr Roland Chia |20th OCT 2025| inside Pulse)

The Church as Christ’s Institution:
In this article by Dr Simon Chan, he underscores the point of how we are to put in greater effort to make church institutions function under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to embrace the doctrine that the church as institution is the work of Christ guided by the Spirit.

(Do click the link – https://ethosinstitute.sg/the-church-as-christs-institution/ by Dr Simon Chan |20th OCT 2025| inside Credo)

God’s Pursuit – His Glory in Our Joy:
This article reminds us that our joy in God shows the kind of God that He is – awesome and glorious, happy and holy, beautiful and delightful beyond measure.

(Do click the link – https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/gods-pursuit-his-glory-in-our-joy by David Mathis – 11th Oct 2025| inside Desiring God)

Your Body Was Made to See Jesus:
This article highlighted how eternal communion with God is more than a soulish meditation. In our resurrected bodies, with our physical eyes, we will behold the living God. (Do click the link – https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/your-body-was-made-to-see-jesus by Samuel Parkison – 11th Oct 2025| inside Desiring God)

The Dragon’s Prophecy – Ancient Prophecies and Modern Terror Collide:
This article highlights how 7th October was “the Temple Mount,” says Jonathan Cahn in his prophetic revelation that inspired the new documentary, The Dragon’s Prophecy; noting that it was a prophetic warning unfolding in real time, besides being just a geopolitical crisis when Hamas terrorists invaded Israel then.

(Do click the link – https://mycharisma.com/propheticrevival/the-dragons-prophecy-ancient-prophecies-and-modern-terror-collide by James Lasher (7th Oct 2025) inside Prophetic Insight)

Spiritual Challenges of Money:
In this article, German economic historian and archaeologist Bernhard Laum, the founder of the theory of the religious origin of money, argues in his work Sacred Money that money is a social institution rooted in religious beliefs, and how money is rooted in the sacred realm and moderated by ancient rituals and a sacred legal order; seen against the contemporary view of money as an individualistic quest for pragmatic economic satisfaction. Yet, many Christians believe money is a neutral phenomenon but a useful tool. However, Jesus calls money “mammon” (Matt. 6:24; Luke 16:13), which he describes as a dark and personal spiritual force. (Do click the link – https://ethosinstitute.sg/spiritual-challenges-of-money/ by Dr Clive Lim, 6th OCT 2025| inside Feature)

Forgiveness – Conditional or Unconditional?
In this article by Dr Roland Chia, he allows R.T. Kendall in his 2012 book Totally Forgiving God – When It Seems He Has Betrayed You, suggesting that Christians should even forgive God when they feel betrayed by him and how, our focus is on the concept of total forgiveness. (Do click the link – https://ethosinstitute.sg/forgiveness-conditional-or-unconditional/ by Dr Roland Chia |6th OCT 2025| inside Pulse)

What is the New Apostolic Reformation?
In this article by Dr Roland Chia, he allows the Apostle John P. Kelly, to tell us the purpose of International Coalition of Apostles (ICA) that’s “to connect each member’s wisdom and resources in order to function more strategically, each combining efforts globally, and effectively accelerate the advancement of the kingdom of God on earth.”

(Do click the link – https://ethosinstitute.sg/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/NAR_2025.pdf by Dr Roland Chia |28th Sept 2025| inside Special Articles)

The People of His Majesty – Five Marks of a Marveling Church:
This article shows how those who cherish God’s majesty become a certain kind of people: a commending, called, candid, conquering, and soon–to–be crowned church. (Do click the link – https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/the-people-of-his-majesty by David Mathis – 27th Sept 2025| inside Desiring God)

Newman on Faith’s Reasons – In this article by Dr Roland Chia, he points out how as a Roman Catholic, Newman insisted that the revelation of God is found in Scripture, than being exclusive about it and by tradition, Newman enjoys equal dignity and importance alongside Scripture, highlighting the importance of Creeds and Dogmas, which was a distinctive feature of the Oxford Movement which he led in his Anglican period, calling the “dogmatical principle” in his long battle against the theological liberalism of his day. He describes the latter as energized by “the antidogmatic principle and its developments.” Indeed, creeds and dogmas are necessary because they aid the human mind to understand the coherence of revelation, yet having the theology being grounded upon the authoritative text (Scripture) and its authoritative interpreter (the Church).

(Do click the link – https://ethosinstitute.sg/newman-on-faiths-reasons/ by Dr Roland Chia |15th Sept 2025| inside Pulse)

Your Life, a Sovereign Story:
This article reminds us as readers that God has written our story. There is no twist in the tale, no inciting incident, no surprise enemy that catches him off guard.

(Do click the link – https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/your-life-a-sovereign-story by Clinton Manley – 14th Sept 2025| inside Desiring God)

Dreams of Water and Fire Reveal Prophetic Warnings for the Last Days:
This article features how Evangelist Perry Stone opened a recent telecast of Manna-Fest by issuing a stern warning over unhealthy trends in the modern prophetic movement. “There’s been three bad habits that have occurred in the Charismatic community, and I want to share these with you, and they’re concerns of mine,” Stone said. (Do click the link – https://mycharisma.com/propheticrevival/dreams-of-water-and-fire-reveal-prophetic-warnings-for-the-last-days/ by James Lasher (9th Sept 2025) inside Prophetic Insight)

Supernatural September: Prophetic Vision Reveals Breakthrough Is on Its Way
This article tells us how waking up to worship, Katie Souza says the Lord gave her a vision that revealed how ancient gates and iron doors are standing in the way of God’s people and how the blood of Jesus and angelic breakthrough are removing them.

(Do click the link – https://mycharisma.com/propheticrevival/supernatural-september-prophetic-vision-reveals-breakthrough-is-on-its-way/ by Abby Trivett (9th Sept 2025) inside Prophetic Insight)

Kim Clement’s Prophetic Warning: The Rise and Fall of Global Leaders
This article questions whether is it possible that some of the world events we are seeing happen right now are actually part of the fulfillment of prophecy? Are we actually seeing world leaders rise up for the Lord to bring them back down to reality?

(Do click the link – https://mycharisma.com/propheticrevival/kim-clements-prophetic-warning-the-rise-and-fall-of-global-leaders/ / https://mycharisma.com/propheticrevival/prophecy-in-action-what-kim-clement-saw-for-2025/ by Abby Trivett (9th Sept & 6th May 2025) inside Prophetic Insight)

When Prayers Go Unanswered:
This article shows how Vaneetha found a lasting joy – fullness of joy through suffering when she experienced God’s presence in her life while going through deepest darkest moments at one point of time.

(Do click the link – https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/when-prayers-go-unanswered by Vaneetha Rendall Risner – 31st Aug 2025| inside Desiring God)

Nephilim Prophecy Connections – from Genesis to Revelation:
This article shows how the Bible tells of a strange and terrifying group of beings known as the Nephilim, described in Genesis 6 as the offspring of fallen angels and human women. (Do click the link – https://mycharisma.com/propheticrevival/nephilim-prophecy-connections-from-genesis-to-revelation/ by James Lasher (26th Aug 2025) inside Prophetic Insight)

More Christians consuming faith media, but fewer attending weekly services: 10 findings from IPS study on Religious Identity
This article highlights that religion is growing in importance across most Singaporeans, according to an Institute of Policy Studies’ (IPS) study. However, the IPS Working Paper, Religious Identity and Practice show that among Singaporeans, released on Wednesday (20 August 2025), also found that the importance of religion diminishes among those who are younger, better–educated and wealthier. (Do click the link – https://saltandlight.sg/news/more-christians-consuming-faith-media-but-fewer-attending-weekly-services-10-findings-from-ips-study-on-religious-identity/ by Pastor Edric Sng, 20th Aug 2025| Inside Salt & Light)

Religious Harmony and Social Cohesion in Singapore:
In this article by Dr Roland Chia, he underscores the fact that interfaith harmony and social cohesion have always been the cornerstones of Singapore’s nation–building project, where the continued stability and flourishing of Singapore as a nation depend heavily on fostering unity amidst diversity. By this, the Christian community in Singapore plays an integral aspect of being its witness, encouraging Christians to live peaceably with people of different faiths as moral calling than a civic duty, and how a Christian witness can contribute meaningfully and respectfully to the flourishing of our diverse society reflecting gentleness, humility, and love of God to others. (Do click the link – https://ethosinstitute.sg/religious-harmony-and-social-cohesion-in-singapore/ by Dr Roland Chia, 18th Aug 2025| Inside Pulse)

Unthinkable Joy:
This article shows that the possibility of joy in suffering has its roots all over the God–breathed testimony of Scripture, if Christians are being satisfied in God above all else, especially in their suffering. (Do click the link – https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/when-joy-feels-unthinkable by Marshall Segal – 12th Aug 2025| inside Desiring God)

Earthquakes and Volcanoes Surge – Are We Entering the Beginning of Sorrows?
This article shows how from devastating earthquakes to rare volcanic chains, the Earth’s activity has been making headlines around the globe; for many, these events are cause for fear, but for Christians, they serve as a reminder that the Bible’s prophetic words are not only alive but unfolding in real time.

(Do click the link – https://mycharisma.com/propheticrevival/earthquakes-and-volcanoes-surge-are-we-entering-the-beginning-of-sorrows/ by James Lasher (12th Aug 2025) inside Prophetic Insight)

All in for Singapore – 60 years of grace, 30 years of Day of His Power:
This article shows how more than 15,000 believers who came to lift up prayers for the nation in this milestone year – a record number of Christians from all over the country gathered in regional centres across Singapore for Day of His Power (DOHP) tonight.

(Do click the link – https://saltandlight.sg/40-day/all-in-for-singapore-60-years-of-grace-30-years-of-day-of-his-power by Beatrice Wu and Gabriel Ong, 8th Aug 2025| Inside Salt & Light)

A Tongue for Every Tribe – How English Serves the Global Church:
In this article, Seth highlights how English is the most widely spoken language in the world and how the spread of English could serve the spread of the gospel to the ends of the earth.

(Do click the link – https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/a-tongue-for-every-tribe by Seth Porch – 6th Aug 2025| inside Desiring God)

The Wonders of His Weather – Sensing God’s Majesty in the Storm:
David in this article encourages you to hear the blast of thunder, and see the burst of lightning, pause and ponder the majesty of God.

(Do click the link – https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-wonders-of-his-weather by David Mathis – 5th Aug 2025| inside Desiring God)

ON AUTHENTICITY:
In this article by Dr Khaw Siew Ping, she recalls how a Sunday Times article on October 13, 2024, citing that Gen Zers and young millennials in Singapore were interviewed on why they sought employment opportunities overseas. The caption accompanying a photo of a young man who identifies as LGBTQ reads “…making the move to Britain because he feels it is a place where he can live more authentically, both in the workplace and outside of it.” The notion of authenticity exemplified above is to act out one’s inner convictions, or, in modern parlnce, to “be true to oneself.” This definition of authenticity is arguably the one that almost all young people – including those who grew up in the church – are familiar with. Indeed, the Christian notion of authenticity prizes integrity between who we are and what we do, the first part – the “who we are” – is not based on how or what we feel. Rather, it is based on our constant and unchanging identity as children of God adopted by faith in Jesus’ salvific work on the cross (Rom. 8: 14–17). Indeed, the authenticity that Christians speak about the spiritual reality that we are children of God by adoption and the way we live out that reality, more than just adhering to a system of dos and don’ts.

(Do click the link – https://ethosinstitute.sg/on-authenticity by Dr Khaw Siew Ping, 4th Aug 2025| Inside Feature)

Revelation 16 Unfolding – Is China Leading the End-Times Charge?
This article showed how New York Times best–selling author and prophecy expert Joel Rosenberg offered a bold and sobering take on China, Bible prophecy and what he sees as a growing threat to global freedom – and a direct connection to the end-times scenario laid out in the Book of Revelation.

(Reported by James Lasher (26th Mar 2025) – https://mycharisma.com/propheticrevival/revelation-16-unfolding-is-china-leading-the-end-times-charge/ inside Prophetic Insight)

How Prophetic Prayer Releases Kingdom Promises:
This article reminds you that prophetic prayer begins by hearing God’s voice in your heart. (Do click the link – https://mycharisma.com/propheticrevival/how-prophetic-prayer-releases-kingdom-promises/ by Mark Virkler (5th March 2020) inside Prophetic Insight)

Holy Ground

In Bangalore, there seems to be construction labourers passing by the church. They come from a nearby village, and they’re not Christians. Yet they would stand in front of the church gate and take off their footwear. Upon observing them – the foreign workers made me wonder about my attitude toward the church, as the Scriptures said, “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground” (Exodus 3:5, NIV). In church, as culturally the women would cover their heads with their traditional Indian saris and bow their heads in reverence. This seems to be their daily routine.

As the Psalmist said in the Bible, “Let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker” (Psalm 95:6, NIV), as we stand before a holy God, we see the significance presence of a living God, who is to be worshiped every day.

Profile Background:
Leena Vijaykumar – (Bangalore, India), Upper Room Ministries

Prayer Response to this featured article:
Pray, we thank God for providing us a place to worship Him. Pray, we worship God daily in our lives.

(Written by Leena Vijaykumar – (Bangalore, India), the unrecalled date/year of published time from Upper Room Ministries)

Time for Tears

My dad struggled with cancer for 10 years. He died while me, my wife and our children were travelling to visit him. And, I knew that dad died as soon as I saw the look on my sister’s face. Dad had suffered so much. He had been an athlete but had wasted away. David says, “The Lord’s anger is but for a moment; his favour is for a lifetime. Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning” (Psalm 30:5, NIV). Inwardly, I wanted to cry. But as a young clergyman, I felt the need to express with a dry eye my confidence in Jesus Christ and His Resurrection.

I felt that I have grown in maturity since then. I realized that I found God’s comfort when I allow myself to mourn. In time, God “will wipe every tear from (our) eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away” as the Bible says (Revelation 21:4, NIV). But in this world, we have many occasions for tears. Through our tears, the Saviour’s words echo – “I will not leave you orphaned; I am coming to you” (John 14:18, NIV).

I also remembered how I felt how my children needed to hear Jesus' promise of eternal life. I believe that God’s time may not come as quickly as we would like, but the pain of sorrow diminishes and leaves behind blessed memories.

Profile Background:
Bill Hunter – (New York, U.S.A), Upper Room Ministries

Prayer Response to this featured article:
Pray, we thank God for reassuring us the comfort we need in times of our mourning & for us to offer the comfort to those all who mourn & for God to comfort them too.

(Written by Bill Hunter – (New York, U.S.A), the unrecalled date/year of published time from Upper Room Ministries)

MISSIONARY NEWS FEATURE #29

Operation World:
Palestine – This prayer news shows how leadership for the Palestinian people focused on advocating and caring for Palestinians, rather than genocidal hatred against Israel. Hamas (elected back in 2006) is more dedicated to harming Israel than helping Palestinians, and that the horrific Hamas attacks of 7 October 2023 not only escalated murderous violence in this region but provoked deep division on the Israel – Palestine situation globally – not least among Christians.

(Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/09-29/#palestine 29th Sept 2025 – Operation World)

Myanmar – Buddhism has a strong hold on the Burmese majority, as well as over the Shan, the Rakhine, and the Mon peoples. Most children receive education in Buddhist monasteries. Burmese Buddhism mixes in occult beliefs, superstition, and fear of the spirits. The Church must learn to understand the Buddhist mindset, and must also minister in spiritual power, in order to see a breakthrough among the majority. Reportedly, thousands of Buddhist monks have quietly become believers and many study the gospel and listen to Christian radio.

(Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/09-09/#myanmar 9th Sept 2025 – Operation World)

Mexico – The 500,000–plus addicts, whose number has grown rapidly due to increasing availability of cheap drugs; Mexico is poorly positioned to cope with the number of addicts in terms of prevention, treatment and ministry to those afflicted. The wealthy, powerful cartels that control it are ruthless. Most of their violence is directed toward each other, but police, armed forces, journalists and helpless citizens also die at their hands. The government and police face great difficulties in combating the drug trade and those who run it. In formers and corruption undermine the effort, and fear of the heavily armed gangs prevents decisive action.

(Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/08-29/ 29th Aug 2025 – Operation World)

North Macedonia – Ethnic divisions dominate politics and society. The large Albanian population feels more connected with Albania and Kosovo than with other groups in North Macedonia. Nearby Greece, Bulgaria, and Serbia each have plans for North Macedonia. Economic struggles lead many to leave the country, or to migrate to cities. Many of the 2,000 villages have disappeared. (Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/08-18/ 18th Aug 2025 – Operation World)

Israel – The ultra–Orthodox Haredi are only 10% of the population, but they have strong political influence. They are like modern Pharisees, who strictly observe and preserve their religious laws and identity. (Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/07-21/ 21st July 2025 – Operation World)

Indonesia – We pray that the Church continues to grow amidst the intense opposition and persecution; (Reported in – https://operationworld.org/prayer-calendar/07-06 6th July 2025 – Operation World)

Asian/Middle East Mission Prayer News:
Targets on their backs – Iranian Christians under increasing danger:
This mission article highlights there had been a regime’s crackdown in Iran on its own people that has gotten worse daily, due to fear says Nazanin Baghestani with Heart4Iran, since the 12–day war started with Israel. We pray for courage and protection for Christians under increasing threats in Iran. (Do click the link – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/targets-on-their-backs-iranian-christians-under-increasing-danger/ by Katie O’Malley – 25th Sept 2025 – Mission News Network)

Filipino protesters call for accountability for billions of missing dollars:
This mission article shows that tens of thousands of Filipinos rallied in Manila on Sunday to protest alleged corruption in the nation. And, the Philippines experiences about 20 typhoons and storms per year. Critical flood-control projects were allocated billions of taxpayer dollars, but the Department of Finance estimates that up to two billion dollars have been lost to corruption since 2023. We pray for the Filipino Church to be a voice for justice, truth and righteousness in the current events; for peace but also for good results to come from peaceful protests & for eyes to see what God is doing in the Philippines.

(Do click the link – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/filipino-protesters-call-for-accountability-for-billions-of-mission-dollars/ by Katie O'Malley – 23rd Sept 2025 – Mission News Network)

How technology shapes digital ministry in Iran:
In this mission article, we praise God that technology is shaping digital ministry in Iran yet Iran’s widespread internet filtering and restrictions makes it difficult to receive updates about evangelization efforts within the country. And, Edwin Keshish Abnous with Heart4Iran says on top of this, many Iranians regularly face poor internet connectivity. We pray for the security of Iranians inside the country as well as ministry partners interacting with them; for anointed decision–making to bring forth fruit in places that were once desolate + for Heart 4 Iran to wisely steward its resources, for God to pave the way for more ministries to partner with Heart 4 Iran.

(Do click the link – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/217108/ by Abigail Hofland – 23rd Sept 2025 – Mission News Network)

Indonesia’s worst flooding in a decade hits Bali:
This mission article reminds us that Bali may be an island paradise, yet it grapples with a nightmare when torrential rains last week unleashed the worst flooding locals have seen in a decade – destroying homes, markets, and claiming 18 lives. Four people are still missing. The province declared a state of emergency. Indeed, Greg Kelley with Unknown Nations explains, “Bali is an area where there are a lot of mountains, and when [rain] hits the mountains and these fronts remain in a certain area for so long, it just happens to have a greater impact. The rivers all get overflooded. It is a situation that doesn’t happen very often.” We pray Christ's comfort for families who lost loved ones in the floods; we ask God to strengthen Unknown Nations’ teams. We pray for the local Church to be a faithful Gospel witness in Bali’s recovery, as we lift up Indonesia’s unreached millions to encounter Christ for the first time.

(Do click the link – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/worst-flooding-in-a-decade-hits-bali/ by Lyndsey Koh – 18th Sept 2025 – Mission News Network)

United Nations calls Israel–Hamas war in Gaza “genocide”
This mission article shows that nearly 64,900 Palestinians have died in the Israel–Hamas war, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health. On Tuesday, a United Nations inquiry announced its conclusion that Israel’s war on Gaza is a genocide. Israeli leaders have declared that this is not true. We pray that the Church will be a peacemaker; for the gospel of peace in Christ to reach more people in Gaza and Israel. We pray for the MENA Leadership Center, as it plans training courses that will one day equip leaders for trauma healing and refugee ministry.

(Do click the link – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/united-nations-calls-israel-hamas-war-in-gaza-genocide/ by Katie O’Malley – 17th Sept 2025 – Mission News Network)

Curfew enforced as Nepal protesters and military start talks:
This mission article highlighted that Nepal’s Gen Z protests on Monday and Tuesday left many government buildings in the capital in shambles. At least 22 people lost their lives in the protests, with two police officers killed and hundreds injured. Some Gen Z groups claim the demonstrations were meant to be nonviolent but that opportunists “hijacked” them. Regardless, the military enforced the curfew on Wednesday, restoring some order to Kathmandu. We pray that Nepal’s young generation today will discover the true life that God offers. We pray for God to let this political crisis “bring spiritual unity among the believers in Nepal,” Pudaite said. We ask God to bring peace and stability to Nepal.

(Do click the link – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/curfew-enforced-as-nepal-protesters-and-military-start-talks/ by Katie O’Malley – 11th Sept 2025 – Mission News Network)

Deadly shooting in Jerusalem underscores turmoil:
This mission article reported that at least six people are dead and more than a dozen injured after a terrorist attack in northern Jerusalem. Monday morning, two Palestinian gunmen opened fire at a bus stop in a busy intersection. Civilians and local police shot and killed the attackers on the scene.

It was the deadliest attack in Israel’s capital in years. We pray for Israel to know the peace and hope of Christ. We pray that God will use this new center to grow His Kingdom. We thank the Lord for faithful believers in Israel proclaiming the Gospel.

(Do click the link – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/deadly-shooting-in-jerusalem-underscores-turmoil by Lyndsey Koh – 9th Sept 2025 – Mission News Network)

Christians may be among casualties of Sudan landslide:
This mission article shows how Sudan is calling for international help, following Sunday’s massive landslide in western Darfur. Local footage of the disaster zone shows a flattened area between mountain ranges where an entire village used to be. Days of heavy rain triggered landslides in the Marrah Mountains, reportedly leaving only one survivor. The scale of the debris and the disaster’s remote location limit information. Civil war, raging between rival militaries since 2023, further complicates recovery efforts.

We pray for wisdom and discernment as church planters determine how they will respond to this disaster. John’s organization supports frontline Sudanese church planters throughout the Islamic nation; and for Sudanese Muslims to find truth, comfort, and peace in Jesus Christ. (Do click the link – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/christians-may-be-among-casualties-of-sudan-landslide by Katey Hearth – 5th Sept 2025 – Mission News Network)

Guerilla warfare and Gospel hope in the Israel–Hamas conflict:
This mission article highlights how Israel has launched its ground incursion into Gaza City, calling up 60,000 reservists to join the fight against Hamas. Already, Palestinians are anticipating a new civil administration after the dust settles. The Center for Peace Communications and the We Want to Live movement report that Gazans – including teachers, lawyers, and activists – are leading a grassroots resistance to Hamas influence. We pray for protection and strength for Israeli soldiers and their families; for God to comfort civilians in Gaza and Israel traumatized by war; for open Gospel doors in Gaza.

We ask the Lord to bring lasting peace through Christ.

(Do click the link – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/guerilla-warfare-and-gospel-hope-in-the-israel-hamas-conflict/ by Taylor Benson – 28th Aug 2025 – Mission News Network)

Report shows thousands of Christians killed in Nigeria this year:
This mission report reveals over 7,000 Nigerian Christians have been killed by Boko Haram and Fulani herdsmen Islamists in the first 220 days of 2025. The report was released by The Anambra–based International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety), led by Christian criminologist Emeka Umeagbalasi. It also estimated “no fewer than 7,800 others were violently seized and abducted for being Christians.” Benue State is known as the food basket of Nigeria. “It’s the most fertile state of the whole nation,” says Ruth. “A lot of food is produced in Benue every year.” We pray for Fulani Muslims to turn from violence to the forgiveness and joy of Christ. We ask God to give persecuted believers in Northern Nigeria wisdom and protection as they care for their villages and families + for the Church to be a bold witness of faith in the fire.

Do click the link – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/report-shows-thousands-of-christians-killed-in-nigeria-this-year/ by Lyndsey Koh – 22nd Aug 2025 – Mission News Network)

Attacks leave Druze, Christian minorities vulnerable in Syria:
This mission article highlights the tensions in Syria that are rising, and the Druze – one of the country’s smallest minorities – are caught in the middle. The Druze are both an ethnic people group and a religious offshoot of Islam. There are also ethnically Druze Christians. Reports say about 1,000 Druze were massacred recently. But Pierre Houssney with Horizons International says, according to his local Druze sources, “It was really more like 3,000 people that were killed in clashes between the extremist factions that claim to be government and the Arab Bedouins and the Druze. There’s a lot of ethnic tension right now, and definitely minorities throughout Syria are feeling very vulnerable.”

We pray for an end to the violence, and for Druze and Syrian Christians to be faithful witnesses of the Gospel amidst unrest. We pray for believers to point the Druze people ultimately to spiritual freedom in Christ. We pray for protection and courage for Druze Christians facing persecution. We ask God to bring peace amid ethnic and religious tensions in Syria & for wisdom and strength for Druze leaders seeking security and autonomy. (Do click the link – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/attacks-leave-druze-christian-minorities-vulnerable-in-syria/ by Lyndsey Koh – 21st Aug 2025 – Mission News Network)

Look for spiritual not political change in Iran:
This mission article recalls how it’s been nearly two months since the Israel-Iran ceasefire took effect. Iran’s regime is fragile but has not collapsed. Instead, crackdowns have brought mass arrests and even executions. According to Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence, more than 50 Christians are among those who have been arrested since the June 24 ceasefire. We praise God for sending hope to His people in Iran. We pray for protection for them, that they will not be discovered by authorities + for great spiritual awakening in Iran; (Do click the link – https://www.mnnonline.org/news/look-for-spiritual-not-political-change-in-iran/ by Katie O’Malley – 20th Aug 2025 – Mission News Network)

Lebanon approves objectives to disarm Hezbollah by the end of the year:
This mission article noted how the government of Lebanon has taken another step toward law and order after its cabinet approved the objectives of a US proposal on 7th Aug (Thu) that would see Hezbollah disarmed by the end of the year. The Iran–backed militant group declared it will ignore this decision. But war with Israel has largely gutted its leadership and diminished its influence. The cabinet’s decision is yet another sign of how the times have changed in Lebanon. We pray for Triumphant Mercy Lebanon to see much fruit in gospel ministry to Shia Muslims; for God to give Lebanon a time to gain stability and a chance to normalize relationships with its neighbors.

(Reported by Katie O’Malley, https://www.mnnonline.org/news/lebanon-approves-objectives-to-disarm-hezbollah-by-the-end-of-the-year/ – 15th Aug 2025 – Mission News Network)

Gaza – Israel approves Gaza City occupation plan amid criticism:
This mission article highlights how Israel’s security council approved a plan on 8th Aug (Fri) to occupy Gaza City, noting there was swift international criticism, yet Israeli strikes in Gaza City over the weekend underscored their decision. A man we’ll call Brother Izik with Global Catalytic Ministries explains the conflict between Israel and Hamas has many background factors that made it volatile. Just one of these factors is the 1917 Balfour Declaration from Britain during World War I.

In history and the current realities, Izik says Christians must ground themselves in one fact: “God loves the Jewish people, and God loves Arabs and Palestinians. If we can keep that in our heart, then we will not isolate our hearts to feel like we have to love one and hate the other,” he says. Indeed, hunger is a rising crisis in Gaza – both physical and spiritual. On the physical side, the UN World Food Program says half a million people in Gaza are on the edge of famine. We pray for Palestinians and Israelis that  they’ll not be swept away by any propaganda on either side but be swept towards God and for them to come to salvation – believing in Jesus Christ & for God’s promises to be fulfilled in their lives and “ultimately to reconcile the world to Himself,” says Izik.

We also pray for gospel to reach and save Palestinians and Israelis caught in this conflict. (Reported by Katie O’Malley, https://www.mnnonline.org/news/israel-approves-gaza-city-occupation-plan-amid-criticism/ – 12th Aug 2025 – Mission News Network)

The regime, the prince and freedom for Iran:
This mission article shows how more than 500 Iranian opposition activists and groups gathered in Munich, Germany for the Convention of National Cooperation to Save Iran on 26th July hosted by Iran’s crown prince, Reza Pahlavi, and this meeting outlined what a democratic transition and national rebuilding should look like in Iran. We pray for God’s mercy and hand on any political changes that come in Iran. We pray with Iranians that their country gets freedom of choice, freedom of religion and freedom of speech. (Reported by Katie O’Malley, https://www.mnnonline.org/news/the-regime-the-prince-and-freedom-for-iran/– 6th Aug 2025 – Mission News Network)

Christians who chose to remain in Gaza caught in same crises:
News reported that the number of Palestinians killed during the Israel–Hamas on Tuesday (29th July) war since October 7, 2023 surpassed 60,000, according to the Hamas–run Palestinian Ministry of Health. Palestinian believers have chosen a different goal: “Some of them had a chance to leave during this war, and they chose to stay to spread the gospel,” said Doyle. “Can you imagine having a family and choosing to stay when you have young kids in the midst of the war?”

We pray for the safety and well–being of the Palestinian people, especially the children, and for the believers in Gaza to endure the difficult circumstances. We pray for the spread of the Gospel in Gaza, and for the believers who have chosen to stay and minister to their fellow Palestinians.

(Reported by Katie O’Malley, https://www.mnnonline.org/news/christians-who-chose-to-remain-in-gaza-caught-in-same-crises/ – 30th July 2025 – Mission News Network)

Seen as traitors by the Taliban: the unsafe return of Afghans deported from Pakistan:
This mission article shows that for the last three decades, many Afghans fled the war in their country to neighboring Pakistan. Now, many are being forcibly deported back – though their homeland is in shatters. For nearly thirty years of war, Pakistan became a refuge for fleeing Afghans. Now, it’s part of a global wave of forced deportations. Since 2023, nearly 900,000 have been sent back. There are about 3 million Afghans living in Pakistan, and this includes both registered refugees and undocumented individuals,” says Nehemiah from FMI. Many are now scraping together what little they had – homes, businesses – as deportation looms. Even those married to or related to Pakistanis are not safe. Though they were protected from the Taliban, life in Pakistan was never truly easy.

We pray for Afghan returnees as they face immense challenges, economic hardship, emotional trauma, and struggle to rebuild their lives; for mercy and compassion from fellow Afghans toward the returnees – and for a spirit of solidarity to grow among them. We pray for the vulnerable, growing Church in Afghanistan – that it will not break under persecution but keep the fire of Gospel burning.

(Reported by Joanne Khmel, https://www.mnnonline.org/news/seen-as-traitors-by-the-taliban-the-unsafe-return-of-afghans-deported-from-pakistan/ – 25th July 2025 – Mission News Network)

Syria declares truce in Suweida, but will it last?
This mission article highlights how Syria’s defense minister announces a ceasefire as government tanks roll into a key city in Suweida province, home to the Druze minority.

But a critical question remains – will the truce hold?

Samuel of Redemptive Stories says, “The government will use this as an opportunity to assert control there, which is something that they’ve not been able to do yet since the fall of Assad’s regime. Even Assad couldn’t control that area.”

Monday’s clashes between Druze and Bedouin fighters left over 90 people dead and hundreds wounded. It is the latest outbreak of deadly sectarian violence since rebel forces overthrew President Bashar al– Assad in December. We pray for the Druze community to encounter the peace of Christ no matter what happens next; for our brothers and sisters will use this chance to communicate God’s story of hope & for the church to play the role to care for their neighbors and to love them. (Reported by Katey Hearth https://www.mnnonline.org/news/syria-declares-truce-in-suweida-but-will-it-last/ – 16th July 2025 – Mission News Network)

What defines a place of worship? Attack on Christian youth retreat in Indonesia –
As Indonesian youth gathered for fellowship and teaching, an angry mob brought chaos and disruption and in Indonesia, Christianity is permitted by law, yet gatherings often face obstacles. Bruce Allen from FMI recalls the recent attack on June 27 – “About two hundred residents of a neighborhood in West Java, Indonesia, stormed a private home where Christian youth had gathered for a retreat.”

They destroyed property and terrified attendees. The attack allegedly happened because the event was held in a place not officially designated for worship. Yet Muslim meetings outside mosques rarely face such concerns. We pray for the courage of Indonesian believers, especially in West Java & that as they long to grow in fellowship, God will grant them favor in the eyes of local Muslims to provide their signatures, enabling Christians to establish churches. We pray for Indonesia’s laws to become more supportive of Christian communities.

(Reported by Joanne Khmel, https://www.mnnonline.org/news/what-defines-a-place-of-worship-attack-on-christian-youth-retreat-in-indonesia/ – 10th July 2025 – Mission News Network)

Africa – From mission field to mission force:
A deeper conviction and calling to gospel mission is stirring in Africa. According to data from 2020, this is the continent with the most Christians in the world. “They say the blood of the martyrs have so fertilized the soil of Africa that everywhere you plant the gospel, it germinates,” says Ray Mensah with OneWay Africa. With that missionary history of sacrifice comes responsibility. “The Bible says to him that much is given, much is expected or required. So now that Africa has the largest number of Christians, Africa has to play a significant role in world evangelization,” Mensah says.

We pray for Africa to take its place and play its role, together with North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, Oceania, together for the Great Commission to take the gospel to the ends of the earth” as Mensah says. (Reported by Katie O’Malley, https://www.mnnonline.org/news/africa-from-mission-field-to-mission-force/ – 23rd June 2025 – Mission News Network)

 

 

Messy Families

I spend time regularly with my family for spaghetti dinner. My mother and my husband were there, along with our children, grandchildren, and a great-grandchild. It would be noisy and fun. We would enjoy our dinner and would sit around laughing and talking. As with other families, ours has been marked by divorce and inheritance squabbles that had pitted people at the table against one another. “Don’t be angry with yourselves, because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life” (Genesis 45:5, NIV). As my, family members had been known to cheat, lie to, and steal from one another. But with God's help, they were able to move beyond that. The Bible tells us to be peacemakers, to stop slander (Colossians. 3:15, NIV), to control our anger (Romans 12:19, NIV), to pay back evil with good (Romans 12:17/ 21, NIV).

As the apostle Paul says, “If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all;” (Romans 12:18, NIV), encouraging us to work for peace, especially in our families, which is a key to allowing God to work through us. And, this provides us hope that God can and will work through us especially how messy the family can be.

Profile Background:
Milinda Stephenson – (Florida, U.S.A), Upper Room Ministries

Prayer Response to this featured article:
Pray we thank God for families. Pray, we help those build a peaceful harmony with others in the family.

 

(Written by Milinda Stephenson – (Florida, U.S.A), the unrecalled date/year of published time from Upper Room Ministries)

 

Poisoning Ourselves

As I meditated upon what Jacob said to Esau, “To see your face is for me like seeing the face of God” (Genesis 33:10, TEV), I recalled how my wife and I trusted some close friends with our young family's financial future. But they betrayed our trust, cost me my job, and robbed us of our meager savings. My anger grew with each morning's sunrise. Month after month, we barely made our house payment. The rage I felt gave me an ulcer. “Tom, it is as if you drank a bottle of poison and expected the other person to die,” a loving pastor pointed out. “Let it go. Forgive them. Do it for you - not them.” It took time, a new job, and lots of prayer, but I knew my ordeal was over the day I ran into the man who hurt us most. Fear shone in his eyes, and his hands trembled. “Relax. I'm not going to hurt you,” I assured him. “I forgive you.” His eyes filled with tears as we shook hands. Then he sobbed, “I'm so sorry,” as I embraced him.

Like Jacob receiving Esau's forgiveness after stealing Esau's birthright, this man and I both saw the face of God that afternoon.

Profile Background:
Tom Powell – (Tennessee, U.S.A.), Upper Room Ministries

Prayer Response to this featured article:
Do pray that God gives us grace to see the light in His path always.

(Written by Tom Powell – (Tennessee, U.S.A.) the unrecalled date/year of published time from Upper Room Ministries)