Three Christian men who converted from Islam were recently sentenced to five years in prison after they refused to renounce Christ.
In November of last year, Iranian authorities raided the homes of the three men and seized Bibles, mobile phones and computers, ordering the men to stop all Christian activities.
Source: The Voice of the Martyrs USA
When the men refused to stop pursuing their faith, they were charged under a newly amended law aimed at halting the spread of Christianity in Iran, which allows for hefty fines, the removal of basic rights and up to five years in prison.
When the Christians appeared in court last month, they were denied access to their lawyer and told that they had received the maximum allowable sentence. The believers are planning to appeal the decision.
Let us pray.
- Pray that these brothers in Christ remain firm in their faith while they endure this trial.
- Pray for their families to not lose hope as their loved ones face imprisonment for Christ.
- Pray that the Iranian authorities overseeing the case will experience the love of God through the witness of these men and the work of His spirit.
Lord, may these brothers in Christ stand firm in their faith while on trial. May they not waiver but help them to remain strong.
For their families, I ask you, Lord, to help them to remain strong in their faith, even though their loved ones face imprisonment.
May the Iranian authorities experience conviction for the wrong they have done and may they see the love of God towards them by these possibly convicted brothers in Christ.
We praise you Lord for your global mission progressing across the world and pray especially for your people and the growth of your church in Iran. Blessed and holy Lord Jesus help these three brothers who have been arrested due to this new law and give them the resources by your Spirit and remembrance of your promises to remain true to you. Thank you for their witness and give them encouragement that they may not compromise. As you change the course of rivers please change the hearts of their persecutors to look favourably upon their work and faith and even themselves turn to you in repentance and faith. Have mercy Lord, have mercy.