Day 9
Azerbaijan
Pray for Christian Believers in Azerbaijan as they face persecution because of choosing to follow Jesus. Praise God that these brothers and sisters are now children of God. Declare that their Heavenly Father’s heart is for them, watching over them, strengthening their faith in Christ. Pray that they may be committed to meeting together to spur each other on in their faith and service of God. Pray that God will protect them, as He watches over His children faithfully. (The Bible, Galatians 3:26-27).
Azerbaijan has been riding the line for years between democracy and fiefdom. Its New Azerbaijan Party is accused of authoritarianism and bribery. It imprisons corruption-busting journalists and human rights advocates. Friction with neighboring Armenia over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh disputed territory turned into an outright war from September to November 2020. Though a peace deal was negotiated, relations between the two nations have continued to be tense. Oil export revenues have aided the Azeri population, elevating living standards and increasing military strength. Yet, poverty and corruption plague the nation. The Church experiences ongoing restrictions, especially with raids on church meetings and homes of church leaders, and detentions of Christians continue.
