Maldives

Praise Points

Natural Beauty & Resources – The islands are blessed with creation that draws nations (Genesis 1:31 – “God saw all that He had made, and it was very good”).

Survival of a Small Nation – Despite vulnerability, the Maldives stands strong as a sovereign state (Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble”).

Hospitality & Community Bonds – A cultural strength in their shared life (Romans 12:13 – “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality”).

Prayer Points

Rising Sea Levels – Climate change threatens their existence (Isaiah 24:4 – “The earth dries up and withers, the world languishes and withers”).

Religious Intolerance – Suppression of freedom of belief (Amos 8:11 – “A famine of hearing the words of the Lord”).

Youth Disillusionment – Loss of identity and hopelessness (Ecclesiastes 12:1 – “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth”).

A Call to Salvation

Teach the Faith Clearly – Pass on truth diligently (Deuteronomy 6:6-7 – “Impress them on your children”).

Stand Boldly in Witness – Share Christ despite persecution (Acts 5:29 – “We must obey God rather than human beings”).

Pray Without Ceasing – Spiritual revival depends on intercession (1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray continually”).

The Maldives, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, has a long history shaped by its strategic location on the ancient trade routes. Initially settled by people from South Asia and influenced by Arab traders, the Maldives embraced Islam in the 12th century and maintained a strongly Islamic identity. Its culture is rooted in seafaring traditions, fishing, music, and oral folklore reflecting African and South Asian elements.

Christianity has had minimal space in Maldivian history due to strict religious controls. However, a few Christian leaders, such as missionaries from the early Catholic and Protestant movements, visited the Indian Ocean region, hoping to reach the islands. However, Christianity was never established openly due to severe restrictions. Today, Maldivian Christian teenagers face enormous struggles, including isolation, fear of persecution, and the inability to worship publicly.

Division among Maldivian Christians often stems from fear, secrecy, and lack of unity in prayer and fellowship. To prevent the extinction of Christianity in the Maldives, believers must return to the biblical foundations of love (John 13:34-35), unity (Ephesians 4:3), and courage (2 Timothy 1:7), holding fast to Faith despite adversity.