Pakistan

Pakistan is facing a financially critical situation. Their empty coffers present a massive problem in repaying debts. They are at risk of defaulting on global debt payments. To make matters worse, Iran started a series of attacks on Pakistan in their efforts to quell terrorist camps on the border the two countries share. While Pakistan retaliated once, the costs of sustained retaliation are not possible. Backed into a corner, the Pakistani Government is asking China for a $2 Billion loan for one year. If anything, it will seriously undermine Pakistani interests on their soil should they not be able to repay the loan on time.

Pray for God’s wisdom upon Pakistani leaders as they plan a way out of the financial rout (The Bible, James 1:5). 

Pray for God’s protection against any predatory loan terms that China may demand as collateral for the loan that adversely affects the Pakistani people (The Bible, Psalm 12:7).

Pakistan has the world’s third-largest Muslim population. Its political and economic systems are greatly impacted by hosting millions of refugees, primarily from Afghanistan, and the presence of many radical Islamists. At least 48 terrorist and extremist groups – including the Taliban, Al Qaeda, and IS – find a home in Pakistan. The notorious blasphemy laws have had devastating consequences for Christian Believers, who experience more violence than almost anywhere else. This year 25 churches were attacked and damaged, and some were burned down entirely after mobs of Muslims attacked following claims that a Qur’an was desecrated. Deep and long-standing cultural boundaries between Muslims and Christians prevent many Christians from sharing their faith with Muslims so most Christians are former Hindus or from low castes. Despite obstacles and overcoming fear, the Church continues to grow.