Day 16
Tajikistan
Dear Jesus, we pray for Christian Believers in Tajikistan that they may be wise and understanding. May they lead good lives that demonstrate the power of God at work in them to transform them. May they be humble in all that they do, so that their deeds give glory to Jesus rather than themselves. We pray that You will open up many opportunities for them to witness about Jesus to those around them that don’t yet know You. And when they do, may their humility and wisdom shine through. We also pray for the leaders of this nation, to be humble and righteous. Establish a wise and humble government to lead this nation according to God’s plans and purposes (The Bible, James 3:13).
Central Asia’s poorest nation, Tajikistan has never recovered from the Soviet era. After five years of civil war following the 1991 Soviet collapse, an UN-brokered peace deal resulted. Secular forces dominate, but economic stability hasn’t returned. Tajikistan voted to allow its president to rule indefinitely. Each year greater legislative restrictions oppress the Tajik masses. Secular forces also dictate religious law. Although the constitution guarantees religious freedom, oppression is widespread. Literature confiscation is a primary tool the government uses against Christians. Churches must register to be legal, a near impossible task. However, both registered and unregistered church gatherings continue to take place.
