Lebanon
Historically Lebanon was a Christian majority country with religious freedom. In recent years, due to internal warfare and the rise of radical Islamic groups like Hezbollah, Lebanon has seen much of its Christian population immigrate to other countries. Hezbollah, founded, funded and controlled by the government in Iran, is a ruthless Islamist terrorist organization bent on the destruction of Israel and the West.
Hezbollah is a tool of the Iranian mullahs who envision a Shia crescent of hegemony running from Iran through Iraq, Syria and Lebanon to the doorstep of Israel, ultimately resulting in the end of Israel as a nation and the establishment of a Shia-controlled Palestinian state in its place.
In the June 2009 election, although not achieving a majority in Parliament, Hezbollah did win a majority (55%) of the popular vote. Following the election, 70% of the remaining Lebanese Christians including many evangelicals have aligned themselves politically with Hezbollah for security reasons in what can only be described as a “covenant of death” (see Isaiah 28:14-22).
Prayers for persecuted Christians in Lebanon
Terrorists' Rule Endangers Christians
UPDATE: In January, the government of LEBANON collapsed and Hezbollah is now taking power. Although this Islamic terrorist group is using some complicit Christians to accomplish its aims, many believers fear increasing persecution during its rule.
Ask God to give wisdom and protection to the churches in Lebanon. “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!”
Terrorists Stir up Conflict
In LEBANON, an Islamic terrorist group has stationed roughly 3,500 members in Christian regions and is trying to stir up a conflict among Christians.
Pray that God will protect His flock and unite them in their love for Him. “The word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one.”
Believers Ordered to Evacuate
Muslims have demanded that Christians leave villages in a region of LEBANON. The believers received pamphlets with Islamist slogans and were told to evacuate in one week or “bear the consequences.”
Pray that God will encourage those who dare to remain. “I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify Him with thanksgiving.”
Terrorists threaten Christian university
June 17
A Christian-funded university in Lebanon took additional security measures after students around campus found copies of a threatening statement signed by terrorists.
Hope of peace
After battles broke out between rival Lebanese factions, a peace accord was signed, ending an 18-month standoff. This brings much-needed stability; but the radical Islamic group Hezbollah now has veto power over all government decisions.
Pray that the Lord will make Himself known as the Prince of Peace. "For I will make you renowned and praised among all the peoples of the earth."
Believers Flee the Country
Christians are fleeing LEBANON. Hezbollah has the strongest military force in the country. There is increasing pressure to institute Sharia law. Threats are building against Christian families and churches.
Pray that the Christians will stand firm and that Sharia law will not be enacted. "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water."
Covenant of Death in Lebanon
Events in the aftermath of Lebanon's June elections have chilled my soul to the bone. Although not achieving a majority in Parliament, Hezbollah did win a majority of the popular vote (55%). That, however, was not what gripped my heart.