International (MNN) — ISIS has called on its followers to wage “all-out war” on the West during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, sparking fears of new attacks.
(Photo courtesy of Wikipedia)
Muslims worldwide observe the month as one of prayer, fasting, and growing closer to Allah. It commemorates the revelation of the Quran to the prophet Mohamed and now serves as one of the five pillars of Islam.
Anthony Rhodes, a spokesman for the Voice of the Martyrs Canada, explains, “For the common Muslim, it is a special time. But I think for radical Islam or militant Islam, it is a time for them to rally together and really advance the cause of Islam.”
In fact, in the days leading up to the beginning of Ramadan on Friday, May 26th, the terror group has claimed a cluster of brazen, violent attacks: England, Egypt, the Philippines, Tunisia, Iraq, Afghanistan, and more. Violence is nothing new during Ramadan, especially corresponding to the rise of ISIS.
However, as more headlines scream alarm over security concerns, condemnation of the carnage, and general coverage of the mayhem, Rhodes urges us not to lose sight of the main thing: the hope of Christ.
A real problem, a real solution
What we’re witnessing is spiritual warfare, and there are ways to deal with it. “As we think about security issues and we think about the threats that are being launched by radical Islam, our best weapons are in prayer. It’s so important to remember to pray for our persecutors because that’s what Jesus has called us to do.” He asks, “What better way to love our enemies than to pray for them — to pray that they would find Christ?”
When believers seek God’s face in confidence, they grow bolder in their prayer. As more Christians pray, God answers in increasingly amazing ways. It sounds unbelievable, but things similar to the conversion of Saul to Paul are happening more and more frequently.
“We see that happening today as well — where persecutors of the Church, where former Taliban, former ISIS soldiers are coming to Christ. Often, it’s through the testimony of those they are persecuting. But often as well, it’s through direct contact, through dreams and visions, where Jesus will appear to them in their dreams and make Himself real to them.”
The right tools for the right job
Tools like the Ramadan Prayercast Challenge can make a difference. “This is where we really see the Gospel advance, through people that really take the time to pray and ask the Lord to intervene.”
Support for the grassroots Church also makes a difference. “One of the best ways to combat persecution is raising up mature disciples of Jesus Christ. These are people then in the country who will continue to be a witness for Christ in the midst of some difficult situations. I think supporting groups and missionaries that are active, in practical ways, is key.”
Read the news. Pray over it. Ask for boldness and guidance as you pray. Pray for the fighters who are creating havoc around the world. Ask God to get hold of them, whatever it takes. Pray for courage for the believers who remain behind to continue in Gospel work…and you might be surprised how God will change the hearts of everyone involved.
The pattern continues: Acts 4:23-31 When they had been released, they went to their own companions and reported all that the chief priests and the elders had said to them.And when they heard this, they lifted their voices to God with one accord and said, “O Lord, it is You who MADE THE HEAVEN AND THE EARTH AND THE SEA, AND ALL THAT IS IN THEM,who by the Holy Spirit, through the mouth of our father David Your servant, said, ‘WHY DID THE GENTILES RAGE, AND THE PEOPLES DEVISE FUTILE THINGS?’THE KINGS OF THE EARTH TOOK THEIR STAND, AND THE RULERS WERE GATHERED TOGETHER AGAINST THE LORD AND AGAINST HIS CHRIST.'”For truly in this city there were gathered together against Your holy servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel,to do whatever Your hand and Your purpose predestined to occur.”And now, Lord, take note of their threats, and grant that Your bond-servants may speak Your word with all confidence,while You extend Your hand to heal, and signs and wonders take place through the name of Your holy servant Jesus.”And when they had prayed, the place where they had gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God with boldness.
PRAYING!
I will pray for them to be converted because like Christ I wish no one would perish. But when confronted with one with my daughter with me please be aware I will not hold back I will do my best to neutralize the threat.