Prayer Fuel
Day 24
30 Ways for Muslims to Encounter Christ
In many parts of the Muslim world, Islam is passed down more through tradition, family, and society than in formal education. Prayer, fasting, and going on the Hajj are mostly done in a communal context. Today we pray in faith for our brothers and sisters in Senegal to find community and family in your Church. We pray they would have a vision for sharing what they are learning about Christ in their communities, families, and networks.
In Senegal
The extended family works together to ensure everyone in the family is fed, clothed, and provided necessities like medication or school fees. One family member with a good job often supports ten or more people. The majority of Senegalese have little financial security, so leaving Islam to follow the “white man’s religion” often means losing the support of a large network of family and friends.
In this shame-honor culture, one who steps away from the family faith of Islam brings social shame on the whole family and village. A Muslim declaring faith in Jesus will likely lose the emotional and financial support of family and friends. He will be shunned and barred from family gatherings, kicked out of his home, and left to fend for himself. Only Jesus can give them the strength to endure this painful isolation and rejection.
Fama first heard stories about Jesus as a teenager. She married young and had a son. Life with her mother-in-law was difficult, so she eventually returned to her mother’s home. Several years later, she became pregnant again. Without a husband, her family was ashamed of her and made her life difficult. Stressed and lonely, Fama sought out missionaries in her town and asked them what she needed to do to join their religion. Fama decided she wanted to know this Jesus who was a friend to outcasts.
After she put her faith in Christ, she wanted to leave her family and go to a large city to find work. The missionaries encouraged her to stay with her family, even though it would be difficult, and work on rebuilding those relationships. In time, Fama’s family noticed the positive changes in Fama’s life and were curious about this new way she was following.
Praying Scripture
Christians are often persecuted by friends and family. Sometimes they have a hard time finding people who are willing to learn and grow with them. Pray that God will guide new believers in Senegal to those they already know who are searching.
We have authority in Christ to speak the truth in love, with boldness. “Now Lord consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness” (Acts 4:29).
Pray for those following Jesus in Senegal to speak about Christ with boldness.
Claiming Our Hope in Christ and His Heart for the Nations
Lord of compassion, would you rise and deliver your imprisoned people. Have mercy on those who fear rejection by their family and friends; have mercy on those who are numbed by religious rituals; have mercy on those who have been deceived by religious teachings contrary to Your Word; have mercy on those who are enamored by the status and power of religious leaders. Lord, have mercy; Christ, have mercy.
