Can you imagine being fined, imprisoned, beaten, or even killed—simply for owning a Bible? For nearly 215 million believers around the world—that’s 1 out of every 12 Christians—this is a reality they face.

In predominately Muslim areas like Central Asia, the Balkans, and the Middle East, Christ-followers are considered dangerous because of their religious views. Caught with a Bible and they could be charged with a serious crime.

However, God’s Word is being made available in other ways. Collaborating with partners in the region, believers in heavily oppressed areas are accessing the Bible using new technology. As a result, Christians in some of the hardest-to-reach regions can still receive spiritual nourishment from Bible-based materials including Audio Scripture and the JESUS film.

Against all odds, God’s message of hope is spreading. And lives are being transformed. Reports from the front lines reveal that despite these extremely harsh conditions, the number of people choosing to follow Jesus continues to grow. Let’s continue to pray for God’s peace, protection, and provision for those living in these parts.

Pray for:

• Strength for believers: Ask God to comfort and protect those being harassed, abused, and imprisoned for their faith. Pray for their lives to reflect Jesus even in the face of opposition.
“God blesses those who are treated badly for doing right. They belong to the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:10
• Salvation for unbelievers: Pray that as God’s Word reaches unbelievers for the first time, they will invite Jesus into their hearts.
“The Scriptures say, ‘God commanded light to shine in the dark.’ Now God is shining in our hearts to let you know that his glory is seen in Jesus Christ.” 2 Corinthians 4:6
• Spiritual revival for the church: Pray that God will protect, strengthen, and grow churches in Central Asia, the Balkans, and the Middle East despite restrictions and pressures from Islamic extremists.
“On this rock I will build my church, and death itself will not have any power over it.” Matthew 16:18

• Support for partners: Pray as partners seek to provide new and creative ways to reach populations that still need access to Scriptures. Ask God to bless efforts so his Word can shed light on some of the hardest-to-reach parts of the world.
“But if any of you lack wisdom, you should pray to God, who will give it to you; because God gives generously and graciously to all.” James 1:5