The government of this officially secular state has a negative attitude towards any form of religion. However, the population is mainly Muslim and the influence of traditional Islam is growing in some regions. All religious groups were required to renew their registration by 1 January 2010; since then no new churches have been able to register. Congregations without registration are often raided, with church leaders arrested or fined. Azeri believers are considered traitors as Christianity is associated with the country’s rival, Armenia. Many Christians are unable to find or keep jobs and are monitored by the secret police.
Pray:
- Praise God that the number of indigenous believers continues to grow
- For churches and church leaders under surveillance by the authorities
- For those believers who continue to be active in outreach despite the risks.
Lord of Lord and King of Kings, Creator of all the universe and our Precious Heavenly Father, I come to Your Throne room humbly yet with boldness to ask for Your favor to fall upon Your people here. For protection to worship You and gather together Lord. For You to raise up an army of believers to disciple the new Christians. To open hungry hearts, cold hearts Lord; to cause the non Christians to have a hunger and thirst for Your righteousness Lord. To see their religion is a dead religion and open their eyes to the Your love in Your people and want You Lord. We pray for this Country to awakened to You and who You are Lord. Come and rule and reign over Azerbaijan, the leaders, the military and all the peoples there.
Pour out Your grace upon Your people there as they are persecuted for Your Name sake Lord. Come and glorify Yourself here Lord. We praise You, worship You O Lord our Heavenly Father and Jesus the Savior and the lover of our souls and the powerful Holy Spirit. In Jesus Name. Amen and Amen
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