We lift up our brothers and sisters in Iran, particularly those in the Iranian Christian community, who may be facing the threat of armed conflict and increased persecution. Father, we ask for Your divine protection over them, shielding them from harm and guiding their steps to safety. Your Word assures us in Psalm 91:1-2, "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of Yahweh, 'He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust.'" Lord, be their refuge and fortress in this time of uncertainty.
We recognize the importance of wisdom and discernment for those who may need to relocate to safer areas. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, "Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." Father, grant them the wisdom to know when and how to seek safety, and provide them with the resources and opportunities to do so in an orderly and prepared manner.
We also pray for the leaders of nations who may receive Iranian refugees. Give them compassionate hearts and the willingness to provide safe havens for those fleeing persecution and conflict. May they see the value in protecting the vulnerable and acting with justice and mercy, as instructed in Deuteronomy 10:18-19, "He does execute justice for the fatherless and widow, and loves the foreigner in giving him food and clothing. Therefore love the foreigner, for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt."
Lord, we rebuke the spirit of fear that may be gripping the hearts of our Iranian brothers and sisters. Remind them that You have not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control (2 Timothy 1:7). Strengthen their faith and resolve, knowing that You are with them wherever they go (Joshua 1:9).
We also ask that You would soften the hearts of those who persecute Your people. Just as You changed the heart of Saul, who became Paul, we pray for a transformation in the hearts of those who oppose the Gospel in Iran. Let Your light shine in the darkness, and may many come to know You as their Lord and Savior.
For those who may not yet know You, we pray that they would come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. There is no other name by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12), and it is only through faith in Him that we have access to the Father (Ephesians 2:18). May the Iranian people hear the Gospel and respond in faith, finding hope and eternal life in Christ.
We commit this situation into Your hands, Lord, trusting that You are sovereign over all things. May Your will be done in Iran, and may Your name be glorified through the lives of Your people. Amen.