Pray for Montenegro - Corruption vs. the Poor

Week of Feb. 2-8, 2015
< See left column. Please include European Initiative Balkans in your Prayers.

In the News: Cabinet meeting: Several draft laws proposed aimed at improving rule of law, new OGP team to be appointed soon
Published date: 05.12.2014 10:46 | Author: PR Bureau

Podgorica, Montenegro (5 December 2014) – The Cabinet of Montenegro held the 92nd session earlier today, chaired by Prime Minister Milo Đukanović, adopted several draft laws, among which the very important ones for the rule of law area, such as on the Constitutional Court, the State Prosecution, and the Special State Prosecution. The Government also adopted draft amendments to the law on public gatherings, and discussed tax policies and further activities within the Open Government Partnership.

The new draft law on the Constitutional Court of Montenegro regulates the appointment of constitutional judges and the competences on constitutional appeals.

The State Prosecution draft law is intended as a measure towards improving judicial independence,... Its adoption will ensure objective and transparent procedures for election of state prosecutors, which will improve prosecutorial independence. The legal novelties establish a unique system of State Prosecutors’ appointment across the country, ensuring further transparency and merit-based selection.

The draft law on Special State Prosecution envisaged in Action Plans for Chapters 23 and 24 is a measure aimed at establishing independent, efficient, and specialised anti-corruption and anti-crime bodies. Its adoption will ensure a more efficient processing of organised crime and public sector corruption in cases of a public official’s corruption in accordance with the legislation regulating conflicts of interest. The new law will also ensure more efficient processing of crimes with graft elements in the private sector and in instances of money laundering, terrorism, and war crimes.

The Cabinet also discussed further activities within the Open Government Partnership (OGP) initiative and it clarified that five representatives from civil society at the OGP Operational Team should be appointed in accordance with the Decision on manner and procedure of establishing cooperation between the state administration and NGOs.

Remarks: Many times over the years here at Praying For the Balkans we have prayed for justice in Montenegro. Corruption has been the curse that has plagued the land. The above article talks of the Open Government Partnership and “establishing independent, efficient, and specialized anti-corruption and anti-crime bodies.” Also the “appointment of constitutional judges and the competences on constitutional appeals” is a positive sign.

Prayer Points:
1)    We see these steps toward justice that the Montenegrin government is taking as the Lord’s hand of mercy upon the land. Lord, You have heard the cry of the oppressed.
2)    Let us pray that this proposed legislation would be enacted and carried out as prescribed so the ethical standards can be raised in Montenegro.
3)    Let us pray for more accountability to come from those elected and chosen to lead the government.
4)    Corruption is an injustice to the population as a whole, but especially the poor and inadequately educated. Let us pray that the poor of Montenegro would see justice.
5)    Let us pray for the doors of opportunity to open up to the poor.

Job 5:11-16  
He sets on high those who are lowly,
And those who mourn are lifted to safety.
He frustrates the devices of the crafty,
So that their hands cannot carry out their plans.
He catches the wise in their own craftiness,
And the counsel of the cunning comes quickly upon them.
They meet with darkness in the daytime,
And grope at noontime as in the night.
But He saves the needy from the sword,
From the mouth of the mighty,
And from their hand.
So the poor have hope,
And injustice shuts her mouth.

6)    The above verses are from Job’s friend Eliphaz. Let these verses guide you in praying for the humble in spirit and that the poor are raised up. May He cast down the wicked and crafty. God will bring hope to the poor and the injustice against them will be silenced.
7)    May those with corrupt hearts find that their hands are unable to carry out their plans. May the corrupt be exposed and fully prosecuted.
8)    It is time to intercede for Montenegro. May the Lord touch us deeply as intercessors to believe for heaven to invade Montenegro this year.
9)    Lord, we pray that You would speak humility to the Christians of Montenegro. May they repent of known sins and ask for the blood of the cross to cleanse them. May the burden of sin be lifted and heavenly joy come forth.
10)    Let us pray from a new revelation of renewal and hope to fill the hearts of the evangelical pastors. When they stand up to preach, let the Holy Spirit bring forth words of life that will set people free.
11)    I see the pastors being given a key that they will use to unlock those chained to habitual sins. The word of God will set the captives free.
12)    God will raise up a remnant to pray for Montenegro and the enemy will hear the trumpet of the Lord sounding out the call for angels to assemble for battle. Let us stand in prayer for this remnant; Lord, give them boldness to call down heaven’s armies.

Please leave a Comment or Reaction so we will know you Prayed.

Week of Oct. 20-26, 2014

The Macedonian Parliament will soon vote on some questionable amendments to its constitution. Some of the amendment are good and some bad.  I will try and paraphrase some of the amendments:

·    I could not clearly discern from the report if the amendment governing marriage is good or bad but it will change the existing laws. (It could give more acceptance to homosexual unions)
·    An amendment on the international financial zone is not sufficiently precise and could contain a loop-hole for ungoverned laundering of money and black market businesses.
·    Another change removes the Justice Minister from the Court Council, the body that appoints judges, as a way of reducing political influence on the courts.
·    Another change aims to introduce a so-called "constitutional complaint" mechanism whereby people or institutions can file complaints against the authorities.
·    A further change limits the rate of public debt to 60 per cent of GDP and the budget deficit to 3 per cent of GDP.

Prayer Points:
1.    Let us pray for the Macedonian government.
2.    First we want to ask the Lord to extend mercy across Macedonia; the people, government and all institutions. May there be an open window for a time of visitation.
3.    Marriage is an institution ordained by God and nations can incur upon themselves severe judgments when not respecting its sanctity. So let us pray for holy wisdom to prevail as this comes before the Macedonian Parliament.
4.    Let us pray against corruption in Macedonia. We ask for tough laws that do not favor unethical businesses.
5.    It is good that an amendment is being proposed to curb the power of the justice minister to politically influence the courts. Let us pray for the Macedonian court system.
6.    Before Israel had a king they were ruled by judges. It is clear from the scriptures that judges are God’s preferred type of civil government. Let us pray for godly judges to be raised up in Macedonia.
7.    May the gates of Macedonia be attended by godly men and women. Lord, call out these men and women into their destiny to administer Your justice over Macedonia.
8.    Lord, bless Macedonia financially. May productivity blossom with many jobs being created.

Please leave a Comment or Reaction so we will know you Prayed.

Pray for Romania

Week of April 8-14, 2013

While doing research on Romania I kept coming across reports of good things happening in the country.
Such as:

⦁    Romania’s credit rating should be improved because the country has narrowed its ⦁    budget deficit and is economically stable, Economy Minister Varujan Vosganian said.

Credit-default swaps, which measure the cost of insuring Romanian debt against non-payment for five years, traded at 241 points today after reaching 190 points on Jan. 28, which was the lowest in about five years.

⦁    After the economic crisis and negative growth rates in 2009 and 2010, Romania has managed to return to a steady and sustainable path of economic growth and the medium-term prospects are encouraging.

But growth in Romania cannot be achieved without its most valuable asset, the labor force, and therefore we certainly do not want our people leaving the country.

Migration from Romania may have seemed a solution during a time of economic crisis, budgetary cuts and austerity measures.

⦁    Average unemployment in Romania is 6.8% while the overall EU average is 10.9%.

⦁    It is reported that the net average wages in Romania has risen 5.5%.

There was one article in my research about recent appointments by the prime minister that indicated he is not serious about corruption in the government.

Let us Pray:
1.    Lord, we want to first give You credit for the good things that are happening in Romania. Lord, You have directed us in the past to pray the economy.
2.    Let us pray into the economy, asking for righteous decisions on how money should be invested and how surplus should be spent.
3.    Among the Balkan countries Romania has the highest percentage of evangelical Christians. Most of the countries have about a half of one percent where Romania has over 4%. Lord, now we know why You are blessing Romania. Let us pray for that percentage to grow (exponentially).
4.    Righteous decisions need righteous people making them. Let us pray for the elevation of Christians in the financial affairs of government and businesses, large and small.

While we were in Romania in January on the outreach to the Roma (Gypsy) community, there was times we had to interact with businesses there. I noticed a real coldness; no smile, no kind word in the business atmosphere. I don’t remember hearing “thank you (mulțumesc) for your business”.

5.    Let us pray against this coldness and indifference in the people. Part of this was left by self-centered communism. Let us pray for that 4% to be baptized in Joy and to take it into all the Romanian institutions.
6.    Let us pray that the Christians would let Hope arise in their lives. Lord, send them out into the Romanian culture to bring a smile to people’s faces. May the Christians be known as the happy people.
7.    Lord, continue to show the Romanian churches how to share the Gospel. We are trapped in our sorrows until we acknowledge our sin and accept His redemption.

Nehemiah 8:10  Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Psalm 35:27 Let them shout for joy and be glad, Who favor my righteous cause; And let them say continually, “Let the Lord be magnified, Who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant.”

8.    Let us pray that the Christians in Romania would truly be prosperous. May they strive for excellence, showing forth a testimony of the blessings the Lord has for His people.
9.    Let us continue to pray against corruption throughout the Balkan countries.

Pray for Montenegro

Week of April 1-7, 2013

Montenegro is a small country with a population of just over a half million people. Here are some recent things of concern:
⦁    In the News - “Montenegro’s reforms are ambitious. And they are on the right path. We encourage you to continue your efforts, especially in reinforcing the rule of law, and fighting corruption and organized crime. More reforms in the defense sector will also be critical. There is still hard work to do. But Montenegro is moving in the right direction,” the NATO Secretary General Rasmussen said during a press conference with Prime Minister of Montenegro Milo Đukanović. http://www.nato.int/cps/en/SID-969823DC-94641015/natolive/news_99300.htm
⦁    There is investment money coming into Montenegro on the premise that it can be developed as a tourist destination.
⦁    In the News - A high-ranking Montenegrin state official resigned on Thursday after a video appeared on YouTube, which showed him having sex with an unidentified woman in his office, reported Radio Television Montenegro (RTCG).
⦁    Montenegro since their independence have been making slow but steady economic progress. There are still areas of great poverty, and many refugees from the Kosovo Crisis in the nineties continue to live here in bunkers and makeshift homes. There are only three protestant churches in Montenegro, with a few small home groups meeting along the coastline.

1)    Let us pray for items and issues the NATO secretary mentioned. Pray that Montenegro would truly enforce just laws and especially crackdown on corruption.  Government officials need to be true to codes of law and not let money and favoritism pervert justice.
2)    Let us thank the Lord for exposure of that government official who resigned. May others be exposed who are stealing and lying to the Montenegrin people.
3)    We have prayed for investment to pour into the country before. Let us pray for the investment for tourism to be channeled toward helpful projects and not sinful places like casinos, breweries, etc.
4)    Let us pray that many Christians throughout the world would hear of the great spiritual needs in Montenegro and would invest time and money this coming summer. May the Lord raise up many intercessors to pray for Montenegro.
5)    We pray for those three evangelical churches in the country. Lord, purify them so they would be seen by Montenegrins as a safe place. May the pastors and members reach out beyond their walls to the hurting around them.
6)    Let us pray for the home groups that have been started. May the glory of the Lord be in their mist when they meet and may peace be on these homes at all times. Bless the families that host these meetings.
7)    Let us pray for complete freedom for these churches and home groups. May the Orthodox churches and the government not team up to brand these churches as cults but freely let them operate.
8)    There are many poor and suffering from health problems in Montenegro. Let us pray that the glorious Gospel would be proclaimed and demonstrated to the suffering.

Let me thank you for praying with us for the Balkan countries. May the Lord’s presence be with you as you pray. Let me quote Gordon Lindsay, “It is in recognizing the actual presence of God that we find prayer no longer a chore, but a supreme delight.”

Please leave a Comment or Reaction so we will know you Prayed!

Pray for Macedonia

Week of March 25-31, 2013

In the News: Judicial reforms make courts more efficient in Macedonia
Once full reform is implemented in Macedonia's judiciary sector, the result will be a transparent and efficient justice system, experts said.

According to officials, citizens will be able to quickly resolve their disputes, judges will be held responsible for their work, and the system will be able to handle an increase in the fight against crime and corruption.    

One of the constant reoccurring themes for intercession at Prayer for the Balkans Project is corruption, so the above article is a praise report. History shows that government, politicians, courts, etc. are easily corrupted. Greed, the flesh, our human nature is to evade the laws for favors.

1)      This is an encouragement that the Macedonian government is enacting laws that check the courts adherence to the laws. Let us pray for righteousness in government and righteous government servants.
2)      Let us pray that Macedonian judges would have a deep rooted conviction to interpret the original intent of the law as written. This takes a servant’s heart that values all men as equal.
3)      Because an individual’s motivation and their steps of enactment in a crime can be different, judges need a flexibility to “let the punishment fit the crime”. Let us pray for the judges of Macedonia to exercise wisdom on a case-by-case basis.
4)      Most of all, Macedonia needs Christian judges. Judges that are first accountable to God. Lord, we ask for the positioning of your chosen ones in the courts.
5)      So many times as Christians we think our dealings with government agencies are outside biblical principles. May the Christians of Macedonia make every effort to walk with integrity, honoring the law of the land.
6)      Let us pray that righteousness and holiness would shine through God’s people in Macedonia. Lord, give the Christians boldness to stand for what is right.

Recently, my pastor taught on right and wrong. He explained that the biblical standard goes beyond right and wrong and lines up with what is true. Without God’s word as a solid foundation, right and wrong can be a product of human judgments.

7)      Let us pray for Christians in Macedonia, to study the Word and order their lives accordingly.

We must remember Matthew 25: 31-33   “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne.  All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.  He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.”

Pray for FYROM Macedonia

Week of Dec. 17-23, 2012

Skopje Fortress >

The Macedonian parliament has started working on reforms in their military laws/statutes that are aimed at giving equal benefits for all ethnic groups in Macedonia.

Quote:  “Today we start our battle to save the inter-ethnic relations and build bridges between Macedonians and Albanians,” said during the session Xhevat Ademi from the Democratic Union for Integration, DUI.

The draft law, pushed by the main ruling VMRO DPMNE party of Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski, envisages state pensions, free healthcare and other benefits - but only for Macedonian army veterans of the 2001 conflict between government forces and Albanian insurgents.

But there is opposition from the Democratic Party of Albanians (DPA); they want the same rights extended to former Albanian guerrilla fighters, or want the bill dropped altogether.
Ethnic divisions in Macedonia have been the greatest hindrances to a smooth civil government.

1)    Lord, we thank You for these steps in the government to solve ethnic differences. May these lawmakers be forgiving of the past injustices and have wisdom to set into law a respect for all ethnic groups.
2)    Democratic government usually requires compromise on behalf of opposing parties in order to establish a law. Also compromises can be impacted by a greater idea, usually delivered by a statesman, that can create a more sure solution. Lord, we pray for a solution that solves the needs (not wants) of all parties involved. May they work toward the unity of one country and not a fragmented society. 
3)    Lord, we believe it was and is Your will to set apart a northern Macedonian nation. We pray that the citizens can put aside past abuses and work together to bring forth a “sheep nation”.
4)    As the government’s reforms laws, we pray that all religious expression would not be legislated against. Let us pray for total religious freedom in Macedonia.

Macedonia’s Economy:  Macedonia has maintained macroeconomic stability with low inflation, but it has so far lagged the region in attracting foreign investment and creating jobs, despite making extensive fiscal and business sector reforms. Official unemployment remains high at 29%, but may be overstated based on the existence of an extensive gray market (illegal trade), estimated to be more than 20% of GDP that is not captured by official statistics.

I was overwhelmed by all the scriptures in the Bible concerning the poor.

Psalm 41:1
Blessed is he who considers the poor; The LORD will deliver him in time of trouble.
1)    Let us go beyond considering the poor and ask for the lifting up of the poor in Macedonia. Lord, release innovation and relax government restrictions on opening small business.
1 Samuel 2:7
The LORD makes poor and makes rich; He brings low and lifts up.
2)    It is true, the Lord makes the poor and makes the rich, but we want to pray into the second part of the verse; “He brings low and lifts up”. Lord, we know You desire to bless all the people of Macedonia so we pray that both rich and poor would be lifted up.
1 Samuel 2:8
He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the beggar from the ash heap, To set them among princes And make them inherit the throne of glory.  
3)    God knows how to bless whom He wants to bless. God chooses the lowly and blesses them. Let us pray that the poor would give their financial concerns unto the Lord and therefore be able to receive His blessings.
Psalm 10:2
The wicked in his pride persecutes the poor; Let them be caught in the plots which they have devised.
4)    The wicked persecute the poor because they are an easy target. Let us pray that the wicked of Macedonia would be humbled before the poor.  Lord, expose the financial schemes that are designed to rob the poor.
Psalm 12:5
“For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now I will arise,” says the LORD; “I will set him in the safety for which he yearns.”
5)    Let us stand in the gap and join in their yearnings. I truly believe your prayers are highly considered by the Lord when He decides to bless a people or nation. Let us agree with the Lord and ask for His favor on the poor of Macedonia. Lord, we ask that the spirit of poverty be broken over Macedonia.
Romans 15:26
For it pleased those from Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor among the saints who are in Jerusalem.
6)    There was a time when Macedonians gave to the poor of Jerusalem. (These were likely Greek Macedonians) Lord, we ask that churches outside Macedonia would repay a blessing for a blessing that was given long ago.
Luke 14:13
But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind.
7)    Let the churches be full of feasting and let the poor be invited to sit at the Lord’s table.
Psalm 72:4
He will bring justice to the poor of the people; He will save the children of the needy, And will break in pieces the oppressor.
8)    The will bring justice, so we declare it – What was spoken in heaven for the poor, we declare it on earth in Macedonia. Lord, we pray for the children of Macedonia. May the Gospel be presented to them.
9)    Lord, we pray for the widows and orphans. May the churches take the responsibility to minister to them as You commanded.

Please leave a Comment or Reaction so we will know you Prayed.

Pray for Kosovo

Week of Dec. 10-16, 2012

THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — A U.N. war crimes tribunal on Thursday acquitted the former prime minister of Kosovo [Ramush Haradinaj] and two of his former Kosovo Liberation Army comrades for the second time of murdering and torturing Serbs and their supporters in Kosovo’s war for independence.

His British lawyer, Ben Emmerson, confirmed that Haradinaj wants to return to power. “With the consent of the people, he will soon be resuming his rightful position as the political leader of the country,” Emmerson told reporters at the court.

Emmerson said Haradinaj told him he wants to lead a government representing all ethnic groups in Kosovo. “It is time, he says, for reconciliation.”
:

1)     Now I know my Serbian friends may not feel like praying for Ramush Haradinaj but he has returned to Kosovo as a hero and likely future prime minister. We must trust God according to the following verse; Proverbs 21:1 The king’s heart is in the hand of the LORD, Like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.
Let us pray that Haradinaj would recognize the “hand of the Lord”.
2)      Let us pray that he will be true to his statement to bring about reconciliation. Lord, we know that only You can put reconciliation in the hearts of men.

3)     In my research of Ramush Haradinaj, there was no mention of him being a Christian. Let us pray for his salvation and the salvation of his family. As a Christian he could do so much for Kosovo. Oh, that the Kings of the earth would submit themselves to the King of kings.
4)     Let us pray for godly people to be assembled around Haradinaj so they may supply him wisdom to help the Kosovars.
5)     Let us pray against corruption and cronyism in the government of Kosovo. May there be justice for all in Kosovo.

6)     Although Kosovo is mainly Islam, it is shallow in the hearts of the people. It is more of a cultural commitment rather than deep set of beliefs. Let us pray that the emptiness of Islam would be exposed and a hunger for truth would consume the people of Kosovo.

7)     Let us pray for the Christians in Kosovo to be deeply burdened for their country. Lord, may You give creative ideas to the Christians for sharing Jesus outside the churches.

8)     Lord, we ask that if there is not a “house of prayer” in Kosovo yet, You would draw saints together with a burden to pray. Lord, we pray for a portal or open heaven to be opened in Kosovo.

Present Prayer needs:
Pray for the upcoming outreach to Romania. More information about this trip at http://www.europeaninitiative.com/media/entry/the_adventure_of_a_lifetime
We are taking some bold steps in confronting the poverty Satan has imposed upon the eastern part of Transylvania. Please add your prayers as we watch God bless these people that have been disregarded in the past.

IN THE NEWS: Montenegrins debate political offer for October election

22/09/2012

The campaign for Montenegro's ninth parliamentary election began September 14th amid a debate about whether the fractured opposition can muster the strength to unseat the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) and its coalition partners, who have ruled for 23 years.

1) Let us pray for the election coming up in Montenegro in October. Let us pray for the DPS party who will likely stay in power. We pray that men and women of good consciences would be elected to be servants of the state.
2) Lord, we ask for servants that do their duty for the people not profiteers. Change the hearts of those running for office. If they are not honest, expose their miss-deeds.

3) Let us pray for morality to arise. May fathers and mothers live righteous before their children and these children grow up to respect what is right.
4) Lord, we know that You honor the righteous. May righteousness be taught in the churches of Montenegro. Although there are very few evangelical churches in Montenegro, may these dear saints be known as people that can be trusted.
5) We pray that the Orthodox and Catholic churches would be moved to make morality a cornerstone of their teachings.
6) We ask that moral righteous educators would be in charge of the school curriculums in Macedonia. Give them the desire to teach honesty, respect and duty to others.
7) Let us pray for the gates of righteousness to be opened up to Montenegro. Psalm 24:7
Lift up your heads, O you gates! And be lifted up, you everlasting doors! And the King of glory shall come in.

Psalm 118:19
Open to me the gates of righteousness; I will go through them, And I will praise the LORD.

8) Let us pray for these few evangelical churches. Lord, give them favor in the culture.
9) Let us pray for the pastors of Montenegro. May they have the wisdom, finances and anointing to be full-time for the Lord.

Please leave a Comment or Reaction so we will know you Prayed.

Pray for Montenegro 7-9-12

~ Pray for Montenegro ~


Week of July 9-15, 2012


In April when we prayed for Montenegro, one of our directives was to pray against cronyism and corruption in the government.


IN THE NEWS: OSCE Chairmanship representative, in Podgorica, welcomes Montenegro’s reform progress

As OSCE [Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe] reported, in a meeting with Montenegro’s Foreign Minister Milan Rocen, she [Minister for European Affairs Lucinda Creighton] discussed OSCE support to the country in democratization, rule of law, media freedom, and combating high-level corruption and organized crime.

“We urge Montenegro to do more in the fight against high-level corruption and organized crime and to ensure full respect for fundamental rights and freedoms. These are priorities of the OSCE in the country and I am pleased that we are working on addressing these issues together,” she said.


1) We thank You, Lord for beginning to deal with the corruption in Montenegro.

2) Lord, we just ask that the people of Montenegro would be able to do business and go to court without having to pay someone off for favor.

3) Human lust and greed is born into the heart of every man and can only be tamed by a power greater than himself. Thank You Lord that You have a solution: Your awesome love. Lord, let the message of Your great redemptive love be heard in Macedonia.


4) One of the ways of spreading God’s love is through summer youth camps. May this be a year when the camps planned by the churches in Montenegro are bigger and better than they have ever been.

5) Lord, we pray that You would release the provisions for these youth camps.

6) May the churches reach out to the communities’ un-churched youth and be able to give these children scholarships.

7) May volunteers come from other countries to help with the camps in Montenegro.

8) Let us pray for speakers that will speak the truth to the youth about sin and its destructive results, about God’s forgiveness and bring them into the joy of salvation.

Psalm 35:9
And my soul shall be joyful in the LORD; It shall rejoice in His salvation.

Please leave a Comment or Reaction so we will know you Prayed.

Pray for Macedonia 7-2-2012

Pray for Macedonia 

Week of July 2-8,2012

 Acts 2:  38- 40 (NKJV) Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off —for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.”

1)      I read these verses and knew I needed to pray for evangelist to be sent and raised up in Macedonia. Let us pray to the Lord for the ministry of evangelism.

2)      Pray for evangelism to not merely be taught in the Macedonian churches but that it would be acted upon. Street evangelism, mass evangelism, radio evangelism, internet evangelism, neighbor to neighbor, family to family may the Good News be proclaimed.

3)      May the Lord expose the sin of this “corrupt generation” and call many Macedonians unto salvation.

Luke 8: 11-15

“Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.  Those by the wayside are the ones who hear; then the devil comes and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.  But the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, who believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away.  Now the ones that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity.  But the ones that fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience.

4)      As the Good News goes forth and many are saved, may there be great celebrations when they are baptized.

5)      Lord, we ask that You protect the seeds. I can’t help but believe that as we fervently pray for the mission field, God causes the ground to be “good ground”.

6)      Lord, You know men’s hearts and how they will receive. May the Macedonian Christians enjoy sowing the seeds and watch as the Lord brings increase. 

7)      Holy Spirit, we cry out for Your fire to come and dwell in Your people in Macedonia. Some say Macedonia is the heart of the Balkans, may the heart catch on fire for Jesus.

In my research I am finding there are investments coming into Macedonia because they have created sound economic policies. The culture is modernizing.

8)      Modernization can have positive and negative effect.  Lord, we ask for Your protection of Macedonia. Lord, draw well-intended investors. Let us pray for Christian based businesses to invest.

9)      It is believed that the gray-market business in Macedonia is 40% of the economy, which can breed corruption. Lord, we pray for the exposure of those involved in dishonest trade.

10)  With a rate of 29% unemployment, let us pray for the Christians in Macedonia to be blessed with jobs.

11)  May the Christians bring their gifting to the market place. Lord, inspire them with inventions and successful methods of commerce.

12)  We pray also for Christians in the Macedonian government. Lord, open doors of influence.

Please leave a Comment or Reaction so we will know you Prayed.

Pray for Greece

Week of June 25 - July 1, 2012

In the News: Economic collapse in Greece is finally sinking into the consciousness of its citizens

On Sunday, June 17^th, voters narrowly elected a center-right New Democracy Party to take the reins of power in a country that, besieged by debt and teetering on the brink of insolvency, is literally in chaos. For months now, Greece has only managed to exist, not thrive, as successive bailouts of its government by the European Central Bank (led mostly by German efforts and money) have kept Athens from tumbling headlong over an economic cliff that, frankly, its leaders should have seen coming years ago.

Life in the capital has come virtually to a standstill. The streets are less congested, sure, but because few can afford to drive. And while less trash goes to the landfill, it's because people are consuming less because they have to.

Giorgos, a 27-year-old economics [said] "There is a depression in the Greek people, in all my friends," ... "They keep saying: 'I can't take it. There's depression about our jobs, depression on the news, depression about the economic situation, depression in our family, depression and fighting among friends.'"

The Financial Times reports that violence, hate, polarization, fear, resignation and despair are rife across the country. It's so bad, in fact, that the country is developing the same characteristics of the German republic in the early 1930s, before Adolph Hitler rose to power.

In the News: Greece still in trouble as talent leaves country

Read more: http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/327284#ixzz1yl3kxM76

Brain drains are insidious. Like cutting away at muscle, they leave a country emaciated, unable to respond to crises and too lethargic to work hard to get where it has to. Then there’s the damaging effect they have on morale. Those who are left behind are either too old, too poor or too unskilled to be able to leave the country. This creates a deep sense of disillusionment, apathy and lack of national pride just when you need the exact opposite to get the country out its difficulties.

      Romans 1:16 (NKJV)
      For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for

     everyone  who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.

1)      Jesus primarily ministered to the Jews but He sent Apostle Paul to the Greeks. Let us pray for apostles to be sent again to Greece for this time of great need. Men and women anointed to guide the country out of this critical economic situation. – Apostles to the marketplace –

2)      The enemy would love to bring an Adolph Hitler, but let us stand in prayer against such an outcome.  

Acts 17:21-23 (NKJV)

For all the Athenians and the foreigners who were there spent their time in nothing else but either to tell or to hear some new thing. Then Paul stood in the midst of the Areopagus and said, “Men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are very religious; for as I was passing through and considering the objects of your worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: “TO THE UNKNOWN GOD”. Therefore, the One whom you worship without knowing, Him I proclaim to you:

3)      Upon Mars Hill (Areopagus), Paul pointed out to the Greek philosophers that there was a benevolent God beyond their myths and idols. Greeks have bowed down to new idols of self-sufficiency and a socialist state. Lord, as You shake this false trust, remember mercy.

4)      We see that when Paul arrived the Greeks had an empty place in their lives to hear the Gospel. Lord, we ask that that empty place will be exposed once again. Soften their hearts.

5)      Let us pray for the Evangelical churches in Greece. May this be their greatest hour. Lord, send them into the streets and homes with the good news. Give them a word of comfort and assurance for their countrymen.

6)     Burning hearts for Greece. Lord, raise up Your intercessors that will declare on earth as it is in heaven Your blessing for Greece.

7)      It is likely that things will get worse before getting better so let us pray for an influx of aid to come from Christians worldwide and be funneled through the Greek Evangelical churches.

8)      As mentioned in the news report above, when things turn bad in a country a brain-drain results. This has been a problem in all the Balkan countries for the past twenty years. Lord, we ask that You guide them to countries where they can find You. 

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Pray for Albania
Week of March 5-11, 2012

Three (3) things I would like for us to pray about: 1) Women Day in Albania, 2) Teaching of the Chinese language and, 3) Corruption.


Women's day is March 8th and in Albania it is also called Mother’s day, which was changed during the time of the communist regime. Regularly on this day women receive gifts and everything is allowed to them.

Song of Solomon 1:15

Behold, you are fair, my love!
Behold, you are fair!
You have dove’s eyes.

1) Women’s Day is celebrated all over the Balkan countries. Let us pray that the women of the Balkans would feel special this week. When the churches meet, may they honor the women and especially the mothers.

2) Proverbs 31 shows us a godly, virtuous woman; her hard work and the honor that is due her. Let us pray that in the churches virtuous women would be raised up and not Jezebels.

3) Let us pray against the exploitation of women. May the daughters of Albania be protected and valued for their womanhood and not be sold into dens of pleasure.

4) Lord, bring freedom and respect to the Muslim women of Albania.

>
Prime Minister Berisha has ask that Albanian schools start to teach Chinese in the schools. Currently, under the government’s new directives pre-university pupils are required to study two foreign languages, of which English, French, German or Spanish were among the electives. But now, Prime Minister Berisha has suggested that they should also be offered Chinese…
5) Let us pray for Chinese Christians in the academic field in China to hear a call to go to Albania where they can fill these teaching jobs. Lord, call out Your special ones and give them Your love for the Albanian children.

>
U.S. Ambassador to Albania, John Whithers, speaking on corruption, said;

“Albanians value honesty as much as any people in the world and as much as any people that I know. Albanians hate corruption. They hate the fact that the few who are corrupt spoil it for the many who are not.”

Some of the practical things he mentioned include these:

• The political elite of Albania should lead by example.

• Change the immunity law, which protects senior officials in courts, in Parliament and in other offices from prosecution.

• The political leadership of Albania should empower the institutions that seek justice.

• Public responsibility: citizens who see corruption or victims of corruption, protesting it, criticizing it, exposing the incidents of corruption, demanding more of the leadership to do something about corruption.

6) Lord, let the words of Ambassador John Whither be a proclamation, a declaration and a new direction for Albania.

7) We pray for the exposure of those involved in corruption; Bring to light the hidden things.

8) Research shows that the main problem is in the judicial. We pray that righteous judges will arise. Lord, execute Your justice over the judges.

9) Lord, give boldness to the Albanian people to speak out against corruption.

Please leave a Comment or Reaction so we will know you prayed.

Pray for Slovenia
(Week of Feb. 20-26, 2012)

Revelation 8:4 - KJV
And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel's hand.

What this says to me is that angels gather our prayers, take them before God’s throne where He gives them serious consideration. So we can have confidence that our prayers for Slovenia will be under review and acted upon by God Himself.

There are many atheist and agnostics in Slovenia. It is almost a pride among them.

1. We pray that the Lord would extend grace unto them and not give them over to a perverted mind. Romans 1:28 NKJV And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting;

2. May there arise a special ministry in Slovenia aimed at reaching these people whom Satan has blinded their eyes and understanding. Lord, send loving Christians that will break down rebellion with acts of kindness.

 > Slovenia: In the whole of 2011, The trade balance was a deficit of EUR1.649 billion.

3. Let us pray for productivity to rise in the Slovenian people. May the country as a whole have the blessing given to Isaac. Genesis 26:12-14 (NKJV) 12) Then Isaac sowed in that land, and reaped in the same year a hundredfold; and the LORD blessed him. 13) The man began to prosper, and continued prospering until he became very prosperous; 14) for he had possessions of flocks and possessions of herds and a great number of servants. So the Philistines envied him.

4. It is true that God blesses the righteous. May blessings come to those that are seeking the Master builder for their prosperity and the well being of Slovenia.

On February 10, 2012, the National Assembly sworn in the new government, which held its founding meeting on the same day. The 2012 - 2015 term Government consists of the coalition partners: the Slovenian Democratic Party, Civic List of Gregor Virant, the Democratic Party of Slovenian Pensioners, the Slovenian People's Party and New Slovenia - Christian People's Party.

5. After revealed corruption in government and government policies blamed for the economic down-turn in Slovenia, a new Prime Minister has been sworn in by the National assembly. Let us pray for Prime Minister Janez Janša as he guides government policies.

6. May he choose to surround himself with people of wisdom that will inspire him in justice and prosperity for all Slovenes. May they guide Slovenia toward internal policies that bring blessings and foreign policies that make Slovenia a blessing in the mist of nations.

7. Let us pray Ephesians 5:17 (NKJV) over the Slovenian government; Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

8. Let us pray for the churches of Slovenia, may they break away from dry traditions and seek the resurrected Lord that offers grace daily.

Please leave a Comment or Reaction so we will know you Prayed.

Pray for Greece


Three depressing news reports for this New Year:

Regulated electricity prices in Greece will rise by an average 9 percent, government sources said on Thursday after a cabinet meeting.

GREECE – suicides double in austerity capital of Europe. Three years ago 2.8 per thousand Greeks were taking their own lives. Now the rate stands at 5.5/1000. No hard figures in why but Klimaka, a 24/7 helpline, has seen a surge in calls from suicidal unemployed workers and indebted businessmen, …

Greek tax officials began a 48-hour walkout Thursday to protest wage cuts and other changes imposed by the government as Greece struggles to meet revenue targets it has promised international creditors.

There is hope. If men would only trust the Living God. He is ready to lead us into abundant life.

Over the Christmas/New Year holidays I heard three encouraging prophecies:

·         This year the Church will find its voice. The world will start to recognize we have answers and they will come seek the Church’s help.

·         This is the year of Divine Government. In the Bible, 12 stands for proper government.

·         In 2012 heaven is going to pierce earth, like beams of light coming down to illuminate truth, spark revival and give extra grace to the saints. There will be stairways of angles ascending and descending.

1.       Let us thank the Lord for His protection, provisions and progress during 2011. Although it was a year of ups and downs the Lord was always there. As we were faithful to the Lord’s call to pray, the Kingdom advanced with the earth being made more like heaven.

Luke 11:2 (NKJV)

 So He said to them,

 “When you pray, say:
Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.”

2.       Lord, we submit to Your guiding hand for 2012. We ask for the measure of revelation that we can be trusted with for the Balkan countries.

3.       Thank You Lord for all Your provisions this year; divine government, elevation of the Church and direct intervention from heaven. Lord, we pray for mercy for the people in the Balkans. May You visit that land. May You be lifted up and may they run into Your arms of Love.

4.       Lord, Greece needs Your help. Their government is so messed up, corruption has been a curse, men are giving up because of a lack of hope and there is a demand for a sacrifice from the people. Truly Greece is a government that needs divine intervention. We pray for a healthy humility to come upon the people of Greece.

5.       We ask You Lord, to prepare the people of Greece to receive a tough love. As they go through this time of breaking, may they call upon the Lord for help.

6.       We ask for a coming forth of evangelist in Greece. May the Lord stir up a fire and passion for the lost. May they be sent to the lost sheep of Greece. May the goats be converted.

7.       Lord, let the anointing fall on these evangelist. May they be fearless for the Gospel of truth.

8.       Let us pray for the release of money to provide for these evangelist.

9.       Let us pray for venues to open up for these evangelist to preach to thousands and thousands.

10.   Let us pray for Greek churches throughout the world to have their hearts fully turned toward the country of their roots. It is time to minister to the original tree. Although the leaves have blown across the world, it is time for those leaves to be made into fertilizing mulch and be mounded up around the tree. (I know this may be a strange picture, but I see mulch being gathered from the far corners of the earth and it being placed around a withered tree. I see the rain coming from heaven and the nutriments from the mulch soaking down in the ground to the roots.) 

11.   Lord, we pray that not only will Greek Christians seek to bring the Gospel back to Greece but Greek businessmen will sacrifice to mulch the tree.

Mulching is the most beneficial thing a home owner can do for the health of a young tree. Mulches are materials placed on the soil surface to improve soil structure, oxygen levels, temperature and moisture availability. Properly applied, mulch can give landscapes a handsome, well-groomed appearance.

Mulch must be applied properly. If a mulch is too deep or if the wrong material is used, it can actually cause harm to trees and other landscape plants. Mulch should usually be 2-4 inches deep.

Please leave a Comment or Reaction so we will know you Prayed.