As we watch our brothers and sisters in Afghanistan prepare for persecution – the last thing we are likely concerned about are the souls of the Taliban forces.
After all, these are the same people who are forcing women to become their brides and slaying Christians.
But God reminds us over and over in His Word that we are to pray for our enemies – but just how do we do that when we’re so angry at the evil and injustice?
There’s a reason Open Doors lists Afghanistan as the number 2 country on their World Watch List as one of the most dangerous places for Christians to live.
Christians cannot live openly, and those who are found out have two choices – flee or die.
And with the oppressive and violent Taliban sweeping through Afghanistan conquering even more ground – I confess, personally, it’s hard to pray for them.
But as a Christian, I am reminded God tells us to pray for our enemies.
Likewise, He assures us and reminds us that vengeance is ultimately His.
“Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Romans 12:19-21
So just how do we put our faith into practice and pray for those who are literally killing our brothers and sisters?
Pray For Their Salvation
We must continue to pray that God, as only He can, will soften the hearts of those who murder His people.
Just as Paul formerly killed Christians and then repented – our same God who opened up Paul’s eyes can also open the eyes of the Taliban to all the evil they are doing.
Let us pray they will come to know the life-changing truth of Jesus and repent and turn from their wicked ways.
Imagine what a beautiful witness it would be to Muslims if members of the Taliban started to repent and openly profess Jesus!
Although it seems impossible – all things are possible with God.
Pray For Their Restraint
While we are called to pray for our enemies, that doesn’t mean letting them run wild and wreak havoc and destruction.
For a time, God restrained them from causing harm on His people, and it is righteous for us to pray for Him to do it again.
Whether it’s raising up new leaders, or giving the people the courage to fight back against the oppressive forces, we should never stop praying for God to limit the Taliban’s reign of terror.
Let us also pray for other world leaders, that they will help displaced refugees and have compassion for those who are suffering.
With COVID-19 still causing sickness and fear, the humanitarian crisis is bound to explode as more people will be left without food or denied basic human rights.
God’s Always On His Throne
And finally, let us never forget God is sovereign and always on His throne.
He knows what is happening, and He knows every heart.
While this world is evil, God is always good.
He does care for His people, and He will have the last word.
Let us continue to prepare our hearts for the day He will return to make all things good yet again.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” – John 3:16-17
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