Prayer Diary Summer 2014

PRAYER DIARY . 1 SUMMER ’14

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‘I PRESS ON TOWARDS THE GOAL’ PHILIPPIANS 3:14

tearfund.org/prayer

WORLD CUP PRAYERS

NO CHILD TAKEN

BRINGING HOPE

Lifting up Brazil

Prayer for trafficked children

The UK church in action

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

2 . PRAYER DIARY

WELCOME...

‘HOPE FOR THE NATIONS’ I want to share with you a moving and encouraging story from a Tearfund-supporting church with a real determination to pray for the poorest people on earth. I hope these words will encourage you to persevere as you cry out daily for people living in poverty through the Prayer Diary...

Last year, Arbury Road Baptist Church, Cambridge, ran a successful week of prayer for global poverty. It’s been a difficult time for the church. Last July, their minister, Neil Harding, died suddenly of a heart attack. ‘He was only 56,’ a church member told us. ‘So, it was a huge shock.

‘In amongst the grief and chaos that has followed, the song “Jesus, hope of the nations” has come to mean a great deal to us. He is our hope, our comfort as we mourn, our light in the darkness.’

Through this difficult time, members of the church have met together weekly to pray for poor people. ‘This act has helped me see that – although there is a huge amount of suffering, despair and darkness in the world – Jesus is there bringing hope and light.

And he’s doing it through his people,’ she says.

This year, Arbury Road will be running another week of prayer for people in poverty, this time under the title, ‘Hope for the nations’ – inspired by the worship song.

‘When I pray, I pray with the knowledge and sure hope that my prayers are being answered by the sovereign God who is working in and through his people who he has put in the poorest places on earth,’ she says.

‘It seems appropriate to focus on “Hope for the nations” – knowing that he is our hope and the hope for all who suffer, wherever they are in the world.’

Our prayers are with you, Arbury Road Baptist Church. Amen!

Editor

Peter Shaw twitter @TearTimes | email praying@tearfund.org Photo: Ralph Hodgson/Tearfund

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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‘SO WE MAKE IT OUR GOAL TO PLEASE HIM’ 2 CORINTHIANS 5:9

CONTENTS 04 Conflict in CAR Prayers for the Central African Republic 05 Towards the goal Prayer for the World Cup and Brazil 08 No Child Taken Protecting communities from traffickers 10 In your hands Reflecting on John 6 11 Church unity in Asia Prayers promoting understanding 12 Games in Glasgow Lifting up the Commonwealth Games 13 Broadening our horizons Living lightly in God’s creation 14 Prince of peace Calling for an end to conflict 15 Confronting sexual violence Lifting up vulnerable women 16 Renewed strength for Pakistan Prayers for protection and prosperity 17 Words and deeds Praying for Hope14 across the UK 18 Standing firm in Central America Prayer for Tearfund’s team in Honduras 19 Bringing healing in Egypt Lifting up this troubled nation 20 God’s family Encouraging families to pray together 21 Following justice Giving thanks for campaigns success 22 Slaying giants Small group prayer reflection 23 Prayer resources More ways to pray with Tearfund

Copyright @ Tearfund 2014. All rights reserved. Permission is granted for the reproduction of text from this publication for Tearfund promotional use. For all other uses, please contact us.

Photo: Layton Thompson/Tearfund

Cover image: Moses, from Uganda, playing football in his village.

Layton Thompson/Tearfund

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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CONFLICT IN THE CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC: 1 – 7 JUNE The Central African Republic (CAR) is a country with deep and long-term challenges. In March 2013 a coup ended a decade of peace. Since December last year there has been widespread violence. Tearfund is responding to the crisis, compelled by God’s love for the people of this nation.

SUNDAY 1 JUNE Angeline is originally from the north-east of CAR but fled when militia killed her husband. Along with her three small children, she took refuge in a makeshift camp in the capital city, Bangui. Please pray for Angeline and others like her as they process the trauma of violence and displacement.

MONDAY 2 JUNE ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God’ (Matthew 5:9). Lift up those seeking to reconcile those involved in violent conflict, particularly for faith leaders who have influence in the nation. Pray for the president and political leaders as they try to bring stability across the country.

TUESDAY 3 JUNE About 60 per cent of people are under 24 years old in CAR. Pray for the children and young people of the country whose lives have been disrupted by the fighting.

Most schools have had to close.

Pray for peace and stability so that classrooms can re-open.

WEDNESDAY 4 JUNE Finding food and clean water is a daily struggle for many who have lost jobs and businesses.

They have not been able to plant their fields, water sources have been contaminated and vital imports have been stopped by the fighting. Please pray for Tearfund’s partners in CAR as they meet people’s needs.

THURSDAY 5 JUNE Tearfund’s team in CAR is made up of dedicated local and international staff. The security situation is difficult to work in and the scale of the need can be overwhelming.

Knowing that people are praying for them makes all the difference.

Please pray for protection, energy, wisdom and peace for them.

FRIDAY 6 JUNE Women and girls in CAR are at high risk of sexual violence. It is used by militias to create fear in the population. Recovery from such attacks is a long journey of physical and emotional healing.

Lift these women to God and ask for his comfort as they rebuild their lives.

SATURDAY 7 JUNE Dear Father, we know that you have compassion on all whom you have made. Please send your comfort to those who are suffering in this conflict. Respond to their cries for help. Give your church courage to stand up for peace in a troubled land. May your kingdom come in CAR. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO If you are in your 20s and 30s and this week has ignited a passion in you, please join us on Saturday 21 June for Mosaic, an event at St Mellitus College in London. Mosaic is a space where those pursuing God’s call to justice can connect and collaborate with him and with each other. For details and to book, visit mosaicconference.com Fleeing the conflict herself, Odette (right) has started school classes for displaced children

Photo: Lindsey Reece-Smith/Tearfund

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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TOWARDS THE GOAL: 8 – 21 JUNE Brazil is hosting the 2014 FIFA World Cup from 12 June to 13 July.

For the next two weeks, we’ll be exploring the exciting world of Brazil, football and our inspiring partners in the region.

‘GOD MAKES THE IMPOSSIBLE POSSIBLE. I BELIEVE IN HIM’ RADAMEL FALCAO, COLOMBIAN FOOTBALL PLAYER School children playing football in Laos

Photo: Ralph Hodgson/Tearfund

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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SUNDAY 8 JUNE It’s fitting that our journey kicks off on the World Weekend of Prayer for children at risk. Protecting vulnerable children is one of Tearfund’s key priorities in Brazil.

Please pray for safer communities where children can thrive.

MONDAY 9 JUNE Thank God that, since 2003, social welfare initiatives have helped to more than halve the number of people living in extreme poverty in Brazil. But the battle is far from over. ‘Many people see Brazil just as a rising economy, but there is still massive inequality lurking beneath the surface,’ says Country Representative Serguem Silva.

TUESDAY 10 JUNE The official slogan of the 2014 FIFA World Cup is ‘All in one rhythm’. Pray for unity and love to be paramount in the church in Brazil, remembering Jesus’ words: ‘By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.’ (John 13:35)

Football is uniting prisoners in Kigo, Uganda

WEDNESDAY 11 JUNE Sex tourism is the hidden, dark side of the World Cup. Brazil now rivals Thailand as a destination for sex tourism, with more than 250,000 children trapped in prostitution (according to Unicef). Tearfund is funding RENAS’s World Cup Project, a campaign to combat sexual abuse of children and teenagers in Brazil.

Please pray for this campaign, and ask God to protect children from sexual exploitation.

THURSDAY 12 JUNE Charles and Vivian are outreach workers for RENAS’s World Cup Project in the Brazilian state of Paraná. At a rally, they met 24-yearold Gabriel*, who broke down in tears and revealed he had been abused at the age of eight. ‘I could see a child filled with fear, bearing the grief of his childhood,’ says Charles. Pray for healing for all victims of sexual abuse.

FRIDAY 13 JUNE In neighbouring Colombia – which also has a team in the contest – Tearfund is running a project called Sports for Life, which uses football to provide positive activities, a sense of community and the chance to hear the gospel for children living in difficult circumstances.

Nine-year-old Luis felt loved and accepted at the club, and gave his life to Jesus. Praise God! SATURDAY 14 JUNE For Luis, hearing his coach share the testimony of Colombian football player Radamel Falcao, who’s a Christian, helped him in his journey of faith. Radamel said on Twitter earlier this year: ‘God makes the impossible possible. I believe in him.’

Please pray that God will strengthen Christian sports people to radiate his love.

‘ONE BY ONE, WE ARE HELPING TO TRANSFORM LIVES AND GIVE THOSE WHO LIVE IN EXTREME POVERTY A CHANCE FOR A DIFFERENT FUTURE’

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA Spend some time reflecting on Bible verses that use sport as a metaphor, such as 1 Corinthians 9:24–25, 1 Timothy 4:8, 2 Timothy 2:5 and Hebrews 12:1–2.

Write down and memorise the one that speaks most to you, and meditate on it throughout the weekend.

Photo: Andrew Philip

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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Children’s home-made football, San Luis, Bolivia

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO In countries like Brazil, enabling communities to lobby their local government can be the key to lasting change. Pastor Valdimir helped his village to petition successfully for electricity, a primary school and better-quality housing.

Are there needs in your locality that you can highlight to those in authority?

Photo: Richard Hanson/Tearfund

SUNDAY 15 JUNE Tearfund partner Alianza runs a football club in Honduras (another country competing this summer), helping young people avoid a life of drugs, gangs and violence. ‘We have football training each week, and we also learn about good values – to avoid fights, respect others and manage anger. We’re like a family,’ says Jorge, 12. Thank God for this venture.

MONDAY 16 JUNE ‘Inequality and corruption are two sides of the same coin,’ says Tearfund’s Brazil Country Rep Serguem. Last year, Tearfund partners organised a conference for evangelical leaders across Brazil to discuss the need for the church to take a greater role in tackling corruption in the country. Pray that the conference motto, ‘Love the truth’, will influence all levels of government.

*Some names have been changed to protect identities.

TUESDAY 17 JUNE Successive years of drought across north-eastern Brazil have shattered communities. Tearfund partner ACEV is working with villages like Pinheira, where they have helped residents build a well, rear goats, develop market gardening and successfully petition the local government to supply electricity.

‘We prayed and prayed. It’s all a gift of God. This is heaven on earth,’ says local resident Maria.

Praise God! WEDNESDAY 18 JUNE Vulnerable communities living along the Rio Tracajá river in northern Brazil were plagued by dirty water, poor sanitation and waterborne diseases. Inspired by a school project on the environment, local students asked our partner, Asas de Socorro, for help. Thank God that, together, they are now introducing water filters, septic tanks and effective waste disposal plans.

THURSDAY 19 JUNE Tearfund supports George and Cally Magalhães through our Inspired Individuals programme.

They are working with adolescents in youth prisons to break the cycle of crime and drug abuse in São Paulo. Ask God to bless their work: ‘One by one, we are helping to transform lives and give those who live in extreme poverty a chance for a different future.’

FRIDAY 20 JUNE Tearfund’s Chief Executive Matthew Frost recently visited Brazil. ‘The only disunity I encountered among the brilliant partners we serve was the heated debate each time I asked them which football team is the best in Brazil,’ he says. Ask God to guide, strengthen and bless our partners abundantly in their amazing work.

SATURDAY 21 JUNE Lord Jesus, your statue stands over Rio de Janeiro in Brazil with arms outstretched. We pray that more and more people will find refuge in your embrace. Help your church in Brazil and across the world to ‘run with perseverance the race marked out for us’ (Hebrews 12:1), bringing your love to those in need. Amen.

When Nang from Laos leaves school, she may be at risk of being trafficked

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NO CHILD TAKEN: 22 JUNE – 5 JULY Human trafficking is the fastest-growing crime in the world.

Join us in prayer for people who are trafficked, and for our work preventing the exploitation of children and helping victims to recover.

SUNDAY 22 JUNE Trafficking is subtle and involves deceit, which allows it to thrive unnoticed. Join our country representative in India, Prince, in prayer: ‘Pray for India, for wisdom and courage to address human trafficking. Ask God for better coordination among government, churches and civil society.’

MONDAY 23 JUNE During natural disasters, such as the 2013 India cyclone or Philippines typhoon, the risk of trafficking rockets. With children orphaned or separated from parents, they become incredibly vulnerable. Ask God to keep families together, and for children – that they will be able to evade the traffickers.

Children near the Thai border in Laos are targets for traffickers

TUESDAY 24 JUNE ‘I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten,’ says the Lord.

(Joel 2:25) Pray that God will use Tearfund’s work to rebuild the lives of trafficking victims and bring healing and restoration to them, giving them a secure future.

WEDNESDAY 25 JUNE It can take a long time for victims to talk openly about traumatic experiences of trafficking. Pray that our partners will be able to earn the trust of those they seek to help, so that they can communicate the love of God to people, even in their suffering.

THURSDAY 26 JUNE Pray for the success of Tearfund projects that raise awareness about trafficking, to help people see through and reject the deceitful offers of the traffickers. Ask God to give wisdom and creativity to our partner staff as they seek to communicate this important message effectively.

Photo: Ralph Hodgson/Tearfund

FRIDAY 27 JUNE Pray for our partner staff as they work closely with people experiencing trauma, that God will strengthen them as they hear difficult stories, keeping their hearts compassionate and their words wise. Ask God to keep their emotional resources topped up.

SATURDAY 28 JUNE Father, we thank you that you know and love all those trapped in the claws of human trafficking.

We ask you to help Tearfund expose trafficking, and bring its perpetrators to justice. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA The struggle to end modern-day slavery is gathering momentum in the UK. Collect news stories about cases of people kept in slavery and pray for these victims, as well as the many other people they represent. Pray for the UK government as it considers the part it can play in tackling this appalling crime.

Photo: Ralph Hodgson/Tearfund

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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Tearfund partner World Concern Laos (WCL) works with families close to the Thai border in the south of Laos, where trafficking is rife. We pray for them this week as they use drama to help raise awareness of the risks of trafficking.

‘LIFT UP THE BROKEN, GIVE COMFORT AND STRENGTH TO THOSE WHO MOURN THE LOSS OF LOVED ONES’ SUNDAY 29 JUNE With little opportunity for work, and no school to attend, teenagers in the villages that border Thailand are vulnerable to traffickers promising to arrange ‘good jobs’ for them. Pray for the work of our partner, WCL, which uses drama workshops to raise awareness of the reality of trafficking.

MONDAY 30 JUNE ‘Seven young people left this village last month,’ Leilani, from a small community in Laos, told us. Her own daughter was among them, heading off for a new life in Thailand. Leilani was sick with worry. She is not alone. Pray for Leilani and other mothers separated from their children.

TUESDAY 1 JULY WCL is tackling the root causes that leave people vulnerable to trafficking. Training in sewing, baking and motorbike repairs can help young people earn a living closer to home. Pray for the success of livelihoods training from WCL which helps people earn an income at home so they stay in their own village.

WEDNESDAY 2 JULY Ning, 18, worked in Thailand but returned to Laos when she learnt her mother was ill. Sadly, her mother died soon afterwards. Ning now looks after her two younger siblings.

She doesn’t want either of them to try and make a life in Thailand but feels that is out of her control. Pray that Ning and her family will be able to make a living close to home where they can stay safe.

THURSDAY 3 JULY ‘The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.’ (Psalm 34:18) Pray for Makala, who had a harrowing experience in Thailand.

She has returned to her village and WCL is helping her. Makala has made great progress. Pray that she will be reconciled with her parents, and become a voice in the community – speaking out about the dangers of migrating to Thailand.

FRIDAY 4 JULY Anne, who works for Tearfund’s partner WCL, believes she is called

by God to serve the people of Laos.

‘I believe God brought me here. The people we work with need love, care and attention.’ Pray that Anne and her colleagues will know God’s hand on their work, as they follow Jesus to places of great need, often at great personal cost.

SATURDAY 5 JULY Father, we thank you for the seeds already sown by WCL and the great relationships it has with local leaders, allowing it to work unhindered in these communities.

Please keep the team close to you and grant them increasing effectiveness in their work. May their work stop many children from being trafficked. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO You can help prevent children being trafficked! Visit tearfund.org/ nochildtaken to find out more about our work combating trafficking. You can watch a film about Nang (pictured), a 12-year-old girl at risk of being trafficked, and find out how our partners are reducing her vulnerability.

We want to see Christians in the UK come together to help us make sure no child is taken. Please consider prayerfully how you could be involved.

There’s a small group prayer reflection about child trafficking on page 22.

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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IN YOUR HANDS: 6 – 12 JULY People from Tearfund have contributed a series of daily reflections to Cell UK’s new devotional resource, 52 – A daily rhythm of devotion and mission. As we join with them in prayer and reflection, please let God speak to you: you might like to write your thoughts down on a notepad.

Rev Virginia Luckett, Director of the UK Churches team at Tearfund, reflects on John 6.

SUNDAY 6 JULY John 6:16–20

TUESDAY 8 JULY John 6:11

Nothing is impossible for Jesus.

Worship the God who made all things and can walk on water. Pray that God will enlarge your faith and expand your horizons so that, when you pray, you can be brave and take a step out of the boat.

Are you hungry for more of Jesus in your life today? Then, turn to the God who fed the five thousand. Let him be your bread of life. Ask him to fill you up so you have plenty left over for others.

MONDAY 7 JULY John 6:8–11 What do you have in your hand?

It may seem small and inadequate but it’s a place to start. Miracles can happen when we step out in faith with what God has already provided. Ask God to use what he has placed in your hand today for the benefit of others.

‘COME RAIN OR SHINE, YOU CAN CELEBRATE GOD’S CREATION TODAY’

Photo: Richard Hanson/Tearfund

WEDNESDAY 9 JULY John 6:10–13 We can’t out-give our generous God who gave himself to restore the world and our relationship with him. He takes tiny things and multiplies them – a small gift given in faith can go a long way in God’s economy. Ask God to challenge you today to be generous to people who are hungry.

THURSDAY 10 JULY John 6:5 Do you feel pushed to your limits?

Lean into the resources of the creator of the universe and turn to Jesus for help. Ask God to increase your expectations and you will see miracles.

FRIDAY 11 JULY John 6:16-20 Come rain or shine, you can celebrate God’s creation today.

Go out and about and thank God for all he has given us in our beautiful world. Think how you can live more lightly and value what God has made.

SATURDAY 12 JULY Father God, creator of the universe, we thank you that you call us to steward and care for creation. Help us to nourish and use your gift of creativity for your glory and to help others. Holy Spirit, expand our horizons. In your name, Jesus, we pray. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO Cell UK promotes and encourages the development of holistic small group/cell group churches. It seeks to facilitate church that believes in discipleship – empowering people to be salt and light in their everyday lives. You can buy 52 – A daily rhythm of devotion and mission at celluk.org/shop

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CHURCH UNITY IN ASIA: 13 – 19 JULY ‘In my experience, Tearfund’s efforts to tackle poverty are most effective when Christians work together in unity,’ says Steve Collins, Tearfund’s country representative for Nepal. This week, we lift up churches across Asia, calling on God to bring unity, reconciliation and understanding.

Sunday service at Angkalanh village church, Cambodia

SUNDAY 13 JULY Tearfund partner Carnet regularly meets with district-level Christian Societies in Nepal to raise awareness of child protection issues, bringing together all churches in an area. Unfortunately, it has sometimes encountered disunity and splits in these societies. Carnet recently tried to run a district meeting but only a small number of churches attended. So they reorganised the meeting and led the divided leaders through a process of reconciliation before addressing child protection. Praise God that they were able to bring all the churches together.

MONDAY 14 JULY HIV-affected families are being reconciled with their communities through the initiatives of churches in Sunsari, east Nepal.

Discrimination against people living with HIV is common, particularly against widows. Pray for the success of United Mission Nepal’s partner, which trains volunteer carers to provide support for families affected

by HIV. TUESDAY 15 JULY Cambodian churches and Christian organisations recently came together with a vision, Mission Kampuchea 2021, to establish a church in every village in Cambodia by 2021.

Photo: Ralph Hodgson/Tearfund

Thank God for this initiative and pray for the leaders of Mission Kampuchea 2021, that this vision will be a success.

WEDNESDAY 16 JULY Ponloeu Ea works for Tearfund in Cambodia, bringing churches and Christian organisations together to share fellowship and learn from each other. Pray for Ponloeu as he builds relationships with leaders and helps to release the potential of the church to transform the lives of poor people.

THURSDAY17 JULY ‘Pray for peace and understanding among church denominations in Bangladesh, that they will work in harmony to minister to those made homeless and destitute by the frequent natural disasters,’ asks Suchitra Behera, Tearfund’s country representative for Bangladesh.

FRIDAY 18 JULY ‘Lord, we ask that church leaders in Bangladesh will be given the training, knowledge and wisdom to grow into mature, godly men and women who will lead the church in Bangladesh with skill and integrity.’

Suchitra Behera, Tearfund’s country representative for Bangladesh.

‘PRAY FOR PEACE AND UNDERSTANDING AMONG CHURCH DENOMINATIONS IN BANGLADESH’ SATURDAY19 JULY Lord, we echo the prayer of Jesus (John 17:20–23) in asking that your churches across Asia will work together in unity. We ask that they may be one, just as Jesus and the Father are one. And we pray that, through this, people across Asia will know that you sent Jesus. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA Mission Kampuchea 2021 (see Tuesday) has a vision to establish a church in every village in Cambodia over the next seven years. Pray for this work by reading the stories at facebook.com/ MissionKampuchea2021 If you are on Facebook, you can ‘like’ the page to get regular updates.

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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GAMES IN GLASGOW: 20 – 26 JULY This week, the 70 nations of the Commonwealth will gather in Glasgow for the 20th Commonwealth Games. More Than Gold 2014 is the Christian umbrella organisation seeking to demonstrate Christian love through hospitality, service and mission throughout the games. As we stand with them this week, our prayers are written by Tearfund Vice President Rev Alan McWilliam.

SUNDAY 20 JULY New Wine Scotland is running its CLAN Games mission event from 19 to 23 July. Today, about 600 people across Glasgow will serve at 20 local churches, seeking to demonstrate God’s love and share the good news of the gospel in their communities during the run-up to the games.

Pray that this will impact the city in a powerful way.

MONDAY 21 JULY More Than Gold 2014 is running the Athlete Family Homestay Programme where Christian families host athletes’ families. Pray that they will have enough beds for all those coming, and that the families and volunteers will be profoundly impacted by the Christian hospitality and witness of their hosts.

TUESDAY 22 JULY Just as churches will seek to impact their communities across Scotland throughout the games, Tearfund partners are doing the same in many Commonwealth countries, including Uganda, where I have

seen it for myself. Pray for the work of the Pentecostal Assemblies of God in Uganda which is mobilising its members to reach the poorest people in their villages.

even death. Pray for our partners who are transforming people’s lives in Malawi by rehabilitating water sources and training communities in sanitation.

WEDNESDAY 23 JULY The Commonwealth Games open tonight and the second wave of More Than Gold mission events begin across Glasgow. Pray that these events will add to the sense of celebration in the city. How great it would be to hear of many coming to faith during these games!

FRIDAY 25 JULY Pray for our partners in Pakistan who are helping support vulnerable farmers in remote communities to increase food production and develop alternative income sources.

Pray for the safety of the team and for strong, positive relationships to be developed in the communities they are working in.

We will spend the rest of the week praying for Tearfund projects in three commonwealth nations – Malawi, Rwanda and Pakistan – all funded by the Scottish Government.

THURSDAY 24 JULY An estimated 2.4m people in Malawi don’t have access to clean water, causing infections that can lead to sickness, diarrhoea and

SATURDAY 26 JULY Self-help groups in a Scottish government-funded project in Rwanda are helping more than 7,600 women find dignity, support and access to financial resources. This is enabling them to develop businesses and feed and clothe their families.

Pray that, as the setting-up of this project enters its last phase, they will be motivated to continue to put into practice all they have learnt.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA

‘HOW GREAT IT WOULD BE TO HEAR OF MANY COMING TO FAITH DURING THE COMMONWEALTH GAMES!’

As you watch and enjoy the athleticism and atmosphere of the Commonwealth Games on television or (if you have tickets) in Glasgow, spend some time in prayer. Thank God for the hope and joy that sport brings to people all over the world, helping us to flourish and enjoy life to the full.

Photo: More Than Gold

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Tearfund is exploring new ways to care for creation

Photo: Chris Boyd/Tearfund

SUNDAY 27 JULY What would it mean to live in a sustainable and just world where people and communities flourish as God intended? Reflect and pray about this today, asking God to show you how you can play a part in bringing this about.

MONDAY 28 JULY ‘Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear.’

Matthew 6:25 Every time you buy or eat something today, use it as an opportunity to pray for everyone involved in producing what we eat, use and wear, and to pray for the environment on which our consumption depends.

TUESDAY 29 JULY Give thanks for people and organisations across the world who are speaking out for change from governments, businesses and people, and trying to bring in new and good things to model a better world. Pray for inspiration and strength as they continue in this work.

BROADENING OUR HORIZONS: 27 JULY – 2 AUGUST At Tearfund, we are thinking about how we can live so that everyone can flourish and so that God’s creation is protected amid problems like over-consumption and inequality. Please join us this week to pray about these issues.

WEDNESDAY 30 JULY ‘Well-being can’t be measured by money or traded in markets.

It’s about the beauty of our surroundings, the quality of our culture and, above all, the strength of our relationships. Improving our society’s sense of well-being is, I believe, the central political challenge of our times.’ David Cameron, Prime Minister, 2010 Pray for people who are in positions of power that they will promote others’ ‘well-being’ through all they do.

THURSDAY 31 JULY Pray for people who struggle with environmental problems such as farmers coping with droughts and floods and, in particular, for the poorest and most vulnerable communities who suffer their worst effects but who have the least support.

FRIDAY 1 AUGUST Reflect on these verses and the hope they can bring us as we think about these issues.

‘The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sunscorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a wellwatered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.’ Isaiah 58:11

SATURDAY 2 AUGUST ‘If everyone lived like an average European, we would need three planets to live on’ (WWF).

Lord, help us to understand where the natural limits of our consumption should be and show us how we can make changes to reduce this inequality. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA ‘I was excited to join a spontaneous fast during the climate talks in Warsaw last December. The head of the Philippines’ government representation inspired others to follow suit when he fasted from food for the duration of the talks to stand in solidarity with typhoon Haiyan victims, as well as others suffering from the impacts of extreme weather events, recognising the links to climate change.’ Sarah Wiggins, from Tearfund’s policy team.

The fast continues on the first day of every month. If you’d like to join the fast, please visit tearfund.org/solidarityfast

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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PRINCE OF PEACE: 3 – 9 AUGUST About 700 years before Jesus’ birth, Isaiah prophesied that the coming Christ would be called ‘Prince of Peace’. This week, we ask that Jesus will be glorified as he brings justice, peace and reconciliation in war-torn countries across the world, through his church.

SUNDAY 3 AUGUST In December last year, violence between two ethnic groups erupted near the capital of South Sudan, spreading rapidly across the country. As peace efforts continue, pray that the leaders in South Sudan will be wise, show maturity and work together for peace.

MONDAY 4 AUGUST Today, people across the world will mark the 100th anniversary of the start of the first world war. A candlelit vigil of prayer and penitence will be held in Westminster Abbey, London, and a wreath-laying service at Glasgow’s Cenotaph. As you reflect on that historic event, lift up in prayer people in conflict across the world today, and ask for lasting peace.

TUESDAY 5 AUGUST Father God, we lift Afghanistan to you. We ask you to heal the scars of so many decades of conflict, and pray for a smooth transition to Afghan-led security as foreign troops withdraw this year. Please strengthen those in authority to be ‘Repairers of Broken Walls and Restorers of Streets with Dwellings’ (Isaiah 58:12).

WEDNESDAY 6 AUGUST The conflict in Syria has split up many families, as women and children are often separated from their husbands and fathers when they flee abroad as refugees. Pray for mothers as they adjust to a new life as refugees and shoulder additional burdens as they head up their household alone.

THURSDAY 7 AUGUST Children from many parts of Syria have seen things they shouldn’t even imagine, let alone witness.

Pray for our partner organisations working with children and their mothers as they help them to deal with what they’ve seen – and move forwards.

FRIDAY 8 AUGUST Villagers in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) returned after the conflict to find their homes destroyed. Asango Maua, 58, received seeds and tools from Tearfund and has seen a bumper harvest this season. Pray for families like Asango’s in South Kivu as they rebuild lives after conflict and pray too for good harvests.

SATURDAY 9 AUGUST We Will Speak Out is a coalition committed to ending sexual violence (see next page). The launch of the coalition in the DRC this month will mobilise church leaders to speak out against sexual violence.

Pray that churches will become a safe place for survivors of sexual violence and that church leaders will start to speak out about these issues.

‘HE WILL WIPE EVERY TEAR FROM THEIR EYES. THERE WILL BE NO MORE DEATH OR MOURNING’ REVELATION 21:4

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA Psalm 91 has been called the ‘Soldiers’ Psalm’. During the first world war, the soldiers of the 91st Brigade recited Psalm 91 daily. Take time to read and reflect on this psalm and speak the words over people caught up or engaged in conflicts across the world, as a prayer for peace.

Photo: Richard Hanson/Tearfund

In a world of conflict, we pray to the Prince of Peace

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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CONFRONTING SEXUAL VIOLENCE: 10 – 16 AUGUST We live in a world where, according to UN Women, one in three women and girls is expected to face violence during her lifetime.

This week, we explore the ways that Tearfund is confronting and preventing sexual violence, and pray for an end to these brutal acts.

Photo: Ralph Hodgson/Tearfund

SUNDAY 10 AUGUST We are working to see faith communities speak out and act to address issues of sexual violence.

Pray that Tearfund’s work with church leaders in Burundi, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will multiply: we are helping to build national coalitions of church networks in each of these countries.

MONDAY 11 AUGUST We support local churches and communities to provide safe spaces for survivors of sexual violence, so they can find compassion and care, not stigma. Pray for the success of pilot projects run by the Anglican Dioceses of Kigali and Gasabo in 50 local churches across Rwanda.

TUESDAY 12 AUGUST Give thanks for all the brave survivors willing to share their stories with Tearfund partners in Rwanda, Burundi and the DRC. We want their experiences to have a direct influence on policy and practice. Pray for Tearfund partners as they provide care and support for people who have experienced sexual violence.

‘WE ARE WORKING TO SEE FAITH COMMUNITIES SPEAK OUT AGAINST SEXUAL VIOLENCE’ WEDNESDAY 13 AUGUST Tearfund has developed a Biblestudy resource to equip churches so that they can help prevent and respond to sexual violence in their congregation and community.

Pray that the resource, which is being piloted, will help churches to understand how scripture can be an inspiration and guide to prevent and respond to sexual violence.

THURSDAY 14 AUGUST A key way to address sexual violence is to involve men in prevention. One of the most significant challenges in attempts to end sexual violence is the struggle to change unhelpful attitudes and gender inequality. Pray for Christian leaders across central Africa who are being trained by Tearfund partners and Sonke Gender Justice Network to facilitate discussion groups in their churches for men and boys.

FRIDAY 15 AUGUST Tearfund is a co-founder of We Will Speak Out, a coalition of Christian organisations committed to working together to end sexual violence.

Praise God that several national coalitions have been established, including in the DRC, Burundi, Rwanda and South Africa.

SATURDAY 16 AUGUST Female genital mutilation is a harmful traditional practice that impacts huge numbers of women and girls in 28 countries in Africa.

Lord Jesus, we lift up Tearfund partner the Christian Council of Tanzania; we ask for protection and success as they address this harmful traditional practice through engaging local churches in training and discussion groups. We pray that this brutal practice will stop. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO We Will Speak Out is a global coalition of Christian-based NGOs, churches and organisations, supported by an alliance of individuals, who together commit themselves to see the end of sexual violence in communities around the world. You can sign its pledge and commit to speaking out against sexual violence at wewillspeakout.org

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RENEWED STRENGTH FOR PAKISTAN: 17 – 23 AUGUST Last year, Pakistan had its first-ever democratic change of government. But insecurity and poverty are still rife. This week, we pray for peace, prosperity and protection for the people of Pakistan.

Girl in Bahadar Khan Zada School, Pakistan

SUNDAY 17 AUGUST Tearfund’s Country Representative Ashraf chose Isaiah 40:31 to reflect on our work in Pakistan. He asks: ‘Pray that those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint…’

MONDAY 18 AUGUST Our partner, the Primary Education Project (PEP), is developing schools in rural communities across Pakistan. PEP’s Jane Jerrard was awarded an MBE in the 2014 New Year Honours list for services to education, particularly for girls, in Pakistan. Pray that more Pakistani children will have access to a good education.

TUESDAY 19 AUGUST Pakistan is among the world’s least-developed countries and just making a living is a struggle for many. We’re providing seeds and agricultural training to poor communities to help change this.

Praise God for Shazia’s* new perspective: ‘We have everything necessary to grow vegetables – spare land, water. We just didn’t know about vegetable growing.

This project has taught us!’

* Name changed.

Photo: Richard Hanson/Tearfund

WEDNESDAY 20 AUGUST Violence and unrest are an everpresent threat in Pakistan. Pray that God will change hearts set on violence, and that the withdrawal of foreign troops from neighbouring Afghanistan this year will not cause further insecurity in the region.

Join with partner SSEWA-Pak’s prayer: ‘May the Lord help us to shape a society where human life is sacrosanct and bloodshed is abhorred and prevented.’

THURSDAY 21 AUGUST Tragically, Mrs Gulzadi lost four of her 11 children to water-borne diseases. Thank God that Tearfund has now provided her village with a hand-pump, household water filters and hygiene training. ‘We feel as though someone has given our life back,’ she says. ‘We are still learning to live healthier lives day by day.’

FRIDAY 22 AUGUST Mr Baboo is one of 282,000 people supported by Tearfund following the devastating floods of 2010. Our partner PEP provided emergency food supplies and mosquito nets and helped villagers rebuild their school. ‘We have more knowledge now on limiting the impacts of natural disasters, especially floods,’ he says. Praise God, and pray for protection against future hazards in villages like Mr Baboo’s.

‘MAY THE LORD HELP US TO SHAPE A SOCIETY WHERE HUMAN LIFE IS SACROSANCT AND BLOODSHED IS PREVENTED’ SATURDAY 23 AUGUST ‘When I think of “praying big” for Pakistan, I pray for a vibrant and progressive community of churches reaching out to relieve people from poverty of every kind,’ says Country Representative Ashraf. Ask God to bring about this exciting vision.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA Clean water is a pressing need in Pakistan. This weekend, remember Pakistan when you use water for drinking, cooking and washing. Reflect on Jesus’ promise to give ‘a spring of water welling up to eternal life’ (John 4:14) to those who come to him, and ask him to pour out his blessing on Pakistan.

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

SUNDAY 24 AUGUST The early church was birthed in prayer. Ask God to increase a desire to pray in local churches in your area. Ask God to encourage prayer groups in every community, so that each person will be prayed for, befriended and given the opportunity to hear about Jesus.

MONDAY 25 AUGUST Hope14 encourages churches to work together. Pray for unity among the churches in your area. Ask God to bless each church leader, and help leaders and congregations to develop a spirit of love and openness towards one another. Pray they will forge strong missionfocused relationships, emphasising the hope we have in common.

TUESDAY 26 AUGUST The Holy Spirit brings us together for mission, but maintains our distinctive qualities as congregations, so that we reflect God’s diversity. Pray that we will encourage and affirm unity, as well as embracing our diversity, and that we can celebrate our differences while also sharing our strengths.

WEDNESDAY 27 AUGUST Hope14 encourages us to put faith into words, inspired by 1 Peter 3:15.

As we reach out in mission together, putting faith into words and action, we trust that God will prompt people to ask ‘why’. Ask for God’s help as you consider how to explain why Jesus gives you hope.

Photo: Hope Together

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WORDS AND DEEDS: 24 – 30 AUGUST Local churches across the UK are working together in mission throughout this year as part of Hope14: the whole church, reaching the whole nation, for a whole year. The goal is to leave a rhythm of mission running through the church calendar and, at this point in the year, churches are inviting their communities to celebrate harvest and God’s provision.

THURSDAY 28 AUGUST Putting our faith into action is a distinctive part of Hope14. Give thanks for social action projects in your community. Pray for a spirit of collaboration and unity as agencies and organisations work together.

Lord, may our witness be prophetic, prompted and guided by your Spirit.

SATURDAY 30 AUGUST Loving Father, may the Christians where I live be rooted and established in love, and may we grasp how wide, how long, how high and how deep your love for us truly is (Ephesians 3:16–19). Fill us to overflowing, so your love spills out into our communities. Empower us to love those around us as you love them.

‘LORD, MAY OUR WITNESS BE PROPHETIC, PROMPTED AND GUIDED BY YOUR SPIRIT’ FRIDAY 29 AUGUST Hope14 invites us to bless our communities in Jesus’ name. Lord, help me to look for situations where I can do good for others, whether at home or at work. Help me not to tire of trying to be a good neighbour, especially when I face rejection.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO Tearfund has been part of the HOPE movement since the beginning. Hope14 brings local churches together as part of a national year of mission. Visit hopetogether.org.uk to find out more about Hope14 and to find resources for mission in your community at key points in the church calendar such as harvest, Remembrance Sunday and Christmas.

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

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STANDING FIRM IN CENTRAL AMERICA: 31 AUGUST – 6 SEPTEMBER In the Prayer Diary in October 2012, we introduced you to our inspirational team in Central America: Alexis (Country Representative), Norman (Project Officer) and Karla (Administrator). This week, they update us on the blessings and challenges of overseeing Tearfund’s work in Honduras, Guatemala and Nicaragua.

Karla, Alexis and Norman – Tearfund’s Central America team

SUNDAY 31 AUGUST The team is based in Tegucigalpa, Honduras – the country with the world’s highest murder rate.

‘Life here is a daily challenge, and violence, crime and drug trafficking are still rife,’ says Norman. ‘But I have hope. I know God is at work through individuals, organisations and the church. Keep us constantly in your prayers.’

MONDAY 1 SEPTEMBER When we last met Karla, she was juggling family, work and her part-time psychology degree. Join her in thanking God that she has successfully completed her studies.

‘This process was definitely not easy! But I was strengthened by the prayers of my family, friends, Tearfund and my community of faith,’ she says.

TUESDAY 2 SEPTEMBER Corruption is a long-standing problem in Honduras. In November 2013 a new president was elected, who will serve for four years. ‘Pray for the new authorities – that God will touch their hearts and strengthen them to do good for the nation, especially for those less fortunate,’ says Norman.

WEDNESDAY 3 SEPTEMBER Alexis turned 50 in December.

‘In Spanish, 50 is “cincuenta”, but as a pun we write “sin cuenta”, which means “unable to count the numbers”,’ he laughs. He dreams of seeing a transformed Honduras in his lifetime. ‘If we work with prayerful integrity and honesty, nothing is impossible,’ he says. Pray with Alexis for a total transformation of Honduran society.

FRIDAY 5 SEPTEMBER Sometimes, violence in Honduras comes too close for comfort.

Last year, Karla was robbed in a taxi on her way home from work.

Thankfully, she was unharmed physically, but the emotional strain was considerable. ‘Please pray for Karla and her family, for protection for our staff and partners and for the security situation in the country,’ says Alexis.

‘IF WE WORK WITH PRAYERFUL INTEGRITY AND HONESTY, NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE’ THURSDAY 4 SEPTEMBER Give thanks for Norman’s recent trip to Guatemala to collect stories of people assisted by Tearfund partner AMI San Lucas, which works in healthcare, disasters and children’s rights. ‘I sometimes think that’s what Tearfund is about: learning new things, meeting new people and being constantly challenged to find new ways of doing our work,’ he says.

SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER Norman is grateful for the generous provision of finances and prayer support for Tearfund’s projects in Central America, which range from providing clean water in remote communities to helping combat the spread of HIV. ‘Thank God for our supporters – their faithful giving is evidence of God’s universal love,’ he says.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA Alexis, Norman and Karla were deeply touched by the messages of support they received after their last Prayer Diary feature. You may like to email praying@tearfund.org with your prayers for them, or send a letter to Tearfund (see back page for contact details).

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PRAYER DIARY . 19

BRINGING HEALING IN EGYPT: 7 – 13 SEPTEMBER Famed for its ancient culture, Egypt today faces huge challenges, from poverty and inequality to political instability – so we pray for God’s transforming love to flow through the nation. Because of the sensitive nature of our work in Egypt, we have omitted some names and partner details.

SUNDAY 7 SEPTEMBER Last summer, the situation in Egypt became perilous when the then president, Mohamed Morsi, was overthrown after large-scale protests. As the nation faces ongoing political tensions, our country representative asks, ‘Pray that God will fill hearts and relationships with peace and love, in communities as well as among authorities and leaders throughout Egypt.’

MONDAY 8 SEPTEMBER Like a third of all women in Egypt, Nadia was illiterate and struggled to run her small grocery shop. A literacy class and supportive home visits from Tearfund’s partner changed her life remarkably. ‘My husband is so happy to see me read and write, and to see the change in the way I treat him and my children,’ she says. Praise God!

TUESDAY 9 SEPTEMBER Drug abuse is a major problem in Egypt. Ahmed, 56, had taken drugs since his school days. After attending a Tearfund-supported rehabilitation centre, he finally found freedom – and now works for the centre himself. Pray that many more people like Ahmed will have a new start.

WEDNESDAY 10 SEPTEMBER One of our partners in Egypt trains community leaders to tackle sexual abuse. Church leader Kamilah spent many months counselling Samia, a young woman in her congregation who had been abused.

Thank God that Samia has now recovered well and describes her outlook as ‘completely different’.

Pray for an end to sexual abuse and harassment.

THURSDAY 11 SEPTEMBER A Tearfund partner in Egypt is providing vocational training and support for 800 unemployed or vulnerable adults. Amir never expected his life to change when he enrolled on the computing course.

Thank God for his enthusiastic conclusion: ‘I felt real happiness and peace for the first time. I also acquired a new skill, which will help me find work.’

FRIDAY 12 SEPTEMBER Sudanese refugee Esther felt desperate and afraid when she first fled to Egypt. Thankfully, a Tearfund partner helped her find work, accommodation and security.

The same organisation is also providing vital healthcare for Syrian refugees in Egypt. Pray that this work will flourish.

SATURDAY 13 SEPTEMBER Eternal God, in your perfect realm no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, and no strength known but the strength of love.

We pray that the people of Egypt may find solace, peace and security in love which casts out fear, in respect which restores brokenness and in the tranquility which heals disorder. Amen.

‘EGYPT FACES CHALLENGES FROM POVERTY, INEQUALITY AND POLITICAL INSTABILITY’

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO Many of the problems we’ve prayed about this week – addiction, unemployment, sexual abuse and lack of education – are mirrored in our own society. Could you support groups working on these issues in your community, by volunteering or praying?

Photo: Mike Webb/Tearfund

Following Jesus where the need is greatest

20 . PRAYER DIARY

GOD’S FAMILY: 14 – 20 SEPTEMBER This week, we are encouraging families with children to pray together for people living in poverty. If you do not have children in your household, think of friends or relatives who do, and please share this page with them, or with Sunday school helpers at church. Please also join in yourself, connecting with families praying together this week.

SUNDAY 14 SEPTEMBER Church: Tearfund believes in working through the local church around the world to help people change their lives. As you think about church today, pray for the people who live in your community and remember all those other churches around the world shining God’s light.

WEDNESDAY 17 SEPTEMBER Shopping: When you are in the supermarket, try to count how many cereals you can choose from.

In many places around the world, children can’t choose what they will eat. As you walk around the shops, pray that the world will be a fairer place where everyone has enough.

MONDAY 15 SEPTEMBER Brushing our teeth: We brush our teeth every day (or should!) but, for many people across the world, water is a luxury. They have to walk many hours to collect enough for their family. As you brush your teeth today, pray for those who can’t just turn on the tap for fresh water.

THURSDAY 18 SEPTEMBER Dinner time: The food we eat comes from all over the world, so try making a list of the places your dinner has travelled from. Pray that the people who have grown and

TUESDAY 16 SEPTEMBER Going to school: We’re all fortunate to have free schooling so that we have better chances in life.

However, according to DFID, 57 million children around the world do not have that opportunity. As you go to school today or at school time, pray that all children will get the opportunities and education they need.

made your food will be paid a fair price and will enjoy the benefits of enough food themselves.

FRIDAY 19 SEPTEMBER Bedtime: At bedtime, we can feel safe at home. But many children across the world have had to leave their homes because they are no longer secure. As you get ready for bed, pray that children in Syria will have a place they can feel safe and cared for.

SATURDAY 20 SEPTEMBER Adventure: Sometimes seeing poverty up close helps us to change how we live. This summer, families travelled with Tearfund to visit our partners in Kenya, Malawi, South Africa and Tanzania, to make poverty personal. Pray that these families, who had life-changing experiences, continue to be inspired to follow Jesus where the need is greatest.

‘CHILDREN ARE A HERITAGE FROM THE LORD, OFFSPRING A REWARD FROM HIM’ PSALM 127:3 Children at Kawalo School, Uganda

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – CREATIVE PRAYER IDEA This week, we have thought about how blessed we are. Draw around your hands on a piece of paper. On each finger of your hand drawings, write one gift you could offer to God to bless others (such as a drawing, a letter, bake a cake, play with someone who is lonely.) Pray that God will help you to be generous with the gifts he has given you. Display your drawings at home to remind you of your prayers.

Photo: Andrew Philip

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FOLLOWING JUSTICE: 21 – 27 SEPTEMBER Deuteronomy 16:20 calls us to follow justice alone. Over the last year, Christians in the UK and around the world have followed justice through their prayers and campaigning and made a difference to the world’s poorest communities.

Tearfund is calling on the Australian PM to agree global transparency rules at the G20

Photo: Clive Mear/Tearfund

SUNDAY 21 SEPTEMBER God is just: Psalm 9:16 reveals that the Lord will be known through his acts of justice. As we look to the week ahead, let’s reflect on what it means to serve a just God. Pray that we will shine God’s light in a broken world through our own acts of justice.

MONDAY 22 SEPTEMBER There is enough food for everyone yet, around the world, one in eight people goes hungry. In 2013, churches up and down the UK took part in the IF campaign to start to end hunger. Please give thanks for the way the UK church united together against hunger and ask that we, as the body of Christ, will continue to be inspired to speak out.

TUESDAY 23 SEPTEMBER Last September, the G8 met in Enniskillen and, led by our Prime Minister David Cameron, made crucial commitments to tackle hunger. Give thanks for these decisions and pray that they will make a difference to communities where hunger is a daily reality WEDNESDAY 24 SEPTEMBER In 2011, US$1 trillion was lost from developing countries due to illicit financial activity – including secretive and corrupt deals that deprive the poorest communities of the money they need to tackle poverty. Please pray for the work of Tearfund and Christians around the world to prevent corruption which locks people in poverty.

THURSDAY 25 SEPTEMBER Tearfund’s Unearth the Truth campaign launched in 2011 to fight corruption in the oil, gas and mining industries. Our prayers and actions meant the campaign was successful. A year ago today, Europe introduced new transparency laws to clamp down on corruption in the extractive industries sector. On the anniversary of these historic laws, please give thanks, and pray that they will be implemented to benefit the world’s poorest people.

FRIDAY 26 SEPTEMBER Next week, representatives from all G20 countries will meet to discuss the agenda for November’s summit. Pray that the voices of poor communities will be listened to at these meetings, and that G20 leaders will commit to ending corruption.

SATURDAY 27 SEPTEMBER Lord, as we look ahead to the G20 summit in Australia, we ask you to bless the Secret’s Out campaign (see Weekend box below) and ask that more countries will join the struggle against corruption. We praise you for the 20,000 Tearfund supporters who have already taken action, and pray that world leaders will listen to our cry. Amen.

WELCOME TO THE WEEKEND – WHAT YOU CAN DO As world leaders plan the agenda for the next G20 summit, please write to the Australian High Commissioner here in the UK and ask Australia to use its G20 presidency to do all it can to fight corruption.

Visit tearfund.org/secretsout for more details.

Following Jesus under where athemosquito need is net greatest Girl playing in Laos

22 . PRAYER DIARY

SMALL GROUP PRAYER REFLECTION SLAYING GIANTS Photo: Ralph Hodgson/Tearfund

READ

1 SAMUEL 17:45–50 ‘David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands… and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.”

As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him.

Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground… So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.’

REFLECT Human trafficking is currently the fastest-growing crime in the world, and is second only to the drugs trade for illegal profitability.

The practice of selling vulnerable people – men, women and children – into slavery, whatever that might look like, is an abomination of Goliath proportions. How do we begin to have victory over something so monstrous and powerful?

We might look at the weaponry we have as we face the darkness of this world and wonder how we can ever make a difference. But, as the story of David and Goliath tells us, personal force is no guarantee of

‘HUMAN TRAFFICKING IS THE FASTEST-GROWING CRIME IN THE WORLD’

Tearfund partners World Concern are on the battle line as they strive to build awareness and opportunities for poor communities in Laos, helping them stand a chance in the face of a rapidly encroaching sex trade. The work is slow – challenging cultural expectations and ingrained patterns of behaviour with sensitivity and love – but it’s steady. The small team are fuelled by a passion to serve God and a total commitment to the people they’re helping. Here, the horror of trafficking is gradually being defeated with livelihood training and starter kits, drama workshops and relationship building, not to mention time, prayer, love and hope.

victory. David knew what he was up against, but he also knew he had a power beyond all earthly effort on his side: ‘You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel… the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.’

This is the secret weapon of Tearfund’s partners everywhere as they stare down the misery of trafficking: God with us. The battle is the Lord’s. We will have victory.

PRAY Consider the things that seem like strongholds in the world, and in your own life. God’s light can overcome any darkness. Pray against these strongholds, and hand them over to God, and reflect on how he multiplies even our smallest efforts to heal, transform and redeem.

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PRAYER RESOURCES Here are more resources and opportunities to pray with Tearfund for people in poverty.

POST YOUR PRAYERS ONLINE Tearfund has an online prayer space where you can add your prayer, and join and respond with others around the world. Plus, you can now add a One Voice prayer space widget to your church’s website. Visit onevoice. tearfund.org for details.

ORDER EXTRA COPIES OR AUDIO AND BRAILLE VERSIONS OF TEAR TIMES AND THE PRAYER DIARY

JOIN A LOCAL PRAYER GROUP If you would like to meet with others to pray for issues that affect poor communities around the world, then join a local prayer group. Call 0845 355 8355 or email enquiries@tearfund.org and find out if there’s a group near you – or consider starting one.

Audio and Braille versions of Tear Times and the Prayer Diary are available, free of charge, upon request.

You can also order more copies of the Prayer Diary for your church or group..

Please call Tearfund on 0845 355 8355.

twitter FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

To receive regular prayer updates to your smartphone, tablet or computer, you can follow Tearfund on Twitter (you will need to have or set up a Twitter account) at twitter.com/tearfund KEEP IN TOUCH Please let us know if you’ve used the ‘Welcome to the weekend’ ideas as an individual, as a church or in your small group. Please also let us know how you personally use the Prayer Diary to pray for people in poverty: contact us at praying@tearfund.org

Photo: Peter Caton/Tearfund

‘PRAYER IS NOT ABOUT A LIST; PRAYER IS ABOUT A LIFESTYLE.’ DILLON BURROUGHS, AMERICAN WRITER AND FOUNDING PARTNER OF ACTIVIST FAITH

Oh, lord, our God, we come to you in faith, lifting our prayers to intercede for Syria and its suffering people. Send your peace, comfort and healing to the suffering and wounded, and give security and shelter to the needy.

Amen.

Photo: Hannah Maule-ffinch/Tearfund

100 Church Road, Teddington, TW11 8QE T天 Catherine, Capel Cildwrn, Llangefni LL77 7NN Challenge House, 29 Canal Street, Glasgow G4 0AD 241 Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 1AF

A PRAYER FOR SYRIA, BY A SYRIAN PASTOR NOW LIVING IN JORDAN

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