As war continues, Christians inside and outside the the country share how we can pray for Iran.
“This pain is like childbirth, it comes with distress, but we pray for it to bring life and freedom soon,” shares Sahar* a Christian woman from southern Iran. “Please keep praying, people here need hope. They need to know that there is a Savior.”
Sahar’s hope and prayer describe the general situation in Iran as the country ends a violent week of military strikes and ongoing devastation.
Currently, the country is facing a near-total internet blackout. This tactic has been used by authorities previously to suppress information. Millions are struggling to communicate with loved ones abroad.
Open Doors partners outside Iran were able to hear from some Iranian brothers and sisters before the blackout. They shared their prayers and reflections for their nation.
Ongoing Prayers
Iranian Christians have been praying and fasting long before the war escalated, grieving the recent oppression from government and its crackdowns on civilian protestors that left thousands dead.
“In these days, Psalm 94 has been my comforting passage. It acknowledges despair and injustice, yet declares that God sees, judges and acts.”
And now, those prayers have continued, and taken on an even greater urgency as they grapple with uncertain futures.
“The atmosphere here is very heavy, and the security is too tight,” Sahar says. “I’m stressed from taking my mobile phone with me when I exit my house because of arrests. But I know that God is at work.”
Ahmad*, a Christian man from a port city echoes this hope. “He strengthens us,” Ahmad says. “In these days, Psalm 94 has been my comforting passage. It acknowledges despair and injustice, yet declares that God sees, judges and acts.”
Where do Christians experience the
most persecution?
These testimonies remind us that despite fear and uncertainty, the church in Iran remains united in prayer, expecting God’s mighty work for a future where Iranian believers can finally practice their faith freely. “We trust that the birth of a new future for Iran is coming, in His perfect timing and will,” shares Behzad*, another Christian man.
Living out faith in secret
Of course, the pain and fear of this moment is not just carried by those inside Iran. Iranians around the world—especially believers who fled because of their faith—are also deeply affected by the news, the uncertainty and the hope for change.
Mary* is a Christian woman who fled Iran and now lives as a refugee. “My brother lived with me in a neighbouring country where he accepted Jesus as his Savior,” she says. “He later returned to Iran and is now working in the Navy. He is currently on the front line. Please pray for his wisdom, protection and safety during this time.”
Christian converts inside Iran, especially those serving in military environments, cannot openly speak about their faith. “Please pray for his protection, for his faith to be strong and to fix his eyes on Jesus in this time of conflict and fear,” Mary asks.
Seven ways to pray
Will you commit to praying for your Iranian brothers and sisters in the midst of war? Here are seven important ways you can pray for Iran.
1. Pray for the children of Iran. God’s Word tells us that “children are a heritage from the Lord; a precious inheritance placed in our care.” Pray for protection from violence, from fear and from being used in any way that puts them in harm’s path.
2. Pray for comfort for families and parents. May the peace of Christ calm their fears.
3. Pray for protection over Christians in detention, especially in places like Evin Prison and other facilities where conditions are worsening. Ask God to protect them physically, emotionally and spiritually. Pray that they would not be used as human shields or as bargaining tools but be protected from any harm. Pray that prisons would not be targeted by attacks so that those trapped inside would not be hurt.
4. Pray that the prisoners would experience Christ’s presence with them in every moment. May they be strengthened knowing that they are not alone. Ask the Lord to strengthen their families as well, and to provide wise legal support. Pray that they have favour in the eyes of guards and officials.
5. Pray for wisdom and courage for believers facing fear, displacement and uncertainty in their daily lives.
6. Pray for healing for the nation, for an end to violence and for lasting peace.
7. Pray that the light of Christ would shine through the darkness, bringing hope and transformation to Iranian communities.
*all names changed for security reasons
