Muslims (and all people, really) care deeply about their outward appearance or reputation in the community. But Jesus cares about the person’s heart. Religion can change outward behavior but can’t change inward attitudes — only the Spirit of God can do that. Pray for the people of Bosnia to be convicted about their need for a clean heart and to seek out Jesus’ teachings on the topic.
“Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other” (Rom 12:9-10).
Pray for hatred of wrong in communities throughout Bosnia…not hatred of people, but hatred of evil. Pray that communities would cling to and love what is good. Ask that God’s spirit would help people honor one another and delight in one another.
Sometimes, as Christians, we are frozen by fear. Fear of persecution. Fear of rejection. Fear of losing something dear to us. Pray that God will give boldness and joy to Christians in Bosnia as they ponder what God has done in their own lives.
This month, we want to encourage you to pray in new or unique ways as we lift the Bosniak people. Each day, we will be highlighting a way you can engage one of the “5 senses” to specifically pray for Bosnia.
TASTE
Čorba, or thick soup/stew, is a popular traditional dish throughout the Balkans and has several varieties, although Begova Čorba (creamy okra chicken stew) is perhaps the most popular. During Ramadan, many Bosniaks will enjoy it as part of their iftar meal, or during suhoor, the pre-dawn meal before the day’s fast begins. If you are able, enjoy a soup or stew today, or even try making Begova Čorba for yourself. Pray for Bosnians whose traditions are important to them and tied to their religion/culture. As they seek Christ, help them to find new traditions or to enjoy old ones in new ways. Would God provide for their emotional needs!
Lord of community, we pray you would unmake the toxic ways of relating to one another in Bosnia. So many negative patterns have been established! So many sins have been entrenched! The enemy has had his way for far too long. Do something miraculous, Lord.
We pray specifically for emerging churches, discovery groups, and new disciples. We ask you would teach them the Way of Christ – the alternative way that enables communities to flourish. Rescue them from toxic relating, and release a spirit of humility and reconciliation over all brothers and sisters in the Messiah.