With the tensions in Iran dragging on, we asked Naghmeh Panahi how the Christians are coping and if there are specific things we can pray for.
She described how these months have been an emotional rollercoaster for the believers. In the beginning there was fear as well as excitement. Fear because bombs were falling on their cities, but also excitement and hope that this war would force the current regime to hand over power to other Iranian leaders, who would grant them more freedom to worship and live as Christians openly.
As the war lengthened form days to weeks, that hope faded away, and desperation set in. People couldn’t go to work. They couldn’t make money. Food prices skyrocketed and inflation was brutal. Families were pushed to the verge of starvation and contemplated suicide because there was just no way to keep going. Christians too, saw their savings evaporate and began to lose hope.
As was expected, Christians have also been faced with increased persecution because they are seen as collaborators of Israel and America. This adds to their vulnerability, as the government blames them and wants revenge.
The help that was sent through the Iran fundraiser really helped to raise spirits with the house churches we are connected with. It meant they knew they were not forgotten, not by God or by their brothers and sisters around the world. It provided them with basics such as groceries, but also paid medical bills because some believers had contracted typhoid after water sources were contaminated by the bombings. Often, God provided miraculously and just at the right time, encouraging the hearts of believers.
Now they are moving into a different mindset. On the one hand they realise they should not put their hope in politics, because the picture changes almost daily and news is so contradictory, it can drive you crazy. One day you think everything is going to get better, a few hours later everything is worse than before. They have learnt that they should not focus on whatever negotiation is taking place or rumours that are either too positive or totally desperate. They should focus on Jesus Christ and expect delivery from Him alone.
On the other hand, they are starting to look outward more, aware that this is an extremely hard time for all Iranians, and that God is calling his church to bring hope where there is none. They ask themselves, “What is our role in such a time as this?” As the Iranian church is rising to the challenge to not just survive this war but help their neighbours find new hope and make Jesus know, let’s stand besides them. They have formidable challenges ahead of them. They will need our prayer and encouragement.
Hi Jane,
Thank ya, Bless ya, feel ya. Just found ya and this missionary site. I’m a missionary by call, writer and living in Walton Kentucky in senior housing and just and still delighted with Him; not so much His creation however. Let’s stay in touch.