News / Thoughts

Iran: Courage and hope in prison

Rachel*, an Iranian church leader, was frightened and alone. In prison, she had been placed in solitary confinement. In her sleep a Bible verse came to her: “He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognise Him” (John 1:10). The dream gave her courage and hope. “When I had the dream and started to pray again, I felt that God went with me everywhere,” she said.

Another prisoner urged her to give up her faith: “Why are you making it so hard for yourself?” Rachel answered, “Jesus is real and He changed my heart. He is worth it to give everything in my life.’”

Rachel has since been released. She and her family escaped Iran and are receiving trauma care and legal advice, thanks to Open Doors supporters.

Pray this…

Dear God, we pray for all our brothers and sisters who have been imprisoned for their faith. We ask that You speak words of comfort to them and their families and, like Paul, they would have the opportunity to share the good news of Jesus despite their circumstances. Please ‘lead out the prisoners with singing’, as You promised in Psalm 68.

See the places where following Jesus costs the most…

The Open Doors 2020 World Watch List has just been launched. Have a look at our interactive map to see the places where Christians face the worst persecution.
Explore the 2020 World Watch List now…

*Name changed for security purposes.