Pray for: Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is the strategic key for all of Central Asia, and tensions remain high between the post-Soviet regime and the Islamist movements (most radical in the Fergana Valley). Much of the population is tired of poverty, corruption, and failure to make economic progress, and Islamists attract jobless young men. Economic prospects have improved recently, as both tourism and employment opportunities for women have improved. Pray for positive change that lasts, and leadership that governs for the sake of the people. Pray for the true peace only Jesus can give.

Uzbek believers continue to increase despite great opposition. The prospect of retribution from three sides – the government, local Muslim leaders and the community (family and neighbours) – has not halted growth. There are now probably more than 10,000 Uzbek believers, where there were possibly none only a generation ago. But much prayer is still needed:

• For the discipling and mentoring of new believers. No one knows how many isolated individuals and clusters exist, but there are far more than those affiliated with officially recognized churches. Many fall away when difficulties intensify; pray that Christians might be integrated quickly into home groups or fellowships where they can grow. Many others find their witness curtailed by fear; pray for boldness for them.
• For local believers who are accused of being cultural/religious traitors and “rice Christians”. Pray for gentleness and humility as well as right motives for all those who seek to integrate into the churches.
• For the distribution of believers. Most Uzbek Christians live in Tashkent and other cities, despite half of Uzbeks living in rural areas.
• For indigenous leadership to be raised up. Bible training for this infant Church is urgently needed, as is spiritual maturity and godliness. Fast-growing churches need quality leaders even more urgently.
• For cultural authenticity. Ask the Lord to raise up culturally appropriate Uzbek Christian literature, music, worship styles and fellowship structures. There are Uzbek ministry-training courses, led and taught completely by Uzbeks. These things are beginning to emerge, with significant fruit as a result.