Pray for MENACA: An Intercession Guide for Unreached NationsNäide

Israel (Middle East)

O Zion, herald of good news,
Get up on a high mountain.
O Jerusalem, herald of good news,
Lift up your voice with strength,
Lift it up, do not fear;
Say to the cities of Judah, “Here is your God!”
Isaiah 40:9 AMP

The historically and Biblically pivotal nation of Israel holds a special place in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Currently, Christians in Israel represent only 2% of the people in this nation of 9,000,000.

The majority of Christians in Israel identify ethnically as Arab. They tend to have limited social and family connections with both Jews and other Arabs from different religious backgrounds, preferring to associate primarily with other believers. They live predominantly in Nazareth, Haifa, Jerusalem, and Shefar’am.

Evangelism in Israel is contentious, with Jewish authorities frowning upon it. While some caution against it, others believe it’s crucial to share the Gospel with Jewish people. Unlike much of the Middle East, citizens of Israel are legally able to accept Christ; however, they are still looked down upon societally.

As believers, we acknowledge Israel’s chosen place in God’s plan, recognizing that Jews, Christians, and unreached peoples need our prayers and blessings. Let us not forget Romans 11:26 as we pray in agreement with Paul’s prophecy that all Israel will be saved.

Prayer Points to Consider:

• Pray for the peace of Jerusalem—May they be secure who love you! (Psalm 122:6)
• Pray for the protection of believers and workers who spread the Gospel. May they be encouraged, strengthened, and not grow weary, seeing the fruit of their labor with miracles abounding.
• Ask for those following Judaism to recognize that God has opened His arms to them through Christ.
• Pray for those following Islam and for all ethnic groups in Israel to perceive and receive the same invitation of Lord Jesus’ embrace, canceling demonic influence in Jesus' Almighty name that keeps their eyes blinded to the truth of the Gospel.
• Pray against violence and turmoil in the region and for families who are displaced, which includes unreached peoples, Christians, and Jews.
• Pray for a resolution and stability for both sides of the current—though ages-long—national situation.

Dear Heavenly Father...I bring before You the deep love of Your heart, purposes, and intentions for the world—the nation of Israel. I ask for the Holy Spirit’s Pentecost to be poured throughout Your church there, overflowing to reach every man, woman, and child for Your Kingdom. May they drink in the power and life-breath of Your Word and be saturated in its strength, direction, and wisdom. In these tumultuous times, I speak Your peace over the nation and for its leaders to be directed by You. I ask for a stirring of hearts to long for Jesus the Messiah, and that every lying veil be lifted according to 2 Corinthians 3:14. In Jesus' Name, The Anointed One, I pray. Amen!