Across the Middle East, millions of people have been forced to abandon their homes and flee for safety. Most of them are frightened, grieved and in desperate need of help.

Many of the places mentioned in the Bible are held in the grip of conflict today, and many others are hosting refugees fled from their neighbouring countries.

Please use this resource to reflect on God’s heart for the struggling people in the Middle East and to uphold them in prayer.

Lebanon – Praying for Provision

Bible link: Tyre and Sidon

Lebanon forms the backdrop for many Bible stories, and the ‘cedars of Lebanon’ are a common biblical symbol of strength and beauty. The gospels speak of Jesus ministering in the Lebanese cities of Tyre and Sidon.

In the present day, Lebanon is home to more than a million refugees who have fled the conflict in neighbouring Syria.

Read: Luke 6:17-23

Reflect: ‘ “Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.” ’ (Luke 6:21)

Pray:

Loving Lord Jesus, thank you that you are mindful of our physical as well as our emotional and spiritual needs, and that you reached out to heal all who came to you in Tyre and Sidon.

We lift up those in urgent need of food, water, shelter, sanitation and medical care in the Middle East, praying that aid will reach all who require it.

Please bless and protect the people who are being your hands and feet in the region by coming alongside those who are vulnerable and hurting. Amen.

[Source: Tearfund UK]