Senegal 2023

Peace is a very high cultural value in Senegal. Most greetings have to do with peace: I hope you are in peace. Did you spend the night in peace? I hope you spent the day in peace. Are the children in peace?

There is much to be thankful for with this culture of peace, but it is sometimes more superficial than deep and abiding. It is often hard to get to the truth of a matter when it is disrespectful, in their culture, to disagree with someone or tell someone “no.” In the words of a Wolof proverb “A lie that heals is better than a truth that injures.”

The challenge is they don’t look for the truth, because they don’t want to upset this fragile peace. Sharing the truth about Jesus and his way usually brings conflict with the ways of Islam, but it must be done. The healing truth of the gospel must be known even though it will often bring pain and conflict into relationships here on earth. May Yahweh give his people in Senegal courage and wisdom to share biblical truth, but to do so with love, gentleness, and compassion.

PRAISE

“May his name endure forever, his fame continue as long as the sun!
May people be blessed in him, all nations call him blessed!” (Psalm 72:17)

KINGDOM COME

“From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force.” (Matthew 11:12)

Today as another day of daytime fasting and nighttime feasting passes, we take comfort in knowing nothing can hinder your Kingdom from advancing among the nations. In the end, your Kingdom will come and your will will be done. We pray for many in Senegal to actively participate in bringing your Kingdom among the nations.

PRAY THE BOOK OF ACTS

“And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord.” (Acts 11:21)

Even in the midst of persecution, you empowered your disciples to lead many to faith in you. Please do it again, Lord, in Senegal. Father, give courage to those who want to follow Jesus but are afraid because of significant social and financial pressure from friends and family. Help them to see Jesus as the “pearl of great price” that is worth all it will cost to obtain.

PRAY THE HALL OF FAITH

“These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland.” (Hebrews 11:14)

May Senegalese believers’ honorable and pure conduct make it clear to those watching them that they are strangers and exiles on the earth for Your glory. Help us all to remember that this earth is not our home. We are only passing through, and will someday stand before you and give account for our lives. May we live each day in the light of eternity. May we daily remember we are part of a spiritual battle for the eternal souls of men and women.

PRAYER

Jesus, stir in the hearts of Senegalese people the desire for true and abiding peace that only comes from knowing you. Give them courage to look for the truth of who you are and what you have done for them. Amen.

To learn more about disciple making movements, go to https://zume.training/prepare-your-3-minute-testimony/