As we look upon the effects of sin and brokenness in the world, we know that the Lord will ultimately bring everything to redemption! We have the opportunity to share this hope with our Muslim friends by sharing God’s love with them. While you read through these current events, ask yourself how Jesus’ light can shine through you in this dark world and how you can share God’s sovereignty with your Muslim friend.

Sudanese Civil War

In Sudan’s capital city Khartoum, there are military vehicles driving through the streets. The fighting between Sudan’s official military and a group called the Rapid Support Forces, or RSF, has continued since the “official” end to Sudan’s civil war in 2018. Certain groups in Sudan, including the RSF and another group called National Salvation Front, are not happy with the government system that was set up in 2018. Originally, this new government was supposed to hold elections in 2022, but they had to delay till this year because of the violence within its borders.

Because of the intense violence within the country, over 500 have been killed since April 15, and there is a large movement of people fleeing Sudan, whether by driving or by flying out in helicopters. Let’s pray for peace in this war-torn country and for the Sudanese people to turn to the true God instead of Allah during this difficult time.

(Source: World Watch News and AP News)

How should Christians respond:

As Christians, we should have compassion towards the Sudanese people who are currently suffering. It is easy to let this conflict slip out of our mind even though it has displaced countless families and communities. If your Muslim friend is from the Middle East or Northern Africa, ask them if they know anyone in Sudan that you can specifically pray for.

If your non-Christian friend uses this war, or any other war in the world, as a way to question the goodness of God, we understand that this conversation can be hard. It is best to point to what the Bible says about the brokenness of this world and how God’s ultimate plan is to restore and redeem.

Poisoning of Iranian girls

In Iran, it seems there is a new weapon being used in the war against women’s freedom. Already, 500 people have been killed as they protested against the hijab rules, morality police, and brutal treatment of a woman who was arrested and died in police custody after not wearing a hijab (source). In recent months, a sickness has spread through the schools in the country– the schools for girls. It appears that someone is poisoning the water supplies, and many fingers are pointing to the government, although nothing has been proven. Iran’s supreme leader has stated that they will bring justice to whomever is committing this crime.

How should Christians respond:

God makes it very clear that He takes the safety of His daughters seriously and that He created them equal to men. Christians should be on the frontlines of this human rights crisis, speaking the truth about God’s plan for women and how they are meant to be loved and cherished.

If you get the opportunity to talk to your Muslim friend about the protests in Iran, ask them for their opinion on the matter. Be honest with them about how it makes you feel, and discuss what God teaches in the Bible about women and how Christ treated women.

If your Muslim friend is from Sudan, Iran, or any other country that is going through turmoil, check on them. Ask if they have family there. Be mindful to check in with them often and offer to pray with them. This is one of the best ways you can love your Muslim friend!