Uzbekistan

The gateway from Asia to Europe, Uzbekistan is Central Asia’s most populous country. A lucrative drug trade flows through this impoverished country. Although Uzbekistan is a secular state promoting Islam, the government opposes Islamization. With an “iron fist,” Uzbek leaders push back against radical factions. They desire a tightly controlled Islam. With that same “iron fist,” Uzbek authorities target Christian Believers. Using intimidation, spies, abuse, and imprisonment, Uzbek authorities seek to snuff out unregistered religious groups. Registering a church proves nearly impossible.

PRAISE REPORT
Christian Believers face persecution from Muslims, the government, and family. However, despite these obstacles, many are coming to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Praise God for the continued growth of the Uzbek Church (The Bible, Acts 2:42)!

PRAYER REQUESTS
According to Open Doors, the government claims Protestant Believers are “extremists” that must be “controlled, and even eliminated.” Pray for government leaders to believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord. Ask God to defend Uzbek Believers from government attempts to “eliminate” them (The Bible, Psalm 121:7).
The U.S. Labor Department lists Uzbekistan as one of the nations using the “Worst Forms of Child Labor.” The government forces young children to harvest cotton without access to pure water, food, or sanitation. Pray for Uzbek authorities to stop child labor practices and care for the nation’s children (The Bible, Psalm 127:3).
Global leaders accuse the Uzbekistan government of human rights violations, including lack of freedom of expression, freedom of the press, torture, and murder. Pray for President Karimov to rule the country with compassion, integrity, and justice (The Bible, Zechariah 7:9).

Source: WinNetwork