Christians throughout the world have been praying for the release of prisoners in Iran for years. This fall, Christians gathered to pray for Pastor Saeed, the other prisoners in Iran, and the persecuted church in other countries. On September 26, we joined a symphony of prayer around the world on behalf of these prisoners.

God hears our prayers, and God answers our prayers in His timing and in His wisdom.

“Perhaps the exact petition which they offer may not apparently be answered. Remember that God often hears the prayer of our prayers, and answers that rather than our prayers themselves; by which I mean, that there is an inner soul within true prayer which is the quickening life of true supplication.” (Spurgeon)

While the men were prisoners, God was at work in their lives and in the lives of those around them. Prisoners and guards learned of the freedom that Jesus holds out to them, a freedom beyond walls and bars, beyond beatings and persecution. Some became Christians. Prisoners for years, but freedom for eternity.

The Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. Romans 8:26

While we were praying for release, the Holy Spirit perfected our prayers as they approached the Father. Thank You, Holy Spirit, for Your intercession.

Our prayers now turn to restoration and healing.

they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

My prayer

Father, thank You for bringing the four prisoners home and ending their persecution. Father, they are wounded physically and mentally. As they waited upon You in prison, they wait upon You now. We pray for Your healing touch upon the former prisoners, upon their families, and upon their churches. Renew their strength. Bless them, Father, for the greater works that You will accomplish through them. Father, we also pray for those Christians who are still being persecuted. Empower them with Your presence and help them to feel You as You carry them. Thank You, Father, for Your love and saving grace.