If you’re a Christian, you probably haven’t given much thought to Ramadan—one of the five pillars of Islam that began Monday, June 6. Muslims around the world will fast from the time the sun rises until sundown for 30 consecutive days. They will break their fast each evening with a large meal and then begin again the next day. Ramadan is a time of Muslims working to show their devotion to God and earn His favor. But, should Ramadan matter to you?
I believe it should. In the past few days, I’ve heard from several Christian workers who live in Muslim countries. They have reminded me of several reasons why Ramadan should be important to Christ followers. Here’s just a few:
- Spiritual sensitivity is high during this time, and Muslims often think more about eternity and spiritual topics. It is a wonderful time for Christian to engage in spiritual conversations with Muslims. It is also a time of spiritual darkness.
- During this time, Christians can unite and pray fervently for the salvation of millions of Muslims. Prayer is the most powerful weapon believers can practice. God hears the prayers of His people. Please pray for Christian workers in Muslim countries as they have opportunities to share the Gospel.
- Do you know someone who is Muslim? If not, this is a perfect opportunity to ask the Lord to bring someone in your life who practices Islam. Evangelism begins when you engage with others and develop a relationship. Pray for an opportunity to share the Gospel with a new Muslim friend.
How has God already answered these prayers? According to Denison Forum, more Muslims are coming to Christ than ever before, many after seeing visions and dreams of Jesus. More than 6 million Muslims in Africa convert to Christianity every year. More Muslims around the world have become Christians in the last 15 years than in the previous 15 centuries.
One of the things I often do during this season is pray when I wake up each morning. I pray for Muslims to have visions and dreams. Why the morning? Our morning is generally evening for Muslim countries and when you pray in the morning, they are preparing for sleep. In many areas, there is no Christian witness, and God still uses visions and dreams to capture the attention of those who are in bondage to Islam.
Yes, Ramadan should be important to you. Will you pray and intercede during this time?