INTERCESSORS  FOR  CYPRUS

INTERCESSORS FOR CYPRUS  ΕΝΤΕΥΚΤΕΣ ΓΙΑ ΤΗΝ ΚΥΠΡΟ

Praying for the nation of Cyprus                                           Προσευχόμενοι για τον Λαό της Κύπρου

(An interpretation of)     Isaiah 62v6-7a: ‘I have set intercessors on your walls who shall cry out to God for the fulfilment of his promises.’

Dear church & ministry leaders, prayer group leaders & intercessors, greetings.

In this time of national crisis, we are called to obey the government (Romans 10v1) and it’s guidelines to contain this virus, and to pray for the government and health services to be led of God in wisdom and appropriate action (1 Timothy 2v1-4).

The USA has also declared a State of Emergency, and called for a US National Day of Prayer on Sunday 15th March. What a great example for other governments and institutions like the Church to follow!

God gives His recipe for the healing of a nation in 2 Chronicles 7v14. He is looking to His Church to take the lead. Maybe next Sunday (22nd March), whether you are able to meet as a church, in small groups, or as a family, or individually, you could set aside time to pray to God for His mercy on Cyprus, and that this pestilence would ‘pass over’ your life and that of others* (see below), and that fear and panic buying would be subdued. Psalm 34 is worth reading in this context, and also claiming the promises of Psalm 91….powerful. It would also be good to pray for Israeli and other scientists to come up with the antidote and for vaccines to be generated quickly and in large quantities. Remember, some families are bereaved because of this unusual virus…pray for them. Passengers are stranded in some countries….pray for them. There are no doubt other issues you would wish to pray for.        

*The season of Passover is approaching. For the Hebrews in Egypt, it meant putting their trust in the God of Israel and following His lead in faith. This included putting the blood of the lamb on their doorposts and lintels of their homes (Exodus 12) that the plague would pass over them and not harm them.

For Christians, we apply the blood of Christ to our lives, in faith that God would protect us. He is the Lamb of God (John 1v29; Mark 14v12, 1 Peter 1v19). Hebrews 9 reminds us of His high priestly role and Hebrews 10 of the danger to believers of shrinking back in fear instead of moving in faith (Hebrews 11). Our faith pleases God. Let’s trust Him over this virus!

Please feel free to pass on this email as appropriate. (Also attachment to download above).

The IFC Team

Dear church & ministry leaders, prayer group leaders & intercessors, greetings.

Following our last communication – over the state of emergency in Cyprus – we have received a number of emails which are encouraging, and together with our own thoughts and sense of leading from the Lord, we believe are worth sharing with the wider church in Cyprus.

1) PRAYER…ideally next Sunday (22nd) whatever your location:

A church pastor in Larnaca took a 24 hour period this week to lead his congregation in prayer, 30 minutes of every hour, for the situation in Cyprus regarding Coronavirus. This may help for next Sunday or whenever you decide to pray on this matter.

Government: Prayer for our president and government (1 Timothy 2:1-6). (Also remember our municipalities, and authorities in N Cyprus.) 

Pray for God’s wisdom in each country for government measures to contain and cure this Covid 19.

Pray for the cooperation and discipline of all to the measures and restrictions, like self-quarantine, lockdown etc.

Health Services: Pray for all doctors and nurses and other staff supernatural strength and protection. Pray also for their families against worry as they are in the frontline caring for patients. Pray for the researchers for wisdom to discover anti vaccines.

Protection: Pray for protection for our families, church family and employers. Let us declare Psalm 91 and God’s promises in the Scriptures. Pray and declare that God will protect us all with the Power of His Name! Jesus, protect us by the power of the blood of the Lamb, surround us with God’s mighty warring and ministering Angels and time be filled with the Holy Spirit - spirit of wisdom and revelation, spirit of counsel and might, spirit of understanding and of the fear of the Lord.

Pray in the Spirit: For the Spirit intercedes in accordance with the will of God

Declarations:  Let us declare FAITH over fear; PEACE over worry / panic; LIFE over death. Let us declare God’s GRACE, God’s GOODNESS and God’s GLORY to be REVEALED! In us and through us!   (Amen!  Please include your own concerns for prayer over Covid 19 as well)

2) ACTION…manifesting Christ to the wider community:

Remember the shopkeepers, small and larger businesses, churches, and others with rents to pay, and landlords. Pray for wise government intervention.

(The European Investment Bank has announced it will rapidly mobilise up to €40 billion in funding for Cypriot and European businesses). Pray for continued support for laid-off workers, parents with children at home, and care of the vulnerable by church, community, local and national government.

     In this time of social stress, the call to be ‘the light of the world’, and that ‘a city on a hill cannot be hidden’ (Matthew 5v14), is very appropriate. Our testimony of peace and faith rather than fear speaks volumes to the world. As does our offer of prayer and healing to the world, in His love and power.

     The gospel explains the spiritual root of this calamity…SIN. Isaiah 24v18b-20 makes it clear that it is the weight of sin and rebellion that causes the foundations of the earth to be shaken. Hebrews 12v26-27 reveals that it is God who shakes all things in order that people might become aware of Him, of sin, of salvation. Luke 21.26: Men will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world…’ In this time of shaking and fear through coronavirus, the opportunity to speak to people about Christ and about salvation is ripe.

3) ADJUSTMENT…developing practical small groups for such a time as this: 

In our weekly home prayer groups (three a week in Cyprus), and for many years before in the UK, we have used the biblical model of ACTS 2v42 on which to base our small groups. This model may help you.  

Acts 2:42 (NKJV) ‘And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.’

Acts 2:42 (NIV) ‘They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.’

We seek to ‘enter His gates with thanksgiving, His courts with praise’ in our small group gatherings, using anyone with singing and musician skills. Worship prepares the way for the Lord. We always include the elements of prayer, fellowship (including testimonies, and food where appropriate), communion (separate containers at present), and Bible reading and study,* often the Lord speaks to us through this and guides our prayers accordingly.

*Some pastors/leaders already feed their midweek or Sunday events during this crisis with their own input and study guides or online studies, using technology available. Discipleship will follow as leaders lay down good guidelines in the small groups.    

A brother in the Paphos area suggests that God is re-modelling His Church during this time in order to face more testing times in the future, maybe of national crisis or persecution. Now is the time to raise up and appoint leaders for small groups, and ministry teams of 2-3 to serve neighbourhoods, including the elderly, terminally ill, etc. Distribution of foodstuffs could be important, in partnership with civil authorities. Also voice conferencing, pictures, pastoral input via internet for those in isolation….all have relevance for now and the future. Can we adapt?

The reality is that right now in this crisis we have to develop the small group strategy and other models, be it through couples, families, home groups, or whatever. Cannot the potter change the shape and function of the clay? (Jeremiah 18v6)

4) SOME GOOD NEWS…around the world:

– China has closed down its last coronavirus hospital. Not enough new cases to support them. Apple has reopened all 42 china stores. A 103-year-old Chinese grandmother has made a full recovery from COVID-19 after being treated for 6 days in Wuhan, China. Good news from South Korea, where the number of new cases is declining.

– Scientists in Israel are working on the development of a coronavirus vaccine. A network of Canadian scientists are making progress in Covid-19 research. A clinical trial to evaluate a vaccine designed to protect against the coronavirus is taking place in USA. Researchers of the Erasmus Medical Centre claim to have found an antibody against coronavirus. The first two patients hospitalised after testing positive for coronavirus are to be discharged from Famagusta hospital.  (Praise the Lord for all this!)

NB. Please feel free to pass on this email as appropriate. (Also attachment to download above).   God bless you.  The IFC Team

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^ IFC PRAYER &  INFORMATION:  email:  iforcy@outlook.com    website:  www.intercessorsforcyprus.org

In 2013, IFC (intercessors for Cyprus) was given leave to develop its ministry by the Evangelical Alliance, Cyprus. IFC has an office and a prayer home. We believe in using the home for a place of prayer and in inviting others to join us. (The Hebrew word for ‘house’ is also used for ‘home’, so the rising movement of Prayer Houses could also be applied to homes). We would like to see many homes in Cyprus opening up for public as well as private prayer once a week if not more. We hold public prayer meetings three mornings a week. Tuesdays: 9-11am…ITI prayer for Cyprus a safe haven for refugees. Wednesdays: 9-12am…we meet to pray for Israel. Fridays: 9-12am… prayer for Cyprus, including the latest news and using the IFC monthly Cyprus Prayer Update, and being led of the Spirit.  If you would like to join us - as a visitor or more permanently- then email the above to arrange. 

IFC News sources and links for Intercessors. First, from the Bible and from Holy Spirit! Then from intercessors, churches and ministries. Also, the Internet, particularly ‘InCyprus News’ and ‘newsincyprus.com’, from TV, radio & newspapers, local government, local people & shopkeepers, etc.   Other sources: Issachar UK; Open Doors; IFI; etc.

SO FAR: We began by stating that God is the Sovereign Lord over all creation, over all the nations of the earth. This event has not taken Him by surprise. Coronavirus is clearly shaking all nations of the earth. We have looked at the need to obey the authorities, and the value of scriptural promises such as Psalm 91 (applying the principles of Passover). We have considered various suggestions for prayer at this time including that of the Cyprus Evangelical Alliance, and the taking of action to aid the vulnerable in the community. We have looked at how to sustain ourselves spiritually in small groups, families, couples and individually, based on the principles of Acts 2v42. We have shared some good news around the nations and recognised the opportunity to share THE Good News at such a time as this. Finally, we have briefly pondered what the Lord is doing through all this – perhaps this is a preparation for future difficult times, be it shakings or persecution.

REDEMPTION. Even though God allows events such as this, His purposes are always redemptive. Jesus said, ‘The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.’ (John 10:10). Compare this with Mark 4v15. The devil is the thief and robber, seeking to blind people to the truth of their need of salvation through Christ. (2 Corinthians 4v4.) God is using this time to shake people out of their indifference and to seek Him for their lives both now and eternally.  

SHAKING. Haggai 2:6-7 (NIV): "This is what the LORD Almighty says: 'In a little while I will once more shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. I will shake all nations, and the desired of all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,' says the LORD Almighty.  Hebrews 12:26-29 (NIV): "Once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens." The words "once more" indicate the removing of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what cannot be shaken may remain.  Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our "God is a consuming fire."

Haggai’s prophecy indicates that there is a link between God’s shaking of the nations and the desired of all nations coming.

Some see the ‘desired’ as being Christ in His return. Others that it is the redeemed, the end time church, whom God desires for His Son. Whatever it means, let’s pray that during this shaking, many will be confronted with their mortality, and more especially, their need to be right with God. *(see pastor comments later).  

What is the Spirit saying to the Church? Note Amos 3v7, Hebrews 3v7 and Revelation 2v7.

Sukkot Hallel House of Prayer, Jerusalem. Rick Riding - prophetic word July 2019

• The Lord is in control in the midst of the shakings.• The Lord will separate the light from darkness – this is what He is doing in Jerusalem and in His church throughout the earth. • Fish & Bread – fish represents people who will come to the Lord; bread represents signs and miracles. We bring the baskets to the Lord and He gives us larger baskets. • The Lord is saying, “Do not be afraid of the chaos in the times of the shakings! Through these shakings, I will bring forth My Kingdom!”

faithwalk.com, Neal Bratschun notes how families are having to live and work at home, that hoarding is becoming a factor, that humanitarian organisations, especially in healthcare are shining, if not overloaded as in Italy. Amongst believers, online worship and study is developing. He says this is a time when we can seek the Lord with more time, greater focus and fewer distractions. It is also a time when we can focus on our families (*see pastor comment 1. further below).

Chuck Pierce, in the USA in 2005, prophesied that there would be "refugee cities" a month or so before Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana and drove former residents to places like Houston. Similarly, a prophetic word of preparation, warning, and timeframe of the Coronavirus has been given by him. Of course, we have to test and discern these things as well.

In September 2019 Chuck gave a prophetic word that the nations would come into turmoil until Passover. A massive plague-like invasion would test us through Passover. “God has put a PAUSE until He sees who is willing to cross over with Him through His blood at Passover.”  Have you noticed how indeed the nations are in a PAUSE moment of history? There has never been a time like this in world history, where much of the world has shut down in peace time. This is a time where we prepare. We do this by preparing our hearts to align with His will.

National Day of Prayer: Recently, President Trump announced a National Day of Prayer for America. Prayer guides below:

2 Chronicles 7v14: If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

Sid Roth (American TV ministry) stated that as intercessors, we can also pray Colossians 1:9-12 over the USA & our nations, [including CYPRUS]:

1. ‘….that you may be filled with the knowledge [epignosis] of His will.’ His suggested prayer began: ‘We pray now and will not cease until this calamity is passed and Your mercy and power are revealed. We submit to You as KING. We repent of our self-will and doing things contrary to Your highest desires. We pray that (your nation) will be fully aligned with Your will in every sphere of society: in government, in education, in religion, in business, in entertainment and sports, in families and humanitarian good works, and in news media. We pray especially that government will be aligned with Your plan and that peace will be established throughout the land.

2. ‘….in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.’ Lord TEACH us. We repent of our foolishness. We ask for wisdom, understanding, skills, capabilities, and training that are needed to implement that will. We prayer especially for the EDUCATION area of society, that there will be truth, morality, and respect for God.

3. ‘….that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him.’ Lord, we acknowledge You are our REDEEMER. We repent of ever trying to stand in our own righteousness. We pray that Christians in America (or Ukraine or your nation) will walk and live in a way worthy of You in a steady, consistent, ongoing way demonstrating continual faith in You. We pray especially for revival and renewal in the RELIGIOUS part of society, that there will be a new desire of all church leaders to walk with and demonstrate the true and living God.

4. ‘….being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.’ Lord, we recognize that You are our PROVIDER and we trust You for our needs. We repent of the fear of lack and for doubting Your goodness. We ask You to make use fruitful in the good works to which You have called us individually and collectively and let us increase in the knowledge of You as we see Your mighty hand at work. We pray especially for the BUSINESS mountain to flourish with excellence and integrity so that increase will occur, and God can be seen moving in a new multiplied way.

5. ‘….strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power.’ Lord, we give You alone all glory as our CREATOR. We repent of ever taking glory to ourselves. We pray that You will create in us strength, might, and power to begin new innovations, get them started, and then keep them going. We pray especially for the ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT areas of society to bring glory to You and nothing else.

6. ‘….for all patience and longsuffering with joy.’ Lord, You are our FATHER. We repent of forgetting You, not spending time seeking You, nor even desiring Your continual relationship. We pray that there will be a new unity in society, with an increase of patience and longsuffering along with a great increase of joy. We prayer especially for the FAMILY mountain that the attacks against families would stop, that families would become strong, with more unity and love than ever before.

7. ‘….giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.’ Lord, we love You as COMMUNICATOR and are thankful for speaking to us, even words of correction and love. We repent of ignoring You, pushing Your instructions aside, or even not taking the time to listen. We thank You for the good inheritance that You have for us, and that You have given us everything we need to possess it. We pray especially for the NEWS MEDIA in America (or Ukraine or Your nation), that it would be based upon Philippians 4:8 and communicate things that true, honest, just, pure, love, of good report, full of virtue, and praiseworthy, in ways that uplift, give hope, and promote love and unity.

Cindy Jacobs (Global Prophetic movement): 1. Pray Psalm 91 over your families and nations. 2.Pray against fear and remind ourselves that God has not given us a spirit of fear. 3. Pray for wisdom for our leaders to contain the spread of the virus while protecting their people effectively. Pray also for the crisis response teams and emergency responders in each nation to be protected and be effective. 4. Pray for courage for Believers to share Jesus effectively through this time of crisis. 5. Forces of evil would like to use this to either delay or disrupt the coming awakenings and revivals. Intercede that this will not happen, but rather that the moves of God will escalate worldwide. 6. Make a decree that the coronavirus will cease worldwide, and that God will heal all who are currently affected by it. 7. Re-consecrate yourselves, your families, and your nation to God through the taking of communion. Remember the miracle of Passover.

Oneway Ministries (Prayercast): Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Let’s stop and remember some Biblical truths about the coronavirus.

God reigns OVER it. If the wind and sea obey Him, so does this virus (Matthew 8:27).

He is IN THE MIDST of it. He’s our ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1).

He wants to do something THROUGH it. He has good purposes in ALL things (Romans 8:28).

He can bring eternal hope OUT OF it. Humanity is mortal, and it’s urgent that each and every person hears and knows the hope of the Gospel.   So, what can YOU do?  LIFT YOUR EYES from the headlines and fix them on Jesus.

PRAY. No quarantine will ever stop the power and reach of prayer. In fact, it just might multiply it!

SHARE the Hope of the Gospel with those around you.

Cyprus Evangelical Alliance: Guidance in prayer: “the prayer of the righteous avails much.”(Repeated from earlier this week.) 1) Protection of our people and all the inhabitants of Cyprus from the corona virus.

2) Healing from our Lord for all who have been sick.

3) Extra strength over doctors, nurses and general health professionals, constantly working to alleviate the situation.

4) For the authorities in our country to make the right political, economic and health decisions.

5) For wisdom and extra grace to church leaders for managing the whole situation soberly and decisively.

6) For financial resources so that no church loses its building because of lack of funds due to no gatherings at the moment.

7) Our churches to reopen soon and that no believer will be shaken but will come out stronger in the Lord.

As individuals, enter into rest: This is a season to enter into rest. This is a season to PAUSE. This is a time to focus on the Lord.  This is a time to pull back so that you can go forward. This is a season where God can show you personal shifts to make and help you to do them. You can pray Colossians 1:9-12 for yourself and expect God to answer.

The very first part is to be filled with the knowledge of His will. This is most important. Then go on to pray for wisdom, to walk it out, to be fruitful, strengthened, joyful and to fully possess your inheritance.

It's important in this season to wait on the Lord. Spend time in His presence focused on Him however that works for you and however you are led. Some people draw near to the Lord through worship songs. Others simply wait and listen in quiet. Others may meditate on scriptures impressed on their hearts, review their journals, or slowly other words that minister to their hearts. This is a season of reset. If you've made mistakes, suffered trauma, or experienced disappointments, this is a season where God can -- and will -- minister to your heart and bring healing and deliverance. This is a time when God can give new vision, new understanding, new hope, new strength, new ideas, new relationships, and new love.

Scriptures: Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth! (Psalm 46:10 NKJ)

But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; (Isaiah 40:31a NKJ)

And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, (2 Thessalonians 1:7 KJV)

People who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits. (Daniel 11:32b NKJ)  

By waiting on the Lord now, we will know Him better, and gain new strength that will allow us to do greater exploits when this extended Easter season of rest is over. You are a blessing. We are about to enter more fully into a new era. Your prayers are important, even crucial at this strategic hour.  He is GREATER. He is GOOD. He is GOD!

Comments from three pastors from three cities in Cyprus:

*1. (Domestic violence): ‘Another concern is that domestic violence saw 800 cases this week in Cyprus. It’s a growing problem while people are in isolation.’         Families are thrown together in limited space and problems are arising…pray.

**2. (After a church had been in continuous prayer for 63 hours): Spiritual Warfare is needed because we are fighting a war with an invisible enemy. Let us make the house / room we are staying in a LIGHT HOUSE of PRAYER!

Let us stand in the gap 2 Chronicles 7:14 & 1 Timothy 2:1-5, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” Ephesians 6:18

DECLARING GOD’S WORD: Psalm 91:8-12. Faith v fear. Declare that anyone who call upon the name of the Lord will be save! (Romans 10:13, Acts 2:21, Joel 2:32). Let us declare - God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalms 46:1 and declaring that Jesus Reign over the nations and over our lives!

PROTECTION: Pray for continued protection…the power of His Name…Jesus, protect us by the power of the blood of the Lamb, Let us declare protection to: Our children and youth and for God’s protection to all our brethren, our family, our employer and every one we know! PROVISIONS: Pray for our brethren whose work and income are affected by the lockdown, for peace, hope, provisions and action.  Pray for God’s wisdom for our government to handle distribution of food, supplies and basic needs  PRAY FOR THE SUPERNATURAL in the discovery of vaccine, and strengthening of our immune system. Supernatural healing and deliverance of all infected by this virus worldwide. Pray that the Holy Spirit will empower and lead God’s people with the spiritual gifts (gift of faith, wisdom, healing, miracles, etc.), and to filled us with the Holy Spirit’s fire. In Christ we are more than conquerors!

***3. (A third pastor’s comment to IFC): Dear brothers in my humble and limited understanding is that the Lord is fully aware of the coronavirus.  Through these difficult times, the main aim of intercession must be the fulfillment of God's strange, but loving purposes. The main aim of intercession must always be the salvation of lost souls. Further, these happenings are the loud voice of a trumpet. Maybe is a call for those that are asleep to wake up. Remember the five foolish virgins that were not ready, though they thought that they were. We, church people, must find our way, back to true faith and love.

By the way, is it not written that the judgments of God are inevitable? As it is written His righteous judgments shall be poured upon a world that constantly ignored His laws and has rejected His Son. These are the calls for repentance. Let’s pray for repentance.  Yes we must pray, we are asked to do so, but not according to our own thoughts and preferences, but as we are led by the Spirit of God.  His ways are not our ways. At the same time let us be ready and like the five wise virgins continue to have a living testimony and not a dead religion, for we do not know at what tine the Lord shall come. Behold He is coming as a thief in the night.  With love in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Thanksgiving and prayer:

Repatriation: Give thanks that airlines are making every effort to get people to their homeland. Pray they succeed. Give thanks for the 10% cut in the price of electricity. Give thanks for the suspension of foreclosure action for 3 months. 

China: Give thanks that medical supplies and expertise are being provided by China for Cyprus. However, people being repatriated to China are now re-importing the virus! Pray, and remember returning Cypriots committed to isolation hotels.

Municipalities: Give thanks for municipalities mobilizing to help the elderly and vulnerable. [Commissioner for Volunteerism Yiannis Yiannaki has activated the protocol covering volunteers in emergency situations and is calling of all those over 18 interested in helping to complete the relevant forms. The protocol aims to offer insurance cover for volunteers and to allow more effective coordination of volunteer actions in cooperation with the government services. The relevant document that must be completed: www.volunteercommissioner.gov.cy/volunteer/volunteercommissioner.nsf/voco06_gr/voco06_gr?OpenDocument

Panic: More stringent measures such as a curfew may be necessary if people ignore the calls to stay at home. Pray for government wisdom both north and south, and that people do not panic, that food supplies will be maintained - especially to the vulnerable - and that people will be able to take staggered shopping trips (such as in Italy), should this arise. 

Multi-faith: Leaders of the main religious groups, including the head of the Christian Greek Orthodox Church of Cyprus, the Mufti of Cyprus (representing Islam!), the Armenian and the Maronite Churches, said they had “joined their voices and prayers” to fight the pandemic. “They call on all other religious and faith community leaders in Cyprus and all sisters and brothers ‘of faith’ to join them in prayer and action to fight this pandemic. [This sounds commendable but this is an inter-faith, mixture of Christianity, Islam and people of ‘faith’, utterly against God’s word.]  IFC

Addendum

NB. The Republic of Cyprus Ministry of Health has reminded the public that the 1420 call centre remains in operation for reporting symptoms only. In addition to the 1450 call centre, as of March 20, the 1412 call centre has begun its operation.

The 1412 call centre will operate from 8 am to 8 pm providing general information to the public on Coronavirus. Also, general information on Coronavirus is available on the Press and Information Office website www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus

NB. Cypriot Ministry of Health website:  https://www.pio.gov.cy/ coronavirus/en/index.html

Concerning the government text to all mobiles (#stayhome): “These moments are critical. Isolation delays the spread of the virus. Only absolutely necessary movements. Protect the vulnerable groups of the population – Ministry of Interior.”

The Health Minister: ‘Cyprus can cope,’ minister assures, urges public ‘just stay home’. “We are in an emergency situation. People must obey our instructions. We have asked companies to close and people to restrict their movements. Unfortunately some people are not complying. Even those in quarantine. We have put soldiers and security staff but we can’t have someone outside every room. People must comply, otherwise we will have to take more drastic measures.   

NB. IFC comment: A curfew is likely to be imposed if people do not stay at home, as in Italy.    #stayhome       

IFC   email:  iforcy@outlook.com    website:  www.intercessorsforcyprus.org

B. Short comment on what God may be doing: and what the enemy may be doing at the present time of ‘lockdown’.

There are suggestions for prayer, of course, but may God’s Holy Spirit lead you as you pray or link with others online.

Ecclesiastes 9v12 (NIV): ‘….no man knows when his hour will come: As fish are caught in a cruel net, or birds are taken in a snare, so men are trapped by evil times that fall unexpectedly upon them.’

Philippians 4v4-8 (NIV): ‘Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

A word to the wise: Yes, keep in touch with the news, but don’t major on it. Listen to worship or Christian material, read the word, edify yourself, building your faith, rather than majoring on fear-inducing material. Also, it is good to see and hear both locally and far beyond how people are serving and helping others at such a time as this. What can you do? 

FATHER GOD is all-wise as well as the Sovereign King of all creation. He is at work in this situation.

1. REST: I am in the habit of withdrawing from time to time on a ‘retreat’ (advance), but for many, this enforced sabbatical is a new thing. It is God’s ‘pause’ among the nations, a time for reflection, for rest, honouring His example and command to take rest in this frenetic world of activity and stress. (See Genesis 2v2; Exodus 20v8-11). Give thanks, and pray that many actually rest their minds and bodies during this time, and that they consider the direction of their lives and risk thinking about the deeper questions of life. Pray that God draws near to help them find what they really need…to know Him, and His salvation. (Psalm 46 esp. v10; Philippians 4v4-7). As believers, let’s remember that He has promised not to leave us alone (John 14v16). He is with us by His Spirit. We can use this time to draw closer to God, who is an ‘ever present help in times of trouble.’ Pray about your own walk with God as He speaks to you by His Holy Spirit.  

2. OPPORTUNITY: Evangelical churches in a number of nations have called for national days of prayer, including the United States, the United Kingdom (held 22nd March). Amen. Others have laid down prayer plans through this crisis. Amen. Many churches and groups are using technology to communicate, worship, pray and study together. This is a good preparation for the future, when western believers have to cope with persecution - much of the rest of the world’s believers already do. There are also major purposes in the heart of the Lord yet to be fulfilled on the earth, of which we know from the Bible, including one IFC is particularly interested in, as there are 64 promises concerning this in the word of God, which are gradually being fulfilled in our day (see Ezekiel 36, esp. v24-28; Hosea 11v10; Jeremiah 16v14-16; Isaiah 49v22 for example). It is also an opportunity for the world to choose to bow to God and His Son or not (see Psalm 2). Pray as led.

3. OVERCOMING: Through the gifting of many in the medical research and governmental fields, this season WILL come to an end….as the NT Authorised version of the Bible often says: ‘And it came to pass’. God’s Passover season is being recognised afresh…the power of the applied ‘blood of the lamb’ (by faith) to protect His own. Fear in believers is being chased away, replaced by faith in God and His word. Christians are learning to put their trust in the word of God and His promises like never before! (See Psalm 91 for example). God is restoring His Church through adversity, servanthood, renewal and in some places revival. The bride of Christ is being prepared for His coming.

Satan is also active at this time, but remember, he is used as a tool in the hands of the all-wise, Sovereign God.           

God is working out His purposes on the earth, fulfilling His Biblical prophetic word and promises, bringing things to fulfilment. 

The devil is certainly active at this time, even though on God’s leash (Job 1v6-12).

1. DEATH: John 10v10 makes it clear that the devil – the liar and murderer (John 8v44) – comes to steal, kill and destroy, but that Jesus has come to give life to the full. This virus is killing many, and those who die without knowing God’s Son and His salvation will join the devil and his followers. A good reason to pray for life, salvation, outreach and witness – even if only by internet at this present time.  

2. BANKING: Most people are having to use cards and internet banking rather than cash transactions at this time of isolation. There have been calls for international systems which would mean a cashless society. The technology for inserts under the skin are already developed. The Book of Revelation speaks of a ‘mark’ on people’s bodies in this economic context.

(See Revelation 13v16-17; 14v9-11; 16v2). This crisis is being used by the enemy to further fulfil this plan. Note Psalm 33v10-11 and pray according to these promises, that God’s purposes prevail despite developments.  

3. RELIGIONS: I was saddened to read that in Cyprus, the various mainline Christian denominations called a ‘people of faith’ gathering, including Islam’s Mufti in Cyprus amongst others to join them in prayer over Coronavirus. Whilst prayer is good, uniting under an inter-faith banner is not good in God’s sight. Rather, this pollutes the pure Christian faith, the one true faith before God. No religion offers forgiveness and salvation through God’s son, but only by works.

Satan is further paving the way for a one-world religion, embracing all the faiths except those who reject this. (See Revelation 16v13-14, etc.) Pray for churches and believers to discern and understand the times (1 Chronicles 12v32; 1 Thessalonians 5; Matthew 16v3; Philippians 1v10; Hebrews 5v14).

4. GOVERNMENTS: Around the world these are having to consider issues such as civil disobedience, economy v the saving of lives and   amongst others. Pray for the Church to have relevance towards these issues and for governments to know how to handle increasingly difficult situations with Godly wisdom. Continue to pray for health service staff.

Following on from the paragraph concerning religions, not only is there an increasing possibility of a one world religion in days to come, but through this crisis, the call for a united and co-ordinated front is emerging amongst the nations…..which could open the way in the future to the desire for a one-world government, perhaps for crisis management initially.

These developments are indicated in Revelation 16, where the dragon (the devil), the beast (antichrist & his government) and the false prophet (religious entity) are all mentioned (see also 1 John 2v22 & 4v3; Daniel 9, esp. v27). The likelihood of such developments has been increased by this world-wide virus. Let’s not hide our heads in the sand, but trust God for the future. Pray into this. 

Finally, pray for family & relatives, neighbours and friends, work colleagues and acquaintances to be drawn to God, bearing in mind that Jesus said, ‘Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.’ (John 17v3). 

Please feel free to pass on this email…with discretion.

IFC email:  iforcy@outlook.com    IFC website:  www.intercessorsforcyprus.org 

(Received by a friend of ours in the UK (DN) 31st March 2020):         b)  Contemporary word of encouragement and a warning of things to come 

Beloved, I speak, but who is willing to listen; I call, but who is willing to hear? My people are hardened like barren soil in drought, baked hard by the continual beating down of the heat of deception, (1) so my words do not take root and righteousness does not result. Yet I have a remnant who grieve over the state of the world in which you find yourselves, and it is to you that I now speak, you whose hearts are humble and open towards me, and who tremble at my word. (1)  (Matt 24v5; Eph 5v6; 2 Thess 2v3; Rev 20v8)

To those who have ears to hear, I am shouting a warning, for the great and terrible day of the Lord (2) is not far off and the time to repent is short. (2)  (Joel 2v11 & 28-32; Amos 5v18-20; Mal 4v5; 1 Thess 5v2 & 2 Thess 2v1-4; 2 Peter 3v10)

I have sent fire and floods, earthquakes and famines (3) in many places, but who has wanted to know the reason? Men, even the leaders of my people, are deceived and believe the lie that these so-called natural disasters are caused by the actions of men and can be resolved by the skilled remedies of men. Therefore I have released a curse, a global scourge of sickness for which men have no remedy; and no nation will escape unscathed. For the whole world is turning in rebellion against me, and in my grief and out of my great love for all mankind whom I have created and desire to save, I have released the scourge of sickness in the hope that in their despair, men will turn to me for deliverance and salvation.

(3)  (Josh 24v20; 1 Chron 21v15; 2 Chron 7v13-14; Psalm 91v9-10; Isaiah 45v7; Revelation chapters 6, 8, 9, 11, 14, 15, 16.)  

The nations of the world, the whole earth, are now as it was in the days of Noah, (4)  (Genesis 6 & 7v21-23) when violence and corruption brought my anger in the form of a worldwide flood; and as in the days of Lot, when greed and corruption and perverted sexuality brought my destruction in the form of fire and burning sulphur. Even so, this is now the condition of the nations, and I have been watching in horror. Where is the fear of God among the nations? Where is the fear of God among the leaders of my people who are called by my Name? Everywhere I am rejected and mocked and blasphemed, I who created the heavens and the earth and who sustains them by my word of power (5)  (Hebrews 1v3)

Beloved, you whose hearts and ears are turned to me when I call, hear my cry; for it is a cry not only of anger, but also of deep sorrow and love for all men whom I have created in order that they may worship me, the one true God, and live in fellowship with me through my Son who gave his life so that all who call upon me might be saved and live under my hand of blessing and protection. My grief is very great, for I look upon the nations of the world, who have embraced deception rather than the truth of their own eyes, and rejected me as Creator. I am angry, but I am also deeply wounded and in great distress at the destruction which they are bringing upon themselves through their pride and rebellion, for they do not know, and are not willing to hear, that it is the god of this present world-system who is deceiving them and luring them into a trap of destruction.

(6)  (2 Corinthians 4v4)

Men have rejected the everlasting covenant which I made with Noah. Everywhere I see violence and corruption and greed, and the shedding of innocent blood (7)  (2 Kings 24v2-4 etc.)  – millions of unborn children who are the work of my hands in this creation and for whose lives I had a purpose on this earth. Now even the very sign of the covenant which I made with Noah, the rainbow of permanent testimony to my love and faithfulness to keep my word, is made a cause of offence to me, a stench in my nostrils, by being taken as the proud symbol of rebellion, of perversion of my created order of male and female. (8)  (Leviticus 18v22).

Beloved, do not be deceived. (1) God has been watching while the cup of iniquity of the nations of the earth is coming near to fullness. In my love and concern I am shouting a global warning through this present scourge of sickness, in the hope that even at this late hour many will repent and turn to me, before the final judgments of irretrievable disaster, (3) the outpouring of my pent-up anger, begin to be released, for then it will be too late and I will not turn back from doing all that is prophesied in my word. Before that day arrives, I desire to purify and equip you, my remnant people, by my Spirit, to declare my love, the gospel of my Son’s sacrifice sealed in his own blood, to those who are destined for the awfulness of my wrath. Who will hear and respond to my call to declare the truth, for this is a day of decision?

COVID-19  &  TEMPTATION

The first stage of easing of the Covid-19 ‘lockdown begins today, leading to three other 3 stages of a gradual relaxation of the lockdown. The main elements stage one are below.  

The public, retail and construction sectors are going back to work, with some exceptions.

The public will also be allowed to leave the house three times, after first securing permission.

I.D. and the 8998 sms request (or Form B for the over 65), with amendments, are still required including the 8 options…which includes swimming.

Social distancing must be maintained (2 metres each way between you and other people, i.e. an 8 square metre box. 

Although masks are only compulsory for certain workers, it is recommended that everyone uses them in areas where people would be in close proximity, such as shops, public transport, etc. 

The curfew will also start an hour later, at 10 pm.

Movement from one district to the other is prohibited except in order to visit a person who is vulnerable and/or cannot care for themselves.

For church services, only a maximum of ten people will be allowed in church premises practicing social distancing. 

Judging by recent photos over the weekend, where people had already abandoned social distancing, the temptation to throw caution to the winds is very real. The government is very concerned.

Please come before the Lord on behalf of our nation – both north and south, giving thanks for the government’s early implementation of advice from the World Health Organisation, and praying for HIS restraint upon people, HIS conviction upon them, to maintain appropriate precautions. Ask God to help people recognise the temptation for what it is, and to overcome.

1 Corinthians 10v13: No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.

Pray also for grace to communicate clear instructions to the Muslim community concerning restrictions during Ramadan (1 Cor. 14:8), and that other religious or social groups also honour the restrictions.

Pray that the health and economic ministers work together and listen to each other (Prov. 18:13).

Ask God to show the people of Cyprus how to be responsible whether there are governmental restrictions or not, by considering others, and to ‘love your neighbour’ (Lev. 19:18).

Pray for the police and other official groups to know how to effectively guide the citizens and to deal with the common people with as much understanding, patience and mercy as possible (Rom. 13:3-5).

Intercede for families under stress, with elderly parents, children, abusive relationships, economic pressures.

Lord, through Your Spirit, reveal Yourself as the only Comforter (John 14:16).

Come unto Me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matt. 11:28

Thank you for your prayers.   The IFC Team

                          IFC website:  www.intercessorsforcyprus.org   IFC Email: iforcy@outlook.com

A brief summary of NT Wright’s new book: “God and the Pandemic: A Christian Reflection on the Coronavirus and Its Aftermath,” follows:

The Church is a small working model of God’s kingdom leading to His new creation. His coming will be when we don’t expect it, so meanwhile, watch the signs but serve society. Is God angry and punishing the nations because we have broken His covenantal laws? Yet, Jesus bore the curse of failing the law, and this is the season of His grace. Job bore innocent suffering. Consider the Psalms of lament, and their question condensed as, why are we suffering when we have not failed your covenant? (E.g. Psalm 44). Also, Jesus suffered in order that the new thing God wanted to manifest could come.

Consider Covid-19 and Acts 11. The church was acting in a kingdom manner, Spirit led. The church asked itself who is at risk? What can we do to help?  Who can we send? Believers were hungry for justice, believers were full of compassion. Consider the cross & tears of Jesus (as with Lazarus), and the importance of lament. John chapter 20 reveals the tears of Mary, reveals the locked-in disciples, the doubts of Thomas. This is where our world has been recently through the pandemic. Our world is in pain. Jesus came - and still comes to such a scenario.

Pray for the world, in pain. Lament before God on their behalf - and that of the church. Allow His Spirit groanings, His lament through you.  Another way of putting Rom 8v28 is, ‘God works all things together for good through those who love God and are called according to His purposes.’ Be prepared to lament on behalf of the world and on behalf of others, and act on their behalf. Through this, God will work out His purpose and be glorified. Finally, there is an evil about this pandemic beyond the normal, c.f Hitler’s era and the idolatry of it - where Pandora’s Box was opened.

(See the video for more.)  N.T.Wright YouTube video (24 mins) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqV8igW9COg 

COVID-19 Vaccines: Rebellion - in terms of refusing to socially distance in public scenarios where the government has said to wear masks and to socially distance - is growing especially in younger people. Whilst there are issues about vaccines, the wearing of masks and social distancing has long been a very reasonable and helpful way of preventing or lessening the likelihood of infection for many many years.

I am neither commending nor condemning our government over its vaccination project. Romans 13 clearly leads us to pray for wisdom for the government as does 1 Timothy 2v1-4.

Christians have to make their own choice about the vaccines and whether the government is out of God's will or not. I will not take sides or condemn whichever choice a believer makes.

I had to write to one major international ministry to correct the leader, who condemned those Christians who have taken the vaccine to HELL because the vaccine was the 'Mark of the Beast!' I gave Him verses from the word of God about this to show his error and he then wrote to apologise and said he would publicly apologise on his next letter and website.

A new strain of Coronavirus called ‘Omicron’ is unleashed. Pray for a remedy to this and appropriate steps in Cyprus and other nations.

Read Psalm 91. Use this prayer if you have been fearful recently:

’In the name of Jesus, I pray against the spirit of fear, casting it out, and I pray the Lord breaks the spirit of fear over our lives. I proclaim the Word of God - that we have the spirit of power, love, and sound mind, and that according to God’s word, It will not come near me as I believe His promise. Amen.’ (Psalm 91v7).

The Coronavirus scenario: For believers, the issue is not whether you have been vaccinated or not, but whether you BELIEVE God’s word as applied to you relating to Coronavirus, vaccines, etc. Romans 10v17 (KJV) says: ‘Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.’ So read the word, and believe God’s word, His promises, and apply them to yourself:

Psalm 119v114 & 116a: ‘You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word. Sustain me according to your promise, and I shall live…’

1 John 5v18: We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the one who was born of God keeps him safe, and the evil one cannot harm him.  

FEAR of Covid will be replaced by FAITH in God to protect you. What a gift!  

Coronavirus itself: Believe and apply these powerful and protective promises to yourself. Declare the truth in the face of enemy fears:

Psalm 91v7 & 10: A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. If you make the Most High your dwelling— even the LORD, who is my refuge— then no harm will befall you. (In fact, ALL of Psalm 91 is useful).

The Vaccines: In the same way believe and apply, declare and use these promises concerning the vaccines:

Mark 16:16-18: Whoever believes …..will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all.

Psalm 91v10: If you make the Most High your dwelling— even the LORD, who is my refuge— then no harm will befall you.

Proverbs 29v25: Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.