It has been reported that the new president of Evangelical Church of Winning All, Reverend Stephen Panya Baba, told those listening to his inauguration speech that many women and children are being left as widows and orphans by Boko Haram now more than ever.
While this is not necessarily surprising or new news, it is something greatly disconcerting. Reverend Panya Baba called on the Nigerian government to help those orphaned and widowed by Boko Haram’s violence; however, Christ calls all those who are Christians not only to go to church, but to be the church: to love, serve, and support those who need it most.
As James 1:27 says,
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (NIV)
We have further commands concerning serving the poor and disenfranchised in places like Proverbs 14:31.
“Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.” (ESV)
HOW TO HELP
The fact that we are to help those who are in need is written all over the Bible; but the question is, how can we help those in such a place as Northern Nigeria? While there are many reasons for why sending money straight to Nigeria might be a bad idea (it’s no secret that Nigeria is very corrupt), it does not mean that giving and helping are not things we should do. Rather, it only means that more homework must be done when attempting to help give to the different needy.
Desiring to help these people, I did a lot of research and found some reputable nonprofits that are helping either directly or indirectly with the need found in Nigeria. You can find this resource here.
Are you wondering how else you can help? The most powerful thing we can do is pray for these people. Share the story of the Chibok girls, Leah Sharibu, and the Boko Haram insurgency with anyone you can—and ask that others would pray as well.
With prayer and wisely giving of our finances, time, and advocacy, much can happen. If anyone has ideas or insight into different organizations that can help those in Northern Nigeria, please let us know! Any help is welcomed 😊
Thank you!
Do you know Jesus?
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1, NIV)
While we may feel helpless, Jesus is our sure Help. Learn more about this beautiful, amazing God, and how He has helped us, here.
Please pray for (find the prayer sheet for this post, here):
- The Chibok girls. Find their names and pictures, here.
- Leah Sharibu. Please pray that Jesus brings her home safely, soon.
- That the church in Northern Nigeria would be able to help those in need. Pray that they would be blessed financially and materially, so that they would be able to bless those who need it.
- Those being hit worst by Boko Haram’s violence. This includes those who are sick and displaced by Boko Haram.
Thank you for your prayers!!! 🙂
ISAIAH 62 PRAYER MINISTRY 