Pray for Bolivia

Bolivia is our focus today as we pray for the nations to know Jesus. I have never been to Bolivia, let alone South America, but I know a sweet couple whose hearts are with Bolivia and its people. It is their love for this small, landlocked nation that prompted me to write about how we can pray for Bolivia. I asked them how they pray for Bolivia, and what follows is what I learned.

Upon reading my friend’s list of prayer requests for Bolivia, a word kept coming back to me— impoverished. Economic hardship abounds, but a poverty of spirit and discipleship intensifies the difficulty of daily life in Bolivia.

Economic Realities

Despite a wealth of natural resources, especially mining, Bolivia is one of the poorest countries in South America. Being landlocked limits transportation of valuable goods. Increased government takeovers of the means of production and foreign investment have not yielded better returns for the economy. Lost economic opportunity, decreased political freedom, and government corruption weakens the nation. The government in unable to mount an effective Covid 19 response, crippling life for many in Bolivia. Ask God to intervene in these issues and raise up leaders who will seek justice and care for their fellow citizens.

Give us this day our daily bread… —Matthew 6:11

Crushed Spirits

With a lack of employment and a dismal economy, many engage in destructive behaviors to fill the void. Among these, alcoholism is rampant. It is one of Satan’s weapons of choice as it wreaks havoc in relationships, endangers lives and livelihoods, and creates a general malaise and indifference. Additionally, the enemy uses his cunning to confuse people. Many Bolivians go to churches where mixing indigenous religion with Christianity is acceptable. Pray that God will send missionaries and strengthen Believers to combat the schemes of the enemy, so more can know salvation through Christ alone.

“I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me….” —John 14:6

Increased Discipleship

Although these difficulties exist, there is good news. There are churches that preach the truth of God’s Word, Bibles in the languages of the region are accessible, and evangelical churches are growing. Yet there is a need for increased discipleship in churches throughout Bolivia. Low literacy impedes discipleship. Pray for teachers to teach people how to read and study the Bible. Ask God to impart to Bolivian Believers a desire for increased biblical knowledge. Pray that increased discipleship will bring increased unity with other Believers. Joined together, Bolivian Christians can bring Gospel life and transformation to their country.