Praying for Hungary

This month at Do Not Depart, we are praying for missions work “that the world may know”. Today, let’s pray for the people of Hungary.

Hungary is a country in Central Europe, about the size of Indiana. It is bordered by Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, and Austria. Its largest and capital city, Budapest, is actually two cities. Buda and Pest sit on opposite sides of the Danube River and are joined by a bridge that united them in 1872.

The culture of Hungary is rich and warm with a long heritage of the arts, especially music, and an appreciation for beauty, good food, and deep conversation. Its central location has attracted foreign domination for most of its thousand-year history. “In 1989, Hungary became a democracy after over forty years of communist domination. This sparked a period of spiritual interest and greater responsiveness to the gospel. Hungary’s integration with the West was completed in May, 2004 with its acceptance into the European Union.” (Word of Life International Ministries)

Pray for Hungary’s Heart

“For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” 1 Timothy 6:10

As the Hungarians grow in economic prosperity and embrace the post-modern culture of Western society, their interest in faith withers. Pray for revival among the Church, and for a recommitment to spiritual maturity.

Pray for a Harvest of Disciples

“And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” Luke 10:2

According to Operation World, interest in working overseas is waning though the need for strong leaders making disciples is still strong. Pray for encouragement for the church leaders, resources, including art and media that will glorify God.

“Despite an impressive history of Christianity, the spiritual atmosphere in Hungary can be described as cold and inactive. In fact, 27% of its people declare no religious affiliation. It is estimated that only three percent are evangelical believers. Church and religion are increasingly considered irrelevant or unimportant, creating a challenge to missionaries to develop appealing, vibrant ministry outlets and authentic, engaging relationships among the Hungarian people.” (ABWE)

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 Pray for the light to shine in Hungary.