Transcript

Stay with American Family Radio for the next hour as we study God's word

>> Bert Harper: The Bible. It's the word of God, sharper than any two edged sword. This sacred book is living and active and contains all that's needed for life and godliness. Stay with American Family Radio for the next hour as we study God's word and take your Bible questions. Welcome to Exploring the word Isaiah, chapter 60, verse 19. The sun shall no longer be your light by day, nor the brightness shall be the moon give light to you, but the Lord will be to you an everlasting light in your God, your glory. That is from Isaiah, and the promises that we have for Israel. That's what it says in chapter 60 of Ah, Isaiah, concerning the nation of Israel and God's plans for this great, great people. Well, this is Bert Harper and Alex McFarland and it's our joy to be with you today on this Monday. And, and we do Bible study, but sometimes, we preempt that because something going on or someone we want to talk with. And so today we want you to be ready. We want you to know that we're going to have a prayer time, the last segment of which we usually take questions. today we're asking for people to pray and you can call in and pray. We ask that your prayer be concise, not extremely long, but precise and give God the glory, glory. And we're praying for the United States. We're praying for Israel, their military, our leaders and the Iranian Christians especially, and other Iranian, people there that have suffered. So that's looking forward. But right now I want to transfer this to Alex. And Alex, I think you have a guest to be with us today, isn't that right?

>> Alex McFarland: Well, that's true. Good evening Bert and everybody listening. It's great to be with you.

Alex: Israel and America launched joint military operation against Iran over weekend

And as Bert said, we, we want to pray because, as the whole world knows, over the weekend Israel and America launched really a massive joint military operation against Iran known as Operation Epic Fury. And Bert, we're not going to use the name of the location, but I am teaching a college class and I met a student from Iran who is here in America going to college and a Christian. And we were talking this morning and this individual whom you'll meet in a moment was saying, please pray. Her family is still in Iran. There are bombs near their home. But one thing that warmed my heart, she said that there are so many believers in Iran, many, many, many people in Iran that are Christians that are followers of Jesus. And so I said a prayer and I called up Bert Harper and Brent Austin and I said, I just believe it might be a blessing as we intercede and we pray to meet, a sister in Christ who I just met this morning. name and location withheld. But, Bert, how about we visit with a, ah, citizen of Iran who knows, firsthand the things going on. May I bring this person to the.

>> Bert Harper: Yes, you may. I just got to hand it out to Brent. Even Saturday morning, Brent was saying, if we get someone that could help us to know how to pray, please get them. And, Brent, God, blessed us with your prayers being answered. So, Alex, tell us a little bit, and let her tell us how we can pray.

Alex and Bert ask a question about life as a Christian in Iran

>> Alex McFarland: Well, the next voice you'll hear, right here with me is a dear sister in Christ from Iran. And I bring you to the mic and just, if you would tell us about your thoughts over what's going on. Allie Khamenei is dead. Tell us about life as a Christian in Iran, if you would.

>> Speaker C: Hello, everyone. I'm so happy that I can talk to you right now. And it's been really hard days for me and my family because we are believers, and I am the only one in this nation right now in America, which I am so thankful for America and for President Trump. And I just want to say that so many Iranians right now, they are Christians in Iran, and they have churches underground, which their lives is in danger, and they need your prayers. And including my family, they are in Iran, and as Christians, they're doing the work of God and they walk by faith and they walk by protection of Jesus Christ. But it's really hard for them to, say that they are Christians because there are persecutions in Iran for Christians, and people cannot be free and live with freedom because it's hard for them. And there are a lot that can happen to Christians in Iran.

>> Alex McFarland: your brother recently was shot, is that right?

>> Speaker C: Yes. So, my brother, around a month ago, he was shot in his leg and in his artery, which the doctor said there is no hope for him to leave. But Jesus helped him and kind of raised him from the death because he saw, Jesus, and Jesus told him, I am not done with your life, and you're gonna go and evangelize to nations with my name.

>> Bert Harper: Amen. What a story, Alex. Go ahead, man. I know you're there.

>> Alex McFarland: I've got the headphones on, but I'll relay a question. Do you have a question or observation, Bert?

>> Bert Harper: I would love to know about her family. I know locations not. But, is her parents first generation Christians or is, you know, and how many of her siblings and so forth. And Brent has a question. Want to know why he was shot as well, her brother? Go ahead, Alex.

>> Alex McFarland: we've got a couple of questions. And for those just tuning in, Alex and Bert here, and, we've got one mic and one set of headphones. That's why I'm relaying the questions as I am.

Is your family safe right now after being deported over anti-government protests

let me ask you this. Your family, are they first generation Christians? How did they come to know the Lord? And as far as you're aware, is your family safe right now?

>> Speaker C: So, yes, they are safe right now. And I just talked to them and they said everything is okay because they have God and they're declaring the word of God. And I am happy because I know God is their protection. And we became Christians all together because we moved to Turkey as an immigrant and we, seeked asylum for around six years. And the Turkish government deported us back to Iran. And I was just believing God for a miracle in my life, that he can do something for me. And he gave me a dream of America, and he brought me to America in a really supernatural way. But my family, they were deported back to our country.

>> Alex McFarland: why was your brother shot a month ago?

>> Speaker C: because he was part of the protests, and he was protesting in the street. And, there was a lot going on in the street. They killed around 40,000 innocent people, young people in the street, in a week and two weeks. And, my brother was part of that, protest against Khomeini. Yes, yes. And, he went with a righteous anger. You know, he was like, we want our country back. We want our freedom back. So many young people, and they knew it's gonna happen. They knew they're gonna get shot, but they went because they just wanted freedom. And as Iranian young people, we just want our freedom back. And we want to have a voice to say we want to live like other countries. We want to live in a, free will. You know, we want to choose what we want, not somebody else force their religion on us.

>> Alex McFarland: Wow, Bert, this is powerful stuff. Doesn't it make you grateful for the liberty that we have in the United States?

>> Bert Harper: It really does. And it reminds me of when Jan and myself got to visit Poland. Poland had been under the Soviet Union domination, and it was set free. And Poland was one of the first countries to rebel against the Soviet Union. And we were able to be over there a few years after their freedom was won, not granted one. And ah, wne and listen, you could sense the freedom of the people There, and we're praying that for the Iranian people as well. You can hear in the voice of our guests, the desire for freedom. And, it's awesome to hear that and to desire that.

Alex says the underground church in Iran is thriving despite Islamic persecution

And so, Alex, what I'd like to know is this, the underground church there in Iran, is it as strong as people saying it is? Millions of followers of Jesus Christ there?

>> Alex McFarland: let me ask you this. we hear in America that the underground church in Iran is very strong and that there are many, many believers in Jesus, maybe millions. And even though there is Islamic persecution, the underground church is thriving. We hope and we pray. Could you, before we say prayers here, could you speak to the health and the status of the church in Iran?

>> Speaker C: Yes. So, one thing that I know is Iran is the fastest growing country in Christianity right now, and it's, like, growing in Christianity, like, so much right now. And as much as I know, like, I see Christians everywhere, Iranian Christians everywhere. Like, I'm like, I see that, Jesus revealed himself in dreams to Iranians, and he shows himself a lot to Iranians, and I'm like, Jesus, you know, this is just a revival that's happening.

>> Alex McFarland: M. Hallelujah.

>> Bert Harper: Amen.

>> Alex McFarland: I'll tell you what I want to do. I'm going to ask you to pray, if you would pray, and then, Bert, you as you feel led close. I know we're coming up on time. For those just tuning in, Alex here along with Bert and, a dear college student who's in the US and her family is in Iran. We're praying for their safety. There's bombs, and we're not telling names or locations for obvious reasons, but, Bert, I want us to spend the remainder of this segment in prayer. May we do that?

>> Bert Harper: Go right ahead. Yes.

>> Alex McFarland: My sister in Christ, would you lead us in prayer? And then, when you conclude in a moment, Bert will pray.

>> Bert Harper: Amen.

>> Speaker C: Thank you, Jesus. Thank you for everything that you're doing in our lives, in our countries, Jesus. And I pray for your protection, for your freedom in my country. And I pray for Israel and for the usa. I pray for President Trump with what he's doing, Jesus. I am thankful for him. And I am so blessed to be in this country. Jesus, thank you so much. From the bottom of my heart, I am so thankful for President Trump and Israel and my people in Iran, they are so thankful for what's happening in my country right now, because we were waiting for this freedom and for this revival for a long time, for these seven years of captivity we were looking for this freedom for this revival. And I am, just thankful. I am thanking and praising Jesus for everything that he is doing and I pray for protection and for peace among all people that they are in Iran, in Israel and in America. Thank you Jesus. We give all in your hands and I pray, believe that you're gonna use all of this for your purpose, that you can glorify your name in Iran among those Muslims and ex Muslims and you're gonna establish your throne in Iran in Jesus name. Amen.

>> Bert Harper: Amen. Father, we agree with our guests today. We're asking you to be glorified even in this battle that's going on in and Father, the battle for the mind and the soul of Iran has been going on for years because there's been those that have come to know you as savior, in the underground church as it's been growing. So that battle has been going on, but now because of President Trump, the United States and Israel intervening for different reasons. God, for your reason is for your name to be glorified and the gospel to have freedom to be shared among all the people there in a. And Father, missionally, we honestly believe that freedom's going to be granted, the gospel is going to be spread and it's going to affect the other Middle east countries. Father, for your glory, we're asking this, believing this in Jesus name, Amen.

The AFR app is a powerful tool, but it does have limitations

Well, we thank you for listening to here on AFR on exploring the Word. We had a guest. Her family is in Iran. She's here in the States praying for her family and we're joining her in in this prayer. The AFR app, is a powerful tool, but it does have limitations. You can't use it to change the oil in your vehicle or get rid of carpet stains. It won't walk the dog, won't pick up the dry cleaning or take the kids to practice. But while you're doing those things, you can listen to your favorite AFR content through the app on your phone, smart device or Roku. Just go to your app store or visit afr.net Listen to AFR wherever you go with the AFR app, you will

>> Alex McFarland: seek me and find me when you

>> Bert Harper: seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13American Family Radio

>> Alex McFarland: soon and very

>> Speaker C: soon we are going to see the king.

>> Caroline: Soon and very soon we are going to see the king.

>> Bert Harper: Soon and very soon we are going

>> Caroline: to see the king.

>> Caroline: Hallelujah.

>> Bert Harper: Hallelujah.

Alex McFarland: Everything fits into God's plan

>> Alex McFarland: Welcome back to Exploring the word. Alex McFarland here along with Bert Harper and that song Bert When I was a young believer in the mid-80s and I just was learning the great songs of the faith. And I remember somewhere on TV or something I heard, a choir doing that soon, and very soon. I've always loved that song. You know, for those that are listening, we heard from a college exchange student from Iran a moment ago. And Bert, I want to tell you what's amazing. And we'll get to Isaiah, but. Okay, this week begins Purim, or Purim, I'm not sure how to pronounce it, but that's when the Jewish people around the world commemorate the events that happened in the book of Esther. And as you all know, Haman was the Hitler of the Old Testament. He was an Agagite, Persian anti Semite. And of course, through Esther and Mordecai, Artaxerxes Ahasuerus, saved the Jewish people. And then shortly after that came Cyrus, who showed much favor to the Jews. Isn't it interesting? And Bert, I was on the phone all day yesterday with a, ah, couple of friends in Israel and other Jewish people. they believe Donald Trump is the cyrus of the 21st century. And here at Purim, once again, I mean, when in Esther the Jews were saved from really a holocaust at the hands of Persians. Now they're being saved, Iranian people and Jewish people from a holocaust at the hands of a Persian Iranian. I mean, the parallels, ancient history and present moment, aren't they just uncanny? Burke?

>> Bert Harper: They are. And does it have anything to do with prophecy? Well, not specifically, but yes. Everything fits into God's plan. Sometimes, Alex, we want to fit stuff into it. God is the one that determines it. But we know the conflict is there, but it happening during this time when Esther came to the kingdom for such a time as this. From what, you know, Donald Trump making this decision when he draw, drew the red line and he told them, you've killed enough Americans, you're now killing your own people. Enough is enough. And with Israel and all, listen, the behind the scenes work that Israel and united, States did to know where the places were that were the most dangerous, where the leadership was, it's amazing. I'm not going to put miraculous word on it because I'm not ready yet. But it is amazing how that has come about. And we're praying that God would, and by the way, while I'm doing it, we're going to save the last segment for prayer time. we ask people to get ready to pray. We want your prayers to be specific to give God the Glory. Make them concise as you can. And we're going to do that in the last segment today because we just feel like we need to. But, Alex, when you see what all God has done and in his timing and what's going to happen ultimately here in the book of Isaiah, especially the last part of chapter 60 and the first part of 61, we're right here about Israel. Your sun shall no longer go down, nor shall your moon withdraw itself, for the Lord will be your everlasting light. And the days of your morning shall be ended. How you like that last line, Alex? The time of your morning shall be ended.

>> Alex McFarland: Amen. Well, and do you know that's the God who hears prayer, that's the God who intervenes, and that's the God who delivered.

Burt Bird: One reason America has been blessed is missions

And, I want to, stick to Isaiah, and I know we're going to pray. But, you know, as that college student was sharing Burt, couldn't you just hear the joy in her heart that she had prayed for? One thing, she shared about how she in Iran watching the persecution of the church. She prayed that she could come to America to get an education. And I just. I want to be on record, Bird, and say how grateful I am for the freedoms and the liberties that I've often taken for granted, here in America. I know it's not perfect. Only heaven is a perfect place. But, I will tell you, here in the United States, we got a lot to be grateful for as people around the world, they pray and they plan and they clamor to get here, don't they?

>> Bert Harper: They really do. And, that's what I can't help but think about. The Berlin Wall. they built it to keep people from going to freedom. Okay, here they were. They knew what Communism and then Islam. We know when they're in power, what takes place. We've observed it year after year after year. And here in America, the freedom that we've had. Now, the gospel. And I say this, and I do. I know I repeat myself, everybody, but the gospel works under all conditions, regardless. The Book of Acts shows that economic doesn't make any difference. Power. Who's in power? But missions, Alex, we've said this so many times, and this is what God's left us here for. If, we could be saved and then he could take us to heaven, man, that would be glorious. It really would. But he's left us here on mission. For him, we found out missions work best in freedom. They really do. Freedom to share, freedom to go. The financial freedom that we have to send. And so, with all my heart, I believe America, one of the reasons, if not the main reason, that we've been blessed so much is because the church being on mission for God. Alex, if the church ever ceases to do that, I want to just tell you, I think we fold up and we will not be the nation that God intended for us to be.

>> Alex McFarland: Indeed, indeed, we have been blessed to be a blessing. And what an honor here as it's our nation's 250th birthday. For the the vast majority of this quarter millennia, America has been at the absolute forefront of the Great Commission.

>> Bert Harper: Amen.

>> Alex McFarland: And, isn't it a blessing? And what about you? To everybody listening, and I want to get back to Isaiah, but let me just say, if you know Christ, and I hope all of you do, then the rest of life really is living as his ambassador, being a part of a good local church, giving, growing, learning how to share. And, Bert, I mean, John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, he said this repeatedly regarding being a Christian. He said, we have nothing to do but the saving of souls. In other words, that's our purpose, isn't it?

>> Bert Harper: It really is. And if the church ceases to have that purpose, they not. And how does it happen? Ultimately, it's to bring glory to God. When we share. And this interview that we had with this young woman today, man, God gets all the glory when we hear her sincerity, her prayers, man, to God be the glory.

>> Alex McFarland: Forgive me. I want to ask people, go to afr.net, this show is archived, as we always do, and listen to that again and share that with somebody. Especially if you've got a friend or somebody who says, for goodness sakes, why in the world are we embroiled in something on the other side of the world?

>> Bert Harper: Share.

>> Alex McFarland: I mean, this is a young lady that just weeks ago was there, she off air, was telling of some of the things that that regime had done that is just unspeakable. And they are celebrating now. The NewSong York Times and Mamdani and on the View, they're probably not celebrating, but the people in Iran, especially the Christians that have lived under a murderous dictator, they are thankful. And I want to say to the Lord, but they are thankful for Donald Trump.

>> Bert Harper: Amen. And the Iranians that are out of Iran, Iran right now, all over the world, they are celebrating. I saw it in Europe, they were celebrating in Australia, they are celebrating what is happening there. And so the job must be complete. So part of our prayer Is, Lord, let this job of eliminating this threat not only to the people in Iran, but to the neighboring. look what they're doing. They're sending their bombs and their missiles to all the countries all around them, not just Israel, but all around them. And they're targeting people. you know, that's what they want to do. So it's an evil empire. again, that is true. An evil empire that needs to fall. And we're praying that God would use this for those people in Iran, the leadership, those that love freedom, those that know Christ, that they would step up at this time. Alex, one more thing. I don't know if we'll get to Isaiah or not, but let me just say this. I noticed this. I was thinking, and putting the timeline of the United States and our history together. And there's going to be a movie that comes out in Easter, and I've already seen it. I got to preview it at the nrb. It's a Great Awakening. That's the name of it. And it shows all that took place in the colonial countries. Before we were United States, we were still under England. And shows George Whitefield and others and how that influenced people like Benjamin Franklin and others were influenced by, by this great revival, the Great Awakening. And then the revolution came and writing of the Constitution came. I couldn't help but think about what's been taking place in Iran for now, several years, about 15 years ago, is when I first heard it, that God was doing some miraculous work in Iran behind the scenes because of the Internet. And now we're seeing it and hearing about it. Would it not be something for God to raise up this Persian empire? Okay, Iran today and these Christians have freedom to share the gospel and influence that region for Christ. I'm praying for that, Alex.

>> Alex McFarland: Amen.

Alex: I think digital content is a big part of the Great Commission

Well, you know, over the week, and I as well, to God be the glory, and God is mightily at work. Bert. I was at one of our sister ministries, national ministry. Everybody would know. And they have the gospel in multiple languages on their website. And I personally saw a screen where all around the world they could tell who's reading the gospel pages in Arabic and all over. And, this ministry, everybody would know. And they are sending gospel materials behind the various iron curtains of the world. And on this screen he said, look here in North Africa, which is very Islamic. Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran, even in North Korea, people, the Internet. And I know there's objectionable things on the Internet. We all know that the Internet has good stuff, bad stuff. But Bert, I want to tell you, I really do think that, the digital content is a big part of the Great Commission right now. And even as we speak this moment, we know this. There are people all over planet Earth listening to, exploring the word, places where maybe missionaries can't necessarily go. Isn't that an exciting prospect, Bert?

>> Bert Harper: It is, okay? I already brought up the founding of our country. Okay? The printing press was made. The Bible came, Gutenberg. Gutenberg. It came available to common people that could read and then think about Benjamin Franklin. What was he? He was a publisher, printer, and he would print George Whitefield and all that he was doing, and spreading it out all over the eastern seaboard, especially around Philadelphia and NewSong York and Baltimore and all that area. And it grew to bring people to know Jesus Christ. Listen, I guarantee you there are people. Oh, this, this printing, it's horrible. Look what they can do with it. But look what we have done with it, Alex. And we want to do that. And that's why radio, like you said, this program being heard from countries around the world right now. And we praise God for that.

Preborn Ministries fights for the lives of unborn babies

Alex, let's do this. We got about four minutes left. And again, let me set this up. That number, and we want to throw the lines open right now is 888-589-8840. We're looking for people that would pray. If you have a prayer request, we want to hear that as well. And, if you have a question, you, want to try to get it in, I'm just saying the prayers will take precedence. But if you have a question and we have time to work it in, we will, but we want to pray. But, Alex, when we think about what God is doing here, it is an outside influence, like Iran, and it wave, it will help America, because we've been set up for this. Charlie Kirk's assassination, the young people buying more Bibles than they've ever bought before. In many, many years, attendance in churches have grown. God, you said it more than me that you believe God was going to do something spiritual significance of revival, before he comes back. What a time, such a time as this. Could it be, Alex?

>> Alex McFarland: I think it could be. It could be. And, you know, revival, we need it. and I think about this, too. Revival begins in each one of us. Bert, you know the story of the person who drew a circle around Gypsy Smith.

>> Bert Harper: Gypsy Smith.

>> Alex McFarland: Gypsy Smith. And he said, God thoroughly touch everything in this circle. It was his whole life. And so, folks, how does an awakening begin? With you and me as an individual and we say, lord Jesus, I'm yours. Lord Jesus, in every aspect of my life. Thy will be done. It's repentance, it's prayer. It's the authority of the Bible. It's evangelistic urgency.

>> Bert Harper: Bert.

>> Alex McFarland: I feel like I'm getting revived right now, and in my heart I want to recommit my life to Jesus Christ and everybody listening as well.

>> Bert Harper: Listen to this. Jesus repeated this. Isaiah 60:1. The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me because the Lord has anointed me to preach good tidings to the poor. He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and the opening of the prison to those who are bound. To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, to console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified. Hallelujah, Father, we're praying. Bring your spirit into men's and women's lives as they receive Christ. We ask this in Jesus name. Well, let me share with you that number. 888-589-8840. A day of prayer here on AFR. If we've learned anything from this election, it's how important it is for us to fight, fight, fight. We also learned how desperately the left wants to fight to take babies lives, which is why every day PreBorn Ministries fights for the babies. PreBorn's network of clinics are positioned in the highest abortion areas, fighting for mothers deciding between the life and death of their child. Preborn welcomes these women with God's love and offers them a free ultrasound to introduce their precious baby and hear the beautiful heartbeat. This amazing encounter gives her baby a fighting chance and the majority of the time she'll choose life. Would you join PreBorn in the fight for life? One ultrasound is just $28 and $140 will sponsor five ultrasounds. Babies are worth fighting for. To donate, dial pound 250 on your cell and say the key word baby. That's £250 baby. Or visit preborn.com afr that's preborn.com afr all gifts are tax deductible and PreBorn has four star charity ratings.

Larry and Steve ask for prayer requests for Iran during ongoing war

Fight, fight, fight for the B. Tis

>> Alex McFarland: so sweet to trust in Jesus Just to take him at his word Just to rest upon his promise Just to know thus saith the Lord.

>> Bert Harper: Amen. It is a joy to know Jesus Christ as Savior. Matter of fact, in Isaiah 61, it says this. Instead of your shame, you shall have double honor. Instead of confusion, they shall rejoice in their portion. Therefore in their land they shall possess double. Everlasting joy shall be theirs. I hope you have that everlasting joy that comes to knowing Jesus Christ as savior. That number, 888-589-8840. And, we're asking people prayer requests, especially those that would pray on the radio and praying for, what God would be glorified in this battle that's going on, praying for the Iranian Christians, praying for the United States and Israel to have success, this, battle, praying for the safety of our military, praying for the leaders, and praying for the possibility of these Iranian Christians being missional not just in their country, but all over the Middle East. Alex, got a lot to be thankful for and a lot to pray for, don't we?

>> Alex McFarland: We really do. We really do. And, folks, the number, if you want to call in, it's 8885-8988-4088-8589-8840. And, Bert, are we ready to pick up some phone calls?

>> Bert Harper: We're ready. Let's go to Missouri and talk to Steve. Steve, thank you for calling, exploring the word today.

>> Caroline: Thank you. Our Father in heaven, I come to you because our Lord and Savior Jesus said that if we ask, we will receive. And so I'm asking you, Father, to please spread your mighty wings and cover all the innocent civilians and put your head to protection around them, keep them safe from the horrors of this war, just as any other war is full of nothing but horrors. And especially, Father, especially defend the children and protect them from this horrible thing. I pray for all these innocent people through the precious blood sacrifice of your son and our Lord and Savior, he is Jesus the Christ. Amen.

>> Bert Harper: amen. Thank you, Steve. We are praising God for what he's doing. And thank you again, brother. Well, that number, 888-589-8840. If you'd pray, have prayer requests, we'd love to hear it. Well, let's go up north from Tupelo, Mississippi, to Michigan. And it's Larry. Larry, thank you for calling today.

>> Caroline: Thank you for taking my call. And Father, in the name of Jesus, I pray with my brothers and all that are in agreement with us right now for Iran, the people of Iran, the women, the children with the young lady that shared earlier. Lord, you said in your word that first of all, Paul expressed that. Pray for all the leaders who are in authority. And Lord, we lift up to you the entire country, of Iran and its leaders right now that all their actions and the things they do and say will result in people living quiet and peaceable life and true godliness in the Lord Jesus Christ. Father, we forbid, the regime of death and death to America to exist. We bind it to the gates of hell and forbid it to continue. But we do allow you, Lord, the peace and the grace of Almighty God, the Lord Jesus Christ, to rule and reign in Iran and the people right now. Let no weapon formed against our, our military prosper. Keep Israel safe and help them all, Lord. So hope on God.

>> Bert Harper: Amen. Amen. Thank you, Larry. And we are. We're praying for those people and asking God to do. When. When we know there's thousands, probably millions of followers of Christ. And then there's those that are seeking freedom. Alex, Larry and Steve's prayer. They're well said.

Alex calls Jen for prayer for her marriage

Well, let's. Let's go to m. Let me say. Yes, we just go to Kansas and it's Jen. Jen, thank you for calling.

>> Caroline: Yes, hi, I just, wanted to say a little bit of Psalm 91 and just, Psalm 91:9. The Lord is my refuge. And when you make the most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways. They will lift you up in their hands so that you will not strike your foot against the stone. Then I jumped to 14. Because we love you. Because we love you, Lord. And the Lord says, because you love me, I will rescue you. I will protect you, for you acknowledge my name, Jesus Christ. We recognize your name. And he will call on me and I will answer him. I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him and honor him with long life. I will satisfy him and show him my salvation. And I. This has always been a verse on my. I did a Bible study while I was in the military in Hawaii, and it was on Psalm 91. And I have just, over the last 10, 15 years, shared that. That's a lot longer. But, I actually really called it for prayer for my marriage, just how important marriages really are to this, to God, to our country, to our kids for generations and just wanting to end generational sin and just for our hearts to be open, our eyes to be open and softened. And the love is patient and kind. And that's all.

>> Bert Harper: Jen. Thank you. Amen. Praying for marriage. Alex marriage is great, but it's work. you don't just sit back and let everything go by. No, you work at loving your wife. She, in return, learns to love you. And, so, Jen, Father, I pray that you would help her. I pray that that marriage would be strengthened. I pray that she would, just do what she needs to in order to follow you and to be the wife that you would have her to be and respecting and caring for her husband. And for her husband in turn, God, that he would see a responsibility of loving his wife the way Christ loved the church. And, Father, we're praying for that and believing that for Jen. In Jesus name, amen. Amen. Thank you.

Alex: I would like to say a few prayers for President Trump

Alex, we got another one from Mississippi Catfish. go right ahead.

>> Caroline: Yes, sir. Hey, good morning or good afternoon, guys. Thank you for having me. I just wanted to make a couple of comments. one thing is so beautiful, to see the sons of Isaac helping the sons of Ishmael.

>> Bert Harper: Amen.

>> Caroline: For us to be a part of that. And then, since we were in Isaiah, y' all were speaking about that. been studying that. And, this morning, my verse was the end of Isaiah 26. I think it was verse 20. I'm driving, so I can't look right now, but talks about going into your home for just a little while. and I remember just a few days ago, President Trump was saying this. When this first got started, he was telling the people, the Iranian people, to go into their homes for just a little while. And I thought that was so interesting that that verse would come up in my study today. So, that. But just I would like to pray.

>> Bert Harper: Go ahead.

>> Caroline: So, Heavenly Father, we just thank you so much because you have your hand on us. You have your hand on your children in Israel, and your hand on children wherever they may be today. God, we are so thankful that we see the rise of so many coming to you, so many of the lost, coming to you, Father, and coming to your throne room of grace. Father, we are just so appreciative of that. And we are so grateful that your mighty hand continues to walk with us and help us to be your light and everywhere we go. Lord, we, lift up the. All those in the military today, Father. We just pray that you would place a hedge of protection around them, Father. God, that you would give President Trump and all of his staff, wisdom to be able to do the things that you have, asked them to do. And if. God, we just pray that we would continue to pray hard for all the nations for all the lost. And that we could continue, Lord, to be your children and be your light wherever we go and wherever we are. And we pray this in the precious and mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

>> Bert Harper: Amen. Thank you so much. Praise God.

Ben: God is hearing the prayers of his people, isn't he

Alex, we, didn't know if we should do this or not about prayer time, place of question, answers, but I think our answer has come because Brent has one that came over Facebook. Is that right, Ben? That's right. It's from Trudy. She's a regular listener and she's a regular contributor on the comment page. Trudy's prayer is she's praying for this battle to end asap. And for our soldiers, our leaders, the citizens of Iran and their freedoms and for Israel and their people, leaders and soldiers as well. Please protect our brothers and sisters in Christ. I have a military son and very invested in this battle. We give all honor and glory to our Lord and all of prayers in the name of Jesus. Jesus, please protect our Iranian Christian families and all of our Middle Eastern families too. Glory be to God. Amen. Amen. Praise God. Alex, God, is hearing the prayers of his people, isn't he?

>> Alex McFarland: He really is. And you know, the caller mentioned that the children, Ishmael praying for and caring for the children of Isaac. And I mentioned last week when we were at NRB a couple of weeks ago now that many born again Arabic Christians, ex Muslims were praying very often emotionally just weeping, praying for the salvation of the Jewish people and the peace of Jerusalem. And I'm telling you it is going to turn this world upside down, down when the children of Isaac get reconciled to the children of Ishmael. And it's Jesus that's going to do that. And you know Galatians 4 talks about the children of the bond woman, that's Hagar and Ishmael. one day through Jesus we'll be at peace with the children of the free woman. That's Sarah and Isaac. Bert, I'm telling you, it's going to turn the world upside down. And the Lord Jesus is bringing the human race to this point.

>> Bert Harper: Amen. Only Jesus. And we got time for one or two more prayers. If you want to call Triple 858-98-8840 but we have Dennis in Missouri that has a question. Dennis, go ahead with your question, brother.

>> Caroline: Well, God bless you both. I would like to listen to your program. Enjoy it. So blessings to you and your families.

Bert: Does this battle is happening now and may be expanded

My question is, does this battle is happening now and may be expanded?

>> Caroline: Do you think has anything to do

>> Caroline: with Ezekiel 37 and 8.

>> Bert Harper: Okay, go ahead, Alex.

>> Alex McFarland: Bert, I don't know. I'm not really prepared to say that yet. I don't know. you know, because for one thing, many of the Islamic nations around Iran have sided with America and Israel in this. It's almost like many of those Islamic nations they want. And by the way, you know, it's one thing an evil, murderous dictator, which is what Khomeini was, but an evil, murderous dictator with nuclear capabilities. I mean, and, you know, Iran either got or was working to have enriched uranium, which would enable them to create nuclear bombs. I don't know. I just don't think we have enough data yet to try to say if this is relative to Ezekiel 38 or 39, but, I doubt it.

>> Bert Harper: I agree with you, Alex. It is a time for missions. Here's what we do know. We don't know where it exactly fits into God's table that he's laid out, but I know it fits in. But it's definitely a time for a missional moment for the church, and we don't need to waste it. Dwayne in Texas. Go right ahead, Dwayne.

>> Caroline: Yes, I'll make it quick.

>> Caroline: I know there's a lot of prayers needed in the Middle east, but my son has been struggling in a marriage, and I have been struggling with how to pray for him because the,

>> Bert Harper: he needs.

>> Caroline: He needs to be away from this woman. It's a. It's. And it's a difficult prayers.

>> Bert Harper: Okay. Hey, we'll pray right now, Father, for Dwayne. God, we're praying for his son. God, how it hurts a father and a mother when they see their children, in situations that sometimes were. They were the making, sometimes it was other people, sometimes it's a combination. But in this marriage, Father, we're praying that you would change the heart of the wife, that she would be turned to you and in turn, God turned to her husband. I pray for the Son, that he would trust you with his decisions and seek you first in your kingdom. In Jesus name. Amen. We're going to get one more if that's all right, Alex? Yes, Iris. In Texas, we don't have a lot of time, but Iris, go right ahead.

>> Caroline: Okay, I'm going to pray. I'm a Jewish believer and been for nearly 44 years in April, so. Lord, I'm thanking you in advance for the hedge of protection. Psalm 91. around all of Israel, around Iran, around the people, around the strategic charge targets. and, And Upon all the military, those in authority that you give them great wisdom, that you fight the battles that because the battle is truly the Lord. And we pray also not only for the peace of Jerusalem, but my heart's cry as it was Paul, all of Israel to be saved. And we speak that worth in your powerful name. We know nothing is too hard for you. Having done all to stand. We stand and see the salvation of God in the great name of Jesus. Yeshua hamashiach Amen.

>> Bert Harper: Amen.

>> Alex McFarland: M. Amen.

>> Bert Harper: Alex.

>> Alex McFarland: Wow.

>> Bert Harper: Thank you for arranging the interview. God had you at the place where he had you for this right time, brother. Thank you for that.

>> Alex McFarland: Well, to God be the glory. To God be the glory. And, let's keep it in prayer. We're going to continue tomorrow, Bert. And we're getting towards the end of Isaiah, but folks, be much in prayer, especially for our soldiers, wisdom for our leaders and the Holy Spirit to restrain evil.

>> Bert Harper: And be praying for those families that have already lost at least four, military service, people. And father, we pray for those families. They're hurting, but I pray that you would strengthen them and they rely upon you. We pray this in Jesus name. Alex. We'll be back tomorrow. We'll be in 61. I read a little bit about it today. What a, chapter. Chapter 61 is.

>> Alex McFarland: Amen. Folks. Thanks for listening to Exploring the Word. May God bless you in all things. Please tell someone about afr. Most of all, tell everybody about Jesus. The views and opinions expressed in this

>> Caroline: broadcast may not necessarily reflect those of

>> Alex McFarland: the American Family association or American Family Radio.