of Indonesian girls.
In various areas of the world where Islam is dominant, tactics are being used by militants to stop the spread of Christianity. One way is to target young Christian girls. According to Greg Kelley of World Mission, Islamic leaders in Indonesia have been training young men to seduce and impregnate Christian girls, often forcibly. Due to cultural pressure, and the shame that is brought on the families, the victimized girls are often forced to marry into a Muslim family.
Many of the country's Christians are impoverished. Knowing this, the girls' attackers will go to the families and agree to forgo any dowries. And because of the overwhelming shame, these families frequently agree. Once married, the targeted girls end up being cut off from their families, often serving as one of their perpetrators' multiple wives.
While these girls may now be living under the influence of Islam and forcibly converted, in many cases, they remain discretely loyal to Christ. Therefore, they are able to influence their own families. However, any open demonstration of their Christian faith can result in divorce, which would then bring further shame and ostracization.
Pray for the protection of these vulnerable Christian girls in Indonesia, and those of other countries around the world, who have been forced to marry their attackers. May they stand firm in their faith, despite the threat of violence, shame and ostracization. Also remember their family members who have been forced into this difficult situation and are seeking to do what is right. Intercede for the perpetrators as well, praying that their eyes will be opened to the truth of the Gospel, resulting in them surrendering their own lives to Christ.
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