Weekly Prayer Strategy — Jun 21, 2025
- Nhop
- Jun 21, 2025
- 6 min read
Saturday, June 21, 2025
Two Nations, One Roar: The Lion of Judah in the Middle East
This past Thursday marked the 23rd of Sivan, Kaf Gimel Sivan (כ״ג סיון), the biblical day when a new decree of life and defence was issued for the Jewish people (Esther 8:9). In light of the current conflict between Israel and Iran, we see prophetic echoes of that historic moment. Israel’s military campaign, codenamed Operation Rising Lion, powerfully resonates with Numbers 23:24: “Behold, the people rise like a lioness, and as a lion lifts himself up…”. This verse, spoken by Balaam under divine compulsion, declared Israel’s destined strength in the face of her enemies. The lion has always symbolized not only power and authority, but divine identity, pointing us to Yeshua, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, who will ultimately rule over all nations.
Could this moment be more than a military turning point? Could it be a divine reversal, as on Kaf-Gimel Sivan, when a heavenly shift overruled a decree of death? Even as Iran’s leaders rage, there is a quiet but unstoppable move of God among the Iranian people. The underground church in Iran is the fastest-growing in the world, as countless Iranians, especially the young, are encountering Yeshua in visions, dreams, and through the courageous witness of believers.
Just as the Lion rises for the protection and destiny of Israel, He also roars with love and redemption over the Iranian people, many of whom are oppressed by their own regime. Let us pray, on this appointed season, that the Lion of Judah would arise in power—to defend Israel, to transform Iran, and to bring both Jews and Persians into the fullness of His covenant promises.
Note: The Iranian flag shown in the photo is the pre-1979 flag, representing the historical and cultural identity of the Iranian people. It is not the current flag used by the regime in power today, which is widely recognized as a sponsor of terror. This distinction is intentional, honoring the people of Iran while rejecting the oppressive rule they live under.
Thanks to our donors for making a difference!
The National House of Prayer is not sponsored by any particular denomination or agency. We rely on the generosity of people like youto enable us to activate strategic prayer for Canada and its leaders. If you would like to partner with us in a financial way, supporting our work, please click below.
The National Day of Prayer in Ottawa on July 11 and 12 is not just another event. It is a holy summons to all the people of God across Canada to come together in humility, unity, and bold intercession. As Israel faces rising threats and Canada stands at a spiritual and moral tipping point, now is the time to respond to God's call. “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and I will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14). This is more than a gathering; it is a moment of repentance, covenant, and prophetic alignment for the nation. We are honoured to welcome our First Nations brothers and sisters, whose presence carries deep meaning in the story God is writing across this land. If you carry a burden for Canada’s future and a heart for God's eternal purposes, including His unfailing covenant with Israel, you need to be on Parliament Hill to pray with us.
We invite you to join us for our NHOP Zoom prayer calls—a great opportunity to connect in prayer online:
🕙 Tuesdays | 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM ET
🌙 Wednesdays | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM ET
All are welcome!
House of Commons rises for the summer
On June 20, the House of Commons rose for the summer recess after a busy and intense session, marked by significant debates including discussions on Bill C-5. While some MPs had called for an extended sitting to allow for further scrutiny, Parliament concluded its business, allowing members to return to their constituencies for the summer break. The Senate is expected to continue its work on pending legislation in the coming weeks.
We are thankful for the many new believing members who have joined this Parliament. As they continue to settle into their roles and set up their constituency offices, we pray that God will grant them wisdom, clarity, and a clear vision for the ridings they represent. May He inspire and empower them to be effective and compassionate leaders, reflecting God’s love and justice in their work.
As Parliament prepares to return in the fall, we pray for a renewed spirit of collaboration and unity, where members across partisan lines will work together for the good of all Canadians. We specifically lift up Damien Kurek and Pierre Poilievre in prayer. We bless Damien for his sacrifice in resigning his seat so that Pierre can return as leader of the Conservative Party. We ask God to give Pierre bold humility—to speak the truth with courage and boldness, yet with a heart full of love, mercy, and grace.
May this summer be a time of preparation, equipping all members to serve with renewed passion and purpose in the months ahead.
"Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should."
Ephesians 6:19-20
If you’ll be in the Ottawa area for Canada Day, we’d love for you to join Chris and Marilyn, along with many other ministry and church leaders, in this celebration of Jesus.
Weekly Prayer Points
For our Members of Parliament
Pray for God to bless and strengthen the many new believing MPs.
Pray that new Members would establish their constituency offices smoothly and begin their service with wisdom and clarity.
Pray for divine vision for their ridings and boldness to live out their faith in public life.
Pray that when Parliament resumes in the fall, there will be a renewed willingness to work across partisan lines for the good of the nation.
Pray that new Members of Parliament will quickly find a healthy rhythm in the demands of political life—especially the strain of constant travel between Ottawa and their home ridings. Pray that they will form meaningful connections and friendships in Ottawa so they do not walk alone.
Pray with gratitude for Damien Kurek’s humility and willingness to step aside, making it possible for Pierre Poilievre to re-enter the House of Commons. Pray blessing for Damien and his family.
Pray for wisdom, courage, and strength as Pierre Poilievre returns to lead the Conservative Party in the House. Pray that God would give him bold humility, to speak truth with courage, yet with a heart full of love, mercy, and grace.
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
Isaiah 40:31
Pray regarding the war between Israel and Iran
Pray that Israel would rise in strength and righteousness, just as prophesied in Numbers 23:24. May she stand under God’s covering as the Lion of Judah roars in her defense.
Pray for God to overturn every modern decree of destruction - spoken, political, or military - against the Jewish people and the State of Israel.
Pray for the millions of Iranians disillusioned with their regime. Ask for protection and boldness for believers and that the gospel will continue to spread rapidly throughout the land.
Pray for God to break the chains of fear, control, and deception imposed by the Iranian regime, and to raise up courageous voices for truth, justice, and righteousness within Iran.
Pray for those coming to faith in Yeshua across Iran - that they would be discipled, hidden from harm, and filled with the Holy Spirit to lead others.
Pray that both peoples would have dreams, visions, and encounters with Jesus, the true Messiah.
As Esther and Mordecai released a new decree, pray that the Lord would release heavenly decrees through His intercessors from His Word - words of life, protection, and purpose over Israel, Iran, and the nations.
“Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
Matthew 6:10
Blessings,
Chris & Marilyn Byberg
Executive Directors
National House of Prayer
Comments