Azmera EGYPT Haven Retreat 2023 | Prayer Calendar (November 1-7)

Once again - Hello!

Things are a bit of a whirlwind with such a short amount of time between the Greece and Egypt Haven Retreats, and we are so thankful for your prayer partnership and support as things march on. Our Egypt Haven Retreat is this week, and we would be so grateful if you would continue to pray with us for each woman attending, as well as for the women who have come to serve; we are excited to see the ways in which God will move and work this week. Again, there are a lot of women we get to pray for! So please feel free to pray for the names that jump out at you, and pray as the Holy Spirit leads. My prayer for you this week is that you will hear the voice of the Lord speaking to you in specific ways as you enter His presence to pray for our sisters in Egypt this week, that as He speaks you will allow yourself the time and space to be still and listen, to know that you are loved and longed for. ~suzanna

Wednesday, November 1

Pray for the Egypt Connection Crew as they continue to get to know one another as they spend time preparing for the Haven Retreat. Pray for a spirit of unity and humility among this group of women that will be unique and holy for this time and place. Ask that they would come together as a team and be of one mind, heart, spirit, and purpose. Pray that they would have fun together and their time would be equal parts deep and holy but also filled with laughter and joy.

Pray for Christina as she transitions from leading the Greece Haven Retreat to leading the Egypt Haven Retreat with not much space for rest in between. Ask that God would refocus her heart, mind, and body on the tasks and ministries at hand and that she would make time for rest and renewal for herself. Pray that she would not be afraid to ask for help, and when help and rest are offered that she will not be afraid to accept it.

Pray for Judy as she coordinates this retreat, much of it on the spur of the moment as some things changed quickly and she graciously stepped in to lead. Ask for focus, clear communication, joy, and a heart that is open to what the Lord has for her during her time away from home. Pray that she would encounter Jesus and be reminded of how beautiful she is and how much He delights in her.  

Pray for J as she is involved with a new English outreach program, that she would be encouraged in unexpected ways and would be given glimpses of where and how God is at work. Pray that she would entrust every work of her hands to the Lord, to know that He is good and that He is delighted with her. Ask for her to see the fruit of this ministry, that it would build her faith and call her into new areas of trust and obedience.

Pray for K as the school year is well underway and the routine of things can get challenging, that she would make time and space to rest on a regular basis so that her focus and energy level can be maintained. Ask for grace and compassion from those around her on the days that are stressful and difficult, that she would have community and support and people who love her will cheer her on. Pray that the Haven Retreat will have been life-giving and refreshing to her soul.

Pray for L as she learns about herself and ministry and people through her internship away from home. Pray that she would not be afraid to ask questions and jump into areas she may not be comfortable with, and in doing so she will learn new strengths and abilities. Ask that she will be given clarity and direction for the future and will be excited to step forward in faith and boldness.

Thursday, November 2

The Egypt Haven Retreat starts today! Pray for each woman as she arrives to know how welcomed and loved she is from every interaction she has with the Azmera team. Pray for safety over each woman as she travels to the Retreat, and for peace of mind over each one as she steps away from family, ministry, job, and responsibilities for a few days. Ask that this initial time together would be covered in the Holy Spirit’s presence, that the times of teaching and worship would be sanctified and holy.

Pray for Becca as she spends time teaching and sharing God’s word and heart with the women. Ask that she would be present and focused and would be intentional about sharing as God leads. Pray for rest and renewal for her each day, that she would anchor herself in the Lord and trust Him to lead her and give her the words to say in each conversation and moment of teaching.

Pray for Debi as she leads the women in worship, that the first desire of her heart would be to worship God with an undivided heart and mind. Pray that God would bless the work of her hands and the words of her mouth, that through her willingness to lead, He would open the way for them women to encounter Him, to know Him, to be moved by Him in ways that will be unique and powerful to each woman present. Ask that God would pour out a covering of protection over each room and each woman as they engage in worship and sit with the Lord.

Pray for M and her husband as they focus on maintaining a healthy, intercultural marriage. Pray for clear, open, and honest communication with one another; pray for joy and laughter and sensitivity towards and with one another. Pray for wisdom and discernment as they raise a family and balance family life with ministry and other responsibilities and relationships.

Pray for B as she prepares to move back to the US, knowing she probably won’t return to the mission field in a full-time capacity; ask that she would give herself space to adjust mentally and emotionally to this huge change in life, and to grieve what she will be leaving behind even as she looks ahead towards what is yet to come. Ask for clarity and direction as she looks to the Lord to guide her next steps and provide for her what she needs. Pray that she would know peace and joy in this season.

Pray for M as she continues to adjust and learn what living in another country and as a mission worker looks like. Ask that she would have great people around her to encourage her, teach her, and be an unexpected and holy support system. Pray for her to give herself grace and time to transition and learn new customs and responsibilities, and to allow herself space to miss the things and people she no longer has around her on a daily basis.

Friday, November 3

Pray for the first full day of the Egypt Haven Retreat, for the times of worship, teaching, and connection to be life-giving and full of wholeness and goodness. Pray for the Connection Crew to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and the women they interact with, that they would know when to speak and when to stay silent and allow Jesus to move and minister around them. Ask for a continued spirit of unity and harmony as the women spend time together and point one another toward Jesus.

Pray for Sue and Jessica as they spend time counseling women in a one-on-one setting. Ask that each of these women be filled with the power and knowledge of the Holy Spirit, to listen to His voice and leading as they sit and spend time with the women who come to them. Pray they would speak in boldness as the Holy Spirit leads, that their words would be filled with truth, love, and the power of Jesus. Pray that every word they speak that is from the Lord would be protected and sealed in each heart and mind that hear.

Pray for Annette as they give through the gifts of prayer and connection, that they would listen as Jesus leads and would be obedient to the things He asks. Pray that their faith and trust in God would grow and deepen as they witness the things He does, and as they walk in obedience to the things He invites them to do, even when it seems weird or strange. Ask for rest and quiet time for each of these women, to be filled again and again with a sense of where God is leading and what He has in store for them.

Pray for S to be able to see God’s hand of provision and abundance in her life and work, and specifically in attending this Haven Retreat. Pray that as she spends time with the Lord, the Azmera Connection Crew, and the other attendees that she will be filled to overflowing with rest, fresh perspective, and joy. Ask that God would speak to her in unique and holy ways as she enters His presence through worship, teaching, and conversations; pray that her ears, heart, and mind would be open and able to receive the good things that He has for her.

Pray for L to be able to look back on the summer and all the things it held for her, and to see where God was with her, and to be reminded of how good He is. Ask that the relationships and friendships she has would grow and be a constant source of support and encouragement, that she would no longer feel as isolated and alone as she has. Pray that she would be able to see God in the people around her and in those people she would forge new friendships of depth and safety.

Pray for L to be covered in God’s peace and protection – over her heart, soul, mind, and strength, as she struggles with anxiety and panic attacks since beginning cross-cultural ministry. Pray for wholeness in her mind, and that God would bring everything in her into alignment and healing. Ask that her time at the Haven Retreat will be life-giving and she will encounter Jesus and the Holy Spirit in unexpected, beautiful, and holy ways, that will reach to the depth of her heart and have a lasting impact.

Saturday, November 4

Pray for the Haven Retreat as things become more familiar and comfortable, that there will be many opportunities for connection and conversations on deeper, more authentic levels. Ask that the Holy Spirit protect each conversation and interaction, that there will be joy and laughter alongside tears and mourning. Pray that every woman would feel the tangible presence of Jesus, that the atmosphere in the rooms would change as they gather. 

Pray for the Connection Crew as they continue to give of themselves while still seeing to their own needs. Ask for compassion, kindness, and understanding to be continually present as they each give of themselves in new and different ways. Pray that as they serve one another and the woman attending they will also encounter Jesus in unexpected ways and will see His glory revealed and will be drawn deeper into relationship with Him.

Pray for Julie, Muriel, and June as the minister through pedicures, prayer, create stations, and other practical ways of meeting the needs of the women attending. Ask that these woman would be filled with excitement for what the Lord has set before then, and each one would be willing to step in where needed with gracious hearts and minds.

Pray for M and her family, to be healthy physically and as a family unit. Ask for peace in their household; and that there would be an abundance of laughter and happiness when her family is together. Pray that she and her husband would be a woman and a man of peace, that all who encounter them would know the presence of the Holy Spirit through their countenances, their conversations, and interactions.

Pray for S to have a successful start with a new organization, that she would give herself time and space to learn new routines and ways of doing things. Ask that she would feel at home in this new organization, even as she adjusts to different ways of doing things and communicating. Pray for God to bless the work of her hands and for her to see some fruit right from the start, to encourage her and challenge her to continue on this path.

Pray for J as she continues to get back into the swing of things after spending time at home this past summer. Pray that the support and encouragement she received will continue, that she will know her life and ministry are having an impact both in the US and where she is currently living. Ask for continued direction and leading as she trusts in the Lord to guide her every step and to be her provision.

Sunday, November 5 

The Egypt Haven Retreat ends today! Ask that as the women gather together one final time, there would be shouts of joy and exclamations of praise and thanksgiving. Pray that there would be a continued sense of God’s presence and holiness as they worship together and spend time continuing to share and build friendships. Pray for a blessing over each woman as they prepare to go home. 

Pray for the Connection Crew as their time also begins to wind down. Ask that they would get good sleep and be refreshed for what is still yet to come. Pray that they would each be given the time to rest and be quiet to process and think over the things seen and experienced the past few days. Pray that as they come together to debrief their time together would continue to be guided by the Holy Spirit.

Pray for J and her family as they are in a season of exhaustion, from experiencing loss and dealing with cancer to being in positions of leadership all while parenting 8 kids. Pray for encouragement and healing and rest over each member of this family, for grace and compassion and kindness to be their cornerstones. Ask that God would continue to bring people into their lives to walk with them, support them, and offer tangible help in ways that are so needed.

Pray for J and her husband as they work at an International School and are responsible for kids from different cultures and reasons for attending – from missionary kids to diplomats to local kids. Ask for wisdom and discernment as they lead the kids and interact with the parents and families, that they would be sensitive to where everyone is coming from and would do their best to meet them where they’re at. Pray they would be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading as they interact with people from different faiths and cultural backgrounds.

Pray for D to have an increased sensitivity to the voice of Jesus and to the Holy Spirit’s leading. Pray she would be attentive and obedient as she trusts God to lead her in new ways within her friendships, work, ministry, and with those she encounters on a daily basis. Ask God to fill her mouth and heart with boldness and integrity through the power of the Name of Jesus.

Pray for E as she learns Arabic, that she would be quick to understand and retain what she is learning, and would be bold in practicing whenever and wherever she can. Ask that she would look for simple opportunities to speak with native Arabic speakers, and that in doing so she would build relationships and make friends who will see Jesus in her simply through their interactions. Pray for protection and the powerful sense of the Holy Spirit with her wherever she goes.

Monday, November 6

Pray for these women who live in/around Israel, and were not able to attend the Egypt Haven Retreat because of what is happening in Israel and Gaza right now. Pray for protection over each one, for peace of heart and mind as they look to God to be their protection and deliverance, safety for their families, and trust that God will bring peace. 

Pray for E and her desire for her boys to get a good education as well as healthy friendships and learning in a safe environment. Ask that God would provide for her family as the needs arise and that they would keep their eyes focused on the Lord and would trust Him to be with them. Pray that she would find shelter and rest in God’s presence.

Pray for N to be given wisdom and discernment as she leads her team, in managing them wisely and in building a strong, healthy team. Pray for her to have good friends and community who will support her, encourage her, and be healthy sounding boards for her when she needs clarity and advice. Ask for protection and safety for her son, that he would make wise decisions, and that their relationship would grow stronger and be full of life, understanding, and compassion.

Pray for M and her desire to move from part-time ministry to full-time ministry, that she would be patient to wait on the Lord and follow as He leads. Ask that she would be focused in her ministry and would have compassion and sensitivity for those she interacts with. Pray that she would be able to see where God is at work around her and would be enthusiastic and happy to join in when and where she can.

Pray for D as she desires to create better habits and boundaries with managing her stress levels and following through on self-care and rest for herself. Pray that she would know peace in saying healthy “yeses and no’s” and would find joy in making new routines for herself. Ask that during this season of unrest and unknown, she would know peace in the presence of the Lord and would enter new depths of faith and trust in Him, as well as know His light and joy in the midst of the darkness.

Pray for L to not grow weary in bringing her fears, frustrations, and disappointments to the Lord, that she would continue to be honest with Him and trust that He has good for her even when she can’t see it. Pray for a renewed faith and sense of God’s presence with her always, that she would re-anchor her spirit in the depths of who God is. Ask for protection over her heart and mind, for her to know that God is for her and in that knowing to be at peace.

Pray for L, that God would heal her body from the chronic migraines she has been suffering from, for His hand of healing and peace to lay upon her head and bring everything into alignment and wholeness. Pray for her marriage and the strain of busyness, family, and life that it has been under recently; ask for each person to choose understanding, patience, and kindness within their marriage. 

Pray for A, that God would bring a few more people to join her in her ministry, specifically with a heart to focus on art. Ask that as she trust the Lord with this ministry, she will be able to see where He is at work and would trust that He will provide the right people at the right time. Pray that she would remain focused, and organized and would be filled with a new sense of creativity and enthusiasm for what she does. 

Tuesday, November 7 

Pray for the Connection Crew members who are beginning their journey home. Pray for smooth travel and connections, for God’s hand of protection over each one during each leg of the trip. Ask for sleep and rest and silence when it is needed most. Pray that as these women return home they will be doing so with full hearts and minds, with a spirit of wonder as they remember everything they were able to see God do through, in, and around them.

Pray for the Connection Crew members who will be spending a few additional days in Egypt. Ask that the time they spend together sightseeing and experiencing new things will be fun and will speak of who God is and what He has done. Pray for protection over these women as they travel and experience new things; pray they will see God’s hand at work and His glory revealed in beautiful ways.

Pray for M to leave the Retreat with a renewed sense of rest and hope. Ask that as she returns home it will be with a fresh perspective on things her family has had to deal with the past year, with sickness and death and a lot of hard weight to deal with. Pray that she would have been given good tools to help her create healthy routines and habits for caring for herself so that she can care for those around her. Ask that she would walk away from this feeling not only blessed but more in tune and in sync with the Lord.

Pray for M as she is reminded of who she is in Christ, to not be afraid to step fully into her identity as God has created her. Pray that she would begin to see herself as God sees her, to know her own beauty and worth, and to allow that to change her heart as she is transformed through the renewing of her mind. Ask for God’s blessing and protection over her as she walks into a new season of life.

Pray for J as she learns how to manage and balance the stresses of living cross-culturally with the responsibilities and decisions she makes on a daily basis. Ask that she would learn how to give herself grace to make mistakes and to take time in making decisions and stepping back from things for a moment to get a new perspective when necessary. Pray for wisdom and discernment and for more clarity in listening to and obeying the voice of the Lord.

Pray for L as she deals with ongoing health issues and concerns, stemming back from cancer surgeries from the past two years. Pray for health and healing throughout her body, for peace over her mind as she continues to trust in the Lord, and for a heart that finds itself at home in Jesus again and again. Ask for protection over the school she is a part of, for physical and spiritual attacks that come against it to be held back in the name of Jesus; pray that the students and families impacted will see God’s hand of protection and provision. 

Azmera GREECE Haven Retreat 2023 | Prayer Calendar (October 25-31)

Friends! Greetings!

My sincerest apologies that this is coming in later than I wanted, life gets crazy, you know? Thank you for being here, we appreciate you so very much. Our Greece Haven Retreat starts this week, maybe even as you’re reading this! We are excited to pray for this retreat and every woman participating, and this retreat has a lot of women attending! So you will find the prayer suggestions a bit heavy on the numbers going forward, so as always please allow the Holy Spirit to lead you as you pray, and do not feel obligated to pray for every single one; He knows who you need to pray for and why. As you spend time praying this week my prayer for you is that you will encounter Jesus in unexpected and beautiful ways, and will be reminded of who you are in Him and to Him. May you be encouraged and blessed and filled with hope. ~suzanna

Wednesday, October 25

Pray for The Connection Crew as they spend time team building and getting things in order for the Retreat. Pray that there would be unity, compassion, and kindness among this specific group of women as they come together to serve and encourage the women attending, as well as to meet one another where they’re at. Ask that as things come up and there are bumps in the road, that they would be understanding and gracious towards one another and with the situations themselves.

Pray for S as she has mounting frustrations and irritability with her organization and coworkers, as there has recently been more chaos than not. Ask that as she manages her feelings and tasks with things as they have been with the disruption of everything that she gives herself grace. Pray that she would turn her face towards the Lord and know His love and goodness for her.

Pray for S as she desires to step out in faith and watch God provide. Pray that she would be bold in her asking and that God would go above and beyond in what, how, and when He gives to her. Ask that in this season she keeps a tender heart and would walk with a new level of trust and love for God.

Pray for A as she navigates the last few years of parenting and homeschooling teens, for wisdom and discernment as she continues to lead them towards finishing well. Ask for grace, understanding, and compassion to cover their home and relationships. Pray that as she looks ahead and begins exploring options for what to do when her kids leave the nest that she would do so with hope and an adventurous heart and would not let things hold her back from trying new and different things.

Pray for M and her husband as they continue with the rhythms and routines of the Fall season, as they rest from the busyness of summer and look ahead towards the Holidays and a change of pace. Pray that they would both make time to rest and refocus, that they would lead their team well, and would make one another a priority amidst the challenges of life and ministry.

Pray for B as she steps away from her family and ministry and gives herself space to rest and reconnect with the Lord. Ask that she would be encouraged in the work she is doing, and would see how God’s word and work and presence are seen and known in dark places. 

Thursday, October 26 – Retreat Starts

The Haven Retreat Starts Today! Pray for the Connection Crew as they welcome the women in, that their first interactions will be filled with warmth and caring, that each woman who arrives will sense a shift in the atmosphere for her - a sense of safety, love, and the knowledge that she is seen and loved. 

Pray for Christina and Kari as they lead and manage this Haven Retreat, that they will both be rested and refreshed each day, that they will be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s voice and leading, that they will communicate and listen well, and that they will lay aside their own expectations and allow Jesus to lead.

Pray for Peg and Joy as they prepare and spend time leading the women with their gifts of teaching (Peg) and worship (Joy). Thank God for the way He has gifted these women and ask that they be filled to the fullness with humility and a longing to see God glorified and known. Pray for these women to be protected by the power of the Name of Jesus as they speak and lead in boldness and love.

Pray for D and her husband as they need a place of rest, to rest. Ask that the Lord would be gracious and abundant in His provision for them, as He knows the deepest needs of their hearts and bodies. Pray that as they enter into places of rest they would encounter Jesus and would find and know peace for their hearts, minds, and souls.

Pray for Y and her desire for peace between Russia and other countries, ask the Lord to continue to move in power, and to bring healing, peace, and hope, especially to those involved in and directly affected by the war between Ukraine and Russia. Pray for God to give her wisdom and understanding as she stands in the gap for those around her, that she would be sensitive to the needs of others and to the voice and leading of the Holy Spirit. 

Friday, October 27

Pray for the Haven Retreat on its first full day. Pray that the time the women spend in worship, teaching, and discussion will be full of goodness, truth, and vulnerability. Pray for the Connection Crew as they create safe spaces for authenticity, tears, and life. Ask that the Holy Spirit be present in every conversation and that the rooms and spaces the women gather would be consecrated as holy.

Pray for Crystal as she gives of her time through Spiritual Direction and Pilates and simply being present with each woman she interacts with. Pray for protection and healing over her mind and body, and for her heart and spirit to be in tune with Jesus. 

Pray for Veronica and Mary Jane as they make themselves available for Healing Prayer to those who desire it. Pray that each of these women will speak in boldness, truth, and faith and that only the words from their mouths that are sanctified by the Lord will be heard by those they pray with.

Pray for Nan, Dina, and Kerri as they counsel women one-on-one. Ask that each of these women be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit, and an increased sensitivity to His voice and leading, trusting Him with every word they speak. Pray that their rooms will be covered with His protection and presence.

Pray for H as she looks forward to spending time at this retreat with her mom, for the time they spend together to be fun and life-giving and full of truth and goodness. Ask God to give her and her mom and covering of protection and peace as they spend time with one another and with the Lord, and as they spend time with other women. Pray that she would encounter God in a way that she has never known, that it would be everything good and holy and unexpected.

Pray for L as she desires to be whole and well mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Pray that she would have clarity in knowing what things are positively or negatively affecting her and wisdom and discernment in setting healthy boundaries. Ask that God would bring good people into her life to encourage her and point her towards wholeness and truth, and to sit with her in comfort and presence in the darkness.

Saturday, October 28

Pray for Day Two of the Haven Retreat, as the women have gotten to know one another that they will feel more comfortable to share more deeply and authentically in the safe spaces that have been created. Pray for the times of worship and teaching and fellowship to be filled with the presence of the Lord in such a way that each woman will encounter Jesus in holy and unexpected ways.

Pray for Chantay and Keitha as they serve the women through the gift of massage. Pray that each woman they minister to will feel loved and cared for and will see Jesus through their interactions. Ask that these women will serve in boldness and faith, and will give the Lord any fears or hesitations they may feel as He invites them into new areas of faith and obedience.

Pray for Tary as she oversees the Create Station, that she will be confident in her gifts and abilities to make the space welcoming and fun. Pray for her as she walks in new ways of faith with the Lord and trusts Him to use what she brings to Him. Ask that she would be able to see the fruit of her work on this retreat.

Pray for Brenda, Ashley, Lisa, Lynn, Rosslyn, and Kate as they minister through the tangible gift of giving pedicures and prayer. Ask that each of these women will be filled with joy and excitement to serve in this way, that they would be humble and compassionate as they meet with each woman they sit with. Pray that God would fill the pedicure room with His presence, power, and holiness.

Pray for S as she looks to the Lord to be her provision personally and spiritually. Pray that she would be given clarity and understanding as to what that looks like in her life and heart, that she would listen to His voice as He speaks truth to her and invites her into new areas of faith and life. Ask for His protection over her as she walks in faith and trust.

 Pray for E, her husband and son as they each continue to deal with the aftermath of a terrible road accident almost a year ago; pray for complete healing and wholeness in her son’s leg. Ask for a good support system and community to continue to be alongside them as they walk towards healing and give their fears to the Lord. Pray for joy and peace to be their song, that they would choose to walk in freedom in Jesus.

Sunday, October 29

Pray for the Greece Haven Retreat as it ends and the women begin their journeys home. Ask that the last few hours spent together will be filled with joy and hope, that the things they’ve learned, experienced and have been reminded of will settle deeply and securely in their hearts and minds. Pray for the glory of the Lord to be present and visible.

Pray for the Connection Crew as they wind down their time serving and their time together, that they each would find moments to rest and process the past week. Ask that as they debrief together there would be laughter and joy and moments of awe as they share what they have seen God do. Pray for wisdom and sensitivity for those leading to meet this team where they’re at and to give space to each woman when and how she needs it.

Pray for the Egypt Connection Crew as they land in Egypt and make their way towards Sharm El-Sheikh, after already long hours of travel and connections. Pray for continued protection and rest over each woman, for smooth flights and no lost luggage or problems with travel. Ask God to unify this team, especially if there are some coming from Greece, in a way that is unique and holy and beautiful for this time alone. Pray that as each woman arrives in Egypt she will be given a clear sense that God has something unique and profound in store for her alone, and will be on the lookout for what and where God will reveal it. Pray for rest and a quick adjustment to the time and culture change.

Pray for J and her husband to have clarity, patience, and perseverance as she and her husband study and learn German, that they would be persistent in learning but also cut themselves and one another some slack when they sense they just need a break. Pray that as she parents her kids and helps them make decisions about what comes next after High School. Ask that they would each have wisdom and discernment as they explore options and ask for input from family and friends, that they would listen and make their decisions based on truth and to follow their own hearts desires and dreams. 

Pray for J and her team as they continue to disciple and follow up with young people they met during the summer programs and outreaches they put on. Ask for wisdom as they look for new ways to connect and meet people where they are, that they would be patient in waiting for leading and direction from the Lord. Pray that she would be encouraged and know that God is at work even in the places she can’t see.

Pray for M and her family, especially her four kids, as they transition to living in a new place and adjust to new routines, faces, and layout of the area. Ask that she would be patient and understanding with herself and her family as they each adjust at different rates and in different ways; ask that their household and family would be full of grace and compassion for one another. Pray for open eyes and hearts to see and welcome new opportunities and relationships that a move provides.

Monday, October 30

Pray for K as she faces the challenges of being on a staff of three at their church plant, alongside starting an inner healing prayer ministry and learning what that means as she trains for it. Ask that she would make time and space to sit and rest quietly, for the wisdom and discernment to know what rest looks like for her. Pray that she would learn in new ways what the voice of the Lord sounds like, and that as she does so she would walk in obedience and confidence as He leads her. Ask that God would be abundant in financial provision for her and that she would trust Him to provide for her needs as the need arises.

Pray for N to have an increased sensitivity to the voice of and awareness of the presence of the Holy Spirit as she interacts with both children and adults in the ministry she has. Pray that she will walk and speak in boldness and faith as she follows the leading of the Lord. Ask that she would trust God to bless the work of her hands and to find rest for her soul as she steps away from the responsibilities to attend the Haven Retreat.

Pray for D as she leads and serves the women in positions of leadership in her church, that she would be gracious and tender in her ministry and learn what it means to meet each woman where they are at. Pray that the women in this ministry would be encouraged and challenged in their faith as they walk with the Lord and step out in obedience in the ministries of their own. Ask for protection and provision for each woman.

Pray for E as she seeks clarity in her job, that she would ask good questions and be teachable as she learns. Ask that she would be approachable and kind in her workplace and that she would be confident in her skills and abilities and would work with boldness and faith. Pray for good co-workers and friends to support and encourage her.

Pray for K as she continues to adjust to being a mother to an infant and toddler, and all the extra work and effort that come with it. Pray that she would see where God is with her in the midst of sickness and sleepless nights and the constant demands of the tiny people in her care. Ask that she would have good friends who will listen to her, validate her feelings, and provide a safe place for her to share her frustrations, tiredness, and joys with. 

Tuesday, October 31 

Pray for the Greece Connection Crew as they begin their trip home, that they would be given safe travel, smooth flights and connections, and moments of deep rest and sleep. Pray that as they travel together they would continue to share the things they experienced and learn, and would be reminded again and again of how good and amazing God is. Pray for protection and peace over each woman.

Pray for the Egypt Connection Crew as they spend time getting to know one another, praying together, and experiencing new things together, that there would be a deep sense of unity and purpose. Ask that this group of women would have fun together, would be kind, compassionate, and understanding, and would see the value in the gifts and life experiences that each one brings with her. Pray for a covering of protection and holiness over this team.

Pray for R as she desires to grow closer to the Lord and hear His voice even more clearly. Ask that as He makes His voice known to her in different ways that she will trust Him and follow Him in faith and hope. Pray that as she walks into new areas of relationship with God she will never cease to be astounded at who He is, what He has done and is doing, and the glory that is His alone.

Pray for A to trust that God will provide for her and her family’s needs as He sees fit, whether that is housing or finances or peace of mind. Pray that she will see where He is with her and will be reminded of how He has been her provision all the times in the past. Ask that as she waits on Him and trusts in Him that she will be filled with hope and confidence and excitement to see where He will reveal His hand of goodness and love.

Pray for K as she asks God to continue to reveal His plan for the ministry she is involved in, that she would trust the words that He speaks and will move forward or stay in place in confidence and trust. Ask that her posture would be one of faith and willingness to let go of things that are as He invites her into new areas and relationships that He has set in place for her. Pray that she would be filled with joy and hope as she looks ahead towards what is yet to come.

Pray for F as she desires to focus on her walk with God and grow in her relationship with Him. Pray that He would bring people into her life to challenge her, hold her accountable, and point her towards Jesus in a consistent manner. Ask for grace and compassion as she learns new facets of who God is and who she is in Him, that she would trust Him as He shows her places and relationships in her life that may need to be shifted so that she will become more like Him in new ways and areas within her own heart and mind. 

Azmera GREECE Haven Retreat 2023 | Prayer Calendar (October 18-24)

Hello, Dear Friends.

We are preparing for two Haven Retreats: a Haven Retreat in Greece from October 26-29, and a Haven Retreat in Egypt from November 2-5. We are trusting God as we move forward with our plans, especially with the state of war that is happening in Israel at this time. Would you pray with us for wisdom and discernment in the best course of action? For leadership to listen and act as the Lord leads, however, He should lead? We’d sure appreciate that. 

Otherwise, here is a new prayer calendar for a new season of Haven Retreats! We have quite a few women signed up to attend the Greece Retreat, so will be heavy on the prayer suggestions for each day. As always, thank you so much for giving your time to read these and to spend time praying over each woman involved in this Retreat. I encourage you to sit and listen to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to lead you as you pray for our sisters; sometimes what He has in mind isn’t what’s right in front of us, you know? As you spend time praying, may you yourself be blessed and encouraged and encounter the God of ages in a way that is unique and life-giving to your heart, mind, soul, and strength.

suzanna

Wednesday, October 18

Pray for E as she continues to transition and adjust to living in Italy after being in Ireland for three years; pray for focus as she learns a new language and culture, and for grace to give herself in abundance as the adjustment continues. Ask that she would find a good community of people to support and encourage her, as she grows in her walk with the Lord.

Pray for S to be brave and courageous in moving from what she thinks people expect her to be, to a posture of authenticity and vulnerability. Pray that God would bring good people into her life that will create safe places for her to let her guard down and share the parts of herself that she usually keeps hidden. Ask for peace and protection over her as she steps into new areas of relationship and ministry as she follows Jesus’ leading in choosing to be authentic and genuine. 

Pray for L as she desires community and friendships with others who are her age and at her stage in life, as she has children and grandchildren in the U.S. and has passed the seasons of young motherhood and family. Ask that the Lord will be gracious in His provision, and will bring women into her life who will understand the season she is in and will encourage her in her ministry and relationships.

Pray for G and for protection over her and her family; pray for health and wellness for her and for each member of her family. Ask that she would trust God with her family and with all of the “what ifs” that are beyond her control. Pray for peace over and in her heart and mind.

Thursday, October 19

Pray for O as she struggles with health issues related to her thyroid; pray that God would lay His hand of healing over her body and bring into alignment everything that is not working properly and is off-balance within her. Pray for her peace of mind and heart as she has family fighting on the front lines in Ukraine, that she would seek God’s face and know His peace as she holds the worries and concerns close to her heart.

Pray for Y and the exhaustion she is experiencing, in both heart and mind and physically as well. Ask that God would give her clarity and peace in where she is and what she is doing, that she would have discernment if things need to change or she needs to shift ministry or perspective. Pray that she would make time to be still before the Lord and allow Him to refill and refresh her weary heart and soul.

Pray for H to trust God to give her times of rest and quiet, as she is worn out with the ongoing war in Ukraine and the direct effects it has on her and her family. Pray for her to see the places God is inviting her into so that He can give her rest and take the burdens from her. Ask that she would have wisdom and discernment in raising her children (youngest is 14) and balancing their needs with her own.

Pray for M as she works alone this fall, with her teammates and friends back home on furlough. Ask that God would meet here where she is in the absence of the friends, support and community she is used to. Pray that she would know confidence and peace in the areas she will be stretched and challenged, that she would be excited to step into new areas of growth in her walk with God and in her ministry.

Friday, October 20

Pray for K as she struggles with the amount of work and pressure she has been under, making this a very difficult season for her to be in. Pray that God would send others to come alongside her to ease the burden and workload, as well as to offer her encouragement, perspective, and grace. Ask that she would arm herself in the truth of who God is and who she is in Him, to choose truth and light over the fear and doubts that are spoken to her in the quiet places. Pray she would see Jesus at work in and around her and that would fill her with hope and the power of the Holy Spirit.

Pray for C as she balances being a wife and mother with team leading and overseeing various training and staffing needs. Ask that she would be aware of how her priorities are lined up and would have the wisdom and discernment to know what to step back from to make way for things that will be more important in this season. 

Pray for N as she desires to be refreshed in Scripture, that she would be able to define what that means for her and how she wants to use that time spent in the Word. Ask for God to meet her wildly and unexpectedly in the pages of the book she has spent hours in, that His word and truth would come to life for her in ways she doesn’t expect but that meet her heart right where she is. Pray that she would trust God with what the future holds and that she would be content to focus on and be present in the life she has right now.

Pray for M to have clarity and understanding of what it means to be an Adult Third Culture Kid, and for wisdom and discernment as she leads other Third Culture Kids and helps them to better understand themselves and the unique roles they have as TCK’s. Ask that as she leads and learns in this role that she would keep her eyes focused on the Lord and will allow Him to speak identity and the truth of who she in Him, apart from anything else she has done or been. Pray that she would find freedom and confidence in who she is in Jesus alone.

Saturday, October 21

Pray for L and her desire to be refreshed and renewed in the goodness of God, and by Him alone. Pray for her to see the opportunities God is inviting her to, that she would step with faith and boldness into areas she may be unsure about but that she would be sure of who God is and know that what He has for her is good. Ask that as He refreshes and renews her spirit and heart she would be filled with hope and anticipation for the good things He has yet to bestow.

Pray for M as she desires to speak English with confidence, especially with those who are older than she is. Ask that she would give herself grace and that she will be met with love and kindness in every conversation and interaction she has, specifically where English is being spoken. Pray that as she speaks she would do so with peace and wisdom, and that God would bless and use the relationships that she is building through this practice. Pray that she would know joy and be filled with light and laughter.

Pray for L as she desires security and resources for those in the midst of the war in Ukraine. Pray that God will give her wisdom and leading in how best to use the resources He’s given her to come alongside those in need, to offer not only comfort and compassion but tangible ways to meet people where they’re at. Ask that God would move in power in her life and in the lives of those around her to provide healing, peace, and hope.

Pray for C and the health issues that have risen up this year, for the toll that it has taken on her physically, mentally, and emotionally. Ask that God would bring healing and wholeness over her body, that He would speak peace and calm over her mind, and that He would soothe and bring rest to her emotions. Pray for people in her life to come alongside her to be encouragement, offer refreshment in tangible ways, and to point her towards Jesus and truth when she needs it the most. Ask that she would be reminded again and again of how loved she is and of how much good God has for her.

Sunday, October 22 

Pray for our Connection Crew as they begin their trip to Greece! Pray for safety in traveling, for smooth flights and connections, and for as much rest as possible on all the legs of the journey. Pray for each woman as they step away from jobs, families, and responsibilities to focus on serving the woman who will be attending the Haven Retreat. Ask that this specific team of women will connect with one another, that there would be a great measure of kindness, laughter, and unity as they work together in different settings and with different perspectives and backgrounds.

Pray for the Hotel Staff and Service Workers who will come in contact with the women of this retreat, that they will sense a shift in the atmosphere as the Holy Spirit fills each room and space that the women will occupy. Pray for good communication, favor, and grace as things will arise and unexpected situations will come up. Pray that every person who encounters any of the women involved with Azmera will be met with grace, compassion, and love, and will see Jesus because of it.

Pray for A as she wraps up and reflects on the busyness of the summer and all the activities, travel, and meetings of early Fall. Pray that she would make time to sit and rest and reflect in the Lord’s presence, that she would know that He is waiting to meet with her to continue to speak truth and love to her. Ask that God would have a special place prepared for her at the Haven Retreat, that she would encounter Him and know His love and goodness as she never has before. 

Monday, October 23

Because of the circumstances currently happening in Israel and the Gaza Strip right now, we anticipate that most of the women who had registered to attend either the Greece or Egypt Haven Retreats who would have been coming from Israel and the surrounding areas will no longer be able to attend. These are some of the women who live in those areas, so we ask special prayers of protection, peace, trust, and faith as their lives are disrupted. Pray for peace over hearts and minds, for families that have been split up to trust God, for fear to be entrusted to the Lord, and for Jesus to come in power and make things new and right.

Pray for A and her family’s small business as the cost of growing pains is expensive, that God will be abundant and timely in His provision, that they will trust Him wholeheartedly, and that they will see His hand at work in all of the unknown-to-them. Pray also for protection and peace over their family and business as they navigate running a business in the midst of the upheaval and chaos in Israel at this time.

Pray for M and the responsibility she has of co-managing a shelter for homeless women. Pray that she would have wisdom and discernment as she meets with women who need spiritual guidance and clarity in next steps. Ask that she would make space to listen and be present with each woman that she meets with, and that she would have an increase in sensitivity to the women and to the Holy Spirit’s voice and leading.

Pray for D as she learns how to balance new motherhood with also leading a new ministry. Pray that she would find time to rest and connect with the Lord in these new phases of life, and in those moments of rest, she would be filled with peace, hope, and joy in the things that are and the things that are yet to come. 

Tuesday, October 24

*Continued prayers for the women in/around Israel

Pray for L and her family’s ministry to those around them, as they lead people in worship and share the truth of who God is through music. Ask that the Lord would bless the work of their hands and the words of their mouths, especially is there is so much upheaval, sorrow, and unknown around them. Ask that God would be their confidence, their hope, and joy when the night is long and dark and fear is tangible. Pray that they would see God move in power and authority as they worship Him in the midst of the turmoil around them.

Pray for R and her concern for her husband’s health, as they move forward with his recovery from cancer and the surgeries, radiation, and chemotherapy he underwent. Pray that God would continue to pour out healing and health over both of them and would give peace and rest to their hearts and minds. Ask that this time she will have at the Haven Retreat will be life-giving, restful, and that she will be encouraged and encounter Jesus in a way that will be precious and holy only for her.

Pray for G and her husband as they continue to adjust to living in a new apartment and town. Ask that the friendships they’ve made – both through Bible study and otherwise -  will be life-giving and safe for them during this time. Pray for protection over them, and for them to have wisdom and discernment in how to meet the needs of those around them even as they figure out what is the best and safest course of action for themselves. Ask that they would know the presence and power of God with them in powerful and holy ways. 

Pray for D as they wait to hear about her husband’s citizenship request, especially as things in Israel have come to a stop. Pray for patience, trust, and the wisdom to keep their eyes focused on the Lord in the midst of so many great fears and unknowns. Ask that God would be their confidence and peace and that they would know His presence and protection in big ways and small. Pray for hope and faith in greater measure as they look to Him to be their provision.