Pastor Vahan İsaoğlu, the presenter of the SAT-7 TÜRK program Behind the Veil, experienced as a young boy the huge earthquake in Türkiye in 1999. He is using this experience to give spiritual support to others following the disaster of February 6.
Vahan explained that if people survive such an event, they realize there is chaos all around them. They start looking for their family members, friends, and neighbours. But even in the midst of such turmoil, God is there with each of us.
“Everything we receive from God is grace,” said Vahan. “God has numbered our days as His stewards, and every day He has weighed up how we have fulfilled the opportunity and responsibility He has given us: to love our brothers and sisters every day, to support our husband or wife, to see the good things He does, to encourage everyone, and to set the right example for our children. We need to develop permanent, not temporary, relationships, and not create conflicts with others.”
Vahan reminded the congregation that Jesus died and rose again, and that although many people died in the earthquakes, God will bring them back with Jesus. “Each person is in the hand of the Lord.”
Vahan encouraged the congregation to read several proverbs, including 31:8-9: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
Vahan added that the Church has a major role to play in responding to the crisis. Churches should be an example to everyone in helping and strengthening others and offering spiritual support. He emphasised the point by reading Galatians 6:10: “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”
“As a church, we must be the first to do good to all people and set an example in society. I am asking you to pray every day, do something good, and share the Gospel.” Vahan concluded.
Prayer Points
Would you please pause and continue to pray for the following right now?
- Continue to pray for the victims of the Türkiye-Syria earthquake, that they will experience supernatural courage and hope despite their circumstances
- For Behind the Veil and the presenters and staff behind the program, that they would reach those who need to hear and experience the hope and love of Jesus