We vividly remember the Israelites weeping by the rivers of Babylon,

suffering in anguish after turning away from God.

How can peace dwell in a land where the Word of the Lord has departed?

How can there be fruitfulness where sin is no longer recognized as sin?

How can we not be grieved when human dignity is trampled by wicked schemes?

Before the suffering of that land, we ask—what can we do?

The winds of revival that once swept through that land now seem a distant memory.

Yet, even now, there are those who cling to the Word of God deep within their hearts, holding onto the thread of hope—the faithful remnant who still guard the “stump faith.”

May we remember them, and join together with them to shine light into the darkness.

Loving Lord,

We look upon this world that has lost its truth,
wandering in darkness like Israel that once turned away from You.
Where Your Word has vanished, evil fills human hearts,
and people no longer recognize their sin,
believing themselves to be righteous.

South Hamgyong Province was once one of the most vibrant regions for the Christian church during the Japanese occupation and the years immediately following Korea’s liberation.

It was part of the ancient Goguryeo kingdom, later incorporated into Balhae in 698, and officially divided into North and South Hamgyong in 1416.

The well-known Korean saying “Hamheung Chasa” (“the envoy to Hamheung who never returned”) originates from this very region.

Hamheung City, the provincial capital and North Korea’s second-largest city, remains a center of industry, education, and culture—most famous for the Hungnam Fertilizer Factory.

During the Korean War in 1950, about 100,000 refugees were evacuated southward through the U.S. Navy’s Hungnam Evacuation Operation.

Even today, many displaced Koreans trace their roots back to Hamgyong Province.

For countless separated families, Hamheung and Hungnam remain symbols of “home”—longing for the restoration and evangelization of their homeland.

We earnestly hope that the land will once again awaken to the light of the Gospel,

that broken hearts will be restored, and lost worship will be revived.

May the winds of revival that once swept through this northern land of our people blow again, and may the Lord move mightily to renew it once more.

Almighty Lord,

We remember South Hamgyong—the land where the seeds of the Gospel once flourished.

There was a time when Your Word was proclaimed throughout that region,

and countless souls bowed before You in worship. But now, only groans and silence remain.

Lord, grant once again the revival that was lost.

Let Your Spirit descend upon that land where the fire of worship once never ceased. May the day soon come when Your name is exalted there once more.

Gather Your scattered people—torn apart by war and division—back into Your arms. 

Children of Hamgyong, in the South, the North, and throughout the world,

pray with tears for the restoration of their homeland. Clothe their memories of home with Your comfort and hope.

Through them, let the flame of the Gospel rise again.

Where darkness is deepest, let Your light shine even brighter.

Through our prayers, may we witness the day when South Hamgyong stands again as part of Your kingdom.

We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Today, we would like to share the story of a university student and ask for your prayers.

This student is currently in their second year of college. Watching their mother work tirelessly day and night to support the family with the help of a poor stepfather, the student often feels like a “burden” to her.

Yet, deep in their heart remains a longing — “I want to finish college and continue studying.”

Each time that dream stirs, however, guilt floods in with the thought, “Am I being too selfish?”

But the desire to learn is never a selfish one.

Perhaps it is a hope planted by God — a small but faithful step toward the future He has prepared.

“I want you to know — dreaming is never wrong.”

That was the encouragement given, yet we ask you to join us in prayer that this student will truly be set free from self-condemnation and find renewed confidence and freedom in Christ.

Loving Father,

Our hearts ache as we hear this student’s story.

We lift up this precious one who, despite hardship, has not given up love for family or the desire to learn.

Lord,

To this child who feels like a “burden,” reveal their true identity and worth in You.

Replace guilt with courage and faith to pursue the dream You have placed in their heart.

Let them see that the longing to study is a holy hope from You,

and guide each step of their journey with Your hand.

Pour Your comfort and provision upon the mother’s weary hands,

and may this household be restored in the fullness of Your love and grace.

When fear and hardship press in, help them not to lose heart,

but to walk freely and joyfully in the path You have already prepared.

We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.