Venezuela has been in the news a lot lately because of the arrest of Nicolas Maduro. I thought I would take a moment and present some information from within Venezuela. As you know we have lived in Colombia for the past few years because of threats to Americans in Venezuela. However, Elsa's family lives in Venezuela. Additionally, we have many churches, ministries, and friends there. We are in daily contact with people around the country.
There has not been a great change in the daily life of the people. People are cautiously optimistic. Most have a great hope for the future of the nation. But they haven't been able to truly celebrate yet because the regime still controls the government at all levels. You may have seen videos of large crowds of people celebrating in the streets and statues of Chavez been torn down. Most of these are from Venezuelans in other countries or are old videos from protests in previous years. The street scenes of people celebrating the release of political prisoners are current. Several hundred prisoners have been released. We have had some friends and ministry contacts released this past week. We are thrilled!
The large majority of Venezuelans are grateful for the capture of Maduro. The only ones who are not are the "enchufados" which is the term used for those who are "plugged into the government." In other words, they make their living from political position, crime, drugs, etc. There are very few people remaining in Venezuela that want socialism. Everyone has seen it fail and produce the disaster that started in 1998 and has continue until today. Even the "enchufados" could care less about ideology. They are just trying to hold onto their position of privilege.
Venezuela and the future? People are hopeful that the transition period will be short. They want to see the regime leaders fall from power and the "cartel de los soles" collapsed. They are looking forward to free and fair elections that will lead to good government. With good government the future of Venezuela will be bright.
How to pray for Venezuela?
1, God's Kingdom to come and His Will be done in Venezuela.
2. The criminal gangs and cartels be destroyed.
3. Good government. 1 Timothy 2:1-4
4. Open doors for the spread of the Gospel
5. Revival and Awakening
Our ministry in Venezuela continues to be strong. Churches continue to grow and plant new churches. We continue to ship Bibles into the country. The prison ministry is powerful. The Institute of Grace and Faith is expanding. I will focus on these ministries and other Global 21 ministries in Venezuela in future posts.
As always we are appreciative of your prayers and financial support. Together we will continue to see the Kingdom of God advance in Venezuela.
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