The events unfolding in Afghanistan are historically tragic and deeply distressing. As Americans, we should be grieved and outraged at the callous and grossly negligent manner in which our nation’s leaders have abandoned the Afghan people, despite our longstanding commitment to ensuring freedom and democracy in the region. Equally, we should be horrified that the Biden administration does not appear to have a well-defined strategy or the necessary resolve to ensure the rescuing of thousands of American citizens still trapped in harm’s way. This is also true for the countless Afghans who worked alongside our military and are now in the crosshairs of the Taliban, due to their willingness to stand against this wicked tyranny.

As Christians, we should also weep at the atrocities being perpetrated against the Afghan women and children who are fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of Almighty God. And we should pray that He will pour out His mercy on the people in Afghanistan, and comfort all those whose lives are being torn apart. Lastly, we should pray spiritual warfare prayers against Satan and the dark forces of evil that are working through the Taliban, a wicked and extremist movement that rules by fear and violence, brutalizing women and persecuting Christians.

This is not a time for weakness or blame, but a time for bold leadership and necessary action—the level of courage that made America a beacon of liberty and hope throughout the world. While I implore us to flood our Heavenly Father with our pleas of prayer, we must also demand that the Biden administration responds swiftly and with great determination to put an end to this humanitarian crisis.