(swah-HEE-lee) – Fear of the supernatural world plays a big part in the lives of many Swahili-speaking Arabs of East Africa. From childhood onward, they are taught to avoid certain trees because evil spirits live in them. They say special words when walking into a bathroom for the same reason. Newborn babies are considered both pure and vulnerable, so they are often adorned with black eyeliner and charms around their wrists to keep the evil away. Even those who say they don’t believe in these things will go to great lengths to avoid the jealous effects of the “evil eye.” Medical doctors in the hospital are trained to distinguish between physical diseases and spiritual ones. Witch doctors and spiritual healers make a good living because their services are sought out frequently. As you pray for them, please claim the promise of Isaiah 41:10 (ESV) over this fear-gripped people: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”