Introduction / History

Some Lebanese consider themselves Arabs while others associate themselves with the ancient Phoenicians. Both groups have made their mark on world history through trade and military power. Others consider the Lebanese to be Levantine Arabs, referring to those who originated in Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine or Syria. Some also include Arabs from Egypt, Iraq and Turkey. Like their ancient ancestors, today's Lebanese Arabs live all over the world including African countries. More Lebanese moved to West African nations after Lebanon's economic meltdown in 2019. One of these nations was Cote d'Ivoire.

What Are Their Lives Like?

There are prominent Lebanese families that have built strong businesses in many parts of Africa including Cote d'Ivoire, a country that has French influence like Lebanon. Cote d'Ivoire has a large number of Lebanese by African standards. More Lebanese are arriving in Africa to make a living after the Lebanese currency collapsed in 2019.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Like in Lebanon, about two-thirds of the Lebanese population is Muslim and one-third is part of a traditional church. They are usually more focused on their traditions than on the person of Jesus Christ and following him.

What Are Their Needs?

Whether they are Muslim or traditional Christian, the Lebanese Arabs in Cote d'Ivoire need to put their hope and trust in Jesus Christ. They need the infilling of the Holy Spirit and the willingness to obey Christ so they can experience abundant life.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to revive the Lebanese church, leading them to make disciples of Christ who make more disciples.
Pray for their fellowships to be Christ centered rather than tradition centered.
Pray there will soon come a day when the Lebanese people will send loving workers to unreached people groups in the Middle East and Europe.
Pray for spiritual hunger and a discernment that will keep them away from spiritual counterfeits.

Scripture Prayers for the Arab, Lebanese in Côte d'Ivoire.

References

https://www.economist.com/middle-east-and-africa/2021/06/10/lebanese-move-to-west-africa-escaping-the-crisis-at-home