What if deciding to surrender your life to Jesus cost you everything – family, job, safety, and maybe even your life? This is the case for people in many countries. In Luke 14:25-33, Jesus tells us that following him should matter to us more than anything else in this world and so we need to count the cost of following him. Individuals who live in areas hostile to Christians come face to face with this reality when they submit to Jesus, rather than bow to the national or pressured religion. They act according to their relationship with their Savior – they choose to forgive their oppressors and to glorify God through the challenges. Through this, their faith is strengthened and the gospel spreads. These persecuted Christians are an example of both living for Jesus in spite of the resistance and depending on God for their strength, hope, and joy.
Let’s pray God’s truths for our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ:
Heavenly Father, we know that your eyes are upon each of us (Proverbs 15:3) and you draw near to those who call on you in truth (Psalm 145:18). For our brothers and sisters who, in your name, are suffering physically, emotionally, and/or relationally, we ask the Holy Spirit to equip them to remain steadfast with their eyes set on you, secure in your love (Romans 8:35-37). When they are afraid, may they, like David, say, “In God, whose word I praise – in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” (Psalm 56:4 NIV). Bless them with your constant presence as they endure and with confidence of reward for their faithfulness (Matthew 5:10).
Give a copy of God’s Word to a believer in a region hostile to Christians when you purchase a Heart Training book.