If They Persecuted Me...

Christian Today released an article telling of recent persecution of Chinese Christians. Reading the article stirred up a few thoughts in me:

Jesus said, "If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you" (John 15:20). Although Christians in America have not faced persecution of this magnitude, the persecution fever is spreading, and will likely be here sooner than we think. I wonder how "American Christianity" will deal with this.

All too often we take for granted the great freedoms we have in America. This should be a continual reminder for thanksgiving and prayer. We ought not to neglect such freedoms, but take advantage of them and work while it is still daylight. "We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work" (John 9:4). "And he said to them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest" (Luke 10:2).

We ought to bear with our suffering brothers and sisters in prayer. "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer" (Romans 12:12).

Remember...

When is the last time you considered those who are currently suffering for their faith? There are countless who suffer intensely for believing in Jesus.

In our comfort and ease we all to often forget those who are suffering for Christ. I'll admit I'm guilty of this.

Hebrews 13:3
Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body.

I have been helped to remember those who are suffering by the ministry of Voice of the Martyrs. V.O.M. maintains much information about many severely persecuted Christians. For an example click here. You can sign up to receive regular updates of those imprisoned or otherwise suffering for their faith. These updates provide basic information which is an aid to equip and enable prayer for our suffering family in Christ.

I have also found the Jesus Freaks series of books, sponsored by D.C. Talk, to be excellent reminders of the sufferings which those who follow Christ experience. These books are collections of heart-rending, inspiring, and Christ exalting testimonies by those and about those who have suffered and do suffer for faith in His Name. This series contains the accounts of the deaths of the Apostles and many more throughout history including numerous contemporary Christians. This series has been called a modern day Foxes Book of Martyrs.

May the Lord help His people to pray for one another and to bear each other's burdens.