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Colossians 4:18 “I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains.”
Elsewhere, Paul writes that “you are the body of Christ” and “if one part suffers, every part suffers with it” (1 Corinthians 12:26,27). Most of us don’t live in parts of the world where persecution is institutionalized, which is a real blessing; but let’s not forget our brothers and sisters, maybe 250 million of them, who are suffering in very real ways day by day because of their faith in Jesus.
North Korea regularly tops the list as the worst country to live in as a Christian. Thousands upon thousands are locked away in prison camps right now because of their faith. Many North Koreans recite daily the Lord’s prayer and the five principles of faith. The expectations of suffering within their faith life are evident in these principles:
• Our persecution and suffering are our joy and honour.
• We want to accept ridicule, scorn and disadvantages with joy in Jesus’ name.
• As Christians, we want to wipe others’ tears away and comfort the suffering.
• We want to be ready to risk our life because of our love for our neighbour, so that they also become Christians.
• We want to live our lives according to the standards set in God’s Word.
Do re-read those and dwell on them for a while.
Open Doors, Release International, IJM, Voice of the Martyrs, Barnabas Fund are some of the groups who send out regular updates so that we can pray strategic informed prayers, and get involved in campaigns for imprisoned and persecuted believers. Why not contact one of them today and subscribe?
It’s easy to get wrapped up in our own affairs, so the above is a healthy antidote if we’re tempted to slip into self-pity regarding our own problems.
Lord, I choose to remember the persecuted church today. Forgive me when I’ve forgotten them. Intervene for them. And all the more help me use the freedoms I have for your glory. Amen!
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