Remembering Believers Suffering*REAL*Persecution

When Nothing Good Spills Out

I am so surprised at how easily and over the silliest things I can turn into a grumbling complainer spewing discontent and criticizing everything around me that doesn’t go my way. I feel so “burdened” with having to be at work early or the can opener isn’t working right or the dryer is giving me fits. Heaven forbid…..I get behind a slow driver who can’t drive in the rain! Some days, it seems like the least little thing can bump me and nothing good spills out.

I feel so persecuted (insert whiney tone)…….But then, I am set straight by remembering this special day for Christians all over the world……

International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.

True Suffering

When I read the stories and watch the videos on the IDOP website, I hear just a drop of the true suffering going on in the world.

Suffering for the name of Christ.

True persecution for bringing Light into darkness and Hope into hopeless situations.

Persecution of Christians all over the world is real and it’s growing.

Shaken Loose

Suddenly, I am shaken loose of my self-induced delusion that I have it so tough. I realize that my present “troubles” are nothing compared to the life-threatening, dyer situations of many around me and especially of those around the world.

God, help me to be thankful in every circumstance. Help me to lift up believers, both near and far. Help me to care for the Body of Christ rather than just looking out for myself. Amen

In light of all the tragedy going on around us, what can we do?

Pray-

Spend some time praying for Christians around the world. Yes, today. And, all month. Check out these resources for IDOP.

Unify-

We can become more unified as the Body of Christ locally and across the globe. If you want some ideas on how you can accomplish this, I’ve got some resources for you! Sign up for “How to be More Interdenominational” and other good stuff here.

Contribute-

Consider how can you donate to an organization that serves persecuted Christians or a missionary serving abroad. Does your church support a missions organization? You may not be called to go, but you can contribute to the mission! Again, check out IDOP has specific ways you can support Christians suffering persecution.

When one part of the Body hurts, we all hurt.

When my mild inconveniences are put in perspective of the real persecution going on the in world, I’m reminded to remember the real suffering of the brothers and sisters suffering for the name of Christ.

Please spend some time today and all month long praying for persecuted Christians around the world!

~Amy