“They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.” (Acts 14:21-22)

     The disciples knew that persecution and suffering are merely the natural consequences of faithfully following a crucified Lord in a fallen world.  Their experiences revealed the truth of this matter, but they had the courage and tenacity to fight the good fight of our faith.

     In our time and place, we are blessed to worship freely and practice the tenets of our faith.  In some other parts of the world you are at risk as a Christian.  Let’s pray for those who are persecuted and suffering, and for the faith of all who believe in Jesus Christ to endure:

Prayer: Dear Lord, we pray for those who are severely restricted in worshipping and expressing their faith.  Give them strength, courage, and protection.  As for us, we are thankful to have the freedom to worship you, and we pray that this freedom will never be taken away.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.