How can we support fellow believers facing persecution for their faith? Our Foundational Verse “But if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but glorify God that you bear that name.” – 1 Peter 4:16 Living the Verse Together • Suffering “as a Christian” links every believer worldwide. When one member hurts, the whole body feels it (1 Corinthians 12:26). • Refusing shame means publicly identifying with persecuted brothers and sisters, not distancing ourselves for safety or comfort (2 Timothy 1:8). Practical Ways to Stand With the Persecuted • Pray earnestly and specifically – Follow the pattern of Acts 12:5: “the church was earnestly praying.” – Philippians 1:19 reminds us God weaves our prayers into someone’s deliverance. • Encourage with steady communication – Send letters, video messages, or encrypted texts. – Share Scripture promises like 1 Thessalonians 5:11; personalize them. • Supply material aid – Hebrews 13:3 moves us from sympathy to action; James 2:15-16 warns against empty words. – Partner with trustworthy ministries to provide food, legal help, medical care, and schooling for displaced families. • Advocate wisely – Use lawful avenues—petitions, contact with representatives, social media—to spotlight injustice while protecting identities. – Proverbs 31:8 urges us to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.” • Offer hospitality and refuge – Open homes to asylum seekers, missionaries on furlough, or students far from family. – Romans 12:13 calls us to “pursue hospitality.” • Share their stories within the church – Testimonies ignite courage in others (Revelation 12:11) and keep the needs before the congregation. • Continue when headlines fade – Galatians 6:2: “Carry one another’s burdens.” Ongoing letters, birthday notes, and anniversary reminders tell sufferers they are not forgotten. Encouraging Hearts with the Word • 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – God comforts us so we can comfort others. • Psalm 34:18 – He is “near to the brokenhearted.” • Matthew 5:11-12 – Great is their reward. • Romans 8:18 – Future glory outweighs present pain. Share these texts, recite them over secure calls, or write them in margins of smuggled Bibles. Remembering the Reward • Suffering believers glorify God now and will shine forever (1 Peter 4:16; Daniel 12:3). • Our support today lays up treasure in heaven (Matthew 6:20) and strengthens the global testimony of Christ. Stepping Forward Today Refuse shame, bear the Name together, and turn compassion into concrete action. In doing so, we honor our Lord and lift the weary arms of His persecuted saints. |
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