PRAYERS FOR THE PERSECUTED

Citizenship in the United States of America guarantees certain rights to an individual; the first amendment to the constitution alone guarantees freedom of speech, the right to assemble peaceably, and the freedom of religion. Many of these freedoms we often take for granted, particularly the right to worship the God of our choosing. But what would happen if that right was not granted to us? If we did not have the freedom to worship, would we remain steadfast in our faith knowing that we could be arrested, tortured or killed? Would we carry and read the Bible if we knew it would cost us our homes or livelihood? Would we proclaim devotion to Christ at the risk of harm to our loved ones? Could we wholeheartedly show the sacrificial love that Jesus showed for us on the cross?

These are questions we need not answer because our right to worship God is protected by our government. As Americans we are truly blessed. However, there are brothers and sisters in Christ living all over the globe whose only protection comes from God Almighty and the prayers and sacrifices of those that are willing to lend a hand. People are being harassed, arrested, beaten, ostracized, tortured and killed because they love the Lord and are devoted to Christ. Reading the Bible, preaching the word of God, or passing out Christian literature is a death sentence in some remote areas of the world. Imagine arriving on Sunday for praise and worship only to find the church has been bombed and the extremists are lying in wait for more blood.  Some of our brethren are faced with that possibility every day, and yet they press on. They press on with the knowledge that Christ suffered such a fate (see John 15:18-20). Their faith is unwavering in the face of insurmountable odds and they need our prayers. 

Scripture: Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, ² fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. ³ Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV

Prayer: Father God, we come before you today to pray for our brothers and sisters that are being persecuted for their devotion to you and your Word. We ask for your arm of protection to ensure their safety as they navigate hostile territory. We ask healing for the broken and bruised bodies that have suffered at the hands of those that stand against you. Please Father; comfort all who have suffered a loss in their quest to magnify your name. Give peace to those that seek retaliation, remind them that you alone are the great equalizer, and place forgiveness in their hearts. Let all who proclaim your name in the midst of opposition remain steadfast in their faith and continue to seek favor from you. And Lord please; pave the way that your Word continues to go forth. In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Read the following passages to assist in praying for our persecuted brothers and sisters: John 17:14-15; Malachi 4:2; Psalm 23:4; 1 Peter 2:23; & 1 Peter 5:8-10.