As we take steps day by day to grow in faith and project Jesus through our words, actions, and mindset, we will face opposition. Do we realize how much the enemy of God does not want people being drawn to Jesus?
When we suffer for being a Christian, we should not be ashamed but rather praise God that we bear his name (1 Peter 4:13). As we live in light of God’s truth we are to be on our guard, stand firm, be courageous, and be strong (1 Corinthians 16:13). Our motive should be love. Those who experience this to their core are believers living in places hostile to Christianity. They understand the necessity of being strengthened by God’s power, being encouraged in Jesus’ love, being directed by the Holy Spirit’s lead, and being unified by prayers of fellow believers. They also value being nourished by God’s Word. However, there are many who are not allowed to legally own a Bible. This is the case, for example, in North Korea, Somalia, and Sudan. In other countries, such as Brunei and the Maldives, Bibles are prohibited from being brought within their borders. And, as of December 2025, tourists are not allowed to bring Bibles into Nicaragua. God’s Word is offensive to those who are against him!
Let’s pray for our family of God based on 2 Corinthians 4:
Our Father in heaven, you are holy and your light shines in darkness. Please pour out the blessings of your presence on our brothers and sisters who are facing opposition as they live out their faith in Christ. For those who are restricted in reading your written Word, please encourage them through your Spirit. Remind them that though they are hard pressed, they are not crushed. Though they may be perplexed by their challenging circumstances, they need not despair. Though they feel knocked down, they are not destroyed. Encourage them to not lose heart and help them to fix their eyes on what is unseen and eternal. Keep them in your loving and protective care.
Connect with our persecuted family of believers through Bible donation and prayer when you use Keep on Track Volume 2 or any Heart Training workbook.