Have you ever experienced opposition after displaying a godly attitude, offering unmerited kindness, or speaking Christ-centered truth?
Jesus warned, “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you” (John 15:18 ESV). But, he then encouraged, “Take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 18:33b ESV).
These statements are especially relevant to believers in China. According to research by International Christian Concern, there is currently no safe place to be a Christian in China. All churches there, including the two officially tolerated government-sanctioned churches and the many house churches – which are illegal but may be tolerated, are under increased scrutiny and control measures. The government wants all members to align with worship of the county’s leader and praise for the Communist Party. Committed Christians, however, are standing firm in their faith, willing to suffer the consequences for honoring God and living for Jesus. As in the years of the early church, persecution is helping to spread the gospel as commitment to Jesus is noticed and onlookers wonder who this Jesus is that is worth suffering for. May the example of these members in our family of God inspire us to stand firm in our faith and live for God’s glory.
Let’s pray for our Christian brothers and sisters in China:
Holy God, all glory and honor belong to you! Though the enemy tries to steal this, you continue to raise up Christ followers everywhere. We ask that your Holy Spirit will embolden believers in China so they will remain strong in their faith. May they experience your grace and power that is all-sufficient for each of them (2 Corinthians 12:9). For those persecuted, please protect them and make your presence evident. For their families, please provide for their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs as they suffer as well. May our brothers and sisters in Christ live out his command to love their enemies, do good to those who hate them, bless those who curse them, and pray for those who mistreat them (Luke 6:27-28). Through all this, may others come to acknowledge Jesus as their Savior and Lord and may you be glorified.
Be reminded to pray for the persecuted when you use a Heart Training Bible study workbook.