Unity is foundational in the Christian faith.
Unity characterizes the Godhead, our communion with Christ, and the family of believers. It also strengthens our faith and gives witness to the power of the gospel. Sadly, unity can be taken for granted, evidenced, for example, by not attending Sunday church meetings or not growing in fellowship with other Christians. In contrast, believers in countries hostile to Christianity value unity to the extent of risking negative consequences. They are strengthened in faith as they unite for prayer, worship, and study. For example, in central India (ranked eleventh on the World Watch List for persecuted Christians) Hindu nationalists have been targeting Christian worshipers at house churches. The perpetrators are especially against converts to Christianity. These believers have been attacked, tortured, and had property destroyed. They are told to stop worshiping Jesus, but they do not! They persevere in their faith – choosing to trust in Jesus, willing to face hardships for Jesus, and unifying for endurance with Jesus. May we have such fortitude in our worship.
Let’s pray, using Psalm 34:1-8 as our guide, for our Indian brothers and sisters in Christ:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the love and care you give to the afflicted. We bring before you our brothers and sisters in India who are facing opposition as they praise you in worship and life. Please bless them as they glorify you together, exalting your name. Deliver them from their fears and protect them. May their faces radiate your glory and the hope you offer through Jesus. Strengthen them as they take refuge in you, tasting and seeing that you are good.
Each week when you work through a Heart Training book, you have the opportunity to pray for a persecuted believer.