Around the world, the gospel of Jesus continues to be proclaimed, devotion to Jesus is spoken and acted upon, and believers are persevering in their faith for the sake of Christ. It is no surprise that the enemy is ramping up efforts against the worship of God through Jesus. The year 2025 shows that one in seven Christians are persecuted, 60% of whom are in Africa or Asia. People against Jesus attempt to stifle worship of him and commitment to him. Our spiritual enemy knows that Jesus’ power is real! Even when Jesus was teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum, a man with an unclean spirit cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are – the Holy One of God” (Mark 1:24 ESV). As our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ defend him, may their example spur us on to boldly stand for Christ.
Let’s pray for these believers around the world:
Almighty God, you have exalted Jesus above all names and one day every person will confess that Jesus is Lord (Philippians 2:10)! Thank you for the honor of serving and worshiping you here and now. May your Holy Spirit embolden each of your followers. For those suffering for your name’s sake, we ask that your presence be felt through your peace that is beyond comprehension. For those whose places of worship have been destroyed by haters, we ask that you protectively allow the believers to continue to worship in unity with others. For those who are choosing to submit to Jesus instead of their families’ gods, we ask that you strengthen their faith in you and bless them for choosing you in the face of adversity. Through your suffering children, may evidence of your forgiveness, love, and truth open their oppressors’ hearts to the Savior of the world.
You can pray for a persecuted Christian each week when you work through a Heart Training book.