Start praying for the persecuted church – it’ll arouse your faith and instill great courage.
Hi, I’m Joni Eareckson Tada. And whenever I hear news of the persecuted church in the Middle East, my heart goes out to the families who lose a son or a daughter to the hands of religious militants. These men and women risk their lives—all to share the Gospel of Jesus to those in need of a Savior. But times have not changed. Many years ago, Jesus’s apostles also faced persecution: Stephen was stoned to death, Matthew was killed by a sword, and Paul was most likely beheaded. Perhaps it’s why Jesus told His disciples in Matthew 10: “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” And it is the precious souls of those who have been martyred that inspire, embolden and breathe valor into the hearts of us all. So, if today you are feeling timid about your faith, start praying for the persecuted church. It’ll arouse your faith and instill great courage.
© Joni and Friends