Millions of Christians are facing persecution on a daily basis . . . some from the government, some from extremists, and even some by neighbors or family members. In the wake of persecution, many families are forced to flee their homes.
When faced with the increasing realities of global persecution, it is easy to feel helpless, not knowing how to get involved or intervene for the faithful Christians who are boldly standing in their faith in Jesus Christ. But there is hope for these persecuted Christians as they remain faithful, and we can provide our support in numerous ways.
As the body of Christ, we can join together on November 1, the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church, to stand with our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world. We want to share five ways you and your church community can get involved.
- Join with your congregation to intercede for persecuted Christians together.
One of the most important things we can do is pray for our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ on a regular basis. Coming before God and lifting up our prayers of strength, safety and provision over them is one of the greatest ways we can help. We can pray for comfort and increased faith for these men, women, and children as they hold true to their convictions and continue to proclaim the name of Jesus despite the cruel punishments they may receive.
- Read Scriptures about persecution to lead your prayer time.
Scriptures throughout the Bible talk about persecution and how God responds to those who are persecuted for their faith in Him. We can pray Scriptures of strength, love, and faith over these faithful believers, as well as continue to seek Him. In doing so, we learn more about what God says about the persecuted church in His Word, and how we can more effectively pray.
- Educate yourself on the persecuted church.
Persecution comes in different forms depending on the country. For example, in Syria, Christians are told to convert. pay a tax, or even face death. In China, Christians meet in secret and often face discrimination, violent threats, and even imprisonment. We encourage you to spend time with your congregation and families learning about the daily hardships Christians face around the world. This knowledge will not only enable us to pray for specific Christian persecution worldwide, but it will also serve as a reminder to those of us who do not face daily persecution for our faith.
- Advocate and encourage discussion through social media.
Sharing through social media helps raise awareness around the world about the persecution many Christians face. By sharing, we can bring light to personal stories of Christian persecution like the story of Farij.
“I left all my belongings, my home, clothing, everything, because of my faith in this Bible. I came here and they gave me a new Bible. I thought that this Bible was worth everything that I left behind. For Jesus we are willing to give everything we have, and we will never surrender.” – Farij, from Qaraqosh
- Provide aid and Bibles for persecuted Christians.
This International Day of Prayer, we invite you to partner with us to provide aid and relief to refugees in the Middle East. Entire families have been forced to flee their homes in search of a safe refuge, all because of their faith in Christ. By providing aid to these men, women, and children, we can show the love of Christ in the midst of their trials.
Join with us today to support persecuted Christians around the world.
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