To Persecuted Brothers and Sisters in Christ

Break my heart, Lord, for what is breaking yours.. I pray.

This morning I am sitting in a coffee shop. I sit here openly with my Bible and journal out on the table. I have no means to know or to understand what it means to be persecuted for my faith. I have never had to run for my life; in fact, I am doing the opposite. I have been traveling this past year all over the world telling people about Jesus. I even think , Jesus, how is this fair?

That is just it; it is not.

I am sure many are asking similar questions like, “God where are you?” “Why are you not protecting Your people in Afghanistan?” 

This morning as I have wept in this coffee shop, the Lord reminds me that He is weeping too. He has not forsaken and never will leave His children (Hebrews 13:5). He reminds me in his Word that this is no surprise..not because God would will this to happen to His people, but because we live in a fallen world.

2 Timothy 3:12 “In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”

Matthew 5:10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

Little boys and girls, fervent women of God, and faithful men of Afghanistan being truly persecuted, running for your life….

He sees you. He runs with you. He says, “In this world you will have trouble; but, take heart! I have overcome the world.” Vengeance is mine and I will repay them.

I try to imagine your entry into heaven; it far surpasses my own knowledge. However, I cannot help but think of how the Lord will embrace you. The Love and security you will feel in that moment is unfathomable. The joy the Lord will have to have you safely home with Him.

 Revelation 21:4 “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes: and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain..”

2 Timothy 4:7-9 “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day..”

Dear beloved ones of Afghanistan, there is a crown awaiting you in heaven today. Keep fighting; keep the faith. And know that you are being covered in prayer. Your faith truly amazes me, and I can only hope that mine would be as strong. The Lord crowns you with this righteous crown; your life not worthless, your pain not wasted, your heart never forsaken. I feel overwhelmed by the Lord’s pride for you this morning and for His heart that hurts alongside you that will one day revenge you.

Friends, let us continue to cry out prayers for Afghanistan and others being persecuted today.