Philippians 1:29 “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him.”
How much suffering is happening right now for Christians? In certain parts of the world suffering takes the form of torture, rape, beheadings, burnings, expulsion from homes, endless threats, beatings, and imprisonments. For most other followers of Jesus suffering takes less violent, but still very palpable, forms: rejection, exclusion, censure, job loss, intimidation, mockery. As a great evil sweeps through society it can seem as though Christians have nowhere to turn. Yet Jesus said in John 16:33, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Father, I bring before you my persecuted, suffering brothers and sisters in Christ. Please give them supernatural courage and strength. Please surround them with your protection. When and where you allow their bodies to suffer harm or death or torture, please protect their minds. Give them peace and hope and even love for their enemies in the midst of all the evil so that their enemies may turn from their wickedness and be saved.