Sometimes, it can be tempting to view our relationship with persecuted Christians as one-way street. After all, they are persecuted, and we are not; we pray for their requests, but they aren’t getting our prayer requests on their phones; we prayerfully offer financial support out of our abundance, but they don’t have that same opportunity—and we don’t have that same need.
But the reality is, in God’s Church, there is no “them” or “us.” There is just a Family. And persecuted Christians around the world have so much to teach us. For starters, we can learn from their faith, and see how God’s Word is active and alive in our world. And that’s why we bring you these regular devotionals from God’s people. Read on to see how we really are one Church, one Family.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.
Romans 12:17–19
This passage seems obvious on its surface—but for believers living in places where it’s hard to follow Jesus, this command can be incredibly difficult. Our field tells us a story that shows this reality:
“One of our contacts, Brother Jacob,* is a wonderful pastor in his 60s. One time, representatives from several [governmental] departments came to investigate Jacob and asked him to hand over a contact list of all the believers in his church. Jacob simply said, ‘Sorry, I have no legal right to disclose other people’s private details, but I can give you a list of our church leaders. Please contact us with anything you’d like to discuss. We are always happy to take responsibility for church matters. And anyway, when the others are in trouble, will you go to help them? Will you visit them when they are sick? If there is a death in the family, will you take them clothes and help with the funeral?’
“He stresses that both inside and outside the church, Christians must have a good reputation. ‘We must be polite,’ Jacob said. ‘If anyone comes to us, we will serve them the best we can, but we will never compromise our message or deny our brothers and sisters just to protect ourselves. God is always with us, so we are not afraid of anything. Besides, believing in Jesus is not a crime. We go about our work quietly, serving others with all our hearts … but if we are opposed in some way, we will never be afraid. That is when we are bold, strong and courageous!’”
Heavenly Father, we thank you for believers like Brother Jacob, who risk so much to follow you. Thank you for their clear commitment to loving everyone, no matter what, and to loving you above all else. Please give us the same spirit of trust and faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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