9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

1 Peter 5:9

Peter exhorts us to stand firm.

While we may not be experiencing persecution and suffering now, we will eventually. That puts us in the same boat together.

I recall clearly in the mid-80s praying for Christians in Soviet bloc countries who were undergoing persecution.

That eventually lifted and many in China, North Korea, Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, and India are under the persecution thumb. They deserve our prayers for boldness, endurance, and joy as they encounter unspeakable and horrendous persecution from people who do not care about Christians. We have to hold the line for them as they endure.

Lord Jesus, would you give them men and women of faith courage, boldness, and a joyful spirit as they suffer for their faith. continue to encourage them in the midst of their trials. May they experience the Peace of God that passes understanding and may you protect their families from the vile enemy attacks. Would you be their rock they can climb on. Let these and their families know that you love them. Give them hope wherever they are.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen