19 Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews. 20 Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. 21 The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord. Acts 11:19-21

For those on the outside looking, persecution seems like a great thing. The church grows, people become bolder, and God is glorified. From the inside looking out, though, persecution is difficult, painful, and discouraging. Sometimes people have resettle elsewhere, and often with little warning.

It happened back then, and it’s happening today. Living in the West, we do not see most of the persecution. We get glimpses when missionaries tell their stories, but we are mostly sheltered from the reality of persecution.

There are a number of countries that are actively engaged in persecuting Christians: Iran, North Korea, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, and Sudan come to mind. There are a number of countries that are actively engaged in persecuting Christians: Iran, North Korea, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria, and Sudan come to mind.

Pray for the Believers to be bold and courageous.

Pray that they will get a fresh revelation about who Jesus is every day they are under persecution.