Persecuted, but Not Forsaken

While on the subject of Christian persecution, I thought I would post an article I wrote for school a few years back . . .

Persecuted, but Not Forsaken

By Hannah Kenney, age 16

2 Corinthians 4:8-11

Did you know that right now, as you are reading this, there are Christians all over the world being persecuted? Did you know that they’re not just being teased or ignored for their faith, but are being tortured and imprisoned too? And did you know that it is not only the adults that suffer, but the children as well? As you read this article, I hope you become more aware of what our brothers and sisters around the world are going through, and realize what you can do to help them!

Most people in America have warm beds, clean running water, and enough food to satisfy their stomachs. But in other countries, many Christians go without those basic needs. Maybe the father of the family has a poor job, or no job at all. Even worse, maybe he has been murdered for his ministry and left a wife and children to fend for themselves. They may even be starving and cold right now. But despite the difficulties our brothers and sisters face, they will not be distressed when they trust in God.

Isn’t it wonderful to meet with other believers without fear of being stormed upon by the local police? It’s interesting to think of that happening in America! But in countries like China, it’s downright dangerous to hold an “illegal” church meeting. Any minute the house or church building might be broken into by loud voices and swinging electric sticks. The leaders – and maybe some members of the congregation – might be forced to pay fines, go to prison, or be beaten for obeying God. But if these Christians find their strength in the Lord, they will not be in despair.

Imagine . . . you’re riding your bicycle down a dusty Indian road, singing a hymn of praise on your way to evangelize the next village. All of a sudden, three men armed with clubs and knives jump out from behind a large rock. With a wild yell they knock you over, and within an hour you have arrived at your Heavenly home. But when the people in the village hear how you have sacrificed your life, they want to know why, and the seed that your blood watered grows into a flourishing church. Isn’t it wonderful how the Gospel and its workers are cast down but never destroyed?

You can help these Christians who are suffering for their faith! The Voice of the Martyrs is an organization started by Richard Wurmbrand (now with the Lord), who spent 14 years in Communist prisons for being a servant of God. VOM helps our persecuted brothers and sisters in many ways. By donating the money God has given you, you could fill an Action Pack with clothes for the poor. Or maybe you could help feed a struggling family. You could also help VOM print books and other reading material for Christians to read or pass out to unbelievers. You could even write an encouraging letter to a Christian who is in prison! Let’s help our brothers and sisters know that, even though they are persecuted, they are not forsaken!

You can visit The Voice of the Martyrs at www.persecution.com or write them at: thevoice@vom-usa.org or P.O. Box 443 Bartlesville, OK 74005-0443 to receive their free monthly magazine.