Holiday of Healing: Imprisoned Christians

“In more than 40 nations around the world today Christians are being persecuted for their faith. In some of these nations it is illegal to own a Bible, to share your faith Christ, change your faith or teach your children about Jesus. Those who boldly follow Christ—in spite of government edict or radical opposition—can face harassment, arrest, torture and even death. Yet Christians continue to meet for worship and to witness for Christ, and the church in restricted nations is growing.” – PrisonerAlert.com

Christians who are imprisoned for their faith in Jesus Christ face horrible conditions each day. They are tortured, sleep-deprived, starved, worked excessive hours, live in horrid cells and rooms and given to no outside interaction. They worry for their families who are often harassed and in some cases, killed. They face little hope of freedom, and yet… many continue to serve God in spite of their conditions. Many will die for the cause of Christ, while many more will spend the rest of their lives in a jail cell in pain from daily tortures. Their joy is knowing that their reward is in heaven, not on this earth – they put God first, above their own safety and families, to bring Him glory worldwide.

Pray:

• That they will continue to have strength to stand for God despite their abuse and pain
• That they will have peace in their spirit, knowing that they will be rewarded in heaven for everything they endure
• That God will protect their families and they will not have to fear about them
• That they will forgive those who have imprisoned and tortured them
• For protection in prison and favor with the guards – many of whom get converted by the testimonies and forgiveness of these imprisoned Christians
• For food, clothing and that their needs would be met
• For encouragement, prayers, and support from those who are free
• That their situation would bring awareness in their areas and worldwide, bringing God glory and people to Him
• That leaders in those nations would be converted and change the laws that allow imprisonment of Christians because of their belief in God

What can you do?

1. Pray for them.

2. Be an advocate for imprisoned Christians around the world. Bring awareness to this issue in your area.

3. Join a cause and support ministries geared to help those who are imprisoned.

4. Write to imprisoned Christians in other nations. Let them know you care and support them. You can visit this website for details on how: http://www.prisoneralert.com

5. Study to learn more. The more you know about this issue, the better you will be able to pray about it.