PRAY FOR THE PERSECUTED

October 3 

Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Matthew 5:10

November 2, 2025 is promoted by Voice of the Martyrs, a Christian organization which informs its readers about persecution around the world as well as helping, supporting and encouraging persecuted believers worldwide, as the Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.  While persecution to us here in the USA is limited, it is a way of life to millions of committed Christ followers on our planet in over 50 countries. 

How do we pray for them?  The Voice of the Martyrs suggests ten requests.  1) That they will sense God’s presence daily (Hebrews 13:5); 2) That they will know others are praying for them (2 Timothy 1:3); 3) That they will experience God’s comfort (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17); 4) That they will see God opening doors of evangelism (Colossians 4:3); 5) That they will boldly share the Gospel (Acts 4:20); 6) That they will mature in their faith (Colossians 1:28-29); 7) That they will be granted wisdom and protection in their covert ministry work (Acts 9:23-25); 8) That they will remain joyful amid suffering (Acts 5:41); 9) That they will be able to forgive and love their persecutors (Matthew 5:44) and 10) That they will be deeply rooted in God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17).  

How much has your faith in Christ cost you?  These persecuted believers around the world are our examples and “veterans of spiritual wars” that we should honor and pray for fervently.  “Finally, brothers, pray for us … that we will be rescued from perverse and evil men, for not all have faith.  But the Lord is faithful who will strengthen and guard you from the evil one” (2 Thessalonians 3:1a, 2-3).  Pray for the persecuted! 

Bob Kulp