Reality Check

I have a sickening feeling in my stomach. I went over to the Voice of the Martyr's website and I really began to get a reality check. I take it for granted so many times the freedom we have here. Go to the website and read the stories of what other Christian's are going through for the Cause and Glory of Christ. My heart goes out to them and their families. But what is interesting is that while my heart may break for our fellow brother's and sister's in Christ, I'm sure many of them are broken about the spiritual condition of their persecutor...as God is also.
The thing is, while we enjoy our freedom here in America, it can be stripped away from us in an instant. We tell God so many times that we would do anything for Him. Would we risk being horribly tormented, rather than our Bibles be burned? Suppose some terrorist with a machete said to deny Christ or they would kill our children, could we stand for Christ? I just don't know. I do believe that if it came down to it, if our hearts are truly set on the Lord, some how, some way, He would give us a supernatural strength to stand. Thankfully, times like that are not here, right now. We may face what seems like persecution to us, but nothing compared to what many others across the world face. Some times it's hard to truly stand with lost family members or lost friends.
I am speaking to myself when I say we really need to start living in a way that is less selfish and self-glorifying. Stop being so concerned about materialism and being so self absorbed. We cannot live this Christian life in a half-hearted way. It is ALL or NOTHING.
My challenge to you (and myself):
1.Dig deeper in the Word of God and make time to pray everyday.
2.Pray for the persecuted church- read these stories and it's a sure way to get your eyes off of yourself.
3.Pray about what you can do to help or encourage these saints who are standing for Christ in other countries. The website will give you suggestions.
4.Every day we are given opportunities. Lift up Christ every chance you get. We may not have these freedoms forever. Use them while you can. That way, if those freedoms are ever stripped away, you will be able to stand no matter what. Even if you are threatened with horrible things, by God's grace you will continue to be able to stand your ground.

Ephesians 6:13 (New International Version)


Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.



http://www.persecution.com/