Voice of the Martyrs has called an International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church today and throughout the month of November. I don’t think it was coincidental that my daily Bible reading this morning was Psalm 70. As I read the Psalms, my focus is typically on myself, either praising God or thinking of those who have done me wrong. How much more must those who are persecuted cry out with David:

Make haste, O God, to deliver me! O LORD, make haste to help me!

Here in America, it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that Christians are still being persecuted today. A pastor pointed out that having freedom like we have is rare when you look at Church history. We are the exception, not the rule.

I know this is a topic that many would rather not think about, but I encourage you to remember those who are suffering and keep them in your prayers. Pray that they will remain steadfast in their faith. Pray that their children will also be strong and not become bitter at God. Pray that God will save the persecutors. And pray for a peace that passes all understanding in those nations where there is no peace. Let’s not forget those whose suffering surpasses what we can hardly imagine.