- Rejection from Family
- Loss of a Home
- False accusations
- Physical pain and Hunger
- Curses and witchcraft by the witchdoctor
- Demotions and unfair treatment
- Loss of employment
- Loss of wife and child
These are just some of the costs that new believers can face. Over the past two weeks we have been walking alongside a new believer as he faces some really tough circumstances. It is hard for me to believe as I think about how my parents rejoiced with me when I came to know the Lord. Sometimes I forget how blessed I am. It is difficult to see the suffering. How does a new believer stand up to so much persecution? I now know the answer to that question. God gently carries him through. I am seeing it happen right before my eyes. I am reminded once again how amazing our God is. Pray with us for this new believer and pray for Joel as he walks alongside this believer through the trials he faces daily.
Oh, we (here in the USA) don’t know much about persecution. As you said we imagine rejoicing when someone comes to the Lord, not persecution. It’s one thing to hear about persecution it’s another to experience it. I can’t imagine being turned away from my family, mabye have my job at risk, or being shunned by my friends for my faith. Thankfully, I can’t imagine it, and hopefully will never experience it. But when and if it happens I pray that I will be strong knowing the promises of God to be with me and walk along side of me.
I’ll join you in praying for this young man and for this faith to not waiver but to become strong as he perseveres in his new belief.
Thanks again for all your wonderful posts that help us to understand your challenges and makes us feel a part of your life.
Carolyn
I refuse to give in to my own thoughts, my own flesh, my own logic. God IS good and faithful. His Word is true. Praise Him for showing how He carries the suffering! Thank you, Andi and Joel, for ministering.