Scripture: Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Devotional: The antichrist’s main goal is to get you to worship anything but Jesus. And one of the ways that he does that is through persecution. Here in the United States, this isn’t often the method that is used, but it is certainly used around the world. One of Sunnybrook Community Church’s partners is an organization called Mission India. Many Christians in India face harsh persecution. In order to help us see this, here is a story from their organization’s website about a girl named Sumeda.*
“Four years ago, Sumeda received Jesus as her Savior. Compelled by His love, Sumeda began to faithfully serve as a Children’s Bible Club leader at the young age of 18! Why? “God has blessed me, so I want others also to be blessed with the love of God,” Sumeda shares.
But the journey hasn’t been easy.
In late January 2024, anti-Christian activists came to Sumeda’s village and interrogated her. Sumeda found herself being questioned about her faith and the Children’s Bible Club that she ran.
Sumeda stood firm, facing their questions and accusations with confidence. The meeting ended with Sumeda and her whole family being expelled from their village, and the Bible Club forced to close. Additionally, a fine of 25,000 rupees (nearly $300 USD) was declared for anyone who attempted to maintain a relationship with Sumeda or her family.
Sumeda’s firm foundation in Jesus while facing persecution is a testament to the Holy Spirit’s work in her life.”
Imagine with me for a moment what it would be like to be kicked out of your home and community because of your faith in Jesus. To be beaten. To be threatened. That is the work of the antichrist. He tries to suppress those that are making an eternal impact for Jesus and sharing about him. He tries to get people to back down from their faith.
But praise God for those that continue to hold strong, declaring the hope that is found in Jesus alone. They are making an incredible impact for the Kingdom of God.
* https://missionindia.org/bible-club-leader-blessed-despite-persecution/
Reflect:
- Pray for Sumeda and her family, that they would be safe and that they can return to their village. Pray for the persecuted Church around the world.