People are shocked by such cases as Saeed Abedini, an American pastor who has been suffering in an Iranian prison for 20 months, and Miriam Ibrahim, a young mother and wife of an American who is sentenced to death in Sudan for her Christian faith. Her small son and infant girl suffer imprisonment with her. It’s undeniably tragic, but today’s verse assures God’s glory will someday be revealed in them.

Share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.

I Peter 4:13

In Acts 12, Peter was in a similar situation – in jail condemned to die. But believers gathered together, prayed and fasted for him. An angel miraculously released him. But about 33 years later, Peter was martyred. Peter encouraged, “Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good.” (I Peter 4:19)

You’re likely not being persecuted for your faith, but you can share in Christ’s suffering by fasting and praying for Miriam and Saeed and others who are. You can also give to organizations that fight for their release. Finally, you can pray that God would move on national leaders to stand against religious persecution.

Recommended Reading: Romans 8:18-25