Another prayer request VOM Canada has in this weeks alert is one that concerns Christian prisoners,in Pakistan, who are being tortured for holding a bible study!
On April 7, Christian prisoners at the central jail in Sahiwal, Pakistan gathered for prayer and Bible study. Muslim prisoners passing by began to make derogatory comments when two of the jail staff approached. According to a VOMC source in Pakistan, the two prison staff joined in the attack of four prisoners, Chand Munawer, Ijaz Gulzar, Riaz Gulzar and Pervaiz Rehmat. They stripped the Christians of their clothing and physically tortured them. The four were then locked up in solitary confinement.
This treatment is not unique to this prison. Reports of similar abuse from Kasur and Lahore prisons were also given. If Christian prisoners threaten to take action, they face increased persecution and so they generally remain silent.
Pray that these men will fully rely on God's strength to keep them faithful to Him (2 Corinthians 1:8-9). Pray that the Lord will restore their bodies to health and that they will be renewed in their minds through His Word.
For more information on the persecution facing Christians in Pakistan, go to http://www.persecution.net/country/pakistan.htm
When I read these stories I can't help but remember that quote I read from Extreme Devotion a few days ago - "Those who persecute Christians cannot be accused of apathy." I want to encourage all of you to write that quote down someplace and remember it every time you feel apathetic towards our suffering brothers and sisters in Christ. I know, at least in America, most Christians struggle with even attending a bible study, so can you imagine being a Christian, in prison, and being beaten for having one. Please be diligent in your prayers and remain faithful.
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