Many of us, when we encounter persecution in other countries, begin to wonder about our own freedom, security, and prosperity when others are suffering. How can we enjoy our freedom and painless Christian walk while others are suffering so much for Christ, we think? In some countries, some Christians enjoy freedom while others, in the same country, are being persecuted. We can only attribute this to God’s sovereignty and purpose. When it comes to suffering for the Lord, there is no randomness nor is it entirely the malevolent actions of evil men. God ordains suffering and if we are not suffering for Christ at the moment, it means that God has other plans for us.

The following is excerpted from a recent report of persecution in Laos as published by Human Rights Watch for Lao Religious Freedom:

In VOM's free monthly newsletter last February, we wrote about a church in India that was facing persecution.

Recently I met with a worker in a restricted nation. He related the story of a Muslim woman who had an amazing dream that changed her life forever.

Ramsey Tripp has been involved in making short films that help thousands of churches pray for our persecuted family each November on the International Day of Pray for the Persecuted Church.

VOM workers recently returned from a visit to Inner Mongolia, where they met Christians working and serving in spite of persecution. Watch to find out more about the Christians of that region, and how the VOM purchase of a van expanded the reach of the ministry of a bold front-line worker.

VOM workers met “Michael,” a Christian convert from Islam, during a recent VOM-sponsored event. He was very well known as a Muslim, and after accepting Christ and beginning to challenge other Muslims about their faith, his father repeatedly threatened him. During the event, Michael stood at the podium for about 20 minutes, “singing to God and testifying of His goodness.” On the day of the event, Michael’s wife also placed her faith in Christ. Pray for Michael and other Christian converts from Islam who face persecution for their faith.

"Brother Jay" has just returned from Central Asia, where he shared fellowship with Christians facing persecution while trying to reach Muslims with the gospel message. Jay shares the challenges these believers face--including the challenge of connecting with other believers and even just meeting together for worship. Jay tells us how the example of these believers challenges his own faith, and how he prepares to travel into dangerous places where Christians are laying down their lives for Christ.