“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:10
Throughout human history, believers in Christ have faced moments, time periods, and seasons of intense persecution for staying true to the faith. Right now, our brothers and sisters in Christ in the country of Nigeria are facing extreme persecution. In fact, more Christians are being killed in Nigeria right now than in any other country on earth.
Nigerian Christians are being persecuted and killed in gut-wrenching numbers by ruthless Islamic radicals. This year, the slaughter of Christians in Nigeria has hit an unparalleled magnitude, with over 7,000 believers being killed so far.
A recent Newsweek report revealed that during the first 220 days of this year, on average, 35 Nigerian Christians are murdered daily. In addition to the murders, over 100 Christian pastors and Catholic priests are being held hostage for ransom by the Islamic extremists who are being empowered by the Nigerian government.
Influential American Christian leaders have sent a joint letter to President Trump pleading with him to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC). This designation would help by showing public support for Nigerian Christians and pressure the government of Nigeria into religious freedom reform.
Religious Freedom is a bedrock pillar here in the United States and has been a stalwart of America’s foreign policy. Hopefully, President Trump and his Administration will soon respond effectively to this atrocity that is developing in Nigeria to offer relief to our bold, faithful, and courageous fellow followers of the Lord Jesus Christ.
LET US PRAY…
Father, we pray for President Trump and his team to have Your wisdom as they evaluate how to respond to the wicked persecution of Christians happening in Nigeria. Lord, please strengthen Your people in Nigeria as they are facing extreme and intense persecution. Father, help us to remain faithful to You as these Nigerian believers are in any and every situation we face. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.