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How can we help those who are suffering because of their beliefs? Persecuted believers want us to pray for them regularly. By doing this, we can help them in a meaningful way, making sure they don’t feel alone in their struggles.

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Pray for the Persecuted

In this world, religious persecution continues to be a harsh reality for many. There is a profound and urgent need for us to stand with our persecuted brothers and sisters in faith. Through prayer, we can offer them support, hope, and the assurance that they are not alone in their trials.

1. Pray for their safety. The most immediate and heartfelt prayer for the persecuted is for their safety. Ask that God’s protective hand be upon them, shielding them from harm and danger.
2. Pray that, in the midst of suffering, they will know God’s presence. In the midst of unimaginable suffering, it’s crucial that they feel God’s presence and comfort. Pray that they find solace in their faith and never feel abandoned.
3. Ask that these believers will not feel alone and isolated. We want them to remember that someone is praying for them, and that God will comfort them.
4. Pray that they will be obedient during their suffering. Despite the trials they face, pray that persecuted believers remain obedient to their faith. May they stand firm in their convictions and not waver under pressure.
5. Ask that, supernaturally, they will be able to love their persecutors. One of the most remarkable aspects of faith is the capacity to love even those who persecute us. If these believers can supernaturally love their persecutors, it can be a powerful testimony.
6. Pray that they will win many to the Kingdom of God and be bold in their witness. Ask that they continue to be bold witnesses for Christ even in the face of adversity. Pray that through their endurance, many hearts will be won over to the Kingdom of God.
7. Ask for a deeper understanding of God’s Word and of songs and stories. Request a deeper understanding of God’s Word, songs, and stories for the persecuted. May they draw strength and wisdom from these sources as they navigate their challenging journey.
8. Ask that they will not be fearful. Pray that fear does not hold them captive. May they find courage in their faith to face whatever may come their way.
9. Pray that they will glorify Christ every day. Encourage them to glorify Christ every day, even in the most challenging circumstances. Their unwavering faith can serve as a beacon of hope for others.
10. Pray that we will be faithful to remember them. Let us pray that we remain faithful in remembering and supporting our persecuted brethren. May we never forget their struggles and continue to lift them up in prayer.
11. Ask that we will all have an eternal mindset. Ask for an eternal perspective for both the persecuted and ourselves. May we all find solace in the hope of an everlasting Kingdom where suffering and persecution will cease.

Remember, our prayers are a powerful force that can transcend borders and circumstances. As we unite in prayer for the persecuted, we become part of a global movement of compassion, hope, and unwavering faith. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

In a world brimming with distractions and demands, finding moments of tranquility and spiritual nourishment can seem like a daunting task. But for Ruth Ripken, moments of personal worship and devotion are not just a luxury. These elements are a lifeline.

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A Way to Start the Day

Ruth Ripken, together with her husband Nik, has ventured across countries and cultures, touching lives and spreading the word of God. Ruth has always found time to cultivate her personal prayer time each morning, even before the sun graces the horizon. With a heart eager to embrace the day, Ruth engages in the timeless act of studying Bible verses. This early connection with scripture sets the tone for her day, grounding her in faith and purpose.

What sets Ruth’s devotion journey apart is her keen ability to find a “holy place” within the various houses the Ripkens have called home. From a tranquil patio to the warmth of a guest room and the comfort of a rocking chair, these spaces become her sanctuaries. Regardless of external challenges, these personal oases provide Ruth with a sacred space to commune with God. For Ruth, devotion is not just a scheduled event; it’s a way of life.

Devotion Without Borders

As Ruth Ripken gracefully shares her devotion mechanics, she also imparts the profound significance it holds. She reminds us that geographic borders do not define where devotion can take place. In countries where religious freedom thrives, as well as in places where worship is a forbidden luxury, personal worship remains a way to stay spiritually healthy and mentally strong.

For Ruth, mornings are a symphony of prayer, scripture, and reflection. It’s a time to shed the weights of the world and seek solace in God’s presence. She teaches us that devotion isn’t a one-size-fits-all endeavor; it’s a deeply personal and authentic pursuit. Ruth’s dedication to finding a “holy place” underscores the importance of creating intentional spaces for spiritual growth, even amidst the hustle and bustle of life. It’s a reminder that true devotion requires deliberate effort and mindfulness.

In our world today, there are countless regions where religious freedom is a given, where people can worship without fear, and where their beliefs are protected. However, this privilege should not make us blind to the harsh realities faced by those living in persecuted nations. In this episode, Nik Ripken challenges us to transcend our comfort zones and genuinely empathize with the suffering of believers in persecution. It is time to confront the human reality of their experiences, acknowledging the blood, sweat, and tears that stain their stories, and embrace the lives of these courageous individuals.

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Perception vs. Reality of Persecution

Living in open and free societies often shields us from the true gravity of persecution. Although we may hear stories in the news, it’s easy to disconnect from the pain and suffering endured by others. It is essential to recognize that these stories are not just abstract tales of distant lands. In other words, these are vivid accounts of real people grappling with unimaginable hardships.

Nik Ripken urges us to dig deeper and challenge our perceptions. The suffering faced by persecuted believers is not just an emotional concept. Rather, it’s a physical and tangible reality that leaves scars on the human spirit. Their struggles are not only limited to religious differences but encompass issues of survival, justice, and dignity.

To truly grasp the human reality of suffering, we must actively seek to understand the experiences of those facing persecution. This entails diving into their stories with an open heart and mind, willing to acknowledge the raw emotions and pain they endure daily.

Nik emphasizes the importance of developing a personal connection with these stories, engaging with the lives of the oppressed. By doing so, we can transcend the superficiality of empathy and instead cultivate genuine compassion. The persecution faced by these believers may seem distant. However, the human emotions they experience are universal – fear, hope, love, and resilience.

Behind each story of persecution lies an individual with unique dreams, aspirations, and desires. Similarly, they have families, friends, and communities that suffer alongside them. Nik Ripken challenges us to identify with these real lives, to put ourselves in their shoes, and comprehend the magnitude of their struggles.

Welcome back to our podcast, where Nik Ripken goes further into the reasons why unreached countries often remain unreached. Building upon last week’s discussion, Nik addresses a crucial aspect that is often overlooked: the significance of embracing and equipping missionaries to venture into the hardest places.

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Seek Out Hard Places

Nik Ripken highlights a prevailing trend among missionaries where very few willingly choose to serve in the hard places. These hard places often encompass regions marked by extreme poverty, political instability, religious persecution, and cultural resistance to the Gospel. While understandable, Nik argues that this reluctance to venture into challenging environments may hinder the fulfillment of the Great Commission. He emphasizes the need to recognize that not all territories can be reached by Western missionaries alone. We must also equip local believers who possess unique cultural insights to reach the darker corners of the world.

Equip the Right People

The reluctance to serve in hard places results in a missed opportunity to equip and empower local believers. These locals have intrinsic cultural understanding, linguistic fluency, and resilience in the face of adversity. In other words, they are often better positioned to penetrate the darkest corners of their own societies and effectively share the message of hope.

Western missionaries, while well-intentioned, may face cultural and linguistic barriers that hinder their ability to connect deeply with local communities. On the other hand, believers from within those cultures possess a nuanced understanding of social dynamics, customs, and traditions. By equipping these local believers with the necessary resources and support, we empower them to effectively engage their own people and transcend barriers that Western missionaries may struggle to overcome.

By embracing the challenge of hard places and investing in local believers, we expand our reach to previously untouched territories. The transformative power of the Gospel can penetrate even the darkest corners when carried by those who intimately understand the cultural and spiritual context. Moreover, equipping local believers nurtures sustainable movements and empowers communities to continue the work long after Western missionaries have left.

Nik calls for a paradigm shift in our approach to mission work. Rather than solely relying on Western missionaries, we must recognize and value the unique role of local believers in reaching the unreached. This shift requires intentional investment, training, and support to equip individuals adequately for engaging their own people and bringing about lasting transformation.

Count the Cost of Reaching Unreached People Groups

When Nik’s brother expressed his concerns about the potential danger awaiting those who would embrace Christianity in these challenging environments, Nik acknowledged the risks. Rather than deflecting or denying the potential consequences, Nik embraced the weight of responsibility. He recognizes that his actions may expose believers to persecution, but he remains steadfast in his conviction that it is still worth sharing the message of Christ, even in the face of death.

Nik Ripken’s unwavering commitment to reaching the hardest places stems from a deep conviction about the eternal impact of the Gospel. He believes that this transformative power has the potential to change lives, communities, and entire nations. The spiritual freedom experienced by those who embrace the message of Christ surpasses any temporal suffering they may endure.

Nik’s response is based on the biblical call to discipleship, which includes embracing the potential hardships that may accompany following Jesus. Just as Jesus warned His disciples about the challenges they would face (Matthew 10:22), Nik recognizes the reality that persecution may follow the proclamation of the Gospel. Yet, he encourages us to remain committed to sharing Christ’s message regardless of the personal cost.

Balance Ministry and Safety

Nik acknowledges that conducting English lessons can initially attract significant interest, particularly from Muslim women seeking to learn the language. However, he cautions that this enthusiasm may bring unforeseen consequences. The involvement of Muslim women in church activities can draw the attention of Islamic leaders who may perceive it as a threat to their community’s religious traditions.

In regions where religious tensions are high, ministry leaders must consider the safety and well-being of participants. Nik encourages church planters to lead these ministries outside of church property. Hosting events outside of a church location mitigates the risk of violent threats from Islamic leaders. This approach allows locals to participate without fear of endangering their families or facing potential backlash from their communities.

Contextual sensitivity is key in ministry endeavors. Westerners often view a physical church as the hub for various programs and activities. Is there another way? By adapting strategies to the local context, church planters can create safer spaces for individuals to explore their faith. Leading ministry outside of church locations allows local residents to engage in community initiatives without unnecessary attention or potential harm.

Conducting ministry programs outside of church property means that church planters can expand their reach and impact. This approach allows for greater accessibility. Individuals who may be reluctant to enter a church building due to cultural or religious barriers can still participate in transformative activities. Moreover, conducting initiatives in neutral or community-centric locations can foster greater trust and acceptance among the local population.

Partner with Trusted Locals

Nik builds collaborative partnerships with local leaders and community members to ensure the success and safety of ministry efforts. We work alongside individuals who possess cultural insights and an understanding of the local dynamics. In this way, we can navigate potential challenges more effectively while promoting unity and respect.

Embarking on a missionary journey is a life-altering decision when you have a family to consider. In this episode, Ruth Ripken explains the common fears that mothers often encounter when contemplating a life of service on the mission field. Join us as we explore the challenges, triumphs, and transformative growth that arise when mothers choose to follow their calling and embrace the missionary life.

Be sure to subscribe to the Witness & Persecution Podcast on your favorite platform.

The Fear of Unknown

One of the greatest fears that mothers face when considering missionary service is the fear of the unknown. Moving to a foreign land with a different culture, language, and lifestyle can be daunting. Ruth Ripken shares personal anecdotes from her own missionary experiences and interviews courageous mothers who have successfully overcome their fears. By shedding light on the unknown, she reassures mothers that God is their guiding light and that embracing the unfamiliar can lead to incredible personal growth and meaningful connections.

Balancing Parenting and Ministry

Mothers often worry about how they will balance their responsibilities as parents with the demands of ministry work. Generally, Ruth addresses this concern by offering practical advice on creating a healthy balance. In particular, she highlights the importance of involving children in the missionary journey. Mothers can instill in their children a love for different cultures, while prioritizing family time. By emphasizing the significance of intentional parenting, Ruth demonstrates that serving as a missionary can be an incredible opportunity for children to witness faith in action and develop a heart for global compassion.

Education and Homeschooling

Education is another area of concern for mothers contemplating missionary service. The thought of homeschooling their children or finding suitable educational opportunities in a foreign land can be overwhelming. There are various educational options available, including homeschooling, international schools, and local educational programs. Missionary mothers often share practical tips on curriculum selection, finding support networks, and fostering a love for learning in children while adapting to a new environment.

Financial Insecurity

Many mothers worry about financial instability when considering missionary work. Ruth discusses the importance of relying on God’s provision and building a strong support network. She shares stories of how families have experienced miraculous financial provisions on the mission field and offers guidance on fundraising and developing partnerships with churches and organizations. By emphasizing trust in God’s faithfulness, Ruth encourages mothers to step out in faith, knowing that He will provide for their needs.

Emotional Challenges and Loneliness

The emotional challenges and potential loneliness of missionary life can be intimidating for mothers. Ruth addresses this fear by stressing the significance of building a support network within the missionary community. She shares practical strategies for nurturing friendships, seeking mentorship, and cultivating a healthy emotional well-being. By fostering connections and finding solace in like-minded individuals, mothers can combat feelings of isolation and find comfort and encouragement on their missionary journey.

Make it an Adventure

Ruth Ripken encourages families to adopt a perspective that sees challenges as opportunities for growth and adventure. Families can reframe difficulties as exciting possibilities. Mothers can inspire their families to embrace the unknown and approach each obstacle with resilience and faith. Specifically, encouraging children to ask questions, seek new experiences, and embrace different cultures fosters a deep appreciation for the diversity of God’s creation. By nurturing a spirit of curiosity, mothers can create an environment where their family learns and grows together.

Flexibility and adaptability are key attributes of any adventurous journey, including missionary life. Thus, Ruth highlights the significance of being open to unexpected changes and embracing the adventure of adapting to new circumstances. She provides practical advice on how mothers can model flexibility and resilience for their children, emphasizing that these qualities are not only crucial for thriving on the mission field but also valuable life skills that can be carried forward.

At the heart of making missionary life an adventure is trusting in God’s guidance and provision. Ruth Ripken highlights the importance of cultivating a deep and unwavering faith, both individually and as a family. By praying for their children, missionary mothers can instill in their children a trust in God’s faithfulness. Consequently, mothers can transform challenges into remarkable adventures.

Perfect Peace Casts Out Fear

As mothers explore common fears when deciding to serve on the mission field, Ruth Ripken teaches, “Perfect peace casts out fear.” Mothers may have a fear of the unknown or balancing parenting and ministry. Families may also have educational concerns, financial insecurities, and emotional challenges. Through her wisdom and compassionate insight, she instills hope and confidence in those contemplating missionary service. With God’s guidance, mothers can overcome their fears and embark on a transformative and fulfilling journey of faith.