Shan Dai Advocacy

Obadiah

March 23, 2007 on 1:02 pm | In His First Bible, Old Testament, PrayerGrams |

Obadiah’s one chapter prophecy shouts loud and clear of God’s faithfulness to justice. Jacob and Esau were rivals, some would say since birth. Later in life the two brothers made peace, but the nations bearing their names continued on in conflict. It is heartbreaking when “brothers” struggle against one another. Unfortunately, Christianity within China is not exempt from these struggles. In Shan Dai areas there have been times when church members of the government sanctioned Three-Self Patriotic Movement have infiltrated underground house churches to inform the police. In one particularly petty betrayal, Bibles, teaching materials, and even chairs were confiscated from the house church and given to the Three-Self church. In other locations the strife between registered and unregistered Christians has been more extreme. The Three-Self Church has had times when it has gained favor with the government by turning against fellow Christians, even to life threatening harm. Where is the justice? God is not blind and His justice will prevail. “The day is near when I, the LORD, will judge the godless nations! As you have done… so it will be done to you. All your evil deeds will fall back on your own heads” (Obadiah 1:15). Father, we pray today for unity with Your family in our own churches as well as with our brothers and sisters in China. Lord, when injustice appears to be thriving, we pray for the wisdom to look beyond the present time. Jesus, grant Your peace to the Shan Dai Christians undergoing persecution and for the strength to suffer well, knowing that Your eyes see all.