In America Christians don’t have a point of reference for what believers in other countries are subjected to for being followers of Christ.  For instance, read what happened recently in Ethiopia where 50 churches and Christian’s homes where set on fire by Muslims.  The picture is the remains of burned down Kale Hiwot church in Asendabo, Ethiopia.

This is an excerpt from the article…

In the southern town of Moyale, a Christian was sentenced to three years in prison in November for allegedly writing “Jesus is the Lord” in a copy of the Koran… Christians from the area told the website he had actually written the phrase on a piece of cloth.  Sources (said) authorities had offered to release the man, Tamirat Woldegorgis, if he would convert to Islam, but he refused.  Additionally, two of his friends were fined for visiting him in prison and taking him food.  (Emphasis mine)

This is a direct modern day description of what is written in Hebrews 10:32-36…

But recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, 33 sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach & affliction, & sometimes being partners with those so treated. 34 For you had compassion on those in prison, & you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. 35 Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. 36 For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.

What Christians call suffering in America doesn’t measure up to what other Christians suffer for God’s glory in foreign countries.

Pray for the Christian brothers and sisters in Ethiopia to be strong and not throw away their confidence.  They are suffering real persecution.  May Jehovah God be glorified.