Through a Martyr’s Eyes

Reading articles and news updates from the Voice of the Martyrs (links here and here) has been one of the most beneficial things I could have possibly done to help me in my Christian walk. Our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world do exist, and their faith and courage are incredibly inspiring. From Sunday school teachers who illegally teach children about Jesus in a Muslim country, to pastors who are beaten and killed by mobs, to children who watch their parents suffer and die – these are people who have much need of prayer. And they are people whom we have much to learn from.

I am sure there is nothing like the threat of persecution to lay your heart bare. When a gun is being waved in your face, and you are threatened with death if you do not deny the name of Christ, then the truth will come out, and what you value most will be seen. And that is why these martyrs are heroes. They show through their sufferings that they value Christ more than comfort, security, physical possessions, family, or life itself. There is a starkness to their faith. The cushioning is gone. There is nothing between them and Christ, and they see their need for Him so clearly, and they know how much He is worth to them so deeply.

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At my school, we have a worship service each Sunday night. One of my favorite songs there is entitled “None but Jesus.” When I sing this song, I think it is the kind of song a martyr might sing – and mean more deeply than we could possibly imagine, until God stretches the limits of our love.

(audio chorus link here)

In the quiet, in the stillness
I know that You are God
In the secret of Your presence
I know there I am restored
When You call I won’t refuse
Each new day again I’ll choose

There is no one else for me
None but Jesus
Crucified to set me free
Now I live to bring Him praise

In the chaos and confusion
I know You’re sovereign still
In the moment of my weakness
You give me grace to do Your will
So when You call I won’t delay
This, my song, through all my days

I am Yours and You are mine
I am Yours and You are mine

All my delight is in You, Lord
All of my hope, all of my strength
All my delight is in You, Lord
Forevermore

(lyrics found here)