Lessons from the Persecuted

February 26, 2021
February 26, 2021
ICC News Spiritual Inspiration
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02/26/2021 Washington D.C. (International Christian Concern) –When you hear the phrase “idol worshipping,” you probably think of ancient civilizations bowing down before the image of a deity. We often don’t think about idol worshipping as a 21st century activity, much less something we do day to day.

Yet, idol worship is simply saying that a part of the creation is better than the Creator. Our idols trick us into thinking that if we follow them, happiness will come.

We can learn from the persecuted to strip away our idols. For them, everything is stripped away except Jesus. They see Jesus for who He is and choose to endure the suffering of the cross. But denying the things of this world to take up our cross is not glorious.

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Idols sit on the throne of our hearts where Jesus should rightly sit. We often live life without realizing our idols are creeping in and stealing our true joy. Ask yourself these questions to begin to reveal the hidden idols in your life:

  1. What are the things you spend most of your time on?
  2. What do you prioritize in your day?
  3. What do you fear losing?
  4. What occupies your mind when you’re not busy?
  5. What do you desire to do in your downtime?

Often, our idols are revealed when we are faced with two options: to choose Jesus, or to choose the comforts of this world. The persecuted are believers who have chosen Jesus and found comfort in Him. Take some time to reflect on these questions. Challenge yourself to feel uncomfortable, but know that you are forgiven of your sins and can be inspired by your persecuted brothers and sisters.

For interviews please contact Alison Garcia: [email protected]

History of Violence

The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) is a terrorist organization that emerged in 2016 after splitting from Boko Haram. It is affiliated with ISIS and operates primarily in Nigeria and the surrounding region, targeting both civilians and military forces.

ISWAP has been responsible for numerous attacks, including assaults on Christian communities, kidnappings, and executions, as part of its broader jihadist agenda.

Learn More

Persecution

These violent actions contribute to ongoing instability in northern Nigeria, where religious and ethnic tensions remain high.

The international community, including the United Nations and several governments, has condemned ISWAP’s attacks, recognizing them as acts of terrorism.

Learn More

To read more news stories, visit the ICC Newsroom
For interviews, please email [email protected]

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