August 9, 2023: Remember Those In Prison For Their Faith

"Remember those in prison, as if you were there yourself. Remember also those being mistreated, as if you felt their pain in your own bodies." (Hebrews 13:3, NLT)

As Paul closes out the Book of Hebrews, he leaves a list of thoughts for the church to consider. One of those is to remember those imprisoned for their faith and who are mistreated for the same. We do not do this much in our country and communities, for we still live in a reasonably free nation, so persecution is not on our minds. But the exhortation should still strike our hearts personally, knowing that others in the world are suffering terribly because of their testimony of Jesus Christ.
    
The Passion Translation reads, "No matter what, make room in your heart to love every believer." (Hebrews 13:1, TPT) One of the ways we can remember those imprisoned and mistreated is by prayer. If you think prayer does not matter, read Acts 5:19 and Acts 12:13. The Saints were praying, and God answered in response to their prayers.

Some people in our country are being mistreated because of their faith. Their jobs are on the line; they are passed over for raises; they are not treated favorably. Remember those people in your prayers. Ask for justice! May God act favorably toward them.
    
The key to Hebrew 13:3 is found in the word 'remember." The Apostle Paul uses it twice. As one who has suffered, his appeal to remember the persecuted is personal.