With the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition. (1 Thess. 2:2)
Expanded Passage: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-2
I will never forget the day that the authorities came to our home and told us they were taking our vehicles. It was just the latest atrocity directed at the mission. Some unscrupulous individuals had laid claim to several properties, including our churches and a newly constructed Bible school building. I never completely understood how they were able to finagle and convince the powers that be that they were entitled to what missionaries and others had spent decades building. But they had, and now our vehicles were gone as well.
We often read or hear about the horrible atrocities happening to Christians all over the world. It can range from discrimination, deportation, different forms of violence, imprisonment, and even death. The confiscation of our properties seems like a small thing in comparison to the terrible suffering of so many. But persecution comes in many forms, and Jesus said to expect it. If you are a follower of his, it will come.
Despite being unjustly accused and imprisoned, Paul continued his mission. And that’s what God calls us to do. Even in the face of opposition, we are to keep moving forward. So, with our coworkers, our church partners stateside, and the national church alongside, we started over, rebuilding churches and a new Bible school. We made every step with the help of our God.
Keep moving forward with the help of God.
Marcy Burke enjoys living in Alabama, being a retired pastor’s wife, former missionary, and worship leader. She enjoys playing the piano and taking long walks with her husband, Larry.
© 2026 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
