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Acts 6-7

Only two chapters today, folks! Read 'em now with the BIBLE READER to the right of this post or at http://www.biblegateway.com/.

PERSECUTION

The short story of Stephen was told today. A bit of a downer, if I do say so myself. It was about the guy appointed by the disciples that was to teach people and heal under Jesus' name-- and people were so angry that Jesus' word was getting proclaimed (instead of kings and rulers) that they made up lies about Stephen, and stoned him to death.

Doesn't it make you just want to take a deep breath and say "Thank goodness that doesn't happen today!"

But guess what?

Persecution does happen today. Maybe not in the happy pappy America, because we've got a government that allows us to worship whoever we want. However, in other countries ALL AROUND THE WORLD, Christians are persecuted, just like Stephen.

Sorry today is such a downer. Reality is a bit of a downer sometimes.

We've got all sorts of tragedies going on around the world, and most times, we don't even notice it. We don't acknowledge it.

Today, give thanks to God for all you have. You might not have a perfect life, or even a GOOD one, but guess what? At least you're not being stoned to death because of a lie someone told about you.

Pray for those who are being persecuted, and those who are ashamed of their faith. One cause I wanted to put out there was for my friends going to Cambodia (in Asia) to help people stuck in the trafficking industry.

The world is a pretty cruel place, people! It's our job as Christians to do the best we can to help out. You never give too much. Jesus gave His life for the sin in the world, so the least we can do is try and get involved in the solving!

Check out The Grace and Peace Girls' blog for more information on their journey, and keep them in your prayers:

http://graceandpeacegals.blogspot.com/

Other than that, have a blessed day! Thank God for all you have.

Peace out.

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