Recently, three pastors from a church in Turkey were gruesomely and ruthlessly martyred. Sometimes I can't help wondering, why why why did God allow this to happen. Why would He allow the very people whom Jesus died for, whom He loves so much, to die in such a horrible and inhumane manner? In such situations, you can really start to doubt and wonder.
"* Tilman was stabbed 156 times, Necati 99 times and Ugur's stabs were too numerous to count. They were disemboweled, and their intestines sliced up in front of their eyes. They were emasculated and watched as those body parts were destroyed. Fingers were chopped off, their noses and mouths and anuses were sliced open. Possibly the worst part was watching as their brothers were likewise tortured. Finally, their throats were sliced from ear to ear, heads practically decapitated."
Reading that, I had to cringe. The world has really turned away from God, denying His obvious existence. We ask for signs for proof that there is a God. But God has already proved his existence and love by giving us His word, by creating the majestic mountains, trees and vast oceans, by sending Jesus Christ to die for us. But many of us are blind, too blind to see the love we can receive from God, the Father and King who loves us more than anyone else ever will.
In our hearts, we know that there has to be a God. In view of all the suffering, calamities, wars, corruption and sinfulness in the world right now, it simply gives me more assurance that the Bible is truly the Word of God.. it is the truth. For the Bible has already stated where this sinful world is heading. Every single word is coming to pass right this very moment. How can I doubt any longer?
"Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. For it is time for judgement to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?"
And,
'If it is hard for the righteous to be saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?'
So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue doing good."
(1 Peter 4: 12 - 19)
Honestly, I don't know if I'll ever have the strength to face that kind of persecution for God. But like Shortie said, strength will come from God. He will be the strength in my weakness; my refuge when the storm becomes too hard for me to withstand.
I find it frustrating how many of us as christians have conflict within the church. Even the church is not spared from getting entangled with worldly pride and defects. Time is running out and we need to start praying for the lost.
"The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins."
(1 Peter 4: 7 - 8)
We need to start concentrating on who God is and what He is capable of instead of thinking about how weak and limited we are. It's hard, but we can do it.
'If it is hard for the righteous to be saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?'
So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue doing good."
(1 Peter 4: 12 - 19)
Honestly, I don't know if I'll ever have the strength to face that kind of persecution for God. But like Shortie said, strength will come from God. He will be the strength in my weakness; my refuge when the storm becomes too hard for me to withstand.
I find it frustrating how many of us as christians have conflict within the church. Even the church is not spared from getting entangled with worldly pride and defects. Time is running out and we need to start praying for the lost.
"The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins."
(1 Peter 4: 7 - 8)
We need to start concentrating on who God is and what He is capable of instead of thinking about how weak and limited we are. It's hard, but we can do it.
Fantastic post. But I think the most heart-moving, mind-boggling, and inspiring thing about this event is this:
The front pages of all the largest newspapers in Turkey carried an interview with Susanne (Tilman's widow), saying "God forgive them for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). In a nation where blood revenge is a normal part of the culture, Suzanne's statement of forgiveness came as a shock to many. One newspaper columnist wrote: “She said in one sentence what 1000 missionaries in 1000 years could never do.”
Anyway, this is a really busy week for me...but when I have the time, I'll try to post up some pictures from Fungus Kung Fu Rally - which was absolutely awesome~!! More elaboration another time-lah. But thank God, I can still walk, although my whole body is aching. =P
Busy busy busy...my friends and I have finalised the limo that we'll be taking to our formal in late June, and it is absolutely cheap!! So now, I gotta pick a dress. Hmmm....
Chemistry exam in 5 weeks...so, gotta go study. No, wait. I'll sleep...then I'll study.
Have a good week!! God bless and take care!
Love,
Audrey.
Audrey.
P/S:Thanks Meanie!
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