It may be surprising, but Christian persecution around the world is one of the biggest human rights issues of this era. We may not see it much here in the United States but it is being lived out in places like India, North Korea, Nigeria to name a few places. The World Watch List is Open Doors’ annual ranking of the 50 countries where Christians suffer for their faith. In just the last year, there have been over 360 million Christians living in places where they experience high levels of persecution and discrimination, thousands of Christians have been killed for their faith, tens of thousands of churches and other Christian buildings attacked, up towards five thousand believers detained without trial, arrested, sentenced or imprisoned. Violence against Christians in Sub-Saharan Africa has reached new heights. China’s model of oppression is spreading throughout authoritarian states. The Church in the Middle East is reduced and still under pressure. Conditions for the Church have worsened in Latin America. With all that is going on we must reflect on what is written in *2 Timothy 3:1 But understand this, that in the last days dangerous times [of great stress and trouble] will come [difficult days that will be hard to bear].* Our beliefs help define who we are and serve as a foundation for what we do. My goal and purpose is not to scare anyone, it is to help prepare those who will listen to what lies ahead for the world according to scripture. I reflect on the words of John Calvin when he said, “A dog barks when his master is attacked. I would be a coward if I saw that God’s truth is attacked and yet would remain silent.” My question to those who read these words, and please don’t take this question lightly, “Will you still serve God if Christianity becomes a felony where you live?” If not, then you must question your salvation. Persecution is coming and that is for sure, so for you, will it be fight or flight? Who is prepared to stand with me in the battle? My BeLoved, may the grace and peace of the Lord Jesus, the love of God the Father, and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. Amen. In Christ Love, douglas. HE>i. pastord.blog

Special Note: I want to thank those who read what I write and are encouraged to support the ministry God has entrusted to me either one time or have decided to give on a monthly basis. I am encouraged to see certain verses playing out before my eyes like what is written in *Philippians 4:16 For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account.*

To any who are interested, please feel free to reach out to me with prayer requests, questions, encouragement, or for information on how to come alongside me with financial support at pastord.blog@gmail.com or I do have a Zelle account associated with my phone number, 5202720387last name Blaser. Thank you my Beloved for your ongoing prayers and support.