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
They escaped with only the clothes on their backs. Now free, they were asked about their physical needs. Their answer was shocking.
“We don’t need anything,” said the North Korean followers of Jesus, “because we have Jesus, and we have hope! Pray for those in North Korea who don’t!”
The desperate circumstances these men and women faced were breathtaking. One survivor shared about multiple escape attempts, years in prison, and a daily life tottering on the brink of starvation. She survived on tree bark, grass, and occasionally mice and grasshoppers. Despite her relief and gratitude to be free, she lamented, “So many are still suffering.”
Situations like this can make us feel deeply sad and desperately hopeless. How can we help?
Jesus gives all of His followers living hope. But Jesus also calls His followers to a faith that acts. Here are some biblical ways God says that we can respond to stories like this. First, pray. Prayer moves God’s heart and scripture says, “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).
Second, look for ways to reach out and give. Find organizations like Guidelines that share both the message of Jesus and practical support with those suffering.
Third, live with gratitude and generosity. Be ready to share them and respond to needs with joy.
The Bible asks us: “What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions?” (James 2:14). Start today. Answer God’s call today into prayer and action!
