Posted on March 1, 2023 by Elizabeth Welte in Victory Call
“Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body.” Hebrews 13:3
This verse took on new meaning to me October 23rd, 2016 when I received news that friends serving as missionaries in the Philippines were arrested two days earlier. Matt and Lee run an orphanage there to minister the love of Christ to children of poverty – street kids – giving them a safe, caring environment and helping them get an education. The news reports were so twisted with lies it’s difficult to decipher but it was reported Matt and Lee were suspected of and would likely be charged with Human Trafficking and were behind bars.
The Lord brought them to mind repeatedly – early in the morning and during the night, I spoke to the Lord. I can’t imagine the conditions they found themselves in – separated from each other, surrounded by strangers and criminals, and suspected of evil things.
What does it mean to me to remember Matt and Lee as if I was in prison with them? I tried to imagine what I would think and feel and need if I was there with them. As I stopped and thought for a moment, I prayed for God’s protection over their physical beings – that no harm would come to them by others in the prison, or by the hands of guards or officials. I prayed that God would fill their minds with verses and truths, but not just words, but with the reality of His actual presence with them. I prayed He would protect them from the devastation of the accusations and the weight of them on their minds and hearts. I prayed that God would protect them mightily from fear. That God would rise up and show Himself strong, King of all the earth, Mighty to save and the One Who fights for them. I prayed that they would not only get released but that God would reverse this completely in their favor; that their names and reputations would be cleared and that officials, neighbors and those in the community would realize that the love of Christ compels Matt and Lee and welcome their orphanage and the ministry they provide even supporting them. I prayed that the officials would expedite getting them the proper documentation and even provide resources to them to accomplish this work of the Lord.
I prayed that our God would be glorified and His name made famous. That those connected to this situation would be put on their heels and see the undeniable power and greatness of the One True God.
Tall order? Yes. But our God reigns over nations, over government officials, over jails and over those with corrupt intent.
“Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them…”
Written by Diane Hunt: Diane Hunt serves on the board of America’s Keswick and is the Executive Director & CEO of Changed Choices, a Christian non-profit in North Carolina. She is also a biblical counselor and women’s event speaker. For more information about having Diane speak at your next event please contact her at dhunt@americaskeswick.org.
Think About This: “Like a spring of pure water, God’s peace in our hearts brings cleansing and refreshment to our minds and bodies.” – Billy Graham
The Daily Bible Reading: Numbers 17-18. You can download our 2023 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here.
This Week’s Verse to Memorize: “It is good to give thanks to the Lord, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; 2 To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, And Your faithfulness every night…” Psalm 92:1-2
Consider a retreat at America’s Keswick retreat center.
