It ain't easy being a teen... and Jackie O. understands that well. Take her sound, faith-filled advice as we walk with God together.
Did you hear about Fathima Rifqa Bary the Christian girl from a Muslim background who says she fears for her life because she converted? Watch CBNNews video to learn more about her.
It’s heartbreaking to consider Fathima’s situation and the threat she says she is facing. Yet, it is customary with some Middle Eastern faiths for families to banish their loved ones for denouncing their household religion by becoming a Christian.
That’s hard for most Americans to comprehend. We are not accustomed to such severe consequences for becoming a born again believer in Jesus Christ. We are familiar with living in a land that upholds our right to religious freedom and protects us for our various faiths. In addition, most of us come from families that wouldn’t dream of harming us for loving God.
"The First Amendment to the United States Constitution is the part of the United States Bill of Rights that expressly prohibits the United States Congress from making laws "respecting an establishment of religion" or that prohibit the free exercise of religion, infringe the freedom of speech, infringe the freedom of the press, limit the right to peaceably assemble, or limit the right to petition the government for a redress of grievances." (First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution)
Thank God for America, the Constitution, and the freedom of religion that we have here in the United States. Thank God also for families that are accepting of our worship.
Here are a few serious questions for us to consider as we keep Fathima in our prayers:
1. How would you feel if you had to keep your faith a secret?
2. Have you ever been persecuted for what you believe?
3. Are you careful not to take your ability to worship God in freedom for granted?
Jesus said, “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” - John 8:32, NKJV
~ Jackie O.