"And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward." - Matt. 10:42 As we partner with churches around the world to further the gospel, we see the overwhelming financial strain on the families of pastors who have been imprisoned. While the breadwinner is in prison, it is nearly impossible for the family to provide for themselves. Often, the jailed pastor's wife carries on her husband's ministry with no income. Pastors and church planters in prison have often told us that while enduring prison was very difficult, even more distressing was the worry over their families' survival. This is a widespread problem in China, and our dear brothers and sisters desperately need help. We feel strongly that we can not abandon these families during such an hour of need. WorldServe created a special fund for this cause. The local church leaders administer this fund and distribute money to provide food, housing, and sometimes travel expenses if the family must go underground. This fund also helps to care for the pastors and church planters after they are released, as many require medical attention and must recover from injuries sustained while in prison. How Does the Aid Provide Spiritual Benefits? • The Gospel is preached with greater boldness. • The pastors see God's care in action through believers like you and me, providing some peace of mind if they must face a prison term. They are reminded that God hears their cries, will provide for their needs, and that they and their families are in God's hands. • Suffering servants also strengthen our faith in God and His protection during hardship. Here at WorldServe, we have been told by many that God helps them endure the pain during beatings. Others tell us that although they feel the pain, they give thanks to God for giving them the strength to endure.
			• Still others credit God for giving them the fortitude to complete their labor in spite of beatings, great fatigue and severe malnutrition. God does indeed sustain them, and they encourage us as they show us the joy of the fellowship of suffering with Christ. Help Us Help Them We ask for your support in helping our brothers and sisters in Christ who are imprisoned, beaten, and enduring separation from their loved ones. God will surely bless as you share (Matthew 10:42). These brothers and sisters thank God for the loving prayers and financial support provided for them and their families during ths trial. "...you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers, even though they are strangers to you." - III John 5
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