In the solitude of his cell, with the echoing weight of silence all around him, Andrew Brunson found himself deep in reflection about the unexpected and arduous journey that led him here. As a dedicated missionary, Andrew understood that persecution might weave itself into his path, yet facing its stark reality unveiled layers of internal fear he had not fully anticipated. Amid his thoughts, the comforting yet challenging words of Jesus resonated in his mind: “You will be persecuted, but remember your salvation is at hand.”
Andrew pondered if his path would mirror that of the apostle Peter and Brother Yun, who walked free from imprisonment, or like James, steadfast and courageous, even unto death. His experiences compelled him to ponder how best to encourage others to prepare for whatever their path may demand—be it persecution, liberation, or sacrifice.
Reflecting on the words of his song “Worthy of My All,” Andrew realized that courage was not the absence of fear, but obedience amidst it. Even in suffering, there was a profound blessing—a sharing in Jesus’s glory through the shared experience of suffering, as promised in 1 Peter 4:7.
He now realized that persecution, while capable of amplifying joy, also challenges faith—driving some away and pulling others closer. With the correct mindset, even the toughest trials are worth facing because following Jesus, despite its cost, is far less costly than any alternative. To follow Jesus, despite its costs, aligns with the ultimate truth that He holds greater value than any earthly treasure.
Andrew’s heart filled with peace as he remembered, “If you go through the persecution the right way, you will have no regrets.” With renewed resolve, he whispered his prayer: “Lord, make me ready to stand, and in whatever comes, let me be worthy of my calling, for you are worthy of my all.”
And so, Andrew Brunson prepared to stand, heartened by the truth that in suffering and in joy, he would share in something far greater.
He spoke openly about how this ordeal profoundly altered his perspective on faith and his Christian journey. The impact was so significant that he’s now creating YouTube videos urging others to remain steadfast and be ready to stand firm in their beliefs. Watch these videos here:
It’s amazing really, how suffering has the ability to produce such good fruit in believers! Glory be to God!! Another believer comes to mind, Torben Sondergaard, who was imprisoned (last year – 2023) in California, USA, for, as it turns out, preaching the gospel! They held him for 412 days in prison before deporting him and he is now working in Mexico until God opens a door for him to return to the USA. His insights and experiences are worth checking out also, especially as this happened in the west, and God has told him to prepare His people for persecution in the west! You can find him on YouTube or via his web page. God bless you!