A pastor and several church members in a southeastern Tanzanian village had all of their belongings and cash confiscated after refusing to contribute towards a ceremony involving witchcraft. Village leaders, who entertained fears of "curses" being placed upon the area, called upon witch doctors to remove them. As part of their chosen requirements, everyone in the community was told to make a donation prior to the enactment of the ceremony. However, because the ceremony involved witchcraft, the Christians refused to participate.
Angered by the Christians' refusal, village leaders forced their way into the pastor's house and stole all of his possessions. They later did the same to the other church members, even taking a substantial amount of cash from a young man who had been saving the money to pay for his upcoming wedding.
Upon discovering the items were stolen, the victimized Christian families sought the aid of local police. Yet, instead of offering needed assistance, the police resorted to name-calling by referring to the victims as "idiots" and "ignorant fools." The village leaders then threatened the pastor, informing him that they are intending to destroy the church and get rid of all the Christians residing in their village.
Despite the wrongful acts and threats of the persecutors, may the targeted Christians of this Tanzanian village not be intimidated, but rather protected and greatly strengthened by our Almighty God who sees and hears all. May He act as their Righteous Judge by rendering justice and restoring to them all that the enemy has stolen. Intercede for the lost and languishing souls of this village, petitioning that they be delivered from darkness and brought into God's glorious light. According to Genesis 50:20, He is able to use what the enemy has meant for evil to accomplish His good purposes -- including the salvation of many!
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