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Saeed Abedini's release hailed; Iranian-American Christian pastor had been tortured
(Worthy News) - News of Saturday's release of Iranian-American Christian pastor Saeed Abedini was hailed, especially at an event in honor of religious liberty.
“Thank God! We celebrate with Naghmeh Abedini on the release of her husband Pastor Saeed Abedini,” Tony Perkins, president of Family Research Council, who was leading a four-hour event in honor of the Jan. 16 National Religious Freedom Day.
Naghmeh Abedini confirmed via Twitter her husband’s release, as did Jay Sekulow of the American Center for Law and Justice, which has represented the family, World magazine reported.
“This has been an answer to prayer,” Mrs. Abedini tweeted. “This is a critical time for me and my family. We look forward to Saeed’s return and want to thank the millions of people who have stood with us in prayer during this most difficult time.” [ Source ]
I am not surprised. God didn't promise we would not face torture or even death. The early Christians faced many forms of cruel torture and various cruel deaths, crucified, boiled in oil, drawn and quartered to name a few of the worst. Many were beaten and jailed. Some thrown to the Lions. I can only hope he is physically healing and any disabilities he may have from it all God will sustain him in life and show him His love and kindness for having stood for His truth under such conditions and treatment.
Hebrews 11:32How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets. 33By faith these people overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and received what God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, 34quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight. 35Women received their loved ones back again from death.
But others were tortured, refusing to turn from God in order to be set free. They placed their hope in a better life after the resurrection. 36Some were jeered at, and their backs were cut open with whips. Others were chained in prisons. 37Some died by stoning, some were sawed in half,d and others were killed with the sword. Some went about wearing skins of sheep and goats, destitute and oppressed and mistreated. 38They were too good for this world, wandering over deserts and mountains, hiding in caves and holes in the ground.
39All these people earned a good reputation because of their faith, yet none of them received all that God had promised. 40For God had something better in mind for us, so that they would not reach perfection without us.
Lord heal his body and restore all that was stolen from him. Thank you Father that he can return to his wife and children.