We see it again and again. Wars and conflicts break out in a nation, often due to ethnic or religious differences (or both). And at the same time, Christ-followers in those areas see great opportunities to share the hope of the Gospel, found only in Christ. Reports from Ukraine and the Middle East confirm that. Recent books, like The Insanity of God, by Nik Ripken, underscore how faith grows in spite of persecution. We don’t pray for conflict, but we should recognize the great opportunity to utilize the times for God’s purpose. The Lord is not willing that any should perish. (II Peter 3:9) And we should be ready always to share with others the hope that is in us. (I Peter 3:15)
So when I see what is happening in Ukraine, and have been considering a request to come and speak to those in Christian media in that country, what do I do? 
Of course, first of all I pray…for the situation there, for the believers caught in the conflict, and for what God might have me do to encourage those serving Him in these difficult days. In my heart, this is not a time to shrink back from God’s direction for our ministry. In fact, as I am writing this I recall speaking to a group of Christian broadcasters in Russia a few years ago. God led me to center my message on Hebrews 10:39. We are not of those who shrink back…but of those who have faith….
Of course, they were the ones facing the challenge of more persecution from the Russian authorities. I was getting on a plane in a day or two and returning home. Easy for me to say. Yet the Word of God is the Word of God for all people and for all times.
As of now, I have plans to go to Kiev in November. We will monitor the situation and follow God’s wisdom and direction. And we will pray for the Lord to direct us to encourage those on the front line for the Lord to speak His Truth to their culture, that many may hear and embrace the hope found only in Jesus Christ.
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