In Nigeria, Christians in the Muslim-majority North have been the targets of relentless deadly attacks by Islamic extremists.
More than 200 pastors in the Northeastern Borno state have either fled, closed their churches, or have been murdered by the militant Islamic group Boko Haram.
Christian leaders who remain have committed to fasting and praying for the region one week each month.
“We have to stay and uphold the name of Christ in this state,” one pastor named James told the international ministry Open Doors.
“We are willing to pay the price for our calling. We don’t only share the Gospel when things are rosy,” he continued. “It is to be done in every situation. Hunger and want will never discourage us. Swords and guns, even the roar of the devil, will only encourage us to stand first for Christ.”
“If we die, our blood will speak about Christ to our killers,” he said.
“We are seeking the face of God in this situation,” Rev. Pona, whose full name we cannot reveal for security purposes, told Open Doors. “Brethren are being killed all over the state. Thousands of homes have been destroyed. Our churches have not been spared. We are being struck from every direction. Only Christ can deliver us from this trial.”
VOICE OF THE PERSECUTED 
And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother’s blood crieth unto me from the ground. (Genesis 4:10)