Persecution Is the Ladder to Eternal Glory

Pastor Sanjay Simon’s story stands as a testament to resilience and divine grace. He hails from Rajasthan- the “Land of Kings,” a state of India with a rich culture, and it reflects India’s royal past through its grand forts, palaces, and desert landscapes.

Recently, the Rajasthan state Assembly passed the Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Bill, 2025, criminalising what it called unlawful conversion from one religion to another by misrepresentation, force, undue influence, coercion, allurement, or by any other fraudulent means or by marriage.

Serving the Lord at times is very overwhelming, especially for people who live in interior places where the environment is hostile against Christians. Despite the challenges of his ministry, his faith has remained unshaken, even in the face of severe persecution.

Sanjay lives with his mother and family of two children. Sanjay’s life took a harrowing turn when, while serving the Lord, he and his son were targeted by a group of individuals who opposed his Christian ministry. They falsely accused him and his family of conversion, and the situation escalated when he, his son, his wife, and two other sisters were taken to the police station. After suffering a lot of humiliation, all of them were released except for Pastor Sanjay, who was arrested and sent to jail.

For those agonizing days, Sanjay endured relentlessly, yet he chose not to retaliate, finding strength in his faith. His family, especially his wife and son, were deeply worried for his safety.

Eventually, Sanjay was released on bail after paying Rs. 50,000, but the emotional and physical scars of the ordeal remained.

Even in jail, Sanjay’s faith did not waver. He prayed fervently, and when interrogated about his actions, he boldly declared, “I am praying.” His unwavering commitment to his faith became a source of inspiration for many, including those who had persecuted him.

Sanjay’s experience echoed the words of Matthew 5:11–12, where Jesus says, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.”

During this difficult time, Persecution Relief stepped in to support Sanjay and his family and provided financial assistance, which helped alleviate some of the immediate burdens caused by the persecution. This act of kindness reminded Sanjay that he was not alone in his struggle and that God’s people stood with him in his time of need.

Sanjay’s story is a powerful reminder of the cost of discipleship and the strength that comes from unwavering faith. To fellow pastors and believers facing persecution, Sanjay offers a message of hope: “Rejoice and be glad, for great is your reward in heaven. Persecution for Christ’s sake is a blessing, and through it, God’s glory is revealed.”

Today, Sanjay continues to serve the Lord with renewed vigour, spreading the love of God in the face of adversity. His journey is a testament to the power of faith and the importance of standing together as a community of believers. Through organizations like Persecution Relief, the body of Christ can extend love and support to those who suffer for His name, ensuring that no one walks the path of persecution alone.

Church, pray for their family to continue witnessing for the Lord despite the difficulties they are facing. Praise the Lord!

We have a great big God, and we believe that all their needs will be met through the Lord and that they will never be in lack. Pray for his children to stand strong for the Lord.

Thousands of Persecution Relief brothers and sisters are continuously providing prayer support for the persecuted family.

Matthew 5:10 – “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

Persecution is not a sign of defeat but a mark of faithfulness. Jesus Himself assured us that those who suffer for His name are truly blessed. The trials and hardships faced by believers—whether through false accusations, rejection, or even imprisonment—are not unseen by God. He promises a greater reward in His kingdom—one that far surpasses any suffering in this world.

“Persecution is the ladder to eternal glory; the more you are persecuted, the more you climb up the stairs of eternal glory!” Shibu Thomas, Founder, Persecution Relief