I have developed a new habit lately. I check the BBC news on my phone throughout the day and scour the news for items which concern me. Then I take those items in prayer to my heavenly Father. Lately my main concern is the violence of the Islamic State.

It is easy to ignore this because I am American and they have not attacked on a large scale in my country. I feel as if I am stepping out of my comfort zone when I pray for international peace. It is much easier to pray for my children, my family and my friends. Yet I feel that much prayer is needed in response to the violence of this group.

Just today I read that they captured 90 + Christians in Syria. Men, women and children were all captured. It was a strategic point which lies between Turkey and Iraq and is at the Northeast tip of Syria.

I can do so little for these captured brothers and sisters in Christ. I have no military training, no money to help them and no shelter or food to give them. What I do have is a God who changed the heart of Saul into one of the greatest preachers ever, when he was confronted by the Spirit of Jesus. This same God also released persecuted Christians from jail. My God also helped the Israelis in many battles throughout the Old Testament.

I know he loves the IS members just as he loves us Christians. His son was sacrificed for all of our sins. It is my prayer that He supernaturally intervenes on behalf of these Christians and shines His love into the hearts of those who have only violence residing currently in their hearts and minds.

I ask that all of my readers pray with intercession for these captured Christians. Make a habit of it to pray for persecuted Christians. We are coming close to the time when Jesus will return but it is imperative that we intercede for our brothers and sisters in Christ until that time is realized.