was at an underground house church worshipping, when four officers barged in and stood before me. Though I was frightened for a moment, my heart soon calmed. One of them struck me in the face, knocked me down and then beat me with his baton. He didn't stop until a woman of the church bravely intervened.

Then the officers cuffed me, confiscated my Bible, hymnbook and notebook. They asked me many questions. I answered with wisdom from God, as promised in Matthew 10:19-20: "But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you."

They took me to the police station and cuffed me to a chair with a guard standing by. Through all their atrocities, I was not the least bit afraid, for I knew the Lord was with me. I prayed, "Lord, I thank you because you are using this experience to make me feel more of your presence and witness your mighty works."

The next morning they asked me more questions but could not find any fault in my answers. The officers then left me alone. During their absence, I was able to recover my Bible, hymnbook and notebook. I was so glad to regain my most important possessions! Around noon two women of the church came to visit me. They requested my release, saying they were willing to take my place. I was greatly moved by their gesture. Around three o'clock the officers took me for more interrogation before releasing me.

Back at the meeting place, I learned how my church family was praying for me. My heart was extremely grateful to the Lord for pouring His great love. I knew for the first time how much He cares. I can now join Job in saying, "My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you." (Job 42:5) —An Chan, Bible League-trained Christian.  

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