Extreme Devotion: "Extreme Lift" – Saudi Arabia, Pastor Wali (Day 319)

Episode Date: November 15, 2025
Podcast: Extreme Devotion by The Voice of The Martyrs
Main Theme: Upholding faith under persecution and the sustaining power of God

Episode Overview

This episode centers on the story of Pastor Wali, a Filipino Christian pastor leading a secret church in Saudi Arabia. Labeled a criminal not for violence but for his faith, Wali faces physical persecution at the hands of authorities. The narrative draws on Psalm 91:11-12 as both a literal and spiritual anchor, emphasizing how faith and prayer can enable believers to “stand” even in extreme adversity.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Persecution for Faith (00:00 – 01:05)

• Pastor Wali is introduced as the “most wanted criminal in all of Saudi Arabia,” not for typical crimes but for leading a secret Christian community.
• The dangers faced by underground Christians, particularly in restrictive countries like Saudi Arabia, are highlighted as a real and present threat.

2. The Ordeal: Torture and Prayer (01:05 – 02:05)

• Wali is arrested without charge and subjected to brutal torture: “slapped, kicked and punched,” then lashed on the bottoms of his feet until “his hands and feet were as purple as eggplant.”
• Despite excruciating pain, Wali's primary concern becomes prayer for his persecutors, demonstrating Christ-like forgiveness and intercession.

Notable Quote

“While the three men beat him, Pastor Wally prayed for them.”
(A, 01:55)

3. Miraculous Strength: The Power of Prayer (02:05 – 03:00)

• Unable to stand after his ordeal, Wali pleads only to kneel, but is refused. Surprisingly, he finds himself able to stand upright.
• This is interpreted not as human resilience but as divine intervention—an answer to prayer and perhaps the fulfillment of the Psalm’s promise.

Notable Quote

“I was standing on the hands of God's angels, Pastor Wally later said. They could not see angels, but I felt that they were there to help me stand.”
(A, 02:47)

• The astonishment of the torturers at Wali's ability to stand underscores the miraculous nature of the event.

4. Lessons and Application (03:00 – End)

• The podcast draws a distinction between believers “on the edge for Christ” who rely on angels for support, and those whose faith is passive.
• Listeners are challenged to consider their own commitment: Do they “exude that type of fervent desire” in their daily lives—even where it is difficult to stand for Christ?
• The episode closes with an invitation for listeners to ask God for the courage and support to faithfully take a stand in their own contexts.

Notable Quote

“Sometimes we must stand on the hands of God's angels in order to be faithful to Christ.”
(A, 03:35)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “He was wanted for being a Christian pastor and for leading a large secret church in the Saudi Arabian capital city.” (A, 00:31)
• “His prayers reminded him of a for he will order his angels. They will hold you up with their hands so you won't even hurt your foot on a stone.” (A, 01:50)
• “Some people seem to send their guardian angels into overtime.” (A, 03:08)
• “Ask God to send his angels to give you a lift.” (A, 03:45)

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:00 – 01:05: Introduction & context of Pastor Wali
• 01:05 – 02:05: Description of torture and torture's emotional impact
• 02:05 – 02:47: The moment of miraculous strength—the standing
• 02:47 – 03:35: Testimony and lesson drawn from the event
• 03:35 – End: Faith application and call to action for listeners

Episode Takeaways

• Pastor Wali’s story is a moving testament to faith under fire, the power of prayer, and spiritual resilience.
• The episode encourages Christians everywhere to reflect on their own boldness and reliance on God, regardless of circumstances.
• Miraculous stories like Wali’s are framed as both inspiration and challenge: to “stand” for Christ, asking for God’s supernatural support as needed.