Persevering through persecution

By M.K. in Central Asia

Our national partners are dear brethren. The main brother we work with has seen his share of ups and downs in ministry. The church that he currently serves in has not always been a positive testimony in the community. Instead, in the past, there was infighting, hidden immorality, betrayal and slander, resulting in deep hurts.

After all the fallout, our brother was asked to help restore fellowship and bring healing for those who were left. However, much pain and distrust remains. Sheep scattered. The flock dwindled. The shepherd was discouraged.

Added to this were challenges at home. His sixth child, a son, was born with cerebral palsy. Treatment, therapy and support groups are scarce in this developing country. His wife, previously a joyous wife and leader among the women, spiraled into depression. To this day, she has periods of wavering trust in God’s goodness. Many of their family members believe that this “sick child” is a punishment from God for leaving Islam.

Nonetheless, this brother has been faithful even in the midst of persecution, laboring after sleepless nights of caring for his son, pressing on in the face of discouragement from his wife to give up the ministry, and seeing little fruit in the church.

What compels him to persevere? He longs to see his people come to know the power and transformation of the Good News. He has been instrumental in taking disciple-making principles and training to other believers in outlying villages, challenging them to go out into the unbelieving world with the news of hope.

He is teaching the members of his congregation how to live in community by practicing the “one another” passages. He is an encouragement to those who are struggling with difficult circumstances, testifying to God’s all-sufficient grace, and we are constantly being taught by his godly example. Please join us in lifting our brother up in prayer to our faithful and sustaining God.