(Photo courtesy Mission Eurasia)
Uzbekistan (RMI/MNN) — Even though his father kicked him out of the house, *Botir–a Muslim-background believer–remained steadfast in his decision to follow Christ.
“My father is a Muslim and a very well-respected person in our community,” Botir recently shared with Mission Eurasia leaders.
“When he found a Bible in my room and asked if I was a Christian, I had to choose between my family and Christ.”
Botir attended Mission Eurasia’s School Without Walls (SWW) program in Uzbekistan. SWW teaches young Christian leaders how to effectively reach others in their community for Christ and then equips them with the tools they need.
“In that moment, the lessons that I learned about fiery trials at SWW strengthened me,” Botir shares.
“My father cursed me, and he beat me severely because I had renounced Islam.”
Uzbekistan is ranked as #15 on the Open Doors World Watch List–a ranking of nations where Christ-followers face the most persecution.
Persecution is classified as “severe” in Uzbekistan, with Islamic extremism being one of the main sources of oppression. According to Open Doors, believers are under constant scrutiny, and MBBs regularly face problems from their family, friends, and community.
“Thanks be to God that, during this difficult time, my brothers in Christ opened their homes to me,” he shares. “I felt like Jesus was with me. It was hard to forgive my father, but SWW helped me to see that I needed to do it, so I started to pray for my family.”
Will you stand with Botir in prayer? Pray that Botir’s firm stand for Christ will cause his family to seriously consider the Gospel message. Pray that the Lord will strengthen Botir as he grows in his faith.
According to Operation World, Uzbek believers face opposition from 3 sources: the government, their community, and local Muslim leaders.
(Photo courtesy of Stefan Krasowski/Flickr.)
“I can see that my character has improved since I started studying at SWW,” says Botir.
“The main difference I can see is that I am now thankful to God for everything that has happened in my life. The Lord has also opened up a career path for me in youth ministry. ”
In fact, Botir is now actively serving in several children’s ministries in Uzbekistan, despite how dangerous this can be, and he has already helped to lead three children to Christ!
Visit Mission Eurasia’s Web site for more information about how you can help train and equip even more young Christian leaders like Botir for effective ministry through School Without Walls.
*Name changed for security
Continue to trust in the Lord, brother. We will pray for you.
Romans 8:28: And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.