“My family wanted me to become an Imam, but God had other plans …”
September 15, 2023
“My family wanted me to become an Imam, but God had other plans ….”
That’s the good news we hear from a listener in Turkey. Here’s the rest of his story:
“I grew up in a conservative family and was sent to Quran courses very early in my childhood. We were regularly beaten and mistreated in the process of learning, and this turned me away from what they were teaching. Because of the pressure of my family, I continued to attend, but I pretended to believe in Islam. Yet in my heart I knew there was another way. At 20, I was married and I fell into a period of deep depression. I was given many medications, but nothing worked. During this time, I found your programs, and somehow they became food to my soul. I listened regularly for a long time. One day I decided to pray the salvation prayer and become a Christian. My burdens have been lifted, and I know this is God’s plan for me. No one, including my wife, knows about it. I feel freedom in my heart for the first time, but I don’t know how or when to speak with my family about it. They still have plans for me to become a great Muslim leader. Please pray for me.”
Islam is woven into the fabric of Turkish society, and more than 98% claim the faith. To leave is difficult at best and can be dangerous. Today let’s intercede for believers like this one who fear for their future and their place in their family. Ask God to give them wisdom, courage, and discernment as they share their new faith, and pray for open hearts for those receiving the news.
We’ve got some great stories to share of God’s goodness in eastern Europe. Join us for the journey next week.
Listen here to TTB-Turkish.