Mariam’s Courageous Faith Encourages Women in the Bekaa Valley
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you… — Isaiah 43:2 (NIV)
Mariam’s story truly shows us how strong faith and trust in God can turn things around when times get tough. She was a proud Lebanese Muslim woman from the Druze community who first appeared at our doorstep over a year ago just to pick up a food package. Little did we know, that was just the start of her weekly visits, each time providing an atmosphere of joy that was simply contagious.
She became a regular at our women's meetings led by Sister Sara, always taking her place at the front. Soon Mariam embraced the truths from Gods word she heard at the meetings and placed her faith and trust in Jesus Christ! But then, life brought its storm! Just a few weeks ago, in the middle of a meeting, Mariam passed out due to low blood sugar. As we waited anxiously for the paramedics to take her to the hospital, it was obvious how caring and close our community had become. Sara stayed with Mariam the entire time, offering support until her husband could take over, while the rest of the group urgently prayed!
As it turned out, Mariam hadn't eaten anything because she had been busy taking care of her son with epilepsy, making sure he was okay before she left for the meeting that meant so much to her. Despite the chaos swirling around in her life, these meetings were her safe-haven, a place where she could cast her cares upon Jesus!
Then, another shock – her 21-year-old son had a serious health scare on the street. Despite the heavy hearts, everyone's faith didn't waver; we all prayed for another miracle.
Sure enough, Mariam told us that her son had a miraculously quick recovery that baffled the doctors, encouraging the faith of our entire community!
Mariam’s resilience through all the storms of life has left us amazed. She's found a strong and steadfast faith in Jesus Christ, giving all the credit for her and her son's survival to His mercy and grace! Through the support and fellowship of her new sisters and brothers, Mariam is learning and growing in her faith, and showing everyone that the joy of the Lord truly is her strength!
As we get closer to International Women’s Day on March 8, please join us in celebrating with prayer for Mariam and the women like her, daring to remain steadfast, in their faith and willing to share their faith with other women in dangerous Muslim communities around the world.
HOW YOU CAN PRAY
Please join us in this Call to Prayer for the women in Lebanon as we continue to reach Muslims for Christ!
Pray for continued good health for Mariam and her family.
Please pray for protection and boldness for the women and co-workers participating in our weekly meetings, vocational training classes, correspondence courses and services.
Pray also that Muslim women yearning for the freedom Christ offers, will discover our programs and be able to join. As many of these women accept their inheritance in Christ and bravely give their life to Him, we are seeing changed lives and families!
