A Story of Longing to Belong
Day 22: A Story of Longing to Belong
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household. Ephesians 2:19
*Abu grew up as a devout Muslim in North Africa. When he chose to follow Jesus, his decision cost him everything. His family disowned him, his friends branded him a traitor, and his community stripped him of all social standing.
Now, Abu longs for a sense of belonging. Yet even within existing churches, he faces suspicion because of his Muslim background. The local church leader, fearful of government authorities, refuses to baptize him or welcome him as a full member. Although Abu feels called to ministry, he has been denied theological training and any role in church leadership.
Abu’s story is not unique. Over the past thirty years, countless Muslims have encountered Christ and given their lives to Him. Yet in many Islamic nations, new believers struggle to grow in their faith or find fellowship. Some face fear and rejection; others live in places with no local church at all.
In response, many Muslim Background Believers (MBBs) have begun forming their own fellowships and networks—supported by believers from afar or through online communities. True discipleship happens in the context of community—believers loving, encouraging, and helping one another live as Jesus taught. While this looks different in every culture, it is especially challenging where Christianity is opposed or misunderstood.
In places where churches are just beginning to emerge, believers face the same struggles the early Church once did—learning how to make disciples, build community, and raise up leaders in the face of adversity.
*pseudonym
HOW WE CAN PRAY
- Pray for courage and perseverance: Ask God to strengthen MBBs as they face rejection, isolation, or persecution for following Jesus. Pray that they remain steadfast in faith and filled with the peace of Christ.
- Pray for community and belonging: Many MBBs feel alone after being cut off from their families. Pray that God surrounds them with loving believers who welcome them, disciple them, and walk alongside them in faith.
- Pray for spiritual growth and maturity: Lift up MBBs as they study God’s Word, often without access to formal teaching or resources. Pray that the Holy Spirit gives them deep understanding, wisdom, and discernment.
- Pray for open doors for ministry: Many MBBs long to share the hope they’ve found in Christ. Ask God to give them opportunities to witness boldly and to raise up leaders who can disciple others within their own cultural context.
- Pray for safety and provision: Following Jesus can cost MBBs their homes, jobs, and safety. Pray that God provides for their physical needs, shields them from harm, and uses their testimonies to draw others to Himself.