Asif* was raised in a strict conservative Muslim home in an Asian country. From a young age, he followed every rule of his faith with deep devotion. He wore traditional attire, grew his beard, avoided anything considered impure, and prayed faithfully five times a day facing his religion’s holiest site. He never missed a prayer—fearing that for every one he missed, he would suffer seventy years in hell.

In his heart, Asif believed he was seeking God. But despite all his religious effort, he felt an aching emptiness inside. Desperate for hope, he increased his devotion. Each night, before falling asleep, he would repeat his prayer beads 21,000 times—longing for peace, for connection, for something more.

Years passed, but the truth he longed for felt further away than ever. His soul grew weary under the weight of endless rituals and rules. Disillusioned and heartbroken, Asif came to the conclusion that perhaps God didn’t exist after all. He abandoned his faith, cast off his religious clothing, and left his hometown in search of a fresh start.

But even as Asif tried to walk away from God, God never stopped pursuing him.

Years later, something shifted. Asif began to notice the world around him with fresh eyes. The intricate beauty of nature—the skies, the trees, the design of it all—sparked a question deep within: Could all of this really exist without a Creator? The thought stirred something long dormant in his heart.

Determined to seek the truth, Asif began searching again—but this time with a different posture. By God’s providence, he came across a copy of the Bible in his own language. Though he had never met a single follower of Jesus, he began to read.

As he turned the pages, something incredible happened. The Spirit of God began to open his heart. For the first time, Asif saw the truth he had longed for: the reality of his sin, the kindness of God, the need for a Savior—and the living hope found in Jesus.

Asif surrendered his life to Christ.

Today, Asif is a bold disciple-maker. His journey is far from over, and there is much more to share. But for now, please join us in lifting up Asif and his family in prayer. They are truly like sheep among wolves. Ask the Father to bring lasting fruit from Asif’s ministry and to raise up more local workers to join him in the harvest.

*pseudonyms

RELATED STORIES

LOOKING FOR THE MAN IN WHITE
“But we also look for signs that God is drawing someone. One sign we look for is someone who has seen Jesus or “a man in white” read more …