In a remote region of Pakistan, some of our local leaders walk two hours each way to minister to an unreached people group that has a truly unique culture. These people live in isolation, disconnected from the modern world, and are deeply suspicious of outsiders. They don’t follow any formal religion but instead engage in ancient folk practices that predate the arrival of Islam in the area.
After many months of persistent and challenging work to gain the villagers’ trust, some of our local leaders were able to form a strong self-help group using Community Health Education. The leaders helped participants develop skills to handle immediate needs, gain inner strength, and learn to support one another. In addition, the leaders started discipleship and Bible studies. So far, eight families have come to faith and those people began reaching out to others with acts of love and Gospel witness.
BAD NEWS
All this upset the landlord who made it hard for them to practice their faith. His other workers threatened the new believers to stop speaking about this Jesus and helping others. Our local leaders began praying continuously and fervently, seeking God’s protection, guidance, and help
for the believing families.
GOD’S DIRECTION — UNTHINKABLE!
The believers came up with the idea of buying their own plot of land, where they would be free from slavery and the landlord’s threats. But they had no money. As they were looking for resources, they decided to sell their treasured silver jewelry and water buffaloes. With that, they were able to purchase a plot of land and move… except there were no houses on the land. An exuberant feeling of exodus and freedom inspired them to stay positive as each member of the family worked to build their family hut. They had the support of one another and the skills needed to rebuild their lives. Most importantly, they had their faith in God.
COMPANY!
Surprisingly, 20 non-believing families who had been part of the self-help group moved with the believers to the new land. They told the believers, “We have observed your life and learned from you, and we feel safe with you.” Please pray with us that they, too, will come to faith in Jesus. And that God will sustain the families in their new environment.
