Thriving on the Gospel in Zanzibar

During Hadassa’s* walk with the Lord, this is what He has been teaching her: "One crucial thing I had to learn was how important it is for me to forgive. I came to appreciate the value of forgiveness, despite living in an unwelcoming environment – facing rejection, isolation and insults for your faith.

"The Bible says that I have to forgive to be forgiven myself. But it is not easy when they burn our churches or harm our loved ones who have done nothing wrong! And to forgive an individual, who you know will hurt you again, does not come naturally. I had to ask God to help me and He did.

"The foremost improvement that we are experiencing in Zanzibar is the fact that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is now being preached all over the island! Churches are still being targeted and persecution still happens to Christians. But Jesus was persecuted and killed and so were many believers that followed.

We must not lose faith. Jesus is worth it.

"History has proofed to us, although we as the messengers physically do the footwork by bringing the Gospel to people’s ears, it is still the Holy Spirit that lays the ground work in people’s hearts. So once the seed is sown, He will do the rest. That is the only reason why Muslims have and in the future will, embrace Jesus Christ as their Saviour."

The Open Doors team spent some well-needed time with Hadassa in fellowship and prayer. "I am overwhelmed… I’m so grateful that I met with you and that you took time to listen to my story. Your listening has reassured me that I matter to God. Your interest in us has strengthened me. Thank you."

Hadassa’s message to other young believers facing persecution around the world:

"No matter what you are going through, always remember that God is by your side. That He sees your suffering and knows your pain. Just hold on because your help is on the way. Remember Christ on the cross. Without Jesus we have no hope. Please be strong and hold on."

*Pseudonym

Prayer Requests:

• Pray for Hadassa. Ask God to make her even stronger in her faith.
• Pray that God will use her mightily amongst believers who experience similar circumstances to herself.
• Hadassa is set to start legal studies at university soon. Her vision is to help Christians in future. Pray for the Lord’s provision and blessing for this new chapter unfolding in her life.
• Pray for all the Christians of Zanzibar for strength and courage.