Ahmad - Testimony from a Secret Believer

Dec 15 2010

"Let him who walks in darkness and has no light trust in the name of the Lord."
Isaiah 50:10

For many years now Ahmad has been living a double life. Because he lives in a predominantly Islamic tribe in Southern Sumatra, he faces fierce opposition for being a Christian.

Ahmed first learned about Isa (Jesus) through a television program. He dialed the phone number on the screen and asked several questions; the pastor on the phone offered to pray for Ahmad. Later, the pastor asked if he could visit Ahmad, and it was then, in March 2001, that Ahmad put his trust in the gospel of Jesus Christ. When his wife and children learned that not only was he a Christian, but he was also baptized and attending church, they shunned him out of the house. But, when his wife became ill, he moved back into his family home to care for her. Since then they have never mentioned his faith again.

Now, at 67 years old, Ahmad continues to live as a secret believer. The pastor who met him nine years ago is still his mentor in the faith and is consistently encouraging him to attend church every Sunday. During his talk with Open Doors, Ahmad admits to being tired about hiding his faith from others. He desires to live out his Christian faith freely. “Please pray for me and for my family to know Isa. I believe in God’s promise that He will extend His grace to my family as well. I no longer want to live like this. I have cried many times in my prayers, as I am uncertain how long I can keep this up.”

Lord Jesus, we thank You for the life that Ahmad in Sumatra has chosen to live for You. We pray now that Ahmad’s family will come to know Christ, and that he will not feel deeply torn about his faith in You and his love for his family. We also pray for those who hear the gospel message through TV and radio programs; may they be emboldened to call and seek answers to the questions that are burning in their hearts. We ask that You fill the emptiness in their soul and provide them with someone, just like the pastor in Sumatra, who will pray, encourage and ultimately lead them to eternal salvation.

If this story has touched you, please share your thoughts with us below:

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Comments

Kirk
Dec 16 2010 on 06:56

O Lord, give Ahmed the grace to step out in faith under the direction of the Holy Spirit, and "not have a spirit of fear, but power, love & a sound mind..." Also, that he would overcome the enemy by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of his testimony; and would not love his love so much as to shrink from death" (Rev. 12:11). Give him much wisdom. In Jesus' name.
Jan Quesnoy
Dec 16 2010 on 07:30

Lord Jesus your Name is above the darkness that Ahmed is walking through. Father, please give him courage and faith, may other believers step up and encourage him and please give his family a vision of the real messiah. In Jesus'precious Name I pray.
Judy
Dec 16 2010 on 11:11

I have been praying a long time for the people of Sumatra to come to know Jesus. I am so glad to hear that the Christian radio & TV is reaching the people there.
Peggy Veith
Dec 16 2010 on 07:41

Lord we ask that you would give Ahmed wisdom and strength to wait upon you. Please show him where to go, what to do, and what to say. May his commitment shine through him in such a way that others would want to know the reason for his joy! Amen
Phebe
Dec 21 2010 on 01:10

Father, forgive me when I treat my salvation with an attitude of apathy. Remind me that people are paying with their very lives to believe Jesus and practice their salvation. Help me to be a willing witness to all whose path I cross. Father will you be with this dear brother and his family. You have said in Your word -"They that sew in tears shall reap in joy". May our dear brother experience that joy You promise soon. In Isaiah 65:24 it says: And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear. Father, hear our dear brothers prayer and answer for your glory and his joy. It is true that when one of our members hurt we all hurt, and we pray that we might soon experience his joy with him as his family turns to you in answer to his prayers. Thank You, Father, Amen
Missam
Jan 12 2011 on 02:31

My God continue to give you the grace to hold unto Him and not falter despite persecution and hatred by even your own family. His grace and power is sufficient for you in Jesus name, amen.
Val
Jan 18 2011 on 07:54

Ahmad, God be with you and strengthen you. Isa (Jesus) suffered too, and he said "Father forgive them for they know not what they do". The natural state of man is fear and hatred. Jesus has helped you to see a better way, a way of love and forgiveness. You are an inspiration to me to stand in the love of Christ when those around you are still living in a state of fear.