It has been said that God works in mysterious ways— and Easter is the ultimate proof of that. God moved in a way no one expected—bringing life, hope and victory through Jesus’ death and resurrection. It’s not always how we imagine, but His ways are always greater than we could ever dream.
*Lamine’s name has been changed and his identity obscured for security purposes.
“I didn’t know God could speak.” ~Lamine* (FIA West Africa Business Agent)
Like most people in his country, Lamine was born Muslim. He became a believer in Christ when he met Jesus in a dream, but for many years had little understanding of the Bible. The problem for Lamine was that he believed, but he had no one to teach him God’s word.
“He is the only believer in his family; his wife, five brothers, and mom are not believers. His whole family are Muslims.” ~Jeremy (West Africa Field Leader)
The West African region where Lamine lives is dependent on farming and water, and these everyday necessities have created a way for bringing Gospel ministry into closed communities.
When FIA began the well drilling ministry in Lamine’s region, team leader Jeremy sought out to hire local men as a way to build relationship and to bridge into the community. Jeremy was introduced to Lamine by other international workers. Knowing he was already a believer, Jeremy assumed Lamine had been discipled and mentored; however, he soon realized his assumption was wrong.
Two community members and Jeremy gathered in prayer.
A Bigger Opportunity
Working together provided the opportunity for Jeremy to begin teaching Lamine God’s word, starting with Genesis and going through the Gospel of John. Lamine would take notes and record Jeremy so he could return home and share the recordings with others who would listen.
After three teaching sessions, Lamine asked, “Can my wife, friends and, neighbors come and hear as well?”
Semi-arid landscape just outside the FIA West Africa compound.
A Bridge To The People
This opportunity with Lamine exemplifies what the Lord is doing to bridge the gap into community through FIA mission activity. It started with service that built into a relationship: well drilling was our connection with Lamine, and Lamine is now a bridge to the people. Today, Jeremy and fellow FIA staff are praying about how to teach through the Bible, from Genesis through Revelation, something Lamine and others are asking for.
“We’re excited to see what God does here because it’s totally Him. This is what we’re here for; this is our opportunity to teach the Gospel directly to the people” ~Jeremy (West Africa Field Leader)
We invite you to pray for Jeremy, Lamine, and the people of this region in West Africa. Pray that God will open the people’s eyes to the gospel like He did for Lamine. Pray that God will lead Jeremy in his teachings, and that the Bible will be communicated effectively with no loss in translation. Pray that FIA will continue to effectively serve and help new partners build relationships like the one with Lamine.
Lamine’s story demonstrates how discipleship is a chain effect. The impact we have on others for Christ is greater than we could ever know. This Easter, may God continue to work through unexpected ways to lead us to those who have yet to hear the good news of Christ!
