Open Doors and Adversaries

For many Believers in Africa, one of the biggest challenges is confronting the influence of Islam. This religion has deep roots among many Africans, enforced with a life-and-death intensity. It can be risky for Muslims just to talk with Christians.

Recently, a Believer in Malawi, on the southeast coast of Africa, found that God opened doors for ministry when he moved into a home where all the neighbors were Muslims. As he walked around the neighborhood, God slowly started opening doors, giving him opportunities to share his faith.

Risking his life, one Muslim began asking about Christianity. After investigating the differences between the Quran and the Bible, the man decided to become a Christian.

When they heard this news, his family was furious and tried to change his mind. When this failed, they beat him until he nearly died. As he lay unconscious on the ground, neighbors urged the family to take him to the hospital. But the man’s brother would not permit any interference, saying, “If he dies, it is his own fault.” Yet eventually he was taken to a hospital and recovered.

Others have not been so fortunate. Many Christians live in relative comfort, never facing these kinds of dangers. But the story of this Muslim convert reminds us that the goal of our enemy is total destruction. To ruin our lives. To prevent people from experiencing freedom in Christ and the blessings of God. He can appear harmless, even as an “angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14). But he is like a “roaring lion,” constantly looking for victims to “devour” (1 Peter 5:8).

In your life, make sure you are spiritually strong, equipped to fight this spiritual battle (Ephesians 6:10-13). Don’t be afraid, but make sure that you are “sober” and “on the alert.” And pray for open doors to share the Gospel.