Awakening Faith: Hope From the Global Churchਨਮੂਨਾ

Faith That Conquers Fear

He spoke quietly, but the weight of his words filled the room. “We live with two kinds of persecution,” he said. “From our community, and from our government.”

In Central Asia, neighbors watch every move. Faith isn’t private; it’s under constant scrutiny. To follow Christ means risking rejection by the very people you live among. Your family, friends, and coworkers. Beyond that, the state continues to operate with the old methods of intimidation, questioning, and fear.

Then he leaned forward and added, “But the greatest threat is the rise of radical groups. We never know who might walk into our gatherings. On Sundays, one of our leaders stands at the door to make sure no stranger can slip in and harm us. We live with that tension every week.”

He wasn’t bitter. He wasn’t fearful. He simply asked for prayer. And in that moment, I realized—this brother was embodying the very words God spoke to Joshua: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Courage isn’t the absence of fear. It’s the refusal to let fear dictate your obedience. Our brothers and sisters live with danger at their doors, but they keep gathering, keep worshiping, keep witnessing because God’s presence is greater than any threat.

What fear do you need to surrender to God’s presence today?