Nations for Jesus: Reaching Pakistan with the Gospel

July 2009

Dear Friend,

I am exceedingly burdened for persecuted believers in Pakistan.

The 20 million Christians who reside in this Islamic republic are a mistreated, impoverished minority living among people who despise them. Viewed as second-class citizens, many come from the lower castes and are forced to do the repulsive tasks others in the society refuse to do.

As if the economic, political, and social oppression of their countrymen weren’t enough, in recent days things have gotten even worse for those in northern Pakistan. Taliban insurgents have increased their onslaughts against non-Muslims—killing many Christians and forcing others to flee from their homes. Without food or shelter, our brothers and sisters in Christ are destitute and dying of starvation.

How does a believer serve the Lord Jesus Christ in a nation where anyone caught denying the Koran, Islam, or prophet Muhammad can be punished by death? How can Christians keep their hope alive in a country where violence has become the norm; their fellow believers are displaced and starving; and where there is only hardship and grave danger for anyone who professes Jesus as their Savior?

It is a difficult life, but God has gifted my friend Naomi Sadiq for it in a very special way. Born into a Christian family that has devoted itself to proclaiming the gospel in Pakistan, Naomi gave her heart to the Lord Jesus Christ when she was 14-years-old. Immediately she began serving Him wholeheartedly—teaching others His Word, starting Sunday school classes, and leading meetings for ladies. She has now been in the ministry 26 years and God has worked through her to plant 20 churches in and around Multan City in Southern Punjab province.

But that is not all God has done through this extraordinary servant.

Naomi recently wrote, “We have 15 Sunday school centers in different areas and there are 400 children in attendance. We also have almost 300 women and 200 youth at our weekly meetings. We have a 24-hour prayer center and also have 30 house churches in different areas of Pakistan. By the grace of God, we have four schools for the children to learn about the Bible, and four sewing centers where approximately 150 young women learn to sew and pray every day. We also take care of 50 school-aged children as they continue their education in other cities, and assist 15 gipsy children in their studies. By the grace of God, we also care for 25 widows and 50 orphans and blind children.”

How is it possible for a believer to be so committed to the Lord in such a terrible situation? Muhammad Sammy, a man recently saved through Naomi’s ministry writes, “Christianity gave me a lot of peace and joy. Now I am very happy every day. I am praying and reading the Bible. Please pray that the Lord would change my family because they have threatened to kill me, but I am not worried about this because I have Jesus in my heart.”

Naomi and Muhammad’s courage and strength come straight from the Savior. As David wrote, “In God I have put my trust, I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?” (Ps. 56:11).

Nations for Jesus (NFJ) is praying for ways to support and encourage believers such as Naomi as she continues the very difficult task of evangelizing Pakistan. NFJ will be holding evangelistic meetings in different parts of Pakistan to lead this gospel-hungry, war-torn people to the Prince of Peace, our Lord Jesus. Please pray for those who attend these meetings—that God will draw them to Himself in a powerful way, supply everything that is needed, and show His glory.

One of the great needs that the Pakistani people have is for God’s Word, so NFJ is seeking to supply at least 1000 Bibles to them. Each costs US$2, so please pray that God will supply copies for everyone who is hungry for His Word. Additionally, Naomi and her ministry partners need a van for their outreach work. Please ask the Lord to provide the US$3000 that is necessary for suitable, safe transportation.

I hope you will stand with NFJ, Naomi, and the people of Pakistan and pray for them—being as courageous in your intercession as they are in carrying the gospel to this difficult ministry field. And I hope that their example will encourage you to continue preaching the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ fearlessly, no matter where you go or what your circumstances may be. You have the hope they need, friend, so please—do not remain silent.

Yours for the Unreached,

Ratna Sajja, D.Min
www.nationsforjesus.org
info@nationsforjesus.org