A brief story of faith and answered prayer in the MENA: when a harsh church guard discouraged visitors, members prayed for God’s intervention—and within months, the guard was replaced by a kinder one. A testimony of God’s wisdom, timing, and power.
“I’m so happy you are attending church with me today,” Lydia* exclaimed to new friends with whom she’d been studying the Bible. Talking happily as they approached the entrance to the premises, they were sharply interrupted by the gatekeeper's angry demeanor.
“Who are you–show me your ID cards,” he demanded, directing his questions to Lydia’s guests.
“They are with me,” Lydia said firmly, steering her companions through the gate before the man could further harass them.
After church, Lydia approached the guard and requested that he show a more polite attitude, but she knew that it was unlikely her appeal would change anything. She actually suspected that this man, who had been appointed as a guard for the church, was actually acting intentionally to discourage visitors.
Of course, our first prayer and desire is to see everyone experience God’s goodness and give their lives to him–for people to embark on a journey of transformation through the power of Jesus with other members of the community. However, not everyone is willing or ready for something like that, and what do you do then?
“Dear God,” Lydia and a group of fellow believers prayed,” please do something! Please help us!
Shortly thereafter, church members received the news that the government had transferred the guard to another job site. The man appointed to replace him is friendlier and does not appear to be on a mission to drive visitors away. This is a blessing, because there continue to be visitors interested in joining Sabbath worshipers in this particular location in MENA.
We don’t always know how and when God will act (in ways that are readily recognizable to us), but in this case, it took less than four months.
Let us pray: God, we praise you that you are all-wise. You search the hearts of all people who are ever at work for everyone’s salvation. Thank you that vengeance belongs to you alone. May we trust you as you work to take down barriers and to enable us to work in harmony to bring your children closer to you.