Standing Firm, Stepping Forward

Around one quarter of the world’s population live in it. And most of its countries have a thriving IFES ministry. Yet, due to security concerns, it’s often difficult to convey God’s work in and through students there. This is the South Asia region.

So, in this Prayerline, we bring you words from four national movements, given in response to an IFES worldwide ministry survey.

Here are some snapshots of challenges and joys within the region.

Standing for Jesus

The movement in a Muslim-majority country says:

“Legally, there is freedom to share the gospel. However, in practice, doing so is extremely sensitive due to deeply rooted cultural and social norms. When someone calls on Jesus Christ as their Saviour, they often face significant persecution. This can come in the form of rejection, verbal or physical abuse, social isolation, or even expulsion from their own family or community. The emotional and relational cost is high, making it a major challenge for new believers to stand firm in their faith.”

“Yet, many of our students actively share their faith with their friends and invite them to events. As a result of their bold witness and personal relationships, several new students have come to know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour.”

Living the gospel

In different movements, students are witnessing to Christ through their actions:

“Through our regular blood donation program, student groups have received appreciation from local government.”

“Youth migration has become a critical issue in our country, with thousands leaving in search of employment abroad. This trend also affects Christian youths, many of whom are influenced by the same aspirations. However, some of our students made a different choice. Inspired by the vision and encouragement of our movement, they decided to remain and pursue a career in government service – a field with very few Christian representatives. Last year they successfully became government employees, setting a remarkable example of faith and service.”

“Students from two communities that were once divided by decades of civil war are learning to understand and appreciate each other’s backgrounds, forming meaningful friendships rooted in Christ.”

Growing in leadership

And movements testify to the formative impact of the ministry:

“S started as a student with very little confidence, but she has grown as a leader with good spiritual disciplines. She takes initiative and contributes significantly to the growth of the fellowship. She led the 40 days of national prayer initiative.”

One student leader says:

“I was so busy in my daily life, striving for my studies and my career. I’d thought that I couldn’t completely serve God. But at the leadership camp he taught me how I can serve him by my life in my community. Through the teaching sessions at camp, God helped me to rebuild a strong relationship with him again.”

Pray

Give thanks for many students who are open to the good news and for those who have chosen to follow Christ, despite facing pressure or persecution for it. Ask that God will protect and strengthen them and that their testimonies and lives will draw others to the beauty of Jesus.

Pray for the South Asian IFES movements as they equip students to engage with social issues like emigration and divisions over ethnicity, class, and caste. May their living out of the gospel bring blessing to their societies.

Pray for student leaders who are struggling with confidence, busyness, or ambition – that they will know the boldness, peace, and direction of the Holy Spirit.

Interested to learn more about what IFES movements shared in the worldwide ministry survey? Watch out for September’s Conexión blog!