As a woman in Afghanistan, Laila’s options for the future were limited. When she learned about Abdul-Ali’s training center, where she’d be qualified for a stable and reliable job after a two-year course of classes, Laila was thrilled. She’d have a secure future.
The training was for both young men and women, and Laila knew the opportunity to participate was a rare gift. She began her studies, began learning, and started making new friends.
One day, she heard a short-term team talking about Jesus. As a devout Muslim, Laila was furious. She couldn’t believe that people in her country were talking about something so forbidden. Laila was ready to leave the center when Abdul-Ali and his team convinced her to continue learning.
For three months, Laila listened, argued, considered, and questioned. She learned the history of the Bible and the history of the Quran, as the relationship and trust continued to grow. God was drawing her heart to the truth, and His invitation to know and follow Him was irresistible. She was baptized as a new believer.
Laila came to the center looking for a future. Through Christ, she found a purpose she never could have imagined.
Serving Her People
Laila was transformed by the Gospel. She loved the people around her and found purpose in guiding others to true hope. Soon, she was leading discipleship groups, meeting with others quietly in her home, and even working for the center where she’d found her future.
When Afghanistan fell to the Taliban in August of 2021, Laila found herself in a new role. As powerful leaders fled and foreign aid workers were forced out, Laila and the other believers with her stayed. Someone was going to need to care for the displaced people of Afghanistan.
The need is overwhelming. People are hungry, traumatized, worried about surviving the cold winter months, and craving hope like never before. Laila and others with her are working with Team Expansion’s partners in Afghanistan to meet physical needs, provide training and encouragement, and offer light in the darkness.
The needs in Afghanistan and the nearby nations are enormous, but Laila and the other believers with her are seeing unprecedented spiritual opportunities. For the first time, the whole nation is looking for a secure future.
Names in this story have been changed for security.