Two years ago, 18-year-old Deborah took her courageous first steps toward leaving the
strict Islam she had been raised in.
Inspired by the messages of love, forgiveness, and salvation shared by her Christian friends in Kogi state, Nigeria, Deborah eventually made the dangerous decision to follow Jesus. As she finds hope in her newfound faith, she grapples with the challenges that have come with it.
“I was raised in an Islamic environment, but I started exploring Christianity through friends and my own experiences,” Deborah told an International Christian Concern (ICC) staffer. “Initially, I felt scared, but my faith has become a meaningful part of my life.”
Deborah’s family and community uphold a strict adherence to Islam, perceiving any deviation as a profound betrayal that can lead to hostility or violence. She has experienced this firsthand.
After her parents found her Bible, they took it and monitored her closely to ensure that she didn’t attend any Christian gatherings. When Deborah was able to attend church recently, her parents beat her.
“I am in danger,” she said. “They tortured me and drove me out of the house. I am in hiding now.”
Now in a different city, Deborah can attend church without fear and receive spiritual encouragement. When she’s able to see her younger siblings through her time with a relative, Deborah secretly shares the gospel, nurturing hope in them even as she continues to face personal challenges.
Deborah’s fears are grounded in reality. Nigeria is known to be one of the most dangerous places for Christians, particularly for those who convert from Islam. Converts like Deborah often endure severe repercussions, including forced marriages, violence, and death.
The current environment of hostility is aggravated by extremist rhetoric from some religious leaders. Earlier this year, a well-known Islamic cleric sparked outrage on social media by suggesting that parents should kill their children if they reject Islam. Unfortunately, such inflammatory statements are often met with silence from authorities, making things worse for new believers.
Seeking Prayer and Support
Mary, a trusted Christian disciple working closely with Deborah, emphasizes the importance of Deborah’s faith.
“Deborah is an extraordinary young woman,” she stated. “Her faith is authentic and has been tested through significant hardship. We believe she deserves the chance to flourish in a safe environment.”
Mary highlighted the urgent need for Deborah to be relocated to a safer setting where she can practice her faith freely. “She is not merely a convert,” Mary said. “Her commitment is deep and genuine.”
Mary urged churches and human rights advocates to rally behind Deborah by prayerfully raising awareness of the plight that Muslim-background believers like her face. Organizing prayer sessions focusing on persecuted Christians like Deborah can bring hope and inspire Christians and churches in the United States to support their needs, including financial and educational assistance, as many young converts face the loss of family support. Deborah aspires to become a nurse, but her path is uncertain without scholarships or sponsorship.
Legal advocacy will also play a crucial role. There is a need for increased international pressure on Nigerian authorities to uphold religious freedom and ensure accountability for those who incite violence. Laws must be applied equally to all individuals.
Lastly, the establishment of safe houses and supportive Christian communities for young converts like Deborah can provide much-needed security and strengthening of faith in these tumultuous times. With concerted efforts, we can support young believers on their courageous journey and help them overcome the obstacles they face.
Even in the face of life-threatening challenges and persecution, Deborah remains steadfast in her hope. She holds tightly to the promises of Christ, determined to navigate the uncertain path ahead.
“I am aware that my family may soon discover the full extent of my faith,” Deborah shared candidly. “They may feel a sense of betrayal, but I firmly believe I have made the right choice for my life and spiritual journey.
“Please pray for me. Your encouragement and prayers can support me as I continue my education and deepen my relationship with Christ.”
Deborah’s faith serves as a powerful call to action for the global Church — to pray, to provide support, to advocate, and to stand in solidarity with those who risk everything to follow Jesus.
“I will endure the hardship and remain steadfast in my faith as a Christian,” she said. — International Christian Concern
*Names have been changed for security reasons
