REP ANDREW RESPOND’S TO ALIM’S STORY

Back in February we TOLD the story of 16-year-old Alim* in Central Asia, who, after sharing about his faith in Jesus with friends and teachers at school, was singled out by the principal and eventually expelled. Thankfully he’s been able to continue his studies in a new school, and is as passionate as ever to share his love of God, but he’s still understandably coming to terms with his experience of persecution.  

His story highlights some of the challenges facing Christians in Central Asia, and prompts us in the UK to consider our faith in a new light. And that’s just what happened to Andrew, one of our brilliant Open Doors Youth Reps. After reading his story we asked Andrew to reflect on a few questions about Alim’s experience. Here are his answers: 

Why has this story resonated with you? 

I think one of the main reasons is that Alim is the same age as me. And I am so, so impressed that someone so young has God-given wisdom well beyond his years along with such perseverance. I can’t imagine waking up every morning, knowing that I’d have to defend my faith, answer difficult and aggressive questions and feel threatened from every angle. And yet, through God’s power, this is what Alim has done! 

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How do you think Alim was feeling? 

I would say that the main feeling he’d have is probably loneliness. In the moments when he’s fighting a battle seemingly on his own, I’m sure he would be asking “Where are You, God?”. And yet, he still saw that God was there. In fact, more than that, he trusted God, believing that through all the persecution, Jesus’ name would be glorified. 

Image: Alim sharing a meal with Open Doors partners

How would you respond if you faced what Alim faced? 

I would certainly question God. I would wonder why He would allow me to be in such a situation, with almost complete darkness covering me. I think my response would also be one of fear – I’d be worried that the life I had imagined was slowly slipping away. Yet I would like to think that through all of that I would still respond in prayer and faith, because while I don’t know what the full story might look like, I know that the ending will be a happy one, as God works all things for His glory and the good of those who love Him. 

How does their life differ from yours? 

Unimaginably. I’ve met well over half of my friends through Church or SU in school. Yet Alim was completely on his own. I might face slight judgement from others for being a Christian, but it is nothing compared to what people like Alim face. I’m also certain that there are plenty of other stories just like his from Central Asia, where Christians are facing persecution for their love of God. No-one should be judged or persecuted for sharing their story and the great news of what God has done for them. 

What impressed you about Alim? 

I am amazed by the way that he didn’t complain when he was unfairly given extra menial tasks to do because of his faith, the same way that Christ didn’t complain when He was put on trial and tortured. He trusts that God will always make a way for him, and that everything is in His hands. 

If you could say something to Alim, what would it be? 

I’d encourage him with the verses in Philippians 4:6-7. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  

The message is to be strong and use the lifeline of prayer, armed with thankfulness, remembering what God has done for you already. He will guard you and get you through all the persecution and struggles that you’re facing!  

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If you could ask Alim for one piece of advice, what would that be? 

When it would be so easy to give up and renounce your faith, how did you manage to keep your eyes on God, following Him even during such intense pressure? 

As a result of Alim’s story, would you change anything about your faith/life? 

I think it is another brilliant example of what being a disciple of God means. It’s not about us being seen and recognised, but that people see we have our eyes on God. That is what Alim has been doing with even some of his teachers reaching out and asking him about his faith. I think it’s something I will try to do as well, as that is what faith should look like in our lives. 

Can you share a prayer for Alim?  

God, we just thank You so much for Alim – for his story of faith and endurance. We pray for those that You have touched through him, that even the hardest heart may be softened because of what You have done in Alim’s life. We pray that he feels less anxious, and that he keeps putting his faith and hope in You. We pray for him in his new college, that You will continue to bless him, and that You will create more ways for him to share Your truth. Hold on to him and be near to him we pray. In Your Name, Amen.

About Andrew 

Andrew is 16 and from County Down. He’s been a youth rep since September 2024. He loves tennis, music (especially Take That), and most of all talking about Jesus!

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*Name changed for security reasons