The Cost of Following Jesus – A former Muslim, now Christian believer reflects on her faith journey during Ramadan

Elisya*, a young Muslim-Background Believer (MBB) from Asia reflects on her faith journey through the month of Ramadan as a believer of Christ. She also shared the transformation in her mindset, moving from a season when she was lost to now experiencing His love and choosing to follow Him.  

Raised in a family with deep-rooted Islamic faith and culture, Elisya*, a young woman in her twenties, gradually drifted away from practicing the faith of her ancestors. Despite her material success and a demanding corporate job, she often felt a sense of emptiness – a void she that could never be filled until she met Christ.

Elisya discovered Jesus during her quest for the truth a few years ago. While searching, her Christian friend invited her to church. Despite knowing the risks of a Muslim entering a Church, Elisya accepted the invitation and encountered the love of Christ during the service. For the first time in her life, the void was filled. Overjoyed and overwhelmed, Elisya received Christ and since then, she has been a steadfast follower of Christ.  

“The way my family took it (News of becoming a believer) was worse than I expected,” said Elisya, “My father tried to kill himself because he believed he failed as a father – as someone who failed to educate his daughter about religion.”

After four months, their anger subsided, Elisya’s family agreed to let her follow this new path she was on, though they still believed what she was doing is wrong. “They still believe that I’ve made a mistake, and they still believe that in the future, I will revert back (to Islam).”

Despite facing rejection and opposition from her family, Elisya remains unwavering as a follower of Christ. Living in a country where the laws restrict a Muslim from converting to other religions is challenging and yet Elisya‘s boldness and courage continue to shine daily.

As Ramadan and Eid Festival is fast approaching, local partners asked Elisya a few questions regarding her experience during the fasting month. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset as an act of worship and self-discipline.  

The fast includes abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and any sinful behavior. During Ramadan, the Reward system is especially emphasized. Muslims believe that the rewards for good deeds are calculated and granted at the end of their life, and this determined their eligibility to enter into heaven. Any good deed performed during this Ramadan month is multiplied many times over. “During Ramadhan, the believe the reward is multiplied,” said Elisya, “Sometimes two times, ten times, or even a hundred times.”

“And I had to be a hundred percent holy and a hundred percent right in what I did,” said Elisya, explaining how righteous a Muslim had to be to be rewarded during this season. 

Looking at this idea of the reward system as a believer in Christ, Elisya knows wholeheartedly that no work of her hand would ever grant her access into heaven, and it is only through Jesus Christ are we set free from our sin. 

Local partner supports Elisya in terms of providing legal advice and on how to approach the religious authorities. Elisya says “I am happy knowing that so many of you are lifting me up in prayer. It’s a reminder that I’m not alone on this journey.” 
 

Elisya is one of many secret believers across Asia who face great challenges because of their faith in Christ. Despite the persecution, risk, and isolation, they remain steadfast in their faith, and they truly need our prayers. As she continues to grow and navigate her journey with Christ, continue to pray for strength and endurance for Elisya.