The Islamic Challenge in Ghana Part 1

The Daily Jot


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Thursday, September 1, 2011



The Islamic Challenge in Ghana Part 1



He is a Christian pastor in a small rural village. Its not an easy life. Ministering is difficult in of itself, but it is even more so when there are little resources, your flock is in need of food, clothing and shelter. Just traveling around to see them, pray with them, encourage them is a labor of love--walking miles, taking taxis and tro tros, braving the elements. We as Americans have little concept of just how difficult it is to travel even short distances, let alone eat and communicate. What would we do without our cell phones, computers, cars and support systems? Imagine not having the resources to even go to the store.



Also imagine that there is a new man who moved into the village. He has money, he is a businessman, he just might be the answer to a lot of the problems faced by this pastor. The man seeks out the pastor. Talks to him about his ministry. Encourages him, befriends him. Before long, the businessman gives the pastor a car. This is a great relief as he can now minister to his flock so much more effectively. A while later, the businessman offers the pastor a place to live, low rent, very nice. The pastor is then offered a part time job that allows him to provide better for his family and still minister. He believes he has been blessed.



Then one day the businessman calls in the pastor to speak to him. He tells the pastor that he wants him to become a Muslim. The pastor says that he is Christian and leads a flock. But thanks the businessman for caring about him. The businessman says, "I do not think you understand. I have provided you a car. I have provided you a house. I have provided for you a job. Now I require of you that you convert to Islam." The pastor pauses a moment to reflect. Then he replies, "I very much appreciate all you have done for me. You are asking me to deny my savior Jesus Christ. This is something I cannot do, will not do."



The businessman collected the car. Turned pastor and his family out in the street. And fired the pastor from his job. But this is the way it goes in West Africa. In generally settled areas, the Muslims try to buy their way into the Christian community and seek to make conversions out of the tremendous needs. The money comes from drugs, prostitution, sometimes from the oil rich nations. It can be used to meet every need except that of the soul. Jesus said in Matthew 6:33, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." Only the Lord is our provider and our source of everlasting life.





Have a Blessed and Powerful Day!

Bill Wilson