Faith in Adversity

I have a remarkable young Apostolic friend who has given me permission to share her story, provided I do not use her name. She lives in a suburb of a very large metropolitan city known for its high crime rate. Recently, this city made headlines due to Venezuelan gang activity. This context is important because, while most of us hear about school shootings or gun threats on the news, my 13-year-old friend experiences these threats firsthand. She listens to announcements over the intercom about shooter threats at her middle school and has become accustomed to seeing an increased police presence on campus.

Rising Above Fear

This would be challenging for any Apostolic, young or old, to deal with. My friend is no exception. But what makes her so remarkable is that she’s teaching a P7 Bible Study class in the midst of it all. Just think about that for a moment. This young woman, who had 15 students in her P7 Bible Club just two weeks ago, has been teaching since she was 11 years old! According to her mom, she co-taught with her older sister during the first year, but for the last two years, she’s led the classes entirely on her own.

A Testimony of Overcoming

This young woman’s testimony is even more powerful because of her personal struggles with anxiety and fear. From a young age, she has been on a journey of pursuing more wholeness in Christ. Yet, she didn’t let her struggles stop her from seeking God and reaching for souls. She pressed on, trusting in the Lord, and look at what He is doing through her now!

Living the Book of Acts

I couldn’t be more proud of her! At only 13 years old, she is living out the Book of Acts! She has overcome so much and turned every challenge into a testimony for the glory of God. And look at the fruit of her faith and perseverance—God is working mightily through her!

This young Apostolic is a true example of courage, faith, and the power of God’s grace. Her story is an inspiration to all of us, reminding us that no matter what we face, God can use us to make a difference right where we are.