Women carry enormous burdens in Pakistan. They learn at an early age that decision-making power lies with men, especially the father and brothers. These decide their education, marriage and much more. Girls are not taught to disagree and defend themselves and this makes them vulnerable. The inequality quite often creates an unsafe or tense atmosphere in families. It regularly happens that a daughter runs away with a (Muslim) boy in search of love and attention.
Pakistani Christians help young women become strong and confident enough to follow God's will in their lives. There is also counselling for parents. They learn how to treat their daughters better so that they develop healthy self-esteem and can make their own decisions. One of the training participants, Farhat, tells her story.
Farhat learned to listen to God's voice
Going to church and listening to the sermon I found very boring. It didn't interest me. I had no reason to listen. My mother died when I was very young and my childhood was tough. My father did his best to put me through school until my final exams. Most of my time was spent on household chores. Going to church was a duty, no more than a habit.
The direction of my life changed after Tameer's training. I realised why I need to hear God's voice and His word. That day, I really heard God's voice. Psalm 81:8-16 taught me so much about this! I saw the hope for my life thanks to God's grace. Now I enjoy going to church without anyone having to force me.
We didn't have a Bible at home. I bought one and read in it every day. I realised more and more that all the weaknesses in my life were because I was not reading and understanding God's word. The training was Tameer also focused on understanding God's intention for life. When I listen to God's voice with understanding, He blesses me abundantly. I actually came here to kill time, but during this training I learnt how to obey God.
I used to prefer being alone. Now I listen to people thinking I can ease their pain. I like to teach others what I have learnt myself and I have a certain approach for that. First I listen to what they have to say, then I tell them that God listens to you and understands your pain. The important thing is that you also listen to God's voice and act on His word.
This training has made my relationship with God much better. I want to help others with this training. Thank you all, especially the Christians in the Netherlands who made the training possible!
