"Pastor Joe" was drawn to North Africa not by a call to gospel work but by his own dreams and interests. However, once he was there the Lord opened his eyes to the needs of the people and gave Joe a deep love for them. Ministry in North Africa is difficult, but as Pastor Joe and his family read the Bible, they see that it's not about them. Rather it's all about Christ.

"We are just the instruments," says Joe. "We don't count on ourselves; we count on God."

As Muslims seek spiritual truth and come to Christ, they encounter challenges with unbelieving family and friends. Pastor Joe says that's why the church is so important to help make up for the family and community new believers have lost by connecting them with new brothers and sisters in Christ.

One young lady had a difficult time approaching her family with the gospel message. Joe encouraged her to focus on living out Jesus' love in front of her family members. Soon, her mother became curious: who was behind the changes she saw in her daughter's life? Pastor Joe also tells the story of a brother who never misses church gatherings. He says, "I lost so much time not knowing Jesus! Now I want to learn as much as possible."

Joe's wife always says, "There's no mission without sacrifice." The couple are ready to answer questions about Jesus and Christianity from anyone who is seeking, although proselytizing is illegal in the restricted nation where they live.

Hear more stories from Pastor Joe and how he prepares new believers to face Christian persecution. He will also share the joy and hope that come as faithful believers live their lives for Christ on display to the people around them. Pray for Christians in North Africa and for Pastor Joe and his family as they continue their gospel work.

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