Her story is not uncommon.

But it is full of bravery, courage, and faith.

After Ariana* converted to Christ, she explains:

“My brother called me. He said, ‘I heard you betrayed your religion and became a Christian. If you’re under pressure, I will come and save you. But if not, I am willing to sell the carpet under my feet to come and kill you myself,’” Open Doors reports.

Living in Afghanistan is dangerous enough for women … let alone Christian women. But knowing this became a turning point for Ariana: “I saw how much oppression and pressure Muslim women lived under, and it helped me see that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.”

Though she left Afghanistan and is living in a nearby country, the danger remains. Despite the risk to her very life, Ariana stands firm.

“God’s children will always face persecution and suffering. But nothing can separate us from the love of God. He is always with us. This is what encourages us and gives us strength for the hardships we face.”