Muslims who convert to Christianity can sometimes have it rough, so Nabeel Qureshi's widow, Michelle, shared some pearls of wisdom for them.
Michelle shared the message at a conference in Bangalore, India, according to CBN News, that quickly went viral on social media.
"First of all I want to say how proud I am of all of you for making the decision to come out of Islam and into the Truth. The Truth that there is no God but One and His name is Jesus," she said in the video. "In your zeal, it is paramount that you ground yourself in Christian doctrine. Soak in Jesus' presence and soak in His Word. Become intimately familiar with both."
As eager as new converts are to get involved in ministry, Michelle warned them not to join too early. Her late husband actually advised people to undergo two years of discipleship and growth first before considering ministry. "He said he learned this lesson the hard way, coming too quickly into ministry while he still lacked grace and wisdom. It was God's protection that helped him steer clear of significant pitfalls," she explained.
Some converts might have difficulty leaving their old faith behind completely, but Michelle said this is something they should do. When he was still alive, Nabeel would often ask Christians with Muslim Backgrounds (CMB), "Have you informed your family?" Nabeel himself failed to do so, and it was something he deeply regretted as his parents later found out by other means.
It might be scary facing the wrath of one's parents, and they can also have to deal with persecution from their peers. But Michelle told them to "fear not" because they have God on their side. "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go," she quoted Joshua 1:9.
For those who are concerned about the "suffering" they will endure at the hands of their families, Michelle remembered something that Nabeel used to say: "Suffering binds us closer to Jesus and opens us to the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, more than anything else. To follow Jesus is to die that we might live."
