David reminds us in Psalm 124 that if it hadn’t been the LORD who was on our side, those who oppose and oppress us would have swallowed us alive – YES! Our help is in His Name of the LORD.
In the majority world within the 10/40 window, (where 2/3 of the world’s population lives and 85% of those living on less than $2 a day live too!) it is often hard for women to understand this truth. Their daily reality looks different, but that is exactly why WiW is thrilled to be on the cutting edge as we launch a new partnership in one of the most challenging nations in the world today
– Pakistan!
Open doors: God has graciously opened the doors for us to launch a significant new partnership with Pakistani women who understand the Lord’s love and watchcare both from the Word of God, and from the miraculous ways that God is at work in their own lives.
Open hearts: And when women here understand that they are not unseen nor are their cries unheard, rather there is a God who is on their side, they are able to find hope and practical help they need to face the future. And that hope and help is so keenly needed in this Muslim-dominant nation. Here’s a snapshot of life for both rural and urban women in Pakistan:
Rural Women
- Limited education (80% never attended school)
- Often forced into hazardous work (brick-kiln labor, daily wage work)
- Limited access to healthcare and social services
- Strict cultural norms limiting mobility
- High risk of forced conversions and marriages
Urban Women:
- Limited access to quality education and employment
- Often experience discrimination in the workplace and society
- Social exclusion and marginalization
Common Challenges:
- Faith-based oppression and persecution
- Limited decision-making (they lack agency in the areas of life that matter most to them and to their children and families)
- High levels of stress, anxiety, and depression
- Trauma from forced conversions, marriages, and social exclusion
- Limited access to mental health services and support
- Lack of strong Christian identity and sense of purpose
- Limited exposure to Christian teachings and resources
Need for Christian Identity and Empowerment:
- Agent of Christ catalysts: Christian women need role models and mentors who can inspire and empower them to live out their faith boldly.
- Biblical teachings and resources: Access to Christian scriptures, teachings, and resources can help Christian women develop a strong sense of identity and purpose.
- Faith-based support networks: Christian women need supportive communities and networks that can provide emotional, spiritual, and practical support.
By addressing these challenges and needs, we equip and empower women in Pakistan to live out their faith with confidence, courage, and compassion, replacing poverty and injustice with dignity and purpose in Christ. And their faith becomes a lifeline of hope for those who have no hope!
