Today, as a Bengali Christian living in the UK, you might face your own “giants”—cultural differences, societal pressures, and feelings of isolation. Yet, like David, you can find strength in your faith and overcome these challenges with God’s help.
By Dr. Tim Orr
Growing up in a small Bengali village, Sahana faced many challenges to her faith. Sometimes, she felt alone and misunderstood, but her grandmother would always remind her of the story of David and Goliath, a tale of courage and trust in God against overwhelming odds. Today, as a Bengali Christian living in the UK, you might face your own “giants”—cultural differences, societal pressures, and feelings of isolation. Yet, like David, you can find strength in your faith and overcome these challenges with God’s help.
Living in a new country presents unique challenges for Bengali Christians. Understanding the cultural context of the UK is important for your faith journey. Just as Sahana had to navigate the cultural dynamics of her village, you might find that while some aspects of British culture differ from your own, these differences can be an opportunity to learn and grow. Embrace this diversity as a chance to deepen your understanding of God’s love for everyone.
Sahana found strength in her grandmother’s faith and the support of her church community. Staying connected to your faith community—whether a local church, a small group, or a fellowship of Bengali Christians—provides vital support and encouragement. Being part of a community helps you stay grounded in your faith and offers a sense of belonging.
Challenges can be growth opportunities, just as they were for Sahana. Instead of being discouraged by doubts or questions, use them as a chance to explore and deepen your understanding of your faith. Seek out resources, ask questions, and engage in discussions with others. Remember that faith is a journey, and seeking answers along the way is okay.
Sahana’s strength came from her relationship with God. Make time for regular prayer, Bible reading, and reflection. These practices help you stay connected to God and provide strength and guidance during difficult times. Trust that God is with you, even amid challenges, and rely on His presence to guide you.
Sahana never let go of her Bengali identity, even as she grew in her faith. Embrace your unique identity as a Bengali Christian and find ways to integrate it into your daily life. Whether through music, food, language, or traditions, celebrate your cultural heritage while living out your Christian faith. This creates a strong foundation for your discipleship journey.
Having a mentor or spiritual guide can be incredibly helpful in overcoming challenges to faith. Like Sahana had her grandmother, a mentor can provide wisdom, encouragement, and accountability, helping you stay on track and grow in your discipleship journey. Don’t hesitate to contact someone you trust and ask for their support.
Sahana’s journey was marked by challenges, but her faith and trust in God helped her overcome them. As a Bengali Christian in the UK, you, too, can face your “giants” with courage and faith, knowing that God is with you every step of the way. By embracing these steps, you can overcome challenges and grow as a disciple of Christ wherever you are.
The ideas in this article are mine, but AI assisted in writing this article.