How One Woman’s Kindness Changed a Family’s Legacy
Words can either be a powerful tool or a powerful weapon, especially when wielded by those who should love us the most. Imagine what your childhood would’ve been like if the primary message you heard from your parents was that your existence was a disappointment.
For Shurvi, a 12-year-old girl from Western India, this was reality. She was one of five daughters, but all her parents had wanted was one son. Shurvi’s mother, Banou, believed religious teachings that not having a son meant her gods were displeased with her. Without a son to carry on her family’s name, Banou felt their future was hopeless.
Chakor, Shurvi’s father, was even worse. He let his disappointment about not having a son drive him to excessive alcohol use, and he treated his daughters like burdens. Chakor’s alcoholism often led to chaotic arguments with Banou and the verbal abuse of Shurvi and her sisters. Shurvi’s parents wouldn’t even let her and her sisters attend school regularly because they believed educating girls was pointless. Shurvi became a troubled young girl with very few friends.
Shurvi often wondered—would she ever escape her discouraging home life?
Thankfully, one of Shurvi’s few friends was persistent in inviting Shurvi to attend a Year-Long Children’s Bible Club with her. Shurvi began attending, and the welcoming environment was like a balm to her heart. Adviti, the Bible Club’s leader, greeted her warmly each day and took care to make her feel included.
Shurvi soon felt safe enough to confide in Adviti about her difficult family situation, and Adviti was quick to teach Shurvi the truth. She told Shurvi that girls and boys matter equally and that all children are a gift from God. Adviti led Shurvi and all the Bible Club members in prayer for Shurvi’s family, especially her father. They continued praying each day during the Bible Club, and Shurvi began praying for her father on her own as well.
After a while, Chakor quit drinking alcohol! Adviti also visited him and, through kind conversation, helped him understand that his daughters were blessings rather than disappointments. Chakor became a happier person and their home was finally peaceful.
Banou also took Adviti’s words to heart and she enjoyed praying with Adviti whenever she visited. Banou realized her superstitions about not having a son were false and began to feel hopeful for the first time in many years. Now, Banou is filled with gratitude and focused on raising her daughters with love and care. Shurvi finally believes that her life matters and knows that she is deeply loved. Thanks to the consistent care and mentorship Adviti showed Shurvi and her parents, their home is now a place of peace and joy!
Pray
- Pray for Shurvi and her family to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus.
- Ask God if there is someone in your life who needs to hear that their life matters.
Take Action
- If God reveals someone to you, ask them to get coffee or take a walk with you this week.
- Consider becoming a Pathfinder. Your monthly gift will bring the hope of the Gospel to many more families like Shurvi’s.
