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How Nana decided to give her life to Jesus Christ
March 12, 2020
Nana is a Japanese international student studying at San Diego State University. Last week, at our most recent international Bible study, Nana told us she had some important news she wanted to share before we began. With great joy in her voice she told us that she had decided to give her life to Jesus! The room lit up as we applauded and laughed gleefully together. It was such a beautiful moment.
Nana told us her story of how God patiently pursued her. She had gone to a private Christian high school back in Japan, but she never really put much stock in the Bible or its teachings. After moving to San Diego to study at SDSU she met a friendly student who invited her to study the Bible with some other international students, which caused her to look more into who Jesus is and what the Bible says.
Nana started watching videos of a Japanese Christian YouTuber. She told us this:
"I've been watching a Christian Japanese YouTuber who uploads videos a lot about Christian advice, like what we should do when we are feeling sad and lonely. I like her videos because they touch me. I've been watching her videos lately and the message fits my heart right.
One was about making big decisions. Right now, I'm figuring out my life, heading back to Japan. She gave 2 pieces of advice. The first is to read the Bible. The second is to have a conversation with God. That’s good advice for anything!
My favorite verse in the Bible is Matthew 5:13-16 about salt and light. I feel like i met a lot of 'light' in San Diego and they inspired me a lot in a way to explore Jesus!"
Salt and Light
Salt and Light
13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:13-16 | NIV
"This verse also reminds me of my high school (In Japan). Their philosophy is to create people who will contribute to world prosperity and illuminate the world. I think it really relates to this verse as well!
This made me look up old pictures of my high school and its beautiful buildings. When looking at old photos I found this photo..."
Nana showed us a photo of her and her classmates, but in the background, in large letters on the side of one of the buildings was that exact verse, the one she had recently found that had been drawing her into closer relationship with Jesus.
We are praising God for His work in drawing students like Nana into closer relationship with Him.
PRAYER
PRAYER
Praise God with us and pray for all of the international students here at SDSU to be open to the Gospel.
Please, also pray with us for Nana to continue to walk closely with Jesus here and when she returns to Japan.
Pray for our next Bible study (On Thursday, March 12) where we will be talking about God's promises.
Pray for all of our students as we go through God's Word together.
Sam Davis has focused on international student ministry since 2010 and is on staff with Cru and Bridges International in San Diego, CA. His passion for leading others into a close relationship with Jesus is shown in his general love for people and focus on discipleship.
Sam and his wife, Gloria, love to travel, meet people, eat great food, and hike.
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