On Cynthia’s recent trip to West Africa, we were able to capture some of the hundreds of incredible stories of what God is doing to bring hope and change. Lives are being transformed as our trainees and alumni share the good news of Jesus, make disciples, and then teach them to reach others!
Watch the video above or read the summary below for this exciting story of a life that was changed!
I’m Cynthia Anderson, and I had the privilege of talking with Emmanuel, a movement leader in West Africa. He shared with me an incredible story of transformation—one that reminds us never to give up on anyone.
Emmanuel began by telling me about a young man he had been reaching out to for quite some time. This young man was deeply troubled—addicted to drugs and alcohol, involved in gangs, and even admitted to being a cultist. His family had given up on him. They were angry, frustrated, and heartbroken over his behavior.
But Emmanuel saw something different.
“Whenever I saw him,” Emmanuel said, “I saw a version of myself before I was changed. Since God didn’t give up on me, I refused to give up on him.”
Emmanuel continued to encourage him, sharing stories from Discovery Bible Studies (DBS) that spoke to the young man’s identity and potential. He also reached out to the boy’s mother, urging her to stop cursing her son and instead begin blessing him and praying for him. He reminded her that the enemy often targets those with great potential—those who could one day fight against the kingdom of darkness.
The mother took this to heart and began to pray. Over time, the young man started attending DBS sessions. Slowly but surely, his life began to change.
One day, the boy’s father approached Emmanuel and asked, “What happened to my son?” He had noticed a dramatic transformation. The boy had started reading the Bible, praying, and showing signs of real change. His mother also came to share the testimony—her son was no longer the same. In fact, he had become an example to his younger siblings.
Now, this young man is not only living a transformed life, but he’s also sharing the stories of God with others. He’s become a disciple-maker, multiplying what he received.
Emmanuel reflected, “It took me one year. I never gave up. I kept calling him, encouraging him, and sharing stories. I didn’t realize it, but something was growing inside him. And now, he’s doing exploits for God.”
This story is a powerful reminder: never give up on someone who might be a potential multiplier.
What else stands out to you from this story?