Weekly devotion: Bringing light through words
Think and Do, Egypt
Women at the Life School.
Gender inequality in Egypt means that many women in rural areas were never given the chance to learn to read, write or do basic numeracy – something that limits every other opportunity in life. Our partner Think and Do is helping to change that through its Life School programme.
Through this programme, Think and Do is giving women who missed out in childhood the chance to gain the basic literacy and numeracy they need. More than just letters and sums, these are tools to understand bills, sign official documents, and manage family money.
But Think and Do’s work goes beyond just literacy. They also teach life skills like cooking nutritious meals, health awareness, and vocational skills such as sewing or hairdressing that can help women earn an income. This all helps women to build their confidence, enabling them to make informed decisions and speak up more in their communities.
We pray that the ripple effects of this work will be powerful: that as women gain education, skills and self-esteem, they will influence others – their children, neighbours, community leaders – to value women’s education.
Bible reading
‘Your decrees are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them. The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple.’
Psalm 119:129-130
Thought
When women in rural Egypt learn to read, a new world opens up to them. Through Think and Do’s work, the ‘unfolding’ of words is both literal and spiritual: offering light, dignity and freedom. Literacy is more than knowledge: it is a step towards self-worth and opportunity, and also gives the women the ability to engage with God’s Word at a deeper level.
Ask yourself: Where might God be calling you to bring light through words – whether spoken or written?
Prayer
Father God,
We thank you for Think and Do’s work, and for how it is bringing light and transformation to so many women’s lives.
We pray for the women Think and Do supports: may you grant them joy and perseverance as they learn new skills. As they read and understand the scriptures for themselves, may you draw them into a closer relationship with you.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Christianity in Egypt
Find out about the history of Christianity in Egypt, as well as the impact that Christians have on society and the challenges they face.
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