We recently welcomed Zoya Stepanova as our newest sister in the faith in Russia. Prompted by one of our members, Zoya visited our church for the first time on Reformation last year. Although she was initially cautious, Zoya wanted to learn more about the Bible and enrolled in our adult instruction class.

I later learned why Zoya was hesitant about studying with us. Several years earlier she had been involved with a Chinese cult whose leader claimed to be a god. However, a number of incidents – including the death of their leader – caused Zoya to become disillusioned.

As Zoya studied with us, she noticed great differences between that cult and our church. For one thing our faith is firmly rooted in Scripture’s clear teaching. There is good reason why we believe the things we do – God Himself says it! Through His word, the Lord created and strengthened faith in Zoya’s heart and helped her understand more and more.

In time Zoya began discussing our classes at home with her husband and son. Imagine her surprise when one day she overheard her son say, “Let’s ask mom [about this religious question]. She knows these kinds of things.”

Confirmation is not graduation. All of us must remain students of Scripture if we are to keep the great gifts God has given us (Luke 8:18). Pray that the Lord would continue to bless Zoya and her family with His word!