Tunisian Viewer “Set free from the chains of fear”
When Kais from Tunisia experienced a mental health crisis, he tried to find comfort in religious rituals. But it wasn’t until he discovered the “great love that casts out all fear” that his life turned around.
“After finishing my university studies, I went through a period of psychological distress,” Kais shared in a message to SAT-7 ARABIC’s Viewer Support team. “I was overwhelmed by fear, and I began spending a lot of time alone.”
Kais hoped that his religious background might help. “I tried to draw closer to God to overcome the fear, but the rituals I was used to didn’t help – they felt rigid and lifeless.”
“A strange pull to know more”
As he continued to try and haul himself out of the darkness, Kais turned to psychology and self-help materials in his search for different answers. “During this time, I came across programmes and books that mentioned the character of Christ, and there was something beautiful in the way He was discussed,” Kais recalled. “I felt a strange pull to know more about Jesus Christ.”
He continued his search by watching a film about Jesus online, and said he felt that “Christ carried a hidden love for me”. Kais went on to read the Bible, and to his surprise, “the fear inside me began to fade. I began to feel something new, like a child who had just been born, discovering that he has a great heavenly Father. I experienced the relationship of sonship, which changed everything. I discovered the great love that casts out all fear… I received free salvation and was set free from the chains of fear.”
“A Strong need to connect”
SAT-7’s broadcasts had a profound impact on Kais in the early years of his faith journey, and he particularly loved watching worship programmes, live church services and Christian festivals, such as Count It Right. As SAT-7 has developed its digital platforms over the years, Kais also began following content online.
After watching SAT-7 for several years, Kais decided to reach out. “At first, I hesitated to send a message, but lately I’ve felt a strong need to connect with others, to have friends in my life with whom I can share,” he said.
Christians in North Africa often feel isolated. SAT-7’s programmes and digital content provide Bible teaching and discipleship. “I cannot practise my faith openly, as there are no believers around me,” Kais explained. “All my learning comes from the internet. I listen to worship songs and sermons online.”
Coming into relationship with God changed Kais’s life, but new challenges – such as isolation – mean he needs continual support and encouragement. SAT-7’s Viewer Support team has been there for Kais, praying with him, encouraging him in his daily walk of faith, and directing him to relevant bible passages.
“Whoever clings to the Lord and trusts in Him will not fall,” Kais said. “There is no fear in the presence of the Lord.”