I was a Christian evangelist till March 10th 2014, and the reason for the change in faith is my intensive research on the truth about the existence of God and how the definition of God in Christianity shows the picture of a vulnerable and limited being, I find it difficult to accept that The God who created everything that exist could have so many limitations such as he forgets, he gets hungry, he sleeps, he cries, he urinate, excretes, he was beaten, died, and all sorts of limitations not befitting to the divinity and supremacy of God
My research for the truth was further enhanced when I met a Muslim man who challenged my faith in Christianity with clear unambiguous, convincing evidences that shows that the depiction of God in Old testament is different from the God in the new testament
After series of readings on different religions doctrine, It was evidently clear like the mid day light that Islam is the only religion that perfectly describes God as the Ultimate, supreme, non vulnerable, unlimited, ever knowing, perfect being who is free from any fault and limitations. And it also emphatically emphasis on the worship of this only Perfect God
This aligned well with me, as this is the exact same thing all the biblical prophets called to, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Isiah, Elijah, Elisha, Ezekiel, Jeremiah, David, Solomon, Joshua, Including Jesus Christ as evidently shown in In John 17:3, Jesus defined eternal life saying,
“This is eternal life, that they may know you, The Only True God, and Jesus Christ Whom You Have Sent.”
I made further readings on the Misconceptions and Ambiguities against Islam, such as Terrorism, Pedophilia, forcing people to covert with the sword, and many other mischievous misconceptions against Islam
With open mind and desire to establish the truth, it was evidently clear that all the points against Islam are just mere inventions and intentional misinterpretation of islamic texts to make the perfect religion look rebellious and make people scared of accepting the faith.
Before Ramadan, I have faced series of persecutions from my families and church members, most especially my mum, it was a very bitter pill for her to swallow, and it got to a point, she proposed to me to either choose Islam or Her.She was damn very serious, and I was very adamant on my new faith because I was more than convinced, the evidences were too overwhelming and undeniable
I never for once thought of backsliding no matter the threats and hatred, for those who know me personally, if I am convinced about something, I cling on it sooooo well. I don’t compromise my stance for anyone’s sake, because at the end of the day, I will be alone under the soil facing the consequences of my actions. So why will I deny the truth to please anyone? It just doesn’t make sense
AlhamduliLlah, as time goes on, and I remained steadfast on my faith, I was gradually accepted for who I choose to be and what I choose to believe
As the month of Ramadan approached back then then, I was having mixed feelings, I was very eager and joyful to witness the month, I have read a good deal of books and articles on the high sprit of worship and devotions that comes along with Ramadan, but I was also skeptical about how will I be eating my sahoor in a house where I was the only Muslim out of over 25.
When Ramadan came, my mother who was my greatest threat suddenly changed, she ensured she prepare my sahoor on time, she wakes me up for qiyaamul layl (Mid night prayers), my iftar was on time, just everything I needed to have a ease ramadan experience
More surprisingly, I spent the last ten days of my first Ramadan in itikaf, my mum will send my junior brother who was Samuel then, but now Abdur Rahman (AlhamduliLlah), he was the one that brings my sahoor and iftar foods to the masjid during itikaf.
Everything just changed and became so easy with Allah’s help. My first Ramadan was so interesting that I cried so much as it departed.
The month is filled with spiritual growth, deep reflection, and a renewed connection with Allah. The strong feeling of brotherhood and unity within the community made every moment special, from sharing iftar meals to standing shoulder to shoulder in Taraweeh prayers. The sense of peace, generosity, and gratitude that enveloped my heart during this sacred month is something I will cherish forever.
Each day brought a deeper connection to my faith, and every night was a reminder of the mercy and blessings Allah showers upon us. As the crescent moon marked the end, I couldn’t help but feel a bittersweet sadness, knowing I’d miss the peace, discipline, and closeness to Allah that Ramadan brings.
If there’s any lesson I want you to pick from my discussions so far, it’s to be steadfast upon whatever you are convinced of.
Don’t compromise your beliefs, your values, or your faith for anyone’s sake. Stay true to what you know is right, even when faced with challenges, opposition, or pressure from those closest to you. At the end of the day, you alone will be accountable for your choices, and it is your unwavering commitment to the truth that will guide you through the toughest moments.
In closing, my journey to Islam and my first Ramadan taught me invaluable lessons about faith, perseverance, and the importance of standing firm in one’s convictions. Despite the trials, misunderstandings, and initial resistance from those around me, I remained steadfast in my belief because the truth was undeniable. Ramadan became more than just a month of fasting; it was a transformative period filled with spiritual growth, love, and unexpected support from even the most unlikely places.
Life will always present challenges when you choose a path less traveled, but with sincerity, an open heart, and trust in Allah, everything falls into place. Never be afraid to seek the truth, and once you find it, hold onto it with unwavering determination. The peace, fulfillment, and connection that come from living in alignment with your beliefs are worth every sacrifice.
Brother Oyekole Abdullah Andrew
English 
