Across the world, Jewish people continue returning to Israel, fulfilling the words of the prophets who spoke of God gathering His people back to the land of their fathers.
Despite wars, uncertainty, and challenges, many new immigrants are choosing not only to come to Israel but also to build their lives in the Negev region, near the Gaza border. Their stories reveal faith, courage, and a deep conviction that God is guiding their steps.
Ramila, a mathematics teacher from the Caucasus, dreamed for many years of moving to Israel. After waiting for the right time, she and her family finally made the decision to begin a new chapter in the land they believe God has blessed.
Today, they live in Sderot, a city that many might consider a difficult place because of its proximity to Gaza. Yet Ramila sees beyond the challenges.
“Even though it might seem like it’s a desert, the south, and things seem impossible here, it’s actually an amazing place,” she shared. As a mother and teacher, she believes the Negev offers many opportunities for children to grow and build their future.
For Ramila, moving to Sderot was not a decision based on fear but on faith. She reflected on the words of Scripture: “Whoever watches the wind will not plant, and whoever looks at the clouds will not harvest.”Ecclesiastes 11:4 (NIV)
She believes that waiting for perfect conditions would have prevented her family from taking the step God was leading them to take. “Everything happens in its own time. So now was the right time for us to move,” she said, adding that she sees Israel as her home and wants to build her future there.
Mark, who came from Baku, Azerbaijan, also left behind a successful career and a comfortable life to answer what he describes as a calling in his heart toward Israel.
Before immigrating, he worked as a department head at an international airport and had a full life with many interests. When he and his family began the process of Aliyah, they had to choose where to settle. When he discovered that Sderot was so close to Gaza, he had concerns, but eventually decided to take the opportunity.
Looking back, he believes it was the right decision. “God guides us, and it’s thanks to His guidance that we’re here,” he shared.
Both stories reflect the journey of many immigrants who leave behind familiarity, careers, and security to start again in Israel. The transition is not always easy, but they believe the challenges are worth it.
As Mark explained, “When you leave everything behind in your old country and move somewhere new, it’s always hard and always takes time. But I think these temporary difficulties are worth it to move and live in Israel.”
Their lives are a testimony of faith, showing that even in uncertain times, God continues to lead His people and establish them in the land He promised.
Join us in supporting families of new immigrants (Olim) as they return to their homeland and take part in the fulfillment of God’s promises.
