A Critical Need in Lebanon with May-Lee Melki

Jun 19, 2025

Ask episode

Chapters

Transcript

Episode notes

“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here I am! Send me.’” - Isaiah 6:8

The news from the Middle East can be overwhelming, but our hope in Christ calls us to take action. Today, May-Lee Melki from Heart for Lebanon joins us to share how you can help protect young women and girls facing crisis. Then it’s on to your calls at 800-525-7000.

May-Lee Melki is a Lebanese-American advocate, legal scholar, and ministry leader dedicated to advancing justice and holistic transformation in the Middle East. She serves as the Strategic Engagement Manager at Heart for Lebanon, an underwriter of Faith and Finance.

Why Lebanon’s Girls Need Us Now

Lebanon today is not the Lebanon of a generation ago. Compounded crises have pushed countless families into desperation, and girls ages 13–21 often bear the heaviest burden. Without a father, brother, or male guardian to protect them, they face decisions made for them—decisions that can lock them into abuse for life.

The urgency has never been higher. These girls can change their country, the region, and the Church—but only if someone intervenes before tragedy strikes.

A Concrete Goal: 500 Girls by June 30

Heart for Lebanon has already welcomed 250 at-risk girls into its programs this year. With your help, we can reach the remaining 250 before June 30. The math is simple—and remarkably attainable:

$114 introduces three girls to Jesus and a pathway to safety.
$950 opens the door for twenty-five girls.
Less than $10,000 completes the entire goal.

Every investment provides:

Safe spaces & mentorship
Christ-centered counseling focused on identity and dignity
Education & vocational training rooted in biblical character and life skills
Church communities where girls—and, prayerfully, their families—can grow in faith

How Your Gift Transforms a Life

Recently, Meili met Iman, a 12-year-old refugee forced to work all day for $20 a month—money her father uses for cigarettes. After a chapel session, with tears in her eyes, Iman asked, "Who is Jesus?" That day, she prayed to receive Christ, saying:

“My circumstances may not change immediately, but Jesus will change my heart and be with me.”

Your support keeps Iman in school, surrounds her with Christian counselors, and plugs her into a loving church, offering hope not only to her but to her whole family.

Two Ways You Can Help Today

Pray:
- Ask the Lord to protect these girls and soften the hearts of their families.
- Pray for the Heart for Lebanon staff who daily serve in challenging conditions.
Give Generously:
- Text “FAITH” to 98656—we’ll reply with a secure giving link.
- Visit FaithFi.com/Lebanon to give online.
- Remember: $114 = three girls rescued and discipled in Christ.

Jesus taught, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21) When you invest in Heart for Lebanon, you’re putting your heart into something that echoes into eternity—protecting girls from exploitation, introducing them to the Savior, and empowering them to transform their communities for Christ.

Let’s finish strong. Join us in reaching the final 250 young women before June 30. Together, we can turn desperation into dignity and despair into hope—one precious girl at a time. Give now at FaithFi.com/Lebanon or text “FAITH” to 98656.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

I have two financial advisors, and I would like to know which one to work with. One has been with our family for 30 years, but his fees are high. The other has a different investment approach, but his fees are much lower. I’m struggling with the emotional side of potentially changing advisors after such a long-term working relationship. How should I evaluate this situation?
I have a 13-year-old son who has been earning money doing yard work and has now saved over $2,000. I would like to know the best place for a young teenager to start saving and investing. What would your recommendation be?

Resources Mentioned:

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.