Aug 30, 2023 Fight or Faith

“How can I give up my work on Saturday? That’s our busiest day!” Hendri and his wife, Dian, found themselves in a tense discussion Friday evening with Pastor John Calvin Pasuhuk.

For the past week, Hendri and Dian had been attending evening meetings in Peling Island, Indonesia. After the first meeting, they felt interested in the topics, plus their two children also seemed to enjoy the kid’s program. They were encouraged by the Biblical messages, so they decided to continue coming, despite their Muslim background.

Night after night, Hendri and Dian were more impressed that the messages were from God. As they discussed and prayed, they asked God to lead them. Both felt hesitant to make any change in their faith, since it could cause conflict with their extended family.

That Friday evening, at the close of the message, Pr. John gave a call for all who wanted to stand for Jesus and His end-time Bible truths. The couple looked at each other, both feeling the conviction of the Spirit, but both lacking the courage to stand. They decided to talk with Pr. John after the program.

As Hendri tried to explain about his business, Pr. John shared encouraging Scripture. He explained to Hendri how when we follow God, and put Him first in our lives, He promises to provide for our needs. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus said, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Pr. John could sense the struggle Hendri was facing, and he extended the invitation to attend the closing program on Sabbath.

“Pastor, if this promise from God is true,” said Hendri, “Me and my family will attend the worship service on Sabbath.”

This was a big test of faith, but with God’s help, Hendri and his family attended the closing service for the week of revival. They were inspired by the messages and again felt the Holy Spirit touching their hearts to make a commitment to the Lord. However, there were still feelings of anxiety for the couple: Hendri’s work and their extended families.

Hendri’s wife Dian wanted to be baptized, and so they spoke with Pr. John later that afternoon. Hendri gave his support for his wife’s decision, and as they discussed together the details to prepare for baptism.

“But what about you?” Dian asked her husband. Hendri just smiled.

As they continued their discussion, Pr. John shared encouraging Bible verses about following the Lord fully. As they studied the Bible and discussed, Hendri decided to accept Jesus through baptism too! Praise God!

“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism.” Ephesians 4:4-5

Praise God for this testimony indeed! However, not all meeting attendees have similar unity in their homes. Will you please pray for individuals who want to follow Jesus, but experience family opposition?

Eliyana* had at one time accepted Jesus as her Savior. But due to pressure and abuse from her husband, stopped going to church to try and keep peace in her home.

Eliyana and her daughter were invited to attend the evening revival meetings. As they went night after night, Eliyana’s heart was moved to return to the Lord. She shared that she wanted to return to the faith, but her husband would not allow it. As one can imagine, this is a difficult struggle for Eliyana. She has asked that fellow believers lift her and her family situation up in prayer.

Let’s lift Eliyana and others facing similar situations in prayer! God is faithful. Claiming His promise, “…with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26

*Name changed