In Asia, a church building is viewed as a sign of respect to God. When Christians meet in a common place, like a house or under a tree, it is difficult for others to receive or respect their faith in Jesus, especially when they worship their many gods and goddesses in elaborate temples. Because this mindset is ingrained within the culture, having a holy place set apart to worship and seek the Lord is vital to a growing congregation. GFA supported Pastor Dayaram and the faithful body of believers he nurtured met in a local house. Though they struggled, they continued to serve the Lord and display the love of Jesus to those around them.

One day, the Lord led Pastor Dayaram to a village nearby to pray for and minister to a man named Jivin, who had been battling sickness for a long time. Pastor Dayaram was invited to pray for Jivin, and by God’s grace, Jivin experienced complete healing! When Jivin’s relative, Naisha, and her husband, Sahaj, heard about this miracle, they started attending Pastor Dayaram’s worship services. But after a month’s time Naisha and Sahaj heard rumours in the village. Concerns arose about the church’s credibility because it didn’t have a building. New in their faith, Naisha and Sahaj heeded the voices and stopped going to church.

The fellowship struggled on until Pastor Dayaram sent in a request to his leaders, asking for help to construct a church building. Soon, resources and materials arrived on the site for their new church! All the congregation participated in the much-awaited project. After the church was completed, God blessed Pastor Dayaram and his congregation with more brothers and sisters in Christ – including Niasha and Sahaj again! When they saw the
new building, they decided they wanted to come back. As a result, Niasha and Sahaj soon grew strong in their love for Jesus.

Today, the church thrives as the rumours have faded out. Now they have a roof over their heads, space to worship and seek God, and open doors to others in their community.

Source: Gospel for Asia

Bible Study: Matthew 16:18

AUGUST: PRAY DEEPER for the gospel being proclaimed by Indian Christians with growing success. Give thanks for growth despite opposition from local communities and authorities, including recent laws stopping foreign funding.