“Never stop learning because life never stops teaching!” With these encouraging words, we started our life skills school, where children come to learn life skills that will help them become more independent and grow in Christ-like character. At this moment, children are learning how to prepare meals in a rice cooker, take care of their bodies and clothes, and manage money, especially when they only have a few coins. There are more than 50 children from diverse backgrounds and family settings. They find joy in spending time together and feel cared for. They are also learning that developing good character is challenging on their own, but God is always there to assist them.
“Please allow my children to assist you in teaching, practicing their skills, and helping other children.” In other words, “I wish for my children to be around Christians!” This was a request from two families whose parents asked if their teenage daughter and son could join our team. They see the Church as a place where their teens can grow, learn, and make friends. The parents from both families are educated individuals, one of them still strongly identifying as a Buddhist. Thus, three young people have joined our team to teach life skills and learn about Christ. We are praying that their parents will join us as well.
One day, a non-believing lady from the village attended our church. Upon witnessing the teens singing and playing musical instruments, she expressed to her friend in disappointment, “Why doesn’t my daughter come to church? Look at how these young people are singing and appearing happy.” This stands as a powerful testimony for people to see that those who don’t merely follow rituals but believe in the Almighty God have a more blessed life.
A few months ago, during a baptism in our church, a young man was baptized. The non-Christian mother asked her daughter, “Why aren’t you getting baptized too?” Her daughter was surprised and glad to hear these words. Perhaps her mother could also bear witness to the changes in their family. Some years back, Jane* (name changed) endured much pain while growing up with her grandmother, yearning for her parents’ love as they worked far away in a distant city. She later learned of their separation plans, which brought even more pain. However, she prayed and asked us to pray, holding onto hope that her family would be reunited. God heard her, He saw her faith! Time passed, her parents reconciled, and they moved back to be with the family. Their family was reunited! God is real! She can testify how God worked in her life and how life with Him surpasses being on her own. Jane* decided to follow Jesus and was baptized last Sunday. We continue to pray for her parents to come to Christ, believing it will happen soon. Thank you for your prayers!
These are just a few testimonies of how God is working in hearts. Please join us in prayer to reach the adults, parents, and grandparents of our children, that they may recognize their personal need for Jesus as well. Thank you so much for your prayers and support. May God abundantly bless each one of you!
Ministry in Thailand – San and Anita (Avoda Foundation)