Testimonies from the Fields

Gift of Love
“God is very gracious and faithful. As a church planter, I experience God’s provision through my people. The Lord knows our needs. One night after a Bible study, one of the regular attendees slipped in my hand what I call a love gift in an envelope. The Lord knew that we were struggling with expenses at the start of the school year and He provided support through this farmer who earns very little himself. I have learned that it is not whether we have a lot to give or a little—it is the condition of the heart. This farmer shared what little he had with a generous heart. What a joy to see this kind of believer in our fold. I pray that the Lord will develop hearts like this in all of our attendees for His glory.”
- Pastor Mario Chavez, Philippines

Truency from Church
The following is the testimony of 24-year-old Ritcharch Cosco: “I learned about the Lord Jesus Christ and became an active church member for about a year; but when the pastor left, the members scattered and I went back to the old sinful patterns. My parents hated me for I became a troublemaker. I did not finish high school because of my stubbornness. However, God knew where I was and wanted me back in fellowship with believers. Pastor Michael visited my home and invited me to church. My life was a mess and I was hesitant to accept his invitation. But Pastor Michael was so persistent.

He kept coming to my house, sharing the word of God with me and my family. After many months of visits I accepted his invitation to attend church. From then on, our life as a family has never been the same. God has used Pastor Michael to show us the right direction. Now I am back in the fold and have committed my life to the ministry. My family is also attending church faithfully. I am thankful that I had the privilege to assist Pastor Michael with Daily Vacation Bible School this summer. I now have the desire to obey God and be used by Him in the ministry. Please pray for me.”
- Pastor Michael Bausin, Philippines

Clarity of God's Word
The following is the testimony of 17-year-old Sabel, an unwed mother: “I grew up feeling like I wasn’t wanted. I was disobedient to my parents and tried all kinds of vices. When I met the father of my child, I thought that he was the only one I needed. I thought he would get me out of the misery of my family life. I was really untamed, despite my parents’ warnings against seeing this man. Then I got pregnant; my expectations of him did not come true. He left me. I was so hopeless. I wanted to commit suicide, but did not go through with it. Then one day my friend invited me to attend a Bible study. I went there with my sleeping child on my shoulder. I listened carefully to the preaching of God’s word. It was very clear!

From that day on, my outlook on life changed. I received the Lord Jesus Christ into my life. Now that I am very active in the church, I wish I could rewind my life and start all over again. I am aware of my spiritual state before God, and He is changing my life. My parents have noticed a big difference in my life. Please pray that I will find a good job. It is hard to find suitable work because I did not finish high school. I am still dependent on my parents. I want to raise my child in a godly way, and I know the Lord cares for my every need; but, it is beyond my comprehension to understand how He works!”
- Sabel attends Pastor Marlon Tabuzo’s church plant in Dimaslang, Masbate, Philippines