Hi Friends
All is fine here and we are experiencing some good weather for a change. Today I taught on the last verses in Romans 8, which show us that God loves us and that nothing can separate us from God’s love. This passage shows that all that comes across our path is good and helpful to transform us to be more like what he is. It was a blessing teaching these lessons especially in the light of the many hardships the believers are often enduring. Here are some of the hardships our people endure every day:
– They are extremely poor in comparison to Western standards. Most can carry all their most valuable belongings in a small bag around their neck which they call a bilum.
– They experience all the hardships due to the elements. Their houses are built from bush materials and there is always rain and mud etc. in their homes. They also walk through rough terrain to their gardens and the work in the gardens is very very tough and physical work.
– The believers endure continual mocking and persecution due to their faith. So, in the light of this, it has been a blessing to see again that the Holy Spirits sees and experiences all of this and intercedes for us to God the Father who strengthens and encourages us. Furthermore God is in control of every situation that comes across our path and uses them to see us formed more into his image. And thirdly none of the above can remove us from the love he has for us!
– Please pray for our believers as they endure these hardships that they will remember the truths taught to them today and look to God for help and strength.
– Also pray for a young man named Merengi who has been a friend of mine but has turned against us and our work. He has been the source of constant trouble for us and the church since we have been here. He has basically become our enemy. Please pray that God will change his heart. – Also pray for the many among the unbelievers who live in fear under the control of their elders. Help them to see that they need to evaluate where they are at with God and make a decision on their own. Thanks so much for your help and support! Blessings Lourens