“Many times as we travel to villages for ministry, we see satanic forces – these are the challenges we face in the ministry. Though most times we are frustrated, God enables us to renew (our) strength through His words,” Pastor S reflecting on the opposition he faces in the field (name omitted for his security).

In the midst of trials and opposition, it can be difficult to remember who our true enemy is. It’s not those who question our faith or family members who disagree with our beliefs. Rather, it’s the “god of this age who has blinded the minds of unbelievers so they cannot see the light of the gospel”. For Pastor S this is a daily struggle as he faithfully travels from village to village sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.

From the time he placed his faith in Christ, Pastor S’ father vigorously opposed him for leaving Hinduism. In a drunken rage, his father would often accuse him of dishonoring and shaming the family. But Pastor S was not deterred. Instead of returning anger with anger, Pastor S set about becoming a living demonstration of Jesus’ love by reconciling all the alienated relationships he had with friends and telling them about his newfound faith.

Soon, with the encouragement of Christian mentors, Pastor S was prayerfully sent into fulltime ministry in an area well known for its fervent idol worship. Though it was an area naturally hostile to the gospel, Pastor S forged ahead, sharing the good news with anyone willing to listen. He remained unfazed when they rejected him or threw him out of the village.

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12