When we arrived back in Cambodia after nine months in Australia, we were saddened to see that our congregation had dwindled to just three people.

We were disappointed but, in the midst of this, God spoke to us and invited us to trust Him. He led us to Zechariah 4:10 which says, “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin…” Gradually we watched as God brought more people to meet together with us and learn about Him.

This was so special, but God had more good things in store!

On a recent community visit, Botta and another pastor, met a young man and his elderly mother. They got talking about a variety of things, including the woman’s ill health. Then Botta and the pastor shared the Gospel and invited the man and his mother to embrace the Truth. Amazingly, they both chose to commit to following Jesus and allowed their local leader to cut the red strings they wear, which have held them to a different set of beliefs for their whole lives.

In Cambodia, the main religion is Buddhism. For many people here, and across Asia, wearing a red tie on a person’s wrist or waist (or even on their car or motorbike) signifies ‘good luck’ and an appeasement of ancestor spirits. There is a belief that if they break these ties they will receive bad luck.

A Buddhist breaking these ties because of their belief in Jesus is very significant. It is taking a step of faith, saying that they no longer fear the evil spirits and trust God for their provision.

Please pray for the young man and his elderly mother. Pray for their spiritual protection, for their faith to grow, especially in the face of potential persecution, and that they would desire to learn more about God and His word.