This story comes from LT, a disciple-maker based in Singapore.
Two years ago, I began delivering professional leadership programs for Benjamin, a business owner in Asia. At the time, I was new to Disciple-Making Movements (DMM) but felt that Benjamin and his wife could be people of peace (POP). They were both respected in their community and deeply caring leaders. I didn’t know what God would do with this connection but tried to pray for them faithfully and be available whenever they had questions.
In early February, I was burdened to pray for Asia; specifically for my friends and business clients impacted by the COVID-19 virus. After praying, I felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit to text each person I knew in the region to encourage them and let them know I was praying for them. Everyone texted back in appreciation.
A week later, Benjamin asked me for ideas to encourage his 60 employees – he was worried about their emotional wellbeing as the virus spread across his country. I felt the Spirit’s prompting to suggest Discovery of Hope Bible studies, asking him if it would be alright to use Bible stories. He readily accepted the idea and within two days had organised four-weekend sessions with his 28 leaders.
Excitedly, I contacted my DMM coaches to discuss the best way forward. I also triggered my prayer team, asking several groups of friends and co-workers to intercede. With this in place, the four-weekend sessions went without a hitch. I was so touched by the open, honest sharing of people about their lives, what they learnt about Jesus through Bible stories, hearing the actions they planned to take and their willingness to share with family and friends.
One of the participants messaged me after a session and asked how we could do these Bible studies with his friends. After a brief coaching session, this POP led a Discovery Bible Study. When I chatted with him afterwards, he shared that his friends said this time was the best thing that had ever happened to them! They are keen to continue and have fixed a date for their next session. I will continue to coach this POP.
I’m totally overwhelmed by how God works! To think that in just two days, 34 people in five groups read the Bible for the first time, with some groups already multiplying. Most participants identified obedience steps to Scripture as well as people in their lives they wanted to share the Bible story with.
Please continue to pray for these people – that these groups will continue, that God’s stories of hope will spread throughout their communities and that movements will be birthed.