“Raju” Tells His Story
A Family Under Attack
My family story begins in a Hindu village plagued by demonic operations and witchcraft. My grandfather practiced witchcraft, cursing others and causing sickness and harm. His actions, combined with longstanding village conflicts, created an environment filled with jealousy, anger, and persecution. Our family, being more prosperous, was especially targeted by the villagers who would go to great lengths to make our lives miserable.
The witchcraft and hostility had dire consequences for our family. One of my brothers died, and my wife experienced multiple miscarriages. We felt hopeless and oppressed by pain, with no happiness or joy. Desperation led me to consider becoming a priest, thinking it might offer salvation. Despite my efforts, including performing various rituals and spells, nothing changed.
A Ray of Hope
One day, I discovered a secret Christian within our extended family. She shared her remarkable journey from despair and attempting to take her own life to finding Jesus. Her story of divine intervention and newfound faith was a turning point for me. “Jesus has done everything for you,” she said. Encouraged by her words, I slowly began to put my faith and trust in Jesus.
A Transformational Journey
As I called on Jesus, my wife also joined me in faith. Gradually, we noticed positive changes. However, our newfound faith caused friction with our family, who shunned us for abandoning Hindu rituals. Despite the opposition, we persisted in our prayers.
When I couldn’t pray publicly in my village, I had an idea to pray for people at the border between two villages. Stretching my hands toward the villages, I prayed for those passing by—including sick people headed toward the hospital. Miraculously, God answered our prayers, and many experienced healing and returned home to share their testimonies. Today, over fifty families in that village believe in Jesus.
Persecution and Perseverance
As more people converted, persecution intensified. The local newspaper accused me of converting people, and members of an extremist Hindu group attacked and beat me. Fortunately, the police intervened, recognizing the good work I had done. I was able to visit some pastors in prison for their faith. I brought supplies to their wives and children.
A Vision for the Future
I am praying for the Lord to raise up many more believers in Christ. With God’s grace, I continue to share the Gospel. I firmly believe that God’s work cannot be stopped. If I am arrested for the name of Christ, I am ready to go to prison and even die for Him. “To live is Christ and to die is gain.” I pray that God would continue to give me joy and take me through the trials.
Jesus came into my life and changed me. And He will continue to change the lives of the other people. If God calls me home to Heaven, I am ready. If He allows me to see these things, I am ready to see them with much joy.
I know one thing for sure: no matter what, Jesus is with me.
