Here at Jesus Film Project we are in a season of intense prayer focus. Prayer is how Christians communicate and hear from God. I’m often encouraged when I hear how the Lord answers prayer among his followers around the world. Here’s one story:
Rest evaded Chetana* as she tossed and turned in her bed in a village in south Asia. Relenting once again, she sat up-there would be no sleeping that night. Her head heavy with exhaustion, Chetana buried her face in her palms as she cried. Nightmares from this evil spirit kept her under its merciless control. She could barely function during the daytime, let alone work.
A few days later, a church planter named Moti heard about Chetana’s struggle. He went to visit her, and after spending time with the young woman and her family, he invited them to watch one of our films, “Magdalena: Released From Shame”in their heart language. As Moti started the film, Chetana sat up in her seat, careful not to fall asleep in front of her family’s guest.
Chetana watched and listened. Her eyes may have fluttered in weariness, but the words of Jesus rang true in her heart. A peace washed over her for the first time, and she began to cry. This time she cried with hope, not frustration.
She asked Moti to tell her more about this Jesus who loved His people so much. Moti walked Chetana and her family through Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection. He explained what it means to follow Him. Chetana then made the decision to follow Jesus and leave her family’s spirit worship behind.
Moti went on. He said Jesus had the power to deliver Chetana from her demon. In that moment Chetana’s heart picked up pace again. It sounded almost too good to be true.
“May I pray for you?” Moti asked. Chetana agreed.
As Moti prayed, Chetana felt something in her spirit shift. Tears came to her eyes again. The peace she felt while hearing Jesus speak her mother tongue in the film washed over her again.
That night Chetana slept soundly. Like the promise in Psalms, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me dwell in safety,” Chetana knew in her heart the evil spirit was gone and wouldn’t torture her anymore.
Now a member of a local church, Chetana shares her testimony with anyone who will listen. Once in bondage, Chetana found freedom in Christ through the “Magdalena”film, hearing God’s message of love in a way she could truly understand.
For more insight into prayer, check out the post 40 Inspirational Quotes about Prayer.
*Some names and/or locations have been changed for confidentiality.
