NEW TRIBES MISSION  |  planting tribal churches

FROM MAGIC TO PRAYER

FROM MAGIC TO PRAYER

Becky is grateful for the changes God is making in the lives of the Mengens.

October 27, 2009

by David Bell

Eleven years ago this month NTM missionaries moved into the Mengen tribe in Papua New Guinea and since the presentation of God’s Word former beliefs have been brought into question.

"It is difficult for them to break away from the cycle of superstition which has engulfed every part of their lives for years and years," wrote missionary Rebecca Preheim.

Magic has always been a big part of everyday life for the Mengens. Planting new gardens requires special rituals and magic. Ceremonies and customs are performed when a baby is born. Recovering from sickness requires divination and healing rituals.

The believers "are starting to grapple with the practical ways God’s Word is affecting their lives," Rebecca wrote. "It is exciting for us to see each believer begin to take steps of faith and to see them trust the Lord even in the simple things."

One believer was cutting down a tree for firewood on Saturday when a strong wind came up. Not sure which way the tree would fall, and not wanting anyone to get hurt, he prayed. He testified in church Sunday that God heard and answered his prayer.

It was "a simple thing, yet a practical and personal way that our Heavenly Father revealed his faithfulness to this Mengen man."

Please pray that the Mengen believers will continue to grow in their faith and come to understand how God’s Word relates to their daily lives.

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