My name is Phearak and I am 27 years old. I am not married. Before I came to know the Lord Jesus, I lived for temporary things. I didn’t think about what matters in life and enjoyed the pleasures of this world. I cared little about what was going on around me. Growing up, there were little events that I enjoyed. But, one day, there were this commotion and a loudspeaker that was playing in my village. I was curious so I went to find out. There was some program hosted by the blue shirt people (JOC staff). They had these puppets and fun activities for children. It was entertaining and different from what I was used to seeing. It caught my attention, and I observed from a distance. It was all fun until they told us about a man named Jesus. They told us about His love and how He gave His life for each one of us. I was not sure what that meant, and I did not know what to think of it.
I approached the staff and was introduced to another staff from the Life of Hope program. It was a great connection. Soon, I began to better understand Jesus and decided to accept Him as my Lord and Savior. I believed in the Lord, but as I walked with Him there were stumbling blocks that I encountered. I had doubts at certain times of my life. Though I knew God’s love, I was still childish in my thinking, and processing what faith could do for me. As a result, I returned to my old ways of life. I was disobedient and faced many problems.
I faced many difficulties in my life. My mom was often quite sick. I did not know what to do because we were not a well-to-do family. Her illness took a toll on her until she passed away leaving me with nothing. My father left with another woman. I was deep in sorrow and regrets. Though I knew the Lord, I was still clinging to what I used to know. I sought fortune-tellers when I was faced with difficult situations and remorse. I met with fortune-tellers often until I could do what they do. I can make ceremonies and chant blessings and various other forms of witchcraft. I know all the big witchcraft. So, to be honest, I had feet in two different boats, one in my previous belief and one in Jesus.
I experienced utter heartbreak when I found a sense of earthly love. I was betrayed, and I did not know how to cure it. It seemed like there was nothing in the world that could solve it. I tried all that I knew which I thought may help. I tried “showers of blessing”, chanting, and you name it. Nothing helped. I was out of my mind. Then, I realized something. I had forgotten about Jesus. I forgot the truth about God. I went back to my journey with Him remembering what I had learned while I was in Phnom Penh. I remembered that God is love and salvation is sure. He alone can save me. As I reflected on the goodness of God, God showered me with His grace and love. I was once again whole. The deep hurt inside my heart began to subside. The grace of the Lord was indeed sure. I am thankful to the Lord for His faithfulness, even when I was unfaithful. My life turned over completely. I love the good news, and I love sharing his love with others. I began to see changes in my own life. I have the courage to tell others about Christ.
I feel that I cannot live without the Lord. Nothing seems to fill that emptiness in my heart except the Lord. I will try hard to live my life for God. I prayed earnestly for my family and others as I believe that He is the only true God. I want to give thanks to the Lord that He has indeed answered my prayers. Now I am truly happy that my nieces and nephews became believers in the Lord. We often lie to God, but God is faithful. He never lies to us. I pray that we will continue to have firm faith in the Lord. Thank you, God.