CMS missionaries Chris and Erin serve Lord in South East Asia. In this article, they share an encouraging story of a local woman coming to faith. 

“After following Jesus I felt a joy, peace and certainty I never knew before. Jesus broke my chains and set me free!”

When God first called us to our location in South East Asia, he led us to Scriptures showing chains breaking and people stepping out of darkness into his light. After nearly three years here, we’ve seen more of that darkness—but also the incredible freedom and joy that Jesus’ light brings.

Just last Sunday, we heard a moving story from M, a woman who found freedom in Jesus through the faithful witness of a Christian woman. As you read this story, would you join us in praising Jesus for his saving power—and praying for more stories like this? 

How did you first hear about Jesus?

It began when I worked for a believing woman as her house helper. From the start, she was different—she cared about my struggles, prayed with me, and taught me how to truly pray from the heart.

What was life like before Jesus?

I came from a broken home, and my husband left me alone with two kids. I was poor and worked physically exhausting jobs just to survive. On top of that, I felt weighed down by rituals that demanded money I didn’t have. I felt trapped in darkness, with no way out.

How did you become a follower of Jesus?

It took years of friendship with the lady I worked for. She patiently shared the hope of the gospel and encouraged me to ask for the Holy Spirit—something I had never heard of before. 

At first, I was proud of my religion—I even told a pastor that my gods were so powerful. He simply said, “No one is more powerful than Jesus.” At the time, I thought he was arrogant—now, I see it was my own pride blinding me. 

When I finally believed, I felt peace and freedom like never before. Looking back, I thought I had chosen Jesus—but now I know he chose me.

What changed after following Jesus?

My family rejected me and even threatened legal action. But the lady I worked for and other believers supported me with love and prayer. After following Jesus I felt a joy, peace and certainty I never knew before. Jesus broke my chains and set me free!

How is your relationship with your family now?

Out of 200 relatives, I am still the only believer. It’s hard, but I continue to pray for opportunities to share my testimony, especially with the younger generation.

Is there anything else you want to share?

Our country in South East Asia is a battleground of great spiritual darkness. Daily offerings to demonic forces give them a foothold, keeping people in chains. But Jesus is stronger—he alone can set them free. 

PRAY

Give thanks with Chris and Erin for Christ’s saving power, and pray that God would reveal himself to more people in their location.