“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever — the Spirit of Truth.” – John 14:16 (NIV)

Since young, my mother would lead all nine of us children in prayer every night. We would all kneel side-by-side along a long bench facing the open air in our dilapidated living room. But I was not a believer and I thought the Christian faith was just another religion. I admired science a lot and thought that only science and technology could save humankind. Though I went to Sunday School as directed by my mother, I did not pay any attention to the teacher. Instead I loved to ask difficult questions and enjoyed embarrassing the teacher when she failed to answer my questions.  

After completing my primary education, I was curious about the “black book” that my siblings were reading. So, I started reading the book too and was totally attracted by it. As I read Matthew, Mark and Luke, I became more and more convinced that I was a sinner and Jesus Christ was my saviour. Without anyone guiding me then (though there were many people who had witnessed to me before), I came to know the Lord and found myself kneeling down to say the sinner’s prayer for the first time.

My life was suddenly transformed from that day onwards. I stopped cursing and swearing. I stopped quarrelling with my mother and other people. I worked very hard to help my mother, loving her and feeling sorry for her as she had to do so much work every day. I felt within me a power that helped me not to sin. I was born again! The neighbours noticed my change and asked my mother, “Why has this naughty lad become so good now?”. My mother answered, “He has become a Christian!” Our neighbours were all amazed and said they also wanted their children to believe in Jesus.

About 30 years later, when I was 45, the same Holy Spirit worked in my life and called me to serve God in full-time ministry doing mission mobilisation. 

When I first started preaching in churches, I was a bit nervous and wondered if the message would be of help to anyone. I was amazed by the work of the Holy Spirit. On a few occasions, I saw people moved to tears by God’s Word. On another occasion, I was able to interact with two sisters whom I saw weeping. I asked them what happened? Both of them told me their hearts were pierced by the Holy Spirit and were convicted of their sins and inaction when they heard the word of God.

Indeed, the Spirit of Truth is working even today! May glory and honour be to the Triune God!