| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, some details, photos and videos have been removed from the below update that was sent to our prayer partners. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! Rebekah Update: Worship Video: “God Is Good All the Time!” => https://youtu.be/unXOXdtupHE After recording the above video (note the final clip) and before finishing this ministry update, I ran into my wife today for the first time in a while. As you know, we have been separated since July of 2021. Please pray that she repents and comes home. “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God. They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.” Psalm 20:7-8 Matt in Pennsylvania after Christmas: All of January, I plan to be back in Pennsylvania and would be blessed to share at your church. Please reply if interested. Cambodia – Neighborhood Youth Ministry: We have been studying Job. The kids are learning to lead in steps. For example, “J” and “P” shared the gospel with the group and received feedback. “P” closed the service, incorporating take-aways from the lesson into his prayer, like an adult. Praise the Lord! We went to a local church, and the kids worshipped in song. Praise the Lord! “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” Psalm 24:1 Indonesia – Ex-Gay Testimony, Youth Group: The Lord provided opportunity to share with a church youth group. Praise the Lord! “And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.” Revelation 21:11 Indonesia – Worship Leader “J”: It is very difficult to be openly gay in predominantly Muslim Indonesia. Most keep their lifestyles private. One day, I got lost trying to find the jungle to take a hike. Stopping to ask directions from two young Muslim men covered from head to toe in black, I caught a glimpse of mascara on one’s eyes. Unplanned as usual, the Lord had led me right into the LGBTQ! I connected with the apparent leader (who could speak some English) online. Through another turn of events on a rainy day, I ended up at a KFC in his town. The Lord led to reach out and share the gospel with him. Getting out of there after our impending meeting required GPS. The electrical outlets at KFC did not work on my rain-soaked phone. In a next door coffee shop, I tried to charge. Both of the two customers in the coffee shop were openly gay. At first, I made small talk and spoke of my phone issues. When the conversation went to testimony, “J” shed a tear. He turned over his arm to reveal cut marks dating back to a week prior, he said. THAT was about the time the Lord had led me to plan the trip. This series of mishaps were not coincidence! We read Scripture for encouragement, prayed together and connected online. “J” reached out and asked to discuss God’s Word more. He, the same friend and I met for dinner. Beginning with Creation and The Fall of Man, I walked him through the biblical worldview around homosexuality (e.g. Gen 1-3; Jer 17:9; Ps 51:5; Rom 1:20-32, 3:10, 23; 1 Cor 6:9-11). Though raised in a Christian home and having led worship in church, homosexuality had not been directly addressed with applicable Scripture. He seemed to have concluded there was no way out and that he could not be forgiven. I can relate. “J” re-committed his life to Christ right there at the dinner table. Praise the Lord!! After walking through Scripture proving that Jesus can forgive the repentant homosexual, “J” said, ‘Thank you. I learned so much today about the love of God.’ Praise the Lord! Walking away from a gay identity and lifestyle is not easy. But in the power of Christ, all things are possible (Matt 19:26)! Please pray for “J.” “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” Psalm 51:17 “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,” Ephesians 3:20 Indonesia – Pastor on the “Down Low”: Those who have lived gay lifestyles are well aware that there is much “undercover” homosexuality around the world. On a flight from one part of Indonesia to another, I met a pastor who showed me photos of his beautiful wife and kids at home. We discussed my testimony and the ministry. Pastor invited me back some day to share testimony at his church. Off the plane, he followed me to the airport-adjoined hotel where I was going to stay for the overnight layover. I assumed that he either followed me there to help with translation or because he was considering getting a room for himself. I was wrong. Pastor asked if it was ok for him to stay overnight in my room with me. Standing there in disbelief, I confirmed with the concierge in front of this pastor that there was only one bed in my room. Confirmed. One bed was not a deal-breaker for the pastor. Through our extensive conversations, it was apparent that this was not some sort of rural custom or cost saving effort. Nothing, I mean NOTHING surprises me these days. “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.” 2 Timothy 3:13 “Keep It Real” Podcast (2-part): Baltimore Baptist church leader Mark and I discuss: (1) the biblical worldview on homosexuality, (2) ex-gay new life realities and (3) handling rejection from the church. Praise the Lord. Part 1 of 2 (59 mins) => https://youtu.be/ZAztL7B29LI Part 2 of 2 (1 hr, 7 mins) => https://youtu.be/KJy8IqwcZso “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 Any of us could die at any moment. Click Here to find out how you can know enduring peace, God’s purpose for your life and be sure you will go to heaven when your brief time on earth is up. PRAISE THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBTQ. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! |
Tag Archives: Jesus
ព្រះអង្គល្អរាល់វេលា God Is Good All the Time!
សរសើរតម្កើងព្រះអម្ចាស់យេស៊ូ (Praise the Lord Jesus!) #ព្រះយេស៊ូវ #ខ្មែរ
“… ព្រះយេហូវ៉ាទ្រង់បានប្រទានមក ហើយទ្រង់ក៏បានដកយកទៅវិញ សូមឲ្យព្រះនាមព្រះយេហូវ៉ាបានព្រះពរចុះ”
យ៉ូប 1:21
“… The LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.”
Job 1:21
September Ministry Highlights
| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, some details, photos and videos have been removed from the below update that was sent to our prayer partners. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! Youth Ministry Fruit – “Day of the Dead”: For many Cambodian believers, like the Israelites (Ex 32), the greatest challenge is the pressure from family to return to (deeply ingrained and fear-driven) idol worship. “Pchum Ben,” which just finished, is another Buddhist holiday (like April) wherein family pressures new Christians to return to the pagoda and offer sacrifices to demons. One time per year, people believe the gates of hell are opened for the spirits of the dead to roam the earth. In keeping with teaching around karma (do good, get good), the living “transfer merit” to deceased ancestors by giving rice (a food offering / sacrifice) to monks who see to it that it is transferred. As believers, we know that this life is a brief “waiting room” opportunity to accept or reject the only way to heaven – repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Matt 3:2; John 3:3, 16, 14:6; Rom 6:23). Everlasting judgment awaits all who have rejected Him (John 12:48). And there is no coming back (Jam 4:14; Heb 9:27; Rev 21:8). This reality fuels evangelism: “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” Mark 16:15-16 For the repentant born-again believer who walks according to the Spirit of God, there will be no condemnation (Rom 8:1; Rev 21:4). Moreover, Pchum Ben is yet another lie Satan uses to steal worship from the Lord. Charging the youth to stand for Christ against the establishment, the Lord led to address Pchum Ben using Daniel’s bold stand in Daniel Chapter 1. “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28 Youth Ministry Fruit – “P” & family: Mindful of the aforementioned, the Lord leads to engage families. Recently P’s sister came back home to give birth. I was invited inside the house for the first time. Her husband is Catholic Indonesian, open to talk. Praise the Lord. When asked “spur of the moment” at the end of last Sunday’s service to share the gospel, “P” stepped up. The other kids applauded, which seemed to encourage him. Praise the Lord! “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth…” Romans 1:16 Youth Ministry Fruit – “H”: Many youth pray to give their lives to Christ. Not all demonstrate a hunger for the Word or love for the Lord (Matt 7:16-24). But “H” went out of his way to ask for a Bible. He wanted to understand it. He began reading right then and there at Genesis 1 (video below). Then he came to worship despite being very sick (later went to the hospital). I said, ‘Wow, you must really love Jesus?’ With resolve, he replied, ‘Yes, Teacher.’ PRAISE THE LORD! Please pray that “H” continues in the fight! “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 Door-to-Door Ministry Fruit – Man Asks for a Bible & Commits to Read: A neighborhood man with whom our youth shared door-to-door several weeks ago recently asked for a Bible. I took him one, gave him an overview and prayed with him. He vowed to read the whole Bible, jotting down his questions along the way. Please pray that the Lord gives “Bong” faith. “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17 LGBTQ Evangelism – Pastor’s Son “K”: Compared to usual LGBTQ outreach, periodic meetings with “K” (last ref. June) are refreshing. The Lord has established trust and pushes me to be bold. At the end of a previous conversation, he said he feels soft / girly and that people label him “gay.” I told him it doesn’t matter how girly he feels or people think he is. Then I asked him if he has a penis. He replied, Yes. ‘Then you’re a man!’ I confirmed. He smiled. Our most recent spirited debate was mostly about the credibility of God’s Word. He said there is no God, that it’s just people’s belief in “something” that drives them. After much apologetical and testimonial discussion, referencing Scripture (2 Tim 3:16; 2 Pet 1:20-21), I asked if the Lord had ever spoken to him in any way (e.g. impression). He said, “No.” I asked if I could pray with him that the Lord will reveal Himself to him. “K” agreed. Please pray that the Lord makes Himself known to this man and makes him a warrior for Christ! “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20 Any of us could die at any moment. Click Here to find out how you can know enduring peace, God’s purpose for your life and be sure you will go to heaven when your brief time on earth is up. PRAISE THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBTQ. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! |
August Ministry Highlights
| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, some details, photos and videos have been removed from the below update that was sent to our prayer partners. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! LGBTQ Evangelism, Bangkok: In 2016, Castaway Ministries was born with outreach to the LGBTQ in global sex tourism & gender re-assignment hub, sin city Bangkok. Recently I returned to Bangkok and hit the old stomping grounds (red light districts) to witness. It is relatively common for Cambodians to relocate to Bangkok for work, including sex work. The Lord led to some transgender prostitutes from Cambodia (“ladyboys”, as they call themselves and are commonly known in Thai/Cambodian culture). If Christ can forgive me, He can forgive them. Praise the Lord. “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.” 1 Timothy 1:15 Over the years, the Lord has also provided opportunity to speak biblical truth into life-changing decisions, if you get what I’m saying. Having made just about every poor life choice in the book myself, the Lord leads to use those “lessons learned the hard way” to urge others to avoid making choices that derail God’s plans for them. But even if the decision not to move forward with a procedure is made, the soul is not saved through behavior modification. Beyond avoiding a particular sin and subsequent guilt, the urge and hope is for repentance and salvation by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Matt 3:2; John 3:3, 16, 36). Happy lies put a smile on one’s face for today and send him to hell for eternity. If we truly love people, we must tell them the truth. Only the truth can set them/us free (John 8:32; 17:17). “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10 Muslim LGBTQ Evangelism, Bangkok: First morning after arriving in Bangkok, I went downstairs in the hotel for breakfast. A man who said he was in town for work-related training asked me to sit with him. Conversation went from, ‘Why are you here?’ to testimony and the gospel. He demonstrated knowledge of the Bible’s Old Testament, which would be highly unusual for the Thai Buddhist majority to know. Then he revealed he is from the predominantly Muslim southern portion of Thailand that borders Malaysia. The Quran, a satanic counterfeit of the Bible, includes some of the Bible’s Old Testament. Additionally, a man named Jesus is revealed as a prophet who performed miracles but never died for our sins. In other words, all of the attributes essential to salvation (e.g. His deity, substitutionary atonement) are removed. This man is a counterfeit Jesus. I corrected him on the deity of Christ (most notably using John 10:30, 14:6), contended that no one can know God apart from the Lord Jesus Christ and told him if the Quranic Jesus is true, we are all bound for hell because God provided only one door to heaven – by repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (John 10:9; John 3:16-18). Most Muslim men would rebuttal that, but he did not. Hmm… I wondered why. Toward the end, we took a photo and connected through social media. When I saw his profile, I got the feeling that maybe he struggled with same-sex attraction (had not picked up on any cues previously). After breakfast, he asked, ‘Which room are you staying in?’ I told him the floor (many rooms) but did not divulge my room number. He said, ‘I’m on the 6th floor. Room 666.’ I reacted, ‘Wow!’ He looked blankly, unaware of its biblical significance. The Lord was saying, ‘In case you didn’t realize, this is of the enemy… a test.’ This is standard operating procedure for many who live closeted gay lives. Though typically much more overt in my approach, I once was that man. This is my life and ministry. It’s laden with risk. Separated from my wife, I am tested at my weakest moments. Satan whispers, ‘No one has to know!’ It requires in depth knowledge from my past life (“the depths of Satan,” Rev 2:24) plus biblical wisdom and power from the indwelling Holy Spirit to fight. If I were back in Pittsburgh working for the bank, similar testing would come. This is the norm for the ex-gay. The Lord has prepared me… for such a time as this. Praise the Lord! Please pray that M comes to know the Lord Jesus Christ of the Bible, is transferred from the kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light and fights on the right side of this war over the souls of men (Eph 2:13; Col 1:13). “For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:8-10 Neighborhood Youth Ministry – Door-to-Door Evangelism, Cambodia: Back across the border in Cambodia… Remember from July’s update that an envious mother pulled her three faithful kids out of our youth ministry over a dental emergency. I had been praying and trusting the Lord to resolve. Not long afterwards, apparently the Lord provided through someone else to get her teeth fixed. It seemed to solve the problem, no more need to envy. She really does look good, and I told her so. The kids returned on the last day of the Joseph story where Joseph forgave his brothers. Praise the Lord! It was an opportunity to clarify, contrary to Buddhist belief in karma where people who “do bad receive bad,” that Jesus forgives the repentant! This past Sunday, we door-to-door witnessed in the neighborhood and ended up at their home (unplanned). We shared the gospel with their mom. Her son (oldest) has been stepping up to serve, to share the gospel and pray with/for unbelievers. He walked away from praying for someone with the joy of the Lord, ‘I am so happy in my heart. Before I was scared to share the gospel. Now I’m not scared because I have Jesus in my heart.’ Praise the Lord! True joy is found only in serving the Lord (Matt 16:25-26; Neh 8:10)! A few minutes later, he told me his friend asked him to go to a coffee shop and hang out but that he didn’t have the money (nudge, nudge). Gotta love these kids! “Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.” Hebrews 10:38 Saved and Loved Podcast (Duration: 33 mins): Seema and I discuss content of all three books in the Straight series, including The Church: We Shoot Our Wounded. This interview includes (1) discussion about root causes of the normalization of homosexuality in today’s culture, (2) common gender role reversals, (3) biblical role of women in home and church, women pastors and Male Headship, (4) how to battle LGBTQ indoctrination of our kids and (5) encouragement for ex-gay men to fight forward, standing alone on the Word of God in these last days of rampant heresy and apostasy. Any of us could die at any moment. Click Here to find out how you can know enduring peace, God’s purpose for your life and be sure you will go to heaven when your brief time on earth is up. PRAISE THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBT. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! |
July Ministry Highlights
| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, some details, photos and videos have been removed from the below update that was sent to our prayer partners. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! Witnessing to the LGBTQ: Motorbiking home from the grocery store, the Lord led to a street corner where transgender prostitutes solicit. A group gathered around. Many scoffed as I witnessed, which is the norm. But two seemed captivated by the story of a God who could so dramatically change a life. A few days ago, the Lord led back. I idled up to the curb alongside “R”. Typical Cambodian small talk (e.g. ‘Are you happy and healthy?’) segued to, ‘Why are you in Cambodia?’ In response to my testimony, he said he used to live in a Christian ministry facility that provided work for the poor, that residents worshipped Jesus together. I asked him if he believed in Jesus. He replied, ‘A little bit.’ I shared the simple gospel – ‘God created everything. The first man and first woman sinned. Jesus is Lord, without sin, Holy. He came from heaven to earth to die for our sins (paid for our sins 100% in full), rose again and returned to heaven. Today everyone has sin in their hearts, even if they do a lot of good. We must repent and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. He will return to judge. We must be ready.’ He read John 3:16-18 and said he was familiar with the passage. With a smile, “R” received the gospel much better than most prostitutes with whom I have shared. Note: LGBTQ who have some positive experience / memory associated with Christ and his church tend to be much more open. Every little bit counts. About the time I asked if he was hungry, his friend “S” (also a transgender prostitute) came by. The three of us walked down the street to a food stall and ate together. “S” also read John 3:16-18. I explained the gospel similarly to him, being clear that everyone has temptation but that we must repent and follow God’s Word instead. “S” was friendly but not open to the gospel. Before eating, I asked if I could pray with them. I asked the Lord to give them faith. Before parting ways, we connected on Facebook where they can see Scripture posts. Having added them to the prayer list, I hugged them both. Lord willing, we will meet again. Praise the Lord for each step! “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23 LGBTQ Evangelism – “R”: “R” joined for two church services this month. Praise the Lord! Remember my original agreement with him (Apr 2022, May 2022). A “pilot” in many ways, I have learned a lot from this experience. Every day, I opened and closed in prayer, asking the Lord to give him faith, to save my friend. Some days, I teared up with passion, giving all I had to break through with the gospel. We read the Word together. Then I taught him some English, per our agreement. He made much progress toward English competency (helpful for this short life but no eternal value) but is not ready to give his life to Christ. I did my part (Acts 20:26-27), and I am thankful for his honesty. “R” began periodically cancelling our meetings and recently chose to take a study break. Only the Lord can save, and the decision is in the hands of each individual. Confident that my work has not been in vain, please pray for “R”. “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 Neighborhood Youth Ministry – “P”: Recap: “P” (Apr 2022) is the poorest of our students. Dad left years ago. He lives alone with his ailing mother, who is convinced she will not live much longer. She insisted he turn away from Christ to study at a Chinese language school (requires students be Buddhist) for upward mobility. Soon he came back. Praise the Lord! Since these kids began worshipping Christ several years ago, a spiritual war has been underway in their homes. We pray for their / our unsaved loved ones. The Lord is sovereign. In this next chapter of P’s story, his mom finds herself in a predicament where only the Lord can help… We have been studying the story of Joseph (Gen 37-50; Prov 27:4). Natural “leader of the pack,” “P” is the brightest and most proficient in English of our kids. Like Joseph, perhaps the Lord specially gifted him above his peers to help lift him out of challenging circumstances. The kids are trained to cry out to Jesus in times of need. A few weeks ago, the Lord led to P’s house. His mother’s teeth mostly rotted out (on top of her other ailments), she was in such debilitating pain that she had not been able to eat or sleep much for weeks. Life-threatening. “P” had not said a word to me but apparently had been praying. The Lord’s leading was clear, ‘The dentist will make a recommendation, and you will do it.’ Five teeth were extracted in one visit alone (photo below). After a few more visits, Lord willing, she will have a partial denture. Despite the fact that it was an emergency, helping his mom provoked envy in the neighborhood (curiously timed as we are studying Joseph). Parents of three of our long-time kids felt it wasn’t fair to help one family and not all equally, pulled them out of the ministry. Realizing Satan is behind these uproars, I trust it will be temporary and that “P” will ultimately be able to say… “But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.” Genesis 50:20 “P” had shared the gospel with his mom previously, and she had heard it from me. But I prayed for another opportunity. Twice when he had to be at school, it was just she and I. One morning on the way to the dentist, she marveled that through all of the neighborhood gossip, envy and strife, her son had been a kind peacemaker (Gal 5:22-23). Launching off her son’s testimony, I pulled the car over and shared the gospel message. The Cambodian Buddhist mantra is “Do good; get good” (karma). I clarified that Jesus is the only door to heaven, that “Do good; get good” leads to hell. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” John 14:6 While many pretend to believe in hopes of further benefit, she is grateful and listens but does not claim to believe. I greatly appreciate her honesty. “P” and I take turns praying before and after dental visits. She bows her head. For the bulk of the past several weeks, P’s mom has either been in severe pain or asleep, only able to eat yogurt, unable to cook or care for him. Like many Cambodians, for several reasons, they do not have or want a refrigerator. And apart from frying an egg, he cannot cook. Moreover, the Lord led to “Take care of the boy.” It was a rare meal if he did not want fried chicken, Coke and/or chocolate cake. All good works must be done in Christ for God’s glory to advance the gospel (Matt 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; Rom 10:14-17; Eph 2:8-10; John 6:28-29). So as to distance myself from Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11), know that funds for the dental work come from the bucket in the budget used for ministry expenses, roughly mirroring a believer’s tithe. The cost will be prorated over the coming months to reduce impact on planned ministry. As for the fried chicken, chocolate cake, yogurt, etc… My Aunt Bobbie gives specially designated, “Food for the kids,” which also covers: Roughly once a month, I take a sack of rice and sometimes other essential food items to the faithful poor. They say, ‘Thank you!’ I reply, ‘Thank Jesus!’ Trusting for a future harvest of parents… THANK YOU for your sacrificial giving toward earning the right to be heard, toward advancing the gospel! “And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Matthew 25:40 The Lord Provides for His people (Jam 1:16-17). “I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.” Psalm 37:25 Near-Future Plan: Praise the Lord! I am on track to finish seminary in December. For years, I have gone to the marketplace, “evangelee” or disciple to minister. For youth ministry, my apartment building manager has allowed use of space on the first floor. But that is not a long term solution. For years, we have been prayerful toward opening a “starter” ministry center. However, I had been reluctant to announce anything to you folks until certain it is time to move. Although there would be setup cost, month-to-month rent is inexpensive for a small space. Please pray toward this, and feel free to ask questions. “There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.” Proverbs 19:21 Podcast – Cool Explorations (Canada-based, 1hr, 17min) – Topics Addressed: 1) My Recent blog post about the forthcoming book, The Church: We Shoot Our Wounded 2) What the Lord is teaching through trials (e.g. marriage, church rejection). 3) Tips for those with LGBTQ loved ones 4) How to fight LGBTQ indoctrination of kids 5) Encouragement to “stand alone on the Word of God” (as the old hymn goes) in these last days of rampant heresy. Praise the Lord! “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Acts 17:11 Any of us could die at any moment. Click Here to find out how you can know enduring peace, God’s purpose for your life and be sure you will go to heaven when your brief time on earth is up. PRAISE THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBT. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! |
June Ministry Highlights
| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, some details, photos and videos have been removed from the below update that was sent to our prayer partners. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! Ex-LGBTQ Discipleship: A 2012 short-term mission to a church in Siem Reap was my first time in the town where I now serve. Down a muddy road in the rainy season, we walked back and forth between the church and our guesthouse. Rejection from the church (not necessarily that specific church) had driven me closer to Christ. Solidifying my calling, the Lord made clear He had given me grace in the eyes of Cambodians to get a job done – win souls. At the end of an eventful day of ministry, rain was pouring. I was on Cloud 9 with the Lord (Ps 118:14). Tears flowing, I moseyed back in the rain, looking up, singing, “I stand, I stand in awe of You! I stand, I stand in awe of You! Holy God, to whom all praise is due, I stand in awe of You!…” It was one of my most memorable, beautiful moments with Christ. When I moved to Siem Reap in 2018, I began attending another church but kept a good relationship with that pastor. Rebekah and I visited a while back. “K“, who came to Christ a few months ago, is showing promise. He has been faithful to church, and we have been going deeper during the week. He seems to be interested in learning to share the gospel. A month ago, I ran into the pastor. He said our neighborhood youth were welcome to sing at his church. To refresh my memory, I GPS’ed the church and rode to it. There was “K”‘s house on the road leading to the church! The day in 2012 that I was praising the Lord in the rain, I was literally standing in front of the house of our ministry’s first faithful ex-LGBT convert! “K” said he attended that church a couple of times when they had outreaches prior to 2012. Praise the Lord, who knows all things!! “R” continues to attend church when he has time away from work. We also have been meeting during the week. We read Scripture, discuss and pray together. Please pray for these fellas. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Matthew 28:19-20 Evangelism – local prostitutes: “Lady of the night” massage parlors line a nearby street. They tend to be actual women, not transgender. Sometimes under the influence, many sit outside during the day playing cards and waiting for clients. About two years ago, the Lord led to a specific parlor. A lady stepped out front and said, ‘I believe in Jesus.’ With previous exposure to the gospel, perhaps the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak (Matt 26:38-41). Ever since, the Lord has led to periodically drop by (daylight) to see “S”. I started witnessing to prostitutes in the park on Pittsburgh’s North Side in 2010. Some of my most enjoyable ministry moments have been with ladies who have nothing to prove. Inappropriate words and actions are par for the course for this type of outreach and a reason people are reluctant to do it. 12 years in, I have learned to roll with the punches. Sometimes the Lord leads to pray with her. A number of times, I have shared the gospel, warned them of coming judgment and called them to repentance. Most usually scoff. “S” and her friend have kids. A boy and girl around ten years old hang out as men come in and out. They have attended our youth ministry a couple of times. This past Saturday, the boy’s mom said he had surgery to remove a growth. I prayed for him. Then it was the right time to share. Using my testimony as example, I assured them that Jesus can forgive, that they have not gone too far, that He can give new life. All were scoffing, except the boy’s mom. Her countenance had changed. She was willing to listen. The Lord uses trials. I dream of a future church – redeemed LGBTQ, prostitutes and youth-now-adults who have been trained up to be anchors. Authentic, genuine. The Lord is doing His part – convicting. Praise God. Now the decision is theirs. Please pray for “S” & friends. “And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?” Luke 15:2-4 LGBTQ Evangelism – local: Photo #1 (below): Restaurant server. The Lord leads to folks! Shared the gospel and testimony with him, added him to our Khmer Bible online group and prayed with him. Photo #2: Fruit seller “R” and I are making steady progress through the Word. The Lord continues to work through life circumstances to yield opportunities to clarify Scripture. Praise the Lord for each step! Evangelism – regional: Balancing seminary and the two ministries, I haven’t been getting out as much as before. This month, I made a strategic circle. Photo #1 (below): Map of trip route. Photo #2: Man near the Thai border at a pagoda who appeared to be asking spiritual counsel from a monk when I came down the hill. I told them about the One True God who created the heavens and the earth and loves us so much that He died for us (Acts 17:16-34); prayed with him and the monk. Photo #3: Follow-up with a young man to whom I witnessed to about a year ago, also on the Thai border. Photo #4: Check-in with “KR”, the pastor’s son. He brought his friends. I witnessed to and prayed with them. As he encounters disappointing realities in gay life, I speak difficult biblical truth. The Lord has prompted me to be patient with “KR”. This ministry is not a sprint but a marathon. Praise the Lord for each step! “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” Romans 1:16 Neighborhood Youth Ministry: 1) Attended & glorified the Lord in song twice at a local church (mentioned above). 2) Learned how to stand and suffer for Jesus like Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. 3) Shared the gospel door-to-door in the neighborhood. Praise the Lord! “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12 Blessed Fellowship – “B” & “C”: Recently there was a going-away party for worship leader “B” and his wife “C”, as they are returning to Austria. For those who may not recall, “B” invited me to share ex-gay testimony with his worship team. What a blessing! His wife “C” invited me to minister at the drug rehab center (March 2022). Faithful in that ministry, her absence creates a vacuum. As time permits, I hope to return. Both have been blessings and will be missed! “Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Podcast: Two interviews were featured this month: 1) “The Author’s Spot” (39 mins, pictured below) details two example church rejection stories, clarifying content of my next book. 2) “Unadulterated Heart” (1 hr, 3 mins) discusses testimony, including my marriage, with a believer from Pittsburgh. Praise the Lord! “Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.” 1 Corinthians 14:12 “Because He Lives” in Khmer: Per the Lord’s leading, I removed myself from this video. Praise the Lord (not me)! https://youtu.be/zvBh9YBmchI “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first…” 1 Thessalonians 4:16 PRAISE THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBT. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! |
ដោយព្រោះទ្រង់រស់ (ដោយព្រោះព្រះយេស៊ូវមានព្រះជន្មរស់) Because He Lives
“មើល ទ្រង់យាងមកតាមពពក នោះគ្រប់ទាំងភ្នែកនឹងឃើញទ្រង់ ព្រមទាំងពួកអ្នកដែលចាក់ទ្រង់ផង រួចគ្រប់ទាំងពូជមនុស្សនៅផែនដីនឹងយំសោក ដោយព្រោះទ្រង់ អើ មែនហើយ អាម៉ែន។ ព្រះអម្ចាស់ដ៏ជាព្រះ ដែលទ្រង់គង់នៅ ក៏គង់នៅតាំងតែពីដើម ហើយត្រូវយាងមកទៀត គឺជាព្រះដ៏មានព្រះចេស្តាបំផុត ទ្រង់មានបន្ទូលថា អញជាអាលផា នឹងជាអូមេកា គឺជាដើម ហើយជាចុង។”
វិវរណៈ ១:៧-៨
“ព្រោះព្រះអម្ចាស់ទ្រង់នឹងយាងចុះពីស្ថានសួគ៌មក ដោយស្រែកបង្គាប់១ព្រះឱស្ឋ ទាំងមានឮសំឡេងមហាទេវតា និងត្រែរបស់ព្រះផង នោះពួកស្លាប់ក្នុងព្រះគ្រីស្ទនឹងរស់ឡើងវិញជាមុនបង្អស់”
ថែស្សាឡូនីចទី១ ៤:១៦
សូមសរសើរព្រះអម្ចាស់យេស៊ូវគ្រីស្ទ!
May Ministry Highlights
| Due to the sensitive nature of this ministry, some details, photos and videos have been removed from the below update that was sent to our prayer partners. Prayer Partners: Thank you for your support! The Lord delivered me from a gay identity, lifestyle and related “addictions” (slavery to sin) 12 years ago. Praise the Lord!! Continuing in seminary toward a Masters of Divinity, below is a recent video testimony assignment. Click to watch Video Testimony Assignment for Seminary. “But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.” Ephesians 2:13 LGBTQ Outreach – “O” (2+ hours away, last referenced March 2022): According to Cambodian and Thai Buddhist teaching, there is a third sex into which some are reincarnated as karmic penalty for previous-life sins. Considered to be a pitiful state, it is similar to an earthly purgatory. Also reminiscent of the “Born this way” lie preached in U.S. culture, it’s a reminder that Satan has limited material and recycles to suit a variety of audiences. “O” and his friend, men who live as women, are considered to be “the third sex” or “kathoey”. “O” was excited to read the Word and pray together. He read that God created only male and female (Gen 1:27). The Lord convicted to make 100% clear that homosexuality is sin. First, I stated that God did not create a third sex (very uncomfortable). Then, the first man and woman sinned. Today all people are fallen creations (read Ps 51:5; Rom 3:10). Everyone has temptation, maybe very strong temptation, but Jesus calls us to repent and follow the Bible. Although my previous identification with women was not nearly as strong as theirs, it is enough to show genuine compassion. I shared that the peace of knowing if I die tomorrow, I will go to heaven is better than sin. They both nodded. When we face the Lord on that day, we will be thankful that we obeyed when He pushed us to share the full counsel. Praise the Lord! “Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.” Acts 20:26-27 LGBTQ Discipleship: It can be a long way out of a gay identity. While love and compassion are key, it is absolutely essential that we speak difficult truth (painful as it can be) when the Lord provides opportunity. One who recently accepted Christ came to church wearing eye shadow. After noticing, I tried to address it but was interrupted. I sought the Lord, and He led through a question that he asked me on the way home. I told him that God created man and woman, that it is sin for a man to act/look like a woman (1 Cor 6:9). He takes correction well. Praise the Lord. A few days ago, we read Eph 2:1-10 and Rom 6:1-4 together, discussed what the Lord expects of us who have been resurrected to new life in Christ and prayed together. Another has been struggling with drinking and cancelled our meetings several times. I went to his work. The Lord led to walk him through John 15:5, to assure him the power to fight temptation comes from Christ, that we must be plugged into the Power Source (Word of God) daily and worship regularly. Then he cancelled again. I waited a while and sought the Lord again about how to handle it. Yesterday we read about the second coming and discussed that we must be ready. Recalling my own negative experiences with “forced mentorship”, I told him if he wants me to leave him alone, I won’t push any further. He assured me he is willing to fight to follow Jesus. Praise the Lord. We are in this together. Please pray for us. “To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” 1 Corinthians 9:22 “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ” Ephesians 4:15 LGBTQ Evangelism – “R” (last referenced April 2022): Recently we read of the power of homosexual lust on display in Sodom and the Lord’s subsequent judgment (Gen 19). Then we read 1 Cor 6:9-11 to confirm that homosexuality is sin, that it is as forgivable as any of the other listed sins and that repentance precludes judgment. “R” is a fighter. He could make quite an impact for the Lord. Please pray that he responds to the Lord’s prodding. “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17 Farming Community (LGBTQ) Outreach (2+ hours away, last referenced March 2022): In April, I went to this community. “T” was sick. “B” was not home. “B”s brother-in-law “C” has been the most open. He was sick. The Lord was moving. I prayed for them and shared the gospel again with Tailor’s mom. “C” has become a friend. In May, he came with his wife and youngest son to my town. We read Scripture and prayed together. Fascinated imagining what the Lord will do with all of these pieces, I feel like a spectator. “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised)” Hebrews 10:23 Neighborhood Youth Ministry: April ended with the Ascension and the Lord having given gifts to men (Eph 4:8). May was about discovering what unique abilities and passions the Lord has given each of the kids, how they can use them to serve and glorify the Lord. When we meet, they now have assigned roles. A fully functional church is slowly forming. Praise the Lord!! “Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” Colossians 1:28 Click to Watch – “Give Thanks”, Khmer & English “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” 2 Corinthians 9:15 PRAISE THE LORD JESUS CHRIST! Ways to Partner: 1. Pray for: – Conviction, eyes to see and ears to hear for the LGBT. – That seeds would bear fruit, that the Lord would raise up Cambodian evangelists. – Revival for the U.S. church – that we would stand for difficult truth in these days no matter what the cost. – Pray for our marriage and the promised son. – Financial support to keep me in the field doing what I am called to do. 2. Click to Donate via PayPal (tax deductible)! |
12 Years!
The Lord delivered me from a gay identity, lifestyle and related addictions (slavery to sin) 12 years ago.
Praise the Lord Jesus Christ, God of the impossible, God of the second chance!
“But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26
“It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, Because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: Great is thy faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23
អរព្រះគុណ Give Thanks
“ដ្បិតព្រះទ្រង់ស្រឡាញ់មនុស្សលោក ដល់ម៉្លេះបានជាទ្រង់ប្រទានព្រះរាជបុត្រាទ្រង់តែ១ ដើម្បីឲ្យអ្នកណាដែលជឿដល់ព្រះរាជបុត្រានោះ មិនត្រូវវិនាសឡើយ គឺឲ្យមានជីវិតអស់កល្បជានិច្ចវិញ”
យ៉ូហាន 3:16
“អរព្រះគុណដល់ព្រះអង្គ ដោយព្រោះអំណោយទានទ្រង់ដ៏រកថ្លែងពុំបាន។”
២ កូរិនថូស 9:15
សូមសរសើរព្រះអម្ចាស់យេស៊ូវគ្រីស្ទ!
ដ្បិតឈ្នួលរបស់អំពើបាប នោះជាសេចក្តីស្លាប់ តែអំណោយទាននៃព្រះវិញ គឺជាជីវិតដ៏នៅអស់កល្បជានិច្ច ដោយព្រះគ្រីស្ទយេស៊ូវ ជាព្រះអម្ចាស់នៃយើងរាល់គ្នា។ រ៉ូម ៦:២៣
Castaway Ministries 