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The Fight of Faith…fulness

“Fight the good fight of faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” — 1 Timothy 6:12 (LSB)

A new year begins with its set of joys, hopes, victories, successes, trials, failures, disappointments, betrayal, grief, and pain. For the Christian, it’s a continuity of life under the sun: it is a fight, but a good fight.

The apostle Paul’s exhortation to Timothy rings as true today as it did in the first century. We are called to fight, not with carnal weapons or human strength, but with faith that anchors us to Christ and sustains us through every season. This is not a fight we wage once and finish, but a daily, lifelong battle that requires perseverance in four essential areas.

A Fight for Discipline (The Mind)

The Christian life begins in the mind, where the war between truth and deception, godliness and compromise, is first waged. Paul commands us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2).

Our minds must be brought into captivity to Christ. Every thought, every imagination, every intellectual pursuit must bow before the lordship of Jesus. This requires intentional discipline: saturating ourselves in Scripture, rejecting the worldly philosophies that bombard us daily, and training our minds to think God’s thoughts after Him.

The Puritan Thomas Watson wrote, “The reason why Christians are no more spiritual is because they do not exercise themselves more in meditation.”

We cannot grow in godliness without disciplining our minds to dwell on what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable (Philippians 4:8).

Paul Washer recently shared about the reality of the fight for every believer, whether “famous” or unknown, and how discipline in the means of grace matters in that fight.
Mental discipline is not optional for the believer; it is the foundation upon which all other spiritual battles are fought.

A Fight for Holy Affections (The Heart)

While the mind must be renewed, the heart must be set aflame with love for God. Jesus declared the greatest commandment: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37). Our affections reveal what we truly worship, and the Christian must constantly war against misplaced loves.

The world, the flesh, and the devil conspire to turn our hearts toward temporal pleasures, earthly security, and self-centered ambitions. John reminds us, “Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15).

We must daily crucify our old desires and cultivate a burning passion for Christ that outshines every competing affection.

John Owen, the great Puritan theologian, understood this battle well: “Be killing sin or it will be killing you.” Our hearts are battlegrounds where holy affections must triumph over sinful desires. This requires constant vigilance, prayer, and a deepening intimacy with the One who is altogether lovely.

We must feed our souls on the beauty of Christ through His Word, worship, and communion with His people, so that our hearts increasingly find their satisfaction in Him alone.

A Fight for Fruitfulness (Good Works)

Faith without works is dead, James reminds us (James 2:26). The genuine believer is not merely called to mental assent or emotional experience, but to a life marked by the fruit of the Spirit and good works prepared beforehand by God (Ephesians 2:10). Paul exhorts, “Walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called” (Ephesians 4:1).

Fruitfulness requires effort. We must abide in Christ, the true vine, allowing His life to flow through us and produce lasting fruit (John 15:5). This means actively pursuing righteousness, serving others sacrificially, sharing the gospel boldly, and allowing God to shape our character into the image of His Son. It means fighting against spiritual barrenness, laziness, and the comfortable Christianity that produces nothing of eternal value.

“Use every talent God has given you, and God will give you more talents.” Richard Baxter

Every day is an opportunity to bear fruit for God’s kingdom. Whether in our families, workplaces, churches, or communities, we must fight against complacency and actively pursue lives that glorify God and bless others. The world is watching, and our fruitfulness either adorns the gospel or discredits it.

A Fight for Faithfulness

Above all else, God calls us to faithfulness. When all is said and done, when our earthly race is complete, the commendation we long to hear is not “Well done, successful servant,” but “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21).

Faithfulness is demonstrated not in spectacular achievements but in consistent obedience over time. It’s showing up day after day to pray, to read God’s Word, to resist temptation, to love difficult people, to steward our resources wisely, and to trust God when circumstances make no sense. Paul reminds us, “It is required of stewards that one be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2).

The fight for faithfulness is perhaps the most challenging because it demands perseverance without the promise of earthly reward. We may not see dramatic results. We may labor in obscurity. We may face setbacks, criticism, and seasons of apparent failure. But God is not looking for perfection or impressive résumés; He is looking for those who remain faithful to the end.

Thomas Brooks encouraged believers with these words:

“Faithfulness in little things will prepare you for faithfulness in great things.”

God tests our faithfulness in the small, hidden moments before entrusting us with greater responsibility. He looks for those who will remain true when no one is watching, who will obey when obedience is costly, and who will trust Him when understanding fails.

As we journey through 2026, let us embrace Paul’s charge to Timothy as our own. The good fight of faith is not fought once but daily, in our minds, hearts, and actions. It requires discipline, holy affections, fruitfulness, and above all, faithfulness to the One who has called us.

If the Lord tarries and doesn’t return in 2026, may He find us faithful throughout this year. May we fight well, not in our own strength but in the power of His grace. May our lives reflect the reality that we have taken hold of eternal life and that we are living in light of the good confession we have made before many witnesses.

The fight is good because our Commander is glorious, our cause is worthy, and our victory is certain. “Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57).

Press on, soldiers of the cross. Fight the good fight. Remain faithful.

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Grief, Grace & God’s Timing

by Joy Emmanuelle Ravoahangy

We’re blessed to have another post from Joy Emmanuelle as she reflects on her year 2025 and how God has helped her deal with grief and disappointment, helping her trust in God’s perfect sovereignty. We pray this will also bring comfort to you if you are dealing with sorrows currently. May the Lord bring you healing and hope for 2026.

There are moments in life when you don’t realize how heavy your heart has become until you take a small moment to stop and breathe. Moments when you keep moving, keep smiling, and keep going even though inside, something feels broken. This year was one of those seasons for me. It carried both deep disappointment and deep grief, a pain that revealed itself quietly in my heart.

There were moments that shook me, moments that felt deeply unfair, and moments that left me questioning why things had to happen the way they did. I learned very quickly that no matter how strong I try to be, no matter how much I convince myself that I can handle everything on my own, I am still human. I feel loss. I feel heartbreak. I feel disappointment, and sometimes all of it at once.

Yet through every tear, every unanswered question, and every attempt to mask my pain, I began to see something greater unfolding. I discovered that even when my heart felt too heavy to carry, God was already carrying it for me. His timing did not rush, His comfort did not fail, and His grace met me right where I was. And through it all, I learned that no matter how deep the pain runs, God’s timing, His comfort, and His grace are always greater.

In March, I received news that had felt like it would shape the whole year. I was accepted into an Oxford summer camp, and not only that, I was offered a scholarship. I couldn’t believe it. I thought all the hard work, late nights, expectations, and dreams had finally aligned. I was elated and excited.

But then reality hit. Even with the scholarship, the program was still too expensive. Between the visa, the plane ticket, and expenses once I got there, it just wasn’t possible. I had to make a choice, even though it gutted me, and I wrote a letter of refusal.

I remember sitting in my room with my computer on my lap, writing words I didn’t want to write. I felt hollow. I felt confused. I felt disappointment deeper than I had expected. I kept myself busy after that either by working, studying, or doing anything to distract myself from the hurt. It was easier than facing the emptiness the refusal left inside me.

I measured my worth by achievements. And suddenly I felt like I had failed. But God had something unexpected waiting for me.

  Not long ago, my mom walked into my room saying I received a letter. From the UK. From Oxford. It said they were offering me a spot in their program again, this time for 2026, and it came with options to choose a course.         

At first, I didn’t let myself hope. I had already prepared my heart for disappointment. But something in me still yearned for the answer I’ve wanted since the start of the year. So when I spoke to my dad, I was almost certain the answer would be no for the same reasons as before: the costs, the logistics, the reality of everything. So I hardened my heart in advance, convincing myself that it was safer not to expect anything at all. I told myself I had already made peace with letting it go.

But then we talked. And talked. And I silently prayed to myself through it all. We considered everything carefully, financially and spiritually. And when my dad finally said yes, it felt like something inside me cracked open. All the emotions I had been holding back rushed in at once. I cried. I cried not just because I was happy, but because I realized how much pain I had been carrying quietly. I cried because God had seen the disappointment I tried to ignore. I cried because after preparing myself for another “no,” God surprised me with a “yes.” And in that moment, I understood that this opportunity wasn’t coming because I had earned it, but it was coming because God had chosen the timing Himself.

I cried, not because I finally got what I wanted, but because I saw God’s goodness in a way I hadn’t before. I realized that He sees the pain we try to bury, the disappointments we silence, and the hopes we’re afraid to hold onto again. He hadn’t forgotten me, even in the moments when I thought I had to move on alone.

At that moment, a verse came to mind: “When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen” (Isaiah 60:22). And I understood that this wasn’t just about Oxford or an opportunity; it was about trusting in Him. It was about learning that God’s plans unfold in His timing, not ours, and that even the “no’s” we don’t understand are often preparing us for something greater.

But disappointment wasn’t the only thing that tested my faith this year. I also faced a pain I wasn’t prepared for. I experienced grief that was sudden and deeply personal.

I lost my dog without warning, and it hurt more deeply than I ever imagined it could. I still remember the emptiness that settled in my chest the moment I heard the news from my mom, right after I finished my violin exam. One moment, I was relieved and proud that the exam had gone well; the next, my world felt like it had collapsed. The shock of how suddenly it happened left me unable to breathe without pain, and I couldn’t stop crying. But even in the middle of that heartbreak, the day didn’t pause for my grief. I still had to sit down at the piano and continue my exam. My hands trembled, tears falling as I played, but somehow the music carried everything I couldn’t say. I played through the pain, through the loss, and through the love I still held for my dog, and in that moment, my grief became something everyone in the room could feel.

The drive home felt unbearably long. Sorrow filled the car, heavy and silent, and none of us spoke. When we finally arrived and I saw his body lying on the porch, something inside me completely broke. The reality of losing him was no longer distant, for it was right in front of me. I fell apart even more when I had to kneel down and remove his collar, my hands shaking as I touched his lifeless body for the last time. The collar that once hung around his neck now felt unbearably heavy in my hands. I couldn’t bring myself to look for long; I had to turn my head away from the brutality of how he died. In that moment, the grief became overwhelming, and all I could feel was the unbearable loss of someone who had been part of my life and my heart. 

After that day, every time I saw his bowl untouched and his favorite spots in the house empty, it made my heart feel heavy every time I saw them. And watching my other dogs carry the ache too made my heart just break all over again.

At first, I was angry. I was bitter, and I cried so much. Just staying in my room hurt because I knew I’d see the things that reminded me of him. His collar sits on my shelf beside my bed, and sometimes that’s a comfort, and sometimes it’s another reminder of how much I miss him.

For a while, I wasn’t okay. I became withdrawn. I questioned everything. I didn’t want to smile, and I couldn’t stop thinking about what happened.

But one day during my devotions, I read Psalm 86, and especially verses 5–8 shifted inside me. As I read the words slowly, they felt personal, as if they were written for that exact moment in my grief.

Each line struck my heart like a quiet whisper from God saying,

“I know. I see you, and I’m with you.”

After days of carrying pain that felt too heavy to explain, I finally felt understood. The tears came again, but this time they were different. They weren’t only tears of sorrow, but of release, and of knowing that even in my brokenness, I wasn’t alone, and that God was present with me in my grief.

That same evening, we read Romans 12, and the verse that hit me most was verse 19: “Vengeance is mine, says the Lord; I will repay.” I realized then that my anger didn’t have to stay inside me. God was bigger than my hurt. God was near me in my pain. God wasn’t distant; He was right there beside me.

Yes, we can grieve. We can be human. We can feel hurt. But those feelings don’t have to stay in control. Because even in grief, God is in control. Even in disappointment, He is shaping what comes next. Even when our hearts feel broken, He heals us with grace, in His timing.

Maybe whoever’s reading this has faced something similar, either if it’s a dream that felt just within reach, only to slip away. Maybe you lost something or someone you love. Maybe you wonder if God still sees you, if He still cares, if He still listens.

Here’s what I want you to know:

1. God sees your pain. He sees the tears you hide. He hears the prayers you whisper at night.  He understands what you’re carrying, even the feelings you don’t have words for.

2. Your worth is not measured by what you achieve or what you lose. God loves you because you are His, not because of what you accomplish.

3. His timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t make sense. Sometimes He says no, not out of absence or indifference, but because He has something better in store.

And one scripture that brings me peace and might help you too is: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” (Romans 8:28)

So even when it hurts, even when it feels unfair, God is working. Grief and disappointment are real, and they hurt. But they are not the end of your story. God is writing your story with grace and purpose. He sees your tears. He hears your heart. He walks with you through every painful moment, and He brings you into new joy again.

So if you’re hurting know this: God hasn’t forgotten you. He is with you. And His timing is always perfect.

Emmanuelle Ravoahangy is a 15-year old writer who loves music, writing, and reading. Here are her contacts if you care to ask her questions or discuss her perspective as a third-culture Christian teenager in Madagascar, in this day and age.

Email: eravoahangy@gmail.com / Instagram: @em.rav_

[Pictures generated with AI]

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Semper Reformanda in Brazil

By God’s amazing grace, I have visited my 65th country with a trip to San Jose Dos Campos to attend an intensive training on Publishing organized by Desiring God.

Rather than only sharing my impressions from my time in this beautiful nation, I would rather give you my main take-aways from the training, and from my time at Editoria Fiel with the other publishing ministries from around the world that were represented.  

2 missionaries, Jim and Aletha Denham, left California 60 years ago on a boat to go to China. After a few years there, with the advent of communist government in 1949, they had to leave and move to the jungles of Brazil. 

Then, health issues with malaria forced them to move to the city of Manaus where their son Richard and his wife Pearl joined them. In a divine encounter, they met Bill Barkley, “Banner of Truth Magazine” and started a Christian publishing ministry and a bookstore. 

The Denhams moved to the city of São José dos Campos in the 1980’s, where they founded Grace Baptist Church alongside two other families. Seeing the need for well-trained church leadership, Rich started the annual Fiel Conference for pastors and leaders which today attracts over 2,000 people each year.  In 2004, Rick and his wife Kimberlie moved to Brazil and took over the FIEL ministry.

Today, Thiago Santos heads a multi-branch ministry that thrives and serves the church in the Portuguese-speaking world. 

This abridged three-generation story provides us with a recipe for faithfulness and fruitfulness for a publishing ecosystem:

1-  Sovereign Bearing

The hand of God has been all over the Denham family. We can see God leading them, protecting them, directing them where He wanted them to be. The same hand directed the ministry as it developed and brought along all those who contributed to it.

The same sovereign God reigns over every minute and molecule today and forever.  The same sovereign God has decreed both the successes and failures of our ministry endeavors, all for His glory and our eternal good. 

2-  Small Beginnings

When Jim and Aletha arrived in Brazil, they didn’t receive the warmest of welcomes. They were not allowed to live in the Catholic houses available in the village. They had to ask military guards of 20 people to protect them as people tried to kill them. Joined by their children, Richard and Pearl, they moved to the city of Manaus as Pearl almost died several times of malaria.

Richard started a Christian Publisher with a bookstore called “The Bookstore of the Christian Home” where he sold booklets and paintings. He then acquired a print shop and a bus which he fitted with a glass window to project movies. The Denham family then moved to Sao Paulo, as it was the heart of the country. They wanted to be close to schools and universities where ideas spread. 

FIEL became a ministry of spreading ideas through conferences, media and books.  

The same sovereign God wants us to be faithful with little, trusting and depending on Him to take care of the breadth of our ministry to Him. 

3-  Sustained Blessing

The humble beginnings saw unremitting blessings and a strengthening presence of the hand of God in the ministry of Fiel. They were able to complete the building they are still using today in 2010. And the ministry is thriving through:

  • Excellence and dedication of the team, at every level 
  • Wise and tight financial stewardship, enabling them to be fully self-sustained
  • Reaching out to both churches and individuals in need of Christian resources
  • The prayers of many for God’s continued providence

That same sovereign God wants to bless those who are faithful. The fountains of God’s blessings will never run dry. His grace will always outgive us, if we stay faithful. 

4-  Steady Bereanism

The Scripture-centeredness of the ministry of FIEL is a rebuke and an encouragement to all believers. Despite the prevalence in Brazil of the Catholic Church and the prosperity movement, Editoria Fiel remains faithful to Sol Scriptura, uncompromising on truth, engaging theological differences with an irenic tone and respect, and thus being more known for what they are for rather than what they are against. 

The ministry also includes the Martin Buser Theological Seminary, where minds are renewed through the teaching of the Word, and hearts are bent towards affection for Christ through the applying of the Word to every circumstance of life. 

The same sovereign God commands us to be Ezras for our days, to set our hearts to study the law of Yahweh and to practice it, and then to teach His statutes and judgments (Ezra 7:10).

5-  Stewarded Broadcasting 

During our meeting this week, Pastor Yazan from Jordan gave the charge from 2 Tim 4:1-8 that publishing is not about producing written content but to proclaim divine truth. He called us to be faithful even if it costs us financially or causes some people to reject us and/or our ministry. Some titles may not sell as well as the others, but our target must be faithfulness to God and His Gospel. 

“People want what comforts them, not what changes them…they want comfort without cost!… Don’t be tempted to polish the books to please the crowds and boost the sales… The proclamation of truth is about Declaration not Decoration!”

Pastor Yazan Milkonian

The same sovereign God calls us today to proclaim divine truths, to spread as far and wide the name of Christ and His precepts, that He would be glorified unto the ends of the earth.

I am enthralled and grateful to see how God continues to advance His kingdom using the hutzpah and hardiness of those brothers and sisters involved in Publishing. 

At 3M Publishing, we pray to remain faithful to the charge and continue to spread biblical ideas to the glory of God. 

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A Cry For Truth and Dignity as A Nation in the Dark

By Joy Emmanuelle Ravoahangy

My name is Joy Emmanuelle Ravoahangy, and I am Malagasy. I am not poor, in fact I am far more privileged than many of my brothers and sisters in this country. But privilege does not blind me. On the contrary, it compels me to see and to speak. I speak up because I have the ability to, and because all my life I have witnessed the poverty and the struggles the average Malagasy person has had to endure.

On September 25, 2025, Madagascar cried out. What the world has called Le Jeudi Noir, Black Thursday, was not just another day of unrest. It was a moment when a nation, long silenced by resignation and weariness, chose to stand. Across cities and villages, from Antananarivo to the coasts, people poured into the streets. They were not only protesting water shortages or blackouts. They were declaring: we will no longer accept being stripped of our dignity.

What happened on that Thursday was not born out of destruction, it was born out of years of neglect. Out of lives lived in darkness, literally and figuratively. Out of promises made by those in power that were broken again and again.

As a Christian, I cannot separate what I witnessed from what Scripture teaches. Psalm 11 asks: “When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?” This is the question that echoes through Madagascar today. Our foundations, justice, honesty, the right to live with dignity, feel shattered. And yet, the psalm does not leave us in despair. It reminds us that the Lord is righteous, that He loves justice, and that the upright will see His face.

But as the protests grew, so did the chaos. In the clashes between police and protesters, innocent people were shot, some left unalive, and fear turned the streets into something unrecognizable. And in that chaos, desperation took its chance. Shops were raided, fires blazed through the night, windows were shattered, and goods were carried away in arms that have known only lack.

I do not write this to glorify destruction, nor to excuse it. But I also refuse to reduce my people to the image of violent men creeping through the dark. Those who broke into stores that night were not monsters. They were Malagasy, shaped by poverty so deep it corrodes the mind. When given an unexpected opportunity to grasp what they have been denied their whole lives, many took it, not out of greed, but out of hunger, out of exhaustion, out of hopelessness.

And there are whispers, rumors spreading like smoke, that some of these raids were not spontaneous at all. That people were paid to do it, paid as little as 15,000 ariary, which is barely more than three US dollars. If that is true, then what does it say about us as a nation? That the government, or those aligned with it, could turn the suffering of its own people into a weapon against them? That desperation itself could be bought and sold, and once again the poor were controlled, and not freed?

These were not dangerous criminals in the truest sense. They were a struggling group, pushed into the margins, manipulated in the shadows, and then paraded before the world as proof that Malagasy voices are violent and chaotic. But I know, and now you know, that this is not the truth.

It was not simply chaos, it was a call to remember who we are. A people created in the image of God. A people with the right to live, to hope, to flourish. A people who will not remain silent while our foundations crumble.

I write this not as a distant observer, but as a citizen of Madagascar. I feel the weight of frustration, the yearning for change, the cry for something better. And I believe my people are called, not to despair, but to courage. To stand firm in truth. To demand justice with boldness and to rebuild with faith. Black Thursday must not fade into history as just another protest. It must be remembered as the day when Malagasy voices joined together to say: enough. Not in hatred, but in hope. Not in bitterness, but in resolve. So I ask you to pray with us, and to call on God to bring justice, to heal our land, and to lift up the weary. For it is written, “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:14). Together, let us place our hope in Him, trusting that He will avenge and restore. Because our story is not finished, and our God has not abandoned us.

Emmanuelle Ravoahangy is a 15-year old writer who loves music, writing, and reading. Here are her contacts if you care to ask her questions or discuss her perspective as a third-culture Christian teenager in Madagascar, in this day and age.

Email: eravoahangy@gmail.com / Instagram: @em.rav_

[pictures borrowed from social media]

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The Aftermath of the Sept 25th, 2025 in Madagascar: A Revelation of Deep Poverty

The recent events in Madagascar have laid bare the grim realities of social, societal, systemic, and spiritual poverty within the nation. As communities grapple with the aftermath of violence and unrest, the events illuminate a troubling landscape that is both heartbreaking and revealing of deeper issues affecting the people. 

✔️ Social Poverty: Exploiting Desperation

The incidents of looting that followed the organized peaceful protests for lack of access to water and electricity serve as a stark indicator of social poverty. Many believe there were individuals—perhaps even orchestrated groups—prepared to exploit the chaos for their own gain. However, the desperate nature of many individuals cannot be ignored. People, seeking to survive in a system that has largely failed them, took advantage of the turmoil to seize what little they could. Early morning reports indicate that looting continue today, a testament to the pervasive desperation gripping many communities.

🖐🏽 This behavior, while condemnable, reveals a larger narrative: a population struggling under the weight of poverty. Desperation often breeds irrational actions that, in the short term, may seem to alleviate an immediate need but ultimately threaten long-term stability. Such actions do not occur in isolation; they are the byproduct of years of systemic neglect and poverty that have left many feeling hopeless and powerless.

✔️ Societal Poverty: Small Businesses at Risk

The societal implications of this turmoil are equally disturbing. Small business owners—those who labor day in and day out to build their enterprises—have found their hard work reduced to ashes or ruins. Stores that once served as community pillars now lie in tatters, victims of senseless vandalism. The immediate concern for these entrepreneurs extends beyond material loss; it includes the devastating realization that many of them may never recover.

The loss of these small businesses leads to a broader economic malaise for the community. With livelihoods vanishing and jobs dissipating, Madagascar risks losing its credibility (no investor nor tourist would want to set foot or spend a penny in Madagascar) on the international stage, which could further deepen the cycle of poverty. The actions taken by looters appear not only as acts of theft but as a profound reflection of a society failing to consider the consequences of such impulsiveness. 

🖐🏽 This lack of consideration for one’s fellow man underscores a troubling trend: individuals motivated only by self-interest overlook the collective harm inflicted on their community. In moments of crisis, solidarity can either build or break a society. The ongoing unrest points to a dire need for reconnection among community members—a return to values that prioritize communal well-being over personal gain.

✔️ Systemic Poverty: A Broken System

Perhaps the most disheartening aspect of these events is the glaring evidence of systemic poverty reflected in the response of law enforcement. Initial reports indicate that the police were quick to repress peaceful protests yet failed to contain the looting. This juxtaposition raises serious questions about priorities within the system itself.

The apparent inability—or unwillingness—of the police to protect law-abiding citizens while responding forcefully to protestors reveals shortcomings within Madagascar’s political and justice systems. These failures are symptomatic of a broken system, one that breeds a culture of impunity and neglect. When those responsible for maintaining order and justice seemingly abandon their duties, it signals a larger societal breakdown. 

🖐🏽 Such systemic failures perpetuate cycles of poverty, leaving marginalized populations without recourse or protection. In this clarity of dysfunction, a solution must be sought—not merely through superficial measures but through genuine systemic reform that addresses the root causes of poverty.

✔️ Spiritual Poverty: The Need for Wisdom

At the heart of these issues lies a deeper concern: spiritual poverty. The actions of looters, those instigating chaos, and the indifferent responses of authorities reflect a troubling absence of wisdom and compassion (Prov 9:10; Mat 22:37-39). When the fear of God and love for one’s neighbor are disregarded, society suffers. 

🖐🏽 In moments such as these, it becomes imperative for the Church and believers to manifest a different narrative. The call to be “salt and light” is essential, offering hope, resilience, and a blueprint for unity amid chaos. 

It is an opportunity for those who follow the teachings of Christ to lead by example, embodying the values of compassion and community that are desperately needed.🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

🚨 The aftermath of the recent events in Madagascar must serve as a clarion call for reflection and action. It exposes layers of social, societal, systemic, and spiritual poverty, urging proactive steps toward healing and restoration. As the nation grapples with these issues, it is crucial that all stakeholders—government, communities, and individuals—work collaboratively to address these underlying conditions, fostering a society where hope can thrive instead of despair. Christians in each of those spheres must step up and live out their difference. 

In doing so, Madagascar might yet rise from the ashes of its trials, rebuilding not just its economy but its very spirit as a nation.

And so we pray. And we would like to invite you to pray with us. 

🖐🏽In the face of the current situation, we Christians have a responsibility to pray for our country and for one another.

👉Let this Word of God guide us in this, Romans 12:12-17

” Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 

Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 

Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 

Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. 

Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.”

👉Here are the prayer requests we can share:

🙏🏽 For all political leaders and those in authority, may God give them wisdom (1 Tim 2:1-2)

🙏🏽 For the protests that the people are planning to do, may God give them wisdom on when to speak and when to keep be quiet (Eccl 3:7-8). May these protests continue to be peaceful. 

🙏🏽 For God’s protection for those who carry out peaceful protests (Ps 91:1)

🙏🏽 For the public demonstrations that the political opposition parties are planning, that God would prevent further unrest (Rom 13:1-2)

🙏🏽 For businesses and individuals who have lost their assets (Rom 12:13-15)

🙏🏽 For those who lost family members or friends (Rom 12:15)

🙏🏽 For those who have lost their livelihoods or their jobs (Rom 12:13-15)

🙏🏽 For the ability to return to school for children and students (Rom 12:12)

🙏🏽 For the police, military forces, firefighters and health workers (1 Tim 2:2)

🙏🏽 For Peace in all the major cities of Madagascar

🙏🏽 For the witness of Christians (Matt 5:13-16)

🙏🏽 For the spread of the Gospel and the salvation of the souls of those who do not yet have Christ (Col 3:2-4)

🙏🏽 For the application of 1 John 3:18 by all Christians:

❌ Do not buy any stolen goods from looters

❌ Do not incite violence with your words online or your actions

✅ Encourage those around you who you know have stolen to return the goods they took

✅ Help clean up and repair damaged buildings

✅ Buy from the most affected businesses if they still have anything for sale

✅ Pray for the owners or businesses and employees who have lost their jobs due to the unrest 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

🖐🏽How can we pray for these things:

👉Share these prayer requests among our churches, associations, and each of our families, share it in all WhatsApp or Messenger groups we are part of.

👉Agree on a time each day to pray together.

👉Each person can take a time that suits him/her to pray individually and thus to establish a prayer chain.

🖐🏽If any of us are also convinced to fast (Matt 6:16-18), I encourage you to do so.🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽 Fasting reminds us that we do not live by bread alone but by “every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Matt. 4:4)… Therefore, when we fast, it’s not about skipping a meal, but rather it is about being fed by the word of God and focusing completely on God.

May the Lord have mercy on our nation. 🙏🏽

falyravoahangy

Christ Magnified…by Life or Death

Recent events in our society have left us grappling with profound moral questions. The stabbings of individuals like Iryna Zartuska, the hostility towards Charlie Kirk following his tragic death, and the callousness reflected in memes celebrating violence all signal a deep fracture in our social fabric. These incidents urge us to examine our collective conscience and the implications for the Christian faith in the face of such moral decay.

Apathy in the Face of Violence

The act of standing by while someone suffers—like when Iryna Zartuska was stabbed—reveals a troubling trend of desensitization and neglect. From a Christian perspective, this apathy contradicts the Gospel imperative to love our neighbors and to act justly (Micah 6:8). Speaking against injustice and defending the vulnerable are not mere suggestions; they are fundamental tenets of our faith. Scripture calls us to embody Christ’s love actively, and in moments of crisis, failing to intervene signifies a spiritual lethargy that undermines our witness.

The Celebration of Death

Similarly, the reaction to Charlie Kirk, who was met with derision and celebrations of his death for holding differing political and religious views, speaks volumes about our societal sickness. Christians believe in the sanctity of life, echoing the sentiment that every individual is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). The juxtaposition of celebratory responses to Kirk’s death against a backdrop of personal beliefs showcases the division and moral blindness that prevail in contemporary discourse. To liken him to a Nazi, dismissing his value based on ideology, elevates hatred over compassion, reflecting a chilling departure from Christ-like love.

The Disturbing Normalization of Violence

The emergence of memes that trivialize gun violence dilutes the gravity of life and death. Humor rooted in tragedy not only desensitizes audiences but also normalizes a culture of violence. In Ephesians 4:29, we are called to let no corrupting talk come out of our mouths; rather, we should speak words that edify and uplift. The rise of such memes speaks to a society increasingly disconnected from the serious implications of its words and actions, indicating a spiritual malaise that Christians are called to address.

Finding Hope Amidst Despair

Yet, amidst these dark reflections, we, as Christians, find encouragement in the teachings of Scripture and the resilience of our faith. In Philippians 1, the apostle Paul, despite facing imprisonment and persecution, exemplified how adversity can indeed advance the Gospel (Philippians 1:12). His unwavering commitment reminds us that when evil seems to reign, God remains sovereign, and His purposes will not be thwarted.

1.⁠ ⁠Encouraging Intercession: These events may drive Christians towards deeper petition, fostering an active prayer life for one another (Phil 1:3-4). In a time when society feels chaotic, prayer becomes a vital lifeline, uniting us in faith and hope.

2.⁠ ⁠Rallying for the Gospel: In troubled times, believers can come together in common purpose—spreading the message of the Gospel (Phil 1:5). Persecution and hardship can galvanize us to reflect our faith more authentically and be heralds of truth in a fractured world.

3.⁠ ⁠Preparing for Eternity: Contemplating the fragility of life as seen in these tragedies can prompt Christians to evaluate their readiness to meet God (Phil 1:6-11). Each day is a gift, and with it comes the opportunity to share our faith with urgency (Eph 5:16).

4.⁠ ⁠Boldness Against Wickedness: The current climate can inspire believers to be bolder in their witness and stand against moral decay (Philippians 1:14, 18, 20). Our response should be rooted in love but assertive in proclaiming the truth of the Gospel.

5.⁠ Bolstered by Martyrdom: Tragically, the finality of Kirk’s death serves as his last, somber “debate platform,” reflecting Philippians 1:21, where living is Christ and dying is gain. His testimony challenges us to consider how we live and die for the Gospel.

6.⁠ ⁠Revealing Society’s Evil: These events compel us to confront the evil that permeates our culture; the piling judgment reflects a deep need for repentance and revival (Philippians 1:28). We are called to expose darkness and champion light.

7.⁠ ⁠Sifting Genuine Faith: Ultimately, these crises serve to differentiate between true followers of Christ and those who merely wear the label. The call to suffer for Christ is a gift of grace, and it beckons genuine believers to step forward in faith (Philippians 1:29-30).

Let’s Keep Shining

In a society grappling with moral relativism, Christians are called to rise above the fray—embodying love, promoting justice, and speaking truth. Unwavering hope in God’s plan should illuminate our path, urging us to pray, act, and share the profound truth of the Gospel. While the landscape may seem bleak, we must remember that the light of Christ shines brightest amidst darkness, and His truth cannot be hindered.

May we, as part of His body, respond with grace, compassion, and boldness in these challenging times.

[Pictures borrowed from online platforms]

falyravoahangy

Sin: Spiritual Poison

“How are you Fitahiana?” He moved his hand to signify that he is so-so. As we communicated through questions from me and hand movements from him, he explained to me that he is tired, emotionally exhausted, in pain, that he has had enough, that he wonders when this would end, and he would finally be fine again. I tried to encourage him from Scripture as much as I could. I cried with him and tried to make him smile…  

It was one of the most difficult weeks I have ever been through with the passing of Pst John MacArthur, the passing of Saidi Francis Chishimba, a Zambian brother I got to know through Christian Publishing, the passing of Nombana and Antsa, taking the number of people dying through the food poisoning incident of June 14th to 31. 😭

The death of people aged 17 to 86 years old is a vivid reminder that life is but a vapor, and one day we will all stand before God to give an account (Heb 9:27). 

However, can we even imagine how the past month has been for Fitahiana? 😭😭

He has been on this hospital bed for over a month now, almost completely paralyzed. Since June 15th, he has had to process the death of his sister, and the one-by-one death of the 4 other people that shared the room with him, including his cousin, Kasaina. He heard the doctors trying to resuscitate them to no avail. He heard the cries of the family members who lost loved ones. He doesn’t know anything of all the judicial and political circus going on outside, but what he knows is that he is still there on that bed, alone in that room. And what we know is that no antidote nor curative medicine is given to him yet. He is getting better, but so did Nombana before dying. 

In an age dominated by rapid information flow, people find it challenging to stay engaged with prolonged crises. The allure of new trends and the constant bombardment of notifications lead to waning interest; once the initial shock wears off, individuals quickly move on to the next headline. Social media and news outlets thrive on rapid-fire updates, encouraging a culture where everyone urges to “move on.” Events that once captivated public interest swiftly lose their urgency, replaced by the next trending topic, meme, or viral sensation. The continuous influx of events creates a desensitization effect, where societal empathy becomes diluted. Each tragedy, each emergency competes for attention, making it easy to forget the past crises that once gripped public consciousness.

In our increasingly self-centered society, many find it hard to prioritize collective problems over personal interests. The relentless hustle for personal success often sidelines the struggles of others, leading to a culture where empathy towards collective emergencies dwindles. This is exacerbated by those who benefit from others’ predicaments. Profiting from chaos and misfortune, these individuals, be it in business or politics, resist resolving the issues, as their interests are intertwined with the persistence of such crises.

Attempting to maintain a state of emergency is inherently exhausting. The emotional toll of constant alertness and vigilance is unsustainable, leaving individuals burned out and seeking solace in ignoring the ongoing issues.

I would thus want to make an appeal for Fitahiana and the 8 others that are still fighting for their life at this hospital: let’s not move on from this. Please continue to pray for them. Please continue to pray for the families who lost a loved one.  

But at a more critical level, this exhausting situation mirrors a deeper, spiritual emergency. The Bible speaks of a different kind of poisoning: sin. Rather than pursuing repentance and liberation, many tend to play with sin, allowing it to persist. John Owen poignantly stated, “Be killing sin or it will be killing you.” This quote highlights the urgency of addressing our moral failures instead of letting them fester. 

As Christians, we are called not only to recognize this spiritual emergency but to act upon it. The scripture reminds us in 2 Peter 3:9, “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some consider slowness, but is patient toward you, not willing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.” This calls for a collective turning back to God, repenting for our sins. 

Let us remain alert, understanding that while societal emergencies may fade, the need for spiritual awakening and search and rescue missions for dying souls is ever-present. Each moment is an opportunity for Christians to share the gospel, extend mercy, and act as beacons of hope in a world distracted by fleeting crises, ensuring that we never lose sight of the ultimate state of emergency that affects every soul.

falyravoahangy

Joy Emmanuelle Ravoahangy – Baptism Testimony

On June 15th, 2025, the day of her 15th birthday, I had the privilege of baptizing my daughter Emmanuelle. I would like to share the testimony she gave before getting baptized as it gives you an insight in the life of a PK (Pastor’s Kid), a MK (Missionary Kid), and a teenager dealing with being different and lonely. I hope it will be a blessing and encouragement to you.

“Hello, everyone. My name is Emmanuelle Ravoahangy, and many of you know me as the eldest daughter of Pastor Faly Ravoahangy. I was born into a Christian home, surrounded by teachings and love. I’ve had a life that many would call fortunate—I’ve traveled, I have a roof over my head, two loving parents, opportunities to grow in my gifts and passions, and I have been given too many blessings to count. Yet for most of my life, I’ve felt a deep emptiness and loneliness as if I were unloved by those around me. 

No matter where I go, my life has always stood out. I never quite fit in, but that’s often the reality of being a missionary kid. My dad once told me that when you choose to devote your life to God, there’s always something you have to give up. For me, growing up homeschooled meant sacrificing friendships and a normal social life most people take for granted. 

I remember one Christmas when I was about eight years old. We had just come back from the States the year before, and I had forgotten almost all of my Malagasy. I struggled to communicate, and I only knew the simplest phrases and words. And when I tried to speak, my broken Malagasy would often lead to laughter or insults from those around me. That’s when the fear, the social anxiety, and the shyness started. I became silent, scared of being mocked. 

Because I was homeschooled, and because of that fear, I had no friends. And so, on Christmas Day, at just eight years old, I looked up at my dad and told him my only wish: ‘Dad, for my present this year can I please get a friend?’ I still remember so vividly the expression on my father’s face. He smiled at me gently, but there was such sorrow in his eyes. And when he told me, half-jokingly, that he couldn’t just kidnap a little girl and throw her under the tree, I nodded quietly, blinking back tears. 

With time, I grew used to being alone. Whenever I faced pain or struggles, I kept it all inside and cried in silence. I shut myself off, hiding my emotions until they built up too much to contain—and then, when someone pushed me too far, it all came out as anger. My anger became something I couldn’t control that resulted in violence towards my sisters, either verbally or physically. I was like a ticking bomb, carrying pain I couldn’t express, too scared to open up, yet too proud to change. 

I used to believe my family was placed in my life to hurt me. I resented my parents and their teachings, and I grew bitter toward my siblings when they didn’t say what I wanted to hear. Then, when I finally made my first best friend, I changed in ways I deeply regret. She and I grew close, and I clung to her desperately, doing whatever she asked, even if it meant gossiping and spreading lies about my own family just to earn her approval. I had never known what it felt like to have a best friend, and the thought of losing her terrified me. 

Although some memories of us are still kept close to my heart, I let her take advantage of me because I was desperate for the love I thought I wasn’t receiving. But then, one day, she replaced me, discarded me when I had no more use for her. That night, I cried until the tears wouldn’t fall anymore. A deep emptiness settled in, and the pain was so sharp that I pulled away from everyone even more. Losing someone you relied on more than yourself leaves a scar that no one should have to carry. 

Ever since that day, I began to hate my life. There were moments when I begged God to take me, because I didn’t have the strength to keep living. Every day felt heavy, filled with misery. I was overwhelmed by loneliness and an anger I couldn’t control. My parents scolded me often, and each beating was etched into my memory. Every word spoken in anger echoed in my mind, and I came to truly believe that my parents didn’t love me. No matter what I did, it never felt like enough. I felt rejected, unwanted, and maybe that’s why I believed I was so unlovable. 

So I chose to live a double life. In real life, I became ‘the perfect daughter.’ I ate whatever my parents gave me, did every chore my mom asked, studied hard, and built a knowledge of the Bible and theology that surpassed most. I wanted so badly for my parents to be proud of me, to finally love me. I made them believe that I had accepted God at a young age, hoping they’d see me as an angel. 

But online, I became someone entirely different. I created multiple identities, wore different personalities, and did things I now deeply regret. I thought no one would ever find out, and for a while, that secrecy gave me joy. I met people from all over the world, and for the first time, I felt like I had friends. To keep them around, I did shameful things but I didn’t care. My parents believed I was a golden child, so what did it matter what I did in secret? 

Eventually, my parents found out what I had been doing, and they disciplined me. But in my mind, it felt unfair, after all, I had done everything else perfectly. Why couldn’t they just let me have this one thing? That mindset trapped me in a cycle. I would return to the same sins, chasing temporary joy, friendship, and the illusion of love. Then I’d be disciplined again, stop for a while—maybe a month—only to fall right back into it. 

Two years ago, stuck in the same cycle of sin and shame, God finally opened my heart. I had been caught once again in the very sins I had promised to let go of, and once again my mom found out. After confronting me, she left me in my room to go talk to my dad. Fear and panic took over. Without thinking, I decided to run away. 

I left barefoot, without a jacket, even though the air had started to cool. I was careful not to let any sibling, neighbor, or even our guardian see or hear me as I slipped out. It was late afternoon, maybe four or five on a Saturday, and I was running in fear. I started pounding on random doors, hoping someone would open up. But each unanswered knock only made my fear grow. 

I decided to use my brain. If I couldn’t find someone right away, I’d outsmart my parents. I’d stay somewhere they’d never expect and stay just until Sunday morning. Then, when my family left for church, I’d sneak back into the house, grab what I needed, and leave permanently. 

The family I stayed with was kind. They gave me dinner and gently asked me what had happened—why I had shown up at their door, shaken and sobbing. Through tears, I told them my version of the story, and they listened. They let me rest in one of their beds for the time being. 

Surprisingly, my plan seemed to be working. The family told me they had seen my parents and siblings pass by, clearly searching for me. I begged them not to say a word. But as the evening grew darker, I lay in that bed—half-relieved, half-scared—and then I heard footsteps approaching. Suddenly, my father was being led into the room. I broke down completely, backing away from him in fear. My whole body trembled. 

But even though he looked tired and worn, my father brought me back home. No shouting. No anger. Just a quiet, exhausted plea not to ever run away like that again. Later, I learned that my mother hadn’t told him the full story—he was simply too tired to fight. He just wanted me to apologize to my siblings and to my mom for the trouble I had caused. 

That night was one of the lowest points in my life. I walked back home in tears, weighed down by shame. Every step felt heavy with regret, and I was embarrassed by how I had acted. When I finally reached my mom, she looked angry and exhausted. Without saying a word, she motioned for me to sit beside her. 

The room was silent, except for my sobs. Then, she began to speak. She told me how selfish I had been—each word was like a blow to my chest, causing even more tears. Her scolding was harsh, and I couldn’t stop crying. Looking back now, I understand that her words were necessary, but in that moment, I felt my heart tighten with fear. My whole body trembled, and I looked at her with resentment. I think in that moment, she truly saw the condition of my heart. 

But then she retold me the Gospel. The same Gospel I had heard all my life. Normally, I would have shut it out—mentally plugging my ears out of pride. But this time I listened. I had memorized the Gospel, I knew all the right answers, and I thought I was already saved. But something was different. The Gospel touched my heart personally. 

That night, I cried—not out of anger, but out of relief. Out of shock. Out of conviction. And that’s when I truly accepted Christ. I saw that everything He allowed in my life had a purpose. My pain wasn’t pointless. My parents’ discipline wasn’t hatred. It was love. The love I thought I didn’t receive. 

My sanctification had many highs and lows. Letting go and changing was difficult and it took time, but as I look back, I thank God. I thank Him for He truly does love His children no matter what we’ve done. Psalm 118:5 (ESV) “Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free.” God set me free from years of loneliness and hatred. And now I can say proudly: Psalm 118:21 “I thank you that you have answered me and have become my salvation.” God truly loves me.”

 

falyravoahangy

The State of Global Christianity in 2024

It is quite difficult to summarize a whole year from a Christian perspective. Many affirm that the influence of Christianity, especially in Western countries, has reached historic lows. However, others notice a resurgence of Evangelical Christianity with many public displays of faith such as the March for Jesus in Dublin, with organizers estimating up to 12,000 attendees, on October 26th.

Three ‘events’ that took place this summer epitomize 2024 for global Christianity. 

1- Elon Musk and Cultural Christianity

Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX and Tesla, is often associated with innovation and technology rather than overtly religious beliefs. In an interview with Jordan Peterson on July 23rd, Elon Musk, indubitably the richest and one of the most powerful men in the world, declared himself to be “a cultural Christian”. Musk, who in the past identified as an atheist or an agnostic, divulged his admiration for Christianity:  

“While I’m not a particularly religious person, I do believe that the teachings of Jesus are good and wise. … I would say I’m probably a cultural Christian. There’s tremendous wisdom in turning the other cheek.” 

He went on to say that Christian beliefs,

“result in the greatest happiness for humanity, considering not just the present, but all future humans. … I’m actually a big believer in the principles of Christianity. I think they’re very good.“

A few days later, in response to the Olympics’ opening ceremony, Musk said “Unless there is more bravery to stand up for what is fair and right, Christianity will perish.” Granted, Christians need to be more bold for their faith, but here are a few issues with Musk’s perspective:

Christianity will not perish

Jesus Himself declared “…I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.” (Mat 16:18b) and also, “…In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) Paul confirms “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us?” (Rom 8:31)

Unlike with cultural Christianity, believers have the confidence to be on the winning side as the Lord reigns supreme over all things. 

Christianity is about Faithfulness not Achievements  

Musk’s work with advanced technologies reflects a contemporary understanding of progress that is often divorced from traditional religious frameworks. His focus on renewable energy, space exploration, and artificial intelligence can be seen as an interpretation of humanity’s God-given mandate to subdue and have dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:28), and not a faithful submission to Him. 

Musk’s rhetoric, when addressing the existential risks facing humanity, including climate change, technology and artificial intelligence, suggests a moral imperative to confront these challenges, hope, perseverance, and the importance of working towards a better future. These resonate with Christian teachings. 

However, Christianity’s hope resides in Christ’s return, not human betterment.

Musk embodies a proactive engagement with ethical dilemmas connected to the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications, advocating for responsible innovation that aligns with a progressive vision of humanity’s future. However, his quest for technological ethical practices and stewardship is not built upon a dependance and surrender to Christ. 

Musk even posits that humanity must become a multi-planetary species to ensure its survival. No, men must surrender their lives to Christ, live in faithful obedience to His commands, and hope for the new heavens and the new earth in His presence (Rev 21:1-7). 

Christianity is Christ-centered, not man-centered 

Musk represents a new kind of visionary—a figure who pushes the boundaries of human capability and reflects a belief in the possibility of redemption through innovation. He embodies in his entrepreneurial journey individualism and personal purpose. He represents the archetype of the self-made individual, challenging conventional wisdom and pursuing his vision regardless of societal limitations or norms. 

There is much to be celebrated in his creativity, entrepreneurship and drive. But it is self-centered. His story of perseverance, work ethos, failure, and ultimate success can serve as inspiration, but it is not pointed to the ultimate source of purpose and satisfaction, the Lord Jesus Christ. 

The tension between personal ambition and surrender is palpable, and this dichotomy reflects the broader challenge with the increasingly popular conservative cultural Christianity. Cultural Christianity becomes a framework for exploring spirituality outside of Christ. 

Ultimately, Musk’s embodiment of cultural Christianity serves as an intriguing case study for understanding modern spirituality and the evolving relationship between faith and human innovation.

2 years ago, the Christian satire website missed the opportunity to clearly share the Gospel with Elon Musk when they interviewed him. He, and all those who believe in some form of cultural Christianity need to heed the words of Scripture: “…Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved…” (Acts 16:31a) 

2- Olympics’ Outrage and Testimonies

E tenebris oritur lux. Out of darkness comes light. 

The 2024 Olympics were the most polarizing ever. Yet, that is not necessarily a bad thing. Blurred lines hurt a society. Blurred lines hurt the church’s testimony. 

The Opening Ceremony was a celebration of sin, not of sport. Thomas Jolly, the ceremony director, decided to go beyond the Olympic spirit and promote the dominant social trends in France, deeply rooted in “wokism”. Drag queens, “queer” dancers, polyamory, blatant idolatry, and blunt mockery of Christianity were all on display. 

However, as a result of the controversies from the opening ceremony, the polemics about transgender boxers and the attempts to caricaturize and belittle Christians:

  • Every Christian blogger on the planet took this opportunity to contend for the faith 
  • Many Christians worldwide were bolstered to stand as faithful and loving ambassadors of the truth as they realized their faith was under attack. 
  • The Woke movement was exposed for what it is, and many recognized its aberrations.
  • Mainstream media worldwide jumped in to defend Christians from a religious liberty point of view. 
  • And last but not least, Christian athletes spoke more boldly about their faith than ever before.

When German shot-putter Yemisi Ogunleye was asked how she approached that decisive final throw for the gold medal, she replied, “Before the last attempt, I didn’t think about anything but just lifted my hands and prayed. … After seeing where the shot landed, when I knew it was hopefully going to be enough for the gold medal, I just went on my knees and said, ‘Thank you, Jesus.’”

At the end of the post-event press conference, the moderator asked Ogunleye, “Is it true that you sing in a gospel choir? What song was going through your head tonight?” She responded with an impromptu rendition of “God Kept Me” by Harvey Watkins Jr. 

Marileidy Paulino, who started her career running barefoot because she couldn’t afford shoes, became the first woman from the Dominican Republic ever to win Olympic gold by breaking the Olympic record. At the Tokyo Olympics, she held a Bible after earning silver three years ago. This time, Paulino knelt and prayer after crossing the finish line. She thanked God for her opportunity to excel on her country’s behalf.

British diver Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix said, “I give glory to God,” and quoted Joshua 1:9 on her Instagram page after earning bronze with partner Lois Toulson in the 10-meter platform synchronized diving competition.

“This is more than just sport,” she added. “I am proud to represent my country, my family, and glorify the name of Jesus.”

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, who qualified for her first Olympics while still in high school, broke her own world record in the 400-meter hurdles. Her husband is studying theology at The Master’s Seminary in California (which is where I also studied) and they have both used the platform God has granted them to make their Christian testimony widely known. Sydney even wrote a book called “Far Beyond Gold: Running from Fear to Faith.”

During the post-race interview in the Olympics, she declared “I credit all that I do to God. He’s given me a gift, he’s given me a drive to just want to continue to improve upon myself, and I have a platform and I want to use it to glorify Him…So whenever I step on the track, it’s always the prayer of ‘God, let me be the vessel in which you’re glorified, whatever the result is’—how I conduct myself, how I carry myself, not just how I perform. So it’s just freedom in knowing that regardless of what happens, he’s going to get the praise through me. That’s why I do what I do.”

Amen! That is true Christianity. That is living knowing Christ and making Him known! 

3- The Fourth Lausanne Congress in Seoul 

This one is potentially the most controversial point of the 3, but if you have read to this point, you should be able to endure through to the end. 

You may not be familiar with the Lausanne movement. It was founded by Billy Graham, Leighton Ford and John Stott in 1974 to accelerate and build better collaboration for world evangelism. The first meeting was held in Lausanne, Switzerland, thus the name of the conference that sticked afterwards.

The Fourth Lausanne Movement Congress, gathering over 5,200 people from 202 nationalities in Incheon-Seoul, South Korea, sought to accelerate global outreach through collaborative efforts, promoting unity in diversity. The theme of the Congress was “Let the Church Declare and Display Christ Together.” 

The Congress ended with a call to joint action through signing the ‘Collaborative Action Commitment’, stating on paper the signatories’ intention to:

  • “respond to the Great Commission by filling gaps and seizing opportunities”, 
  • seek “relationships and unity with leaders”, 
  • work to “remove duplication and silos by celebrating others” 
  • “identify existing collaborative initiatives” 
  • and by addressing “together” the challenges facing the global church.

I do not wish to remove anything from the amazing experience lived by those who attended, notably when people from over 200 nations worship the Lord and fellowship together as a foretaste of Revelation 7:9, but unity in diversity is hard to achieve. Especially when the diversity is related to doctrine. Congresses and joint declarations are nice, but they fail to conceal and properly address the issues wrought by diverging theological perspectives.  

As an example, Ruth Padilla DeBorst addressed the challenge of social injustices. As part of her presentation, she made two remarks that made some participants uncomfortable. She stated that “There’s no room for indifference towards all who are suffering the scourge of war and violence. The world around the uprooted and beleaguered people of Gaza, the hostages held by both Israel and Hamas and their families, the threatened Palestinians in their own territories”. Then, at another point, Padilla lamented that “colonialist theologies that justify and finance oppression under the guise of some dispensational eschatology”.

An email apology signed by the event’s director, David Bennett, had to be issued. Her singling out and critic of ‘dispensational eschatology’ and her failure to express comparable empathy for the suffering of Israeli people were flagged as they caused an avalanche of opinions and informal conversations at the conference. 

In other examples, one of the speakers passionately and graciously reprimanded cessationists, claiming they denied the power of the Holy Spirit. Creation care was outlined as a justice issue, but the proposed solutions echoed secular narratives. Rick Warren was invited and given a prominent platform from which he reprimanded complementarians, suggesting they overlook Joel 2. An American Pentecostal presenter, in his excitement, asked everyone to raise their hand if they considered themselves “Spirit-filled” believers. The talks on social justice related issues often reflected a liberal and postmodern lens: creation care, gender gaps, anti-colonialism, and critiques of capitalism. There was also no mention of abortion or the current capitulation of the church when it comes to same-sex marriage. In a nutshell, certain viewpoints were given a platform while others were delicately excluded.

And here resides one of the main problems: The Lausanne Congress become so “issues-driven” that the emphasis on world evangelization, which used to be central, has now been buried down to just one emphasis among many. The main thing is no longer the main thing per se. 

At the heart of all the disagreement is a simple question: What is the mission of the Church? During the congress, The Seoul Statement Seoul Statement was released, and it generated a lot of discussion. It outlines seven key themes for the global evangelical church: a biblical theology of the gospel, a strong view of Scripture, doctrine of the church, and a vision for humanity and biblical sexuality, discipleship, global conflict, and technology.

None of these are inherently bad, but there needs to be a clear delineation of emphasis on evangelism over social action. The Seoul Statement wrestles with the tension, striving to give equal weight to both “incarnating the gospel” and “holistic gospel”, and as a result dilutes the Gospel.

When everything becomes a gospel issue, nothing is actually the Gospel, nor the issue.

So What? 

As the church looks ahead to 2025, we need to make sure that the Gospel remains central and is proclaimed by words and deeds. Theological clarity, triage and discernment are more needed than ever in a world where the words “evangelical” and “church” have lost their intended meaning. 

God will always have His remnant throughout the ages. The church must endeavor to be a pillar and buttress of the truth (1 Tim 3:15). And the church must seek to be faithful in the Lord’s eyes before seeking to be attractive in the world’s eyes. 

May our testimonies be bold, sincere, earnest and powerful as we trust, obey and proclaim our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Happy and blessed year everyone!

falyravoahangy

A New Perspective on Publishing

Sea Point Promenade, Cape Town. A giant pair of spectacles on the beachfront are pointed in the direction of Robben Island. The work is called “Perceiving Freedom.” It was meant as a reference to the sunglasses worn by Nelson Mandela because of the damage done to his eyes while working on the lime quarries of the prison island. The declared goal of the Ray-Ban sponsored artist, Michael Elion, was to appeal to us to look at the big picture and to immortalize the nation’s political icon. But the structure is controversial as many city residents feel that the piece is using the deceased president’s legacy to promote a luxury brand of eyeshades.

This raises an important question for us to consider: “How effectively do we communicate and spread ideas?”

Early April 2024, Avotra and I had the privilege of attending a Christian Publishing Intensive training organized by Desiring God a few meters away from Sea Point Promenade. It was truly a mindset-shaping event for us, and I believe a game-changer for our approach to our publishing ministry. 

Publishing jedis Rick Denham and Daniel Henderson led the workshop, challenging the traditional approach to publishing in Christian circles and inviting us to focus on spreading ideas. The workshop was attended by like-minded publishing ministries in Africa that are also in their inception phase.

Rick brought us back to the time of the Reformation when pamphlets and the ministry of Matthieu Zell in Strasbourg were instrumental in the spread of Luther’s ideas throughout Europe. Over 10 million were printed in those days around Germany. Pamphlets were the equivalent of the explosion of the internet or the current advent of AI in those days. They were successful because they were written in the vernacular mostly understood by the people, they were affordable and accessible, and they conveyed ideas both saturated with Scripture and relevant to the societal issues of the day. Finally, they were easy to reproduce and spread.

The real epicenters of the Reformation were the Scripture-based pulpits, publishing, and training. 

Rick revolutionized out thinking by conveying that the goal is to build a confessionally distinct community within a ministry ecosystem. The community must be fed continually, abundantly, and richly. 

The 4 doorways bringing people into this ecosystem are:

  • Publishing (books, articles, journals, etc.)
  • Web presence (website, online classes, social media, etc.)
  • Events and Training where books are promoted and distributed. 
  • Preaching/Teaching in the local church. Healthy local churches proclaim truth and equip their members to continue to learn, grow in their faith and live in community, and plant other churches. 

Daniel Henderson continued by emphasizing that the three central activities of a publishing ministry are:

  • Quality Content development.
  • Developing effective methods of spreading ideas. Content should not be fenced off but be made as accessible as possible. 
  • Nurturing the community/ecosystem: The community is created as people discover ideas and connect to others who share those same values. The community is not defined by any one doorway, but by the common ideas that unite them. Change happens very rarely individually. It happens when people realize that they are not alone. The main value in an ecosystem is where the lines converge. 

Based on all we learned, our ministry new Transformative Purpose at 3M Publishing is:

“To transform lives in Madagascar and beyond through Scripture-centered resources designed to raise and equip Preachers of God’s Word, Shepherds of God’s people, and Servants of Christ in local churches.” 

We produce 3 types of books to that end:

  • Books in French thanks to our partnership with Publications Chrétiennes and BLF Éditions.
  • Books translated from English or French by our team of translators and therefore now available in Malagasy.
  • Books in Malagasy written by Malagasy Christian theologians, pastors and teachers.

We want to make books available to as many as possible so these Bible-infused ideas will spread.

To accomplish this:

  • on Saturday April 20th, we will open our bookstore and library on the 3M Preaching Institute campus. 
  • We will also be launching 2 books written by Conrad Mbewe that we have translated from Malagasy: “God’s Design for the church” and “Your Discipleship Manual”. These resources written by an African author, suitable for an African context, are completely in line with our purpose and mission. 
  • Finally, we are planning to launch a quarterly magazine to be widely distributed with great content to feed the mind and the soul. 

May the Lord use all of these resources and avenues to edify His church!