Small Loan Empowers Southeast Asian Farmer to Spread Gospel

In many parts of Southeast Asia, agriculture is the only way for residents to generate income, while also providing food for their own families. One man, known as Brother Somchai, was able to develop his own farm and raise livestock, chickens and crops, thanks to a loan form the FARMS International ministry.

He then used that income to build a small house that he uses to witness to other families. Somchai lives near a local school, and because it’s in a rural area, he houses students who otherwise would have to travel far to get to school. This alleviates pressure on families having to have their kids travel to school.

“While people have come there and been able to stay there as a respite, he’s been able to evangelize and evangelize quietly,” said Tim Landis of FARMS International. “He’s in an area of Southeast Asia where Christianity is heavily persecuted.”

READ: Christianity growing but pesecution remains

In a region where Christianity is not widespread or even is practiced in secret, Somchai took the opportunity to evangelize. Three different families have come to Christ through his hospitality and evangelism ministry.

Although FARMS loans such as Somchai’s are small (around $600 in U.S. dollars), their impact is wide and have the potential to have real kingdom impact.

“FARMS is just a means to the end, and the end being that more people come to Christ and God’s church,” Landis said. “The kingdom is continuing to be built in these really difficult areas. Please pray for Somchai for continued provision and protection for him and his ministry. Pray that he can continue to evangelize, that the families who have come to Christ would grow strong in their faith and that more doors would open to the gospel, especially in this hostile area to Christian faith.”

For more information or to make a donation, visit www.farmsinternational.com.

–Alan Goforth