Hope Throughout Colombia - Prayer Alert May 2016

Political unrest Creates Opportunities for the Gospel

As the civil war in Colombia winds down, there is increasing unrest caused by past members of armed factions (who used to be under a certain amount of discipline). They are now being incorporated back into society. Criminal bands are on the rise, similar to what happened in the United States after the Civil War. In the end, it was not really the gun fighters who won the Wild West, but the preachers who were used by God to change lives. This is our hope for Colombia.

Many who caused major problems in the past have now been converted. They are on their way to maturity in Christ and as this happens new ministry is coming forth. We have many testimonies that we are not at liberty to share at this time for security concerns. We see key people on all sides of the spectrum who we have been witnessing to for quite some time and who are close to being converted.

In one case, a general is in prison for alleged human rights abuses. I have visited him for years. On my last visit, he lowered his head and promised to forgive all his enemies. Then, with fire in his eyes he looked back up at me and named his worst enemy and vehemently stated that he would never, ever, forgive him. 
Please pray for God to soften his heart. 

Recently, I received a message from a tough guerrilla commander back in the mountains whom I had met only once about ten years ago. Many of his men and women have become Christians listening to our radio messages and also I have witnessed to some in person. This guerrilla commander has been very frustrated with me over the years. He said to others, “When my soldiers talk to Russell they become Christians.” Recently, he sent me an invitation to visit him. I can tell that he is under intense conviction from the Holy Spirit.  

Thank you for your prayers and support as each day brings new challenges and opportunities for transformed lives.