Opportunities for life-changing salvation come in so many different ways. Sometimes these opportunities are found in the simplicity of a warm meal, served with a smile, and shared words of the Gospel message. Too often in our sinful lives, we are most often most focused on searching for our selfish or physical needs.

God, however, is working through even our selfishness to lead us to Himself. He is the answer to all of our unmet needs. Through the reading of His Word, the love and care of the people around us, and through prayer, we are able to find peace in all that lies before us as we put our trust in Him. Then, as we learn and grow through our experiences, God can use us to minister to those around us who might be searching for the same answers.

As you read his testimony below, please pray along with Vladislav for the salvation of Israel. Pray also for the many men and women serving others—and thank God with us for the food and other humanitarian aid He provides through SGA-supported Compassion Ministry. 

Sent by SGA Storyteller Olena in Israel:

Shalom, dear brothers and sisters!

My name is Vladislav, I am 45 years old. Although my turning to the Lord happened only a few months ago, I still cannot stop marveling at the miracle He has done in my life. My godless life led me to living on the streets, so a free soup kitchen in Haifa, where ministry was carried out by the [rehabilitation center], was for me simply a way to deal with hunger and survive the winter.

But when I began reading the Word of God there, I (who had never even held a Bible before) did not even notice how it settled in my heart and began to transform it. The Lord became my only way out of my difficult circumstances. In Him, I found a great family, peace, and happiness. The Word of God comforts me, and during this war it also urges me to pray even more for the salvation of Israel.