From Strength to Strength Against the Odds
In the heart of the Soviet Union, during a time when religious beliefs were suppressed and faith was deemed a threat to the state, there lived a young boy named Nikolai*. He was born into a Seventh-day Adventist pastor’s family.
Nikolai's father and grandfather had been imprisoned multiple times for their beliefs, yet they emerged from their confinement with an unshakeable determination to continue proclaiming the gospel. Their unwavering commitment deeply influenced Nikolai's own journey of faith.
He saw their resilience in the face of persecution, and their unwavering trust in God's promises. The words of Deuteronomy 31:6 reverberated through the generations of his family, reminding them to be strong and courageous, for the Lord was their constant companion, even in the darkest of times.
Instead of instilling fear, the stories of his grandfather and father’s imprisonments fuelled his passion to become a preacher of the gospel. He desired to carry on the torch of faith, spread the good news, and honour the legacy of his family's unwavering commitment.
As Nikolai embarked on his own journey towards becoming a preacher, he encountered countless obstacles. The watchful eyes of the state were ever-present, ready to quash any form of religious dissent. Yet, the stories of his family's imprisonment had instilled within him an unyielding determination. He knew the risks but also that the message of God's love and grace needed to be heard.
With each sermon he delivered, Nikolai's voice grew stronger. His words were infused with a profound sense of purpose and conviction. The hardships his family had endured only strengthened his resolve, propelling him to carry the torch of faith, no matter the cost.
Over time, the political landscape of the Soviet Union began to shift. Religious freedoms slowly emerged, casting light into the once oppressive darkness. Nikolai seized the opportunity to openly preach the gospel, sharing the stories of his family's faith and the enduring power of God's love.
Nikolai's journey as a preacher became a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of faith. His grandfather and father's imprisonment and the challenges he faced shaped him into a fearless advocate for religious freedom and a beacon of hope for those who had endured persecution.
Looking back on his life, Nikolai understood the profound impact of his family's experiences. The sacrifices they had made, the hardships they had endured and the unwavering faith they had displayed all strengthened his resolve. Their example ignited a fire within him, compelling him to carry the gospel forward with unwavering boldness.
Nikolai's story is a testament to the enduring power of faith in the face of persecution. Through the adversities faced by his family, he emerged as a preacher who fearlessly proclaimed the gospel, inspiring others with his unwavering commitment and resilience. His journey serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the light of faith can shine brightly, igniting hope in the hearts of many.
*Nikolai’s name has been changed but he inspired the author on his journey.
Verse of the day:
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6
Victor Kulakov is the New Zealand Pacific Union Church Discipleship Ministries lead pastor. His work stretches around the South Pacific. Victor's greatest passion is to empower people to fall in love with life, make positive changes and enjoy success in all aspects of life.
