VIETNAM: ‘ANYTHING RELATED TO GOD, THROW IT IN AND BURN IT’

Growing up in southern Vietnam, all Nhat Binh* knew was his family’s Buddhist BELIEFS. It was only when he started attending college that he encountered another possibility.  

In his second year of study, Nhat Binh discovered Jesus and decided to give his life to Him. That decision was the starting point of a difficult journey of choosing faith again and again in the face of very personal persecution. 

When Nhat’s strictly Buddhist family learned of his conversion, the shift in their treatment of him was sharp and painful. There were constant criticisms and aggression that worsened his mental and emotional health until he was forced to halt his studies. Then, earlier this year, the situation escalated – Nhat’s mother took all his Christian books and set them on fire, reducing everything to ashes. Her words were burned in his mind – “Anything related to Buddha stays; anything related to God, throw it in and burn it all!” she had said. “Go on, tell your God to come and save you!” 

The Father’s comfort 

After Vietnamese New Year, things got worse, Nhat’s mother said she would report him to the police, saying, “Once you’re in jail, let those pastors bring you food!” 

In the midst of  deep pain, God brought comfort through Nhat’s pastor, Sang*, who sought him out in his suffering.  

“I have spoken with Nhat Binh several times, listened to his situation and provided spiritual guidance,” Sang says. “As a result, Nhat Binh decided to return home, remain with his family and continue to submit to them. I believe that God is his only comfort during this difficult time.” 

In many parts of Vietnam and other countries, such stories are not unique when someone chooses Christ over their family. But with such stories come glimmers of hope, too. 

Please pray for Nhat Binh today using the prayer points below…

*Names changes for security reasons…