Testimonies from Myanmar
Unyielding Belief: The Tale of Ma Aye Thaung
Some memorable stories of humanity are sometimes about something other than great twists but rather the strong spirit of the main characters. Ma Aye Thaung's journey of faith is one such story.
At 58, after a divorce, this Myanmar native faced many hardships, including a severe stroke that almost claimed her life. During her darkest hour, she turned to Jesus, recalling the teaching, "Ask, and you shall receive."
Her sincere prayer for healing, in exchange for devout worship, was answered as her health miraculously improved. However, life's challenges caused her to forget her promise to Jesus momentarily.
But God had other plans. While working as a part-time nurse aide in a clinic, she met a disciple who rekindled memories of the vow she made during her near-death experience. She soon delved deeper into the teachings of Jesus, and she began her bible studies.
When her family learned about her renewed faith, they did not support her. Fearful and possibly misunderstanding her intentions, they locked her up, hoping to stop her from studying the Bible.
The stress and confinement led to another stroke. Doctors then advised her family to give her space and freedom. As her health improved, Ma Aye Thaung's determination only grew stronger. She resumed her studies and, on 1st July 2023, was baptized.
Today, Ma Aye Thaung continually faces resistance from her relatives. But her spirit remains unyielding. She is now focused on guiding her sister through the teachings of the Bible, hoping to share the strength she found in its verses.
Ma Aye Thaung's journey is a testament to the power of faith and the strength of the human spirit. In her story, we find a lesson of perseverance, resilience, and the undying hope that faith can instill. Let us all pray for her, supporting her in her quest to spread the word of God and find peace in her chosen path.
Win Win Mar: Serving with Passion after Leaving Fulltime Ministry
Win Win Mar is from Myanmar, and her spiritual journey began in September 2000. Over 23 years, her path went beyond personal growth, touching many lives.
By 2001, a year into her journey as a disciple, Win Win Mar started serving as a part-time ministry assistant. Her commitment and love for the teachings led her to a full-time position in the ministry by 2002.
Soon after, she took on the vital role of leading the Women's Ministry, guiding the women in her community with passion and dedication.
However, life had its plans for her. In January of 2003, Win Win Mar got married. With the love and support of her husband, they both ventured into a mission in Pyay, a town in Myanmar, by 2006.
Motherhood blessed her in 2008 with a son and then a daughter in 2010. That same year, they decided to return from Pyay to Yangon. Embracing the responsibilities of motherhood and her deep affection for her children, she resigned from her full-time ministry work in 2010.
She dedicated herself wholeheartedly to raising her children. Yet, her departure from the full-time ministry did not mean disconnecting from her passion for helping the women in the Myanmar church.
She makes an impact both in the church and the community. Seeing a gap in educational resources, she founded an English language school aimed at helping government school students struggling with the language. For her, it was a method of giving back, utilizing her skills and resources for the greater good.
Win Win Mar is now actively involved in ministry activities as a volunteer. She primarily focuses on the Married Ministry, overseeing five bible talks. She also diligently reads inspirational books (mainly from DPI), then translates and teaches them weekly to the women.
Amid life's ups and downs, Win Win Mar's story remains a powerful tribute to perseverance, commitment, and steadfast faith.
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Mar 21, 2024, 1:14:23 PM
Kiera Vae'ena - Thank you for sharing about our sisters in Myanmar! I am so grateful for this platform to catch up with friends from around the world!