Serving Through Sorrow
A JFA Bible Worker Story
For many years, Sister Jeeva, a JFA Bible Worker, worked side by side with her husband in service of the Lord. God had given her a beautiful voice, and people could not help but listen to her singing. Through her singing, Sister Jeeva’s sister and mother, among others, came to know Jesus.
On our last visit to India, we learned that Sister Jeeva’s husband had recently passed away. Despite her great sadness, she told us, God gave her the strength to continue serving others, and she found joy in the process.
“Only by doing ministry do I get happiness,” Sister Jeeva said. “[When I do ministry,] I meet people; I get to know people; I see smiles on others’ faces, and I am happy. If I’m at home, I do my work, but I feel terribly sick. So I believe that God has called me to do this ministry. He is with me and will guide me throughout my lifetime. Until I die, I will do God’s ministry.
“I have only a fifth-grade education. I am not that well educated. When I sing, the Holy Spirit touches hearts. So many people have wanted to hurt us when we did ministry, but when they hear me singing, the Spirit of the Lord convicts their hearts. People who are against me become friends with Jesus. This gift, this spiritual gift, I have to use it for God’s glory. If I am at home, God will take away my gift, and I cannot be a blessing to anyone…so I’m continuing this ministry to win many for God’s glory.”
In our sinful world, loss is unavoidable. Throughout our lives, we may lose a job, a friendship, a home, a loved one. How do we cope when we face the unthinkable? We may feel overwhelmed with anguish, unable to see past our grief, but God has not left us without hope or help. (Psalm 147:3).
Mrs. White wrote:
“You may say, How can I sing, with this dark prospect before me, with this burden of sorrow and bereavement upon my soul? But have earthly sorrows deprived us of the all-powerful Friend we have in Jesus? Should not the marvelous love of God in the gift of His dear Son be a theme of continual rejoicing? When we bring our petitions to the throne of grace, let us not forget to offer also anthems of thanksgiving. “Whoso offereth praise glorifieth Me” (Psalm 50:23). As long as our Saviour lives, we have cause for unceasing gratitude and praise.” 2MCP 460.1
Even while Sister Jeeva grieved, she continued to sing her praises to God. He used her voice to share His love with others, and He healed her heart in the process.
He wants to heal our hearts too.
If you are currently dealing with loss, we pray that God will bring you hope, comfort, and peace in your time of need. We pray that you will find strength, joy, and healing through praise and service, as Sister Jeeva did.
If God is leading you to help enable Bible Workers like Sister Jeeva to continue their service for Jesus, please click the button below.