The outboard motor droned as our dugout canoe with its fifteen passengers skimmed along the placid river that Sabbath morning. The overcast sky provided shade making our travels more comfortable.

I was silently praising God for the weather when, over the sound of the engine, I overheard my friend telling his son-in-law, “I like to ride with Steve because I know God hears his prayers. The last time we went to Kotale for a joint church service, rain was falling when we loaded the canoe. Steve prayed before we left. He specifically asked for dry weather to travel in. As soon as we launched out into the river, the rain stopped, and we had beautiful weather the whole trip.”

I didn’t realize what an impression that experience had made on my friend. If there is hope for religion passing from the head to the heart of the Gogodala, I believe I saw it that morning. Religion is more than just a set of rules. It is more than knowing doctrines. It is faith in God based on His word. It transcends theory and information, putting them into practice.

“Prayer is the key in the hand of faith to unlock heaven’s storehouse” (Ellen White, Steps to Christ, p. 94). Thank you for practicing your faith.

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