Gatungos story

Rwanda

Pastor Gatungo of Rwanda, a dedicated Pastor that is a leader with Natural Discipleship, recently shared an inspiring testimony that reinforces the steadfastness of God's guidance. He recounted an encounter with an official who was instrumental in securing the financial aid necessary for the acquisition of land and the construction of his local church. This official, however, a year later proposed that Pastor Gatungo join his own denomination, which taught the prosperity gospel—a doctrine Pastor Gatungo found misaligned with the contextual teachings of Scripture.

Amidst this moral dilemma , Pastor Gatungo turned to prayer, seeking divine wisdom. "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you" (James 1:5 NIV). His communion with God affirmed his conviction; he was resolute that his allegiance remained with the true essence of the Gospel, not a gospel that is misguided with prosperity teachings.

With the courage forged by faith, he approached the official, conveying with gentleness that the Lord had not called him to join the suggested denomination. Despite the official's initial anger and ensuing pressure, Pastor Gatungo stood firm.

GOD'S FAITHFULNESS

Gatungo believed that God will work all things together for good to those who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28) and within a week's time, the official returned to Pastor Gatungo with a heart transformed. He admitted that God had shared with him that what Pastor Gatungo's was doing was right, prompting him to cease any further distraction from the divine work unfolding within his church.

Reflecting upon this experience, Pastor Gatungo concluded when asked that it was a vivid testament to the trustworthiness of God's faithfulness. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5 NIV). This moment of clarity illustrated to him, and to us all, that when we surrender our lives to the Almighty, He will always provide for His children, as stated in Philippians 4:19 NIV, "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."

For Pastor Gatungo, the lesson was crystal clear: Surrender to God's will invites a divine peace that surpasses all understanding, shielding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). Pastor Gatungo's unwavering stand against the lure of prosperity theology and his adherence to the true Gospel message serve as a beacon to all believers, reaffirming that our duty is to “not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2 NIV).

This account of steadfast faith encourages every disciple to heed the call for spiritual integrity, to act justly, love mercy, and to walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8).

UNWAVERING TRUST IN GOD

From this powerful testimony, we draw encouragement that when we stand in alignment with God's will, He will not only provide for us but will also validate our paths before others. Pastor Gatungo's story is a testament to the truth that our unwavering trust in God will yield His divine affirmation in our lives, just as it is written, "the Lord will vindicate his people and relent concerning his servants when he sees their strength is gone." (Deuteronomy 32:36 NIV).

Therefore, let us take heart in the face of opposition or temptation, holding fast to the promise that those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint (Isaiah 40:31). Pastor Gatungo's resolve and experience encapsulate this divine assurance, demonstrating that indeed, "The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him" (Nahum 1:7)