Jacob* was a hardworking man who lived in a small village in the Philippines with his wife and children. To earn an income that could support his family, he decided to live separately from them and work as a tenant farmer for one of their neighbors. He became successful there and provided all that his family needed.

But after a while, Jacob wanted more, and he traveled to a bigger city hoping to make more money. He was successful, but it came at a price. His new job demanded he work hard day and night, and his health began to deteriorate. Finally, he decided to return to his family. He needed rest; he needed his home.

As it happened, a local ministry was also in his village conducting a medical clinic when Jacob returned. He would later say his decision to return at that moment in time was due to God’s grace and love, but for now, he simply availed himself of the opportunity for free health care.

“That day, not only did Jacob get medicine that would help heal his sickness, but he also chose to give his life to Christ.”

What Jacob didn’t know prior to receiving that health care was that local missionaries always shared the gospel with their patients during their consultations. When Jacob’s turn to see the doctor came, not only did he receive an examination, but he also learned about Jesus. That day, not only did Jacob get medicine that would help heal his sickness, but he also chose to give his life to Christ.

A few months after the medical clinic, missionaries returned to Jacob’s village to visit with the new believers, including Jacob, who had begun to meet together in regular Bible study. Along with his wife, Jacob had begun to diligently study Scripture, deepening his faith and responding to the Holy Spirit’s work in his life.

“Only God can give real contentment.”

Today, Jacob is content with his circumstances. “According to him, only God can give real contentment,” the ministry leader said. “Presently, the couple are being trained as leaders of the newly established ministry outreach in his village.”

Will you consider a donation today to support medical missions like the one that changed Jacob’s life? Your gift will enable missionaries across the Philippines to continue with this invaluable work.