Just a Rock

This Lampung Abung man was selling rings. Opinions about rings like this vary widely. One seller said the rocks in the rings were just rocks, with no substantive difference from the rocks used to pave the street. Others claim that the stones have magical powers and believe they can bring protection and special abilities to the wearer. The Indonesian word for objects with occult powers is jimat [gee-MAT].

Occultism is a widespread phenomenon in Lampung. Many people trust in jimat and other magical items to help them deal with life’s problems. These occult beliefs are often laid alongside other religious beliefs. This syncretistic tendency is a major challenge for those who are trying to lead people into a close relationship with God.

Those who want to be close to God cannot continue in the paths of occultism. Paul warned the Corinthians that it is not possible to participate at the table of the Lord and of demons (1 Corinthians 10:21). Many new believers on Sumatra have occult ties that need to be broken. These connections are often times generational and it takes a good deal of teaching, prayer, and patience to help these new believers to be free.

Pray for believers witnessing on Sumatra to have wisdom and grace to deal gently, but firmly with new believers involved in occult practices.

Pray for believers to break free from syncretistic tendencies within their cultures.

Pray for power to break the spiritual strongholds on Sumatra perpetuated by occultism.