FROM STRUGGLE TO STRENGTH
- Chheng Sivtangzor
- Oct 14
- 3 min read
by Chheng Sivtangzor, Member of Krang Svay Methodist Church, Cambodia.
My name is Chheng Sivtangzor, and I would like to share with you a testimony of God's faithfulness in my life. It is a story of struggle, heartbreak, and, ultimately, transformation.
Seasons of Hardship
Life used to be unbearably difficult for my family and me. Our troubles came one after another, leaving us overwhelmed and broken.
A shattered business: In the beginning, my wife ran a small coffee shop, but it was frequently targeted by thieves. Eventually, we had no choice but to close it down.
Lost savings and hidden debt: I had saved some money to repair our damaged home. But a relative of my wife took the money which was supposedly to help but misused it for personal reasons. My wife, trying to protect family ties and not wanting me to be upset, didn’t tell me. Instead, she borrowed money from various people to fix the house, unknowingly placing us in deep debt.
Sudden unemployment: I lost a good-paying job unexpectedly, and with no backup income, our situation quickly worsened.
A baby on the way: My wife was pregnant, and I had just started a new job paying only US$200 per month. It was not enough to support a growing family.
The day of birth: When my wife had a C-section to deliver our child, we didn’t even have one dollar to our name.
Hurt from the Church: At one of the lowest points in my life, I was dismissed from ministry by my pastor even though I did not do anything wrong. And after that, even when I missed church a few weeks, he did not visit. He never checked on me, never asked how I was doing.
My heart was heavy. I felt abandoned, not just by people, but at times, even by God. But He had not forgotten me.
The Wonders of God
Even in the midst of pain and loss, God was at work. He was restoring, providing, and leading us step by step.
A new church family: I prayed for a loving church community, and God answered. I met a kind pastor from Krang Svay who welcomed me to worship there. It was the beginning of spiritual healing.
A better job: Despite earning only US$200 a month for a year, I received a job offer through my current church and a church in Singapore. This new job gave us new hope.
Daily provision: Although the salary was still low, we always had enough. My baby never lacked formula. Even when there wasn’t enough food for me, my wife always had something to eat. God’s provision has kept us going.
Miraculous timing: Once, we ran out of baby formula. That very day, I received a message from church saying someone had donated 8 cans. That supply lasted us two whole months.
Continued blessings: Recently, more baby formula was sent from the Singapore church. This touched me deeply. It was as if God Himself had sent it.
Job opportunities: I prayed for more work and asked fellow believers to pray with me. Recently, I received news of a job opening that pays twice my current salary. I don’t know yet if it will come through, but it’s a sign of God moving.
Mercy in debt: Although I still cannot repay all my debts, none of the lenders have pressured me. They’ve graciously given me more time. I believe God softened their hearts.
Peace in the storm: Most importantly, God has changed me. He has given me peace and contentment. I no longer feel overwhelmed. Even though life is still hard, I’m not afraid. I know He is with me.
“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
I believe with all my heart that God will help me clear all my debts in His perfect timing. He has already done so much. I am truly grateful.
To the Krang Svay Methodist Church and the Singapore church: thank you for your faithful love, your spiritual care, and your practical help. You have been God’s hands and feet to my family.
Praise the Lord. Amen.
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Dear Chheng Sivtangzor, What an incredible testimony in clear points. In the midst of storms and disappointments, praise God that He provided a path/way for you and your young family. I can't imagine the hurt associated with rejection and alienation from your own church! May the Lord have mercy! As you leave your past behind, focus on the present and bright future that the Lord has provided for you and your family. Be strong and courageous. Remain faithful to Christ and according to Paul, God will supply all your needs accoring to the abundant riches that we have in Christ! Amen.