The Life Testimony of Servant of Jesus Surendra Kumbhar
A Journey of Grace and Calling
“This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvellous in our eyes.” – Psalm 118:23
A Warm Welcome in the Name of Jesus!
Grace and peace to you in the mighty name of our soon-coming King of kings and Lord of lords, Jesus Christ! It is no coincidence that you are reading this — it is the Lord’s doing, and I believe He has brought you here for a divine purpose.
Humble Beginnings in a Village of Odisha
I am Servant of Jesus Surendra Kumbhar, born into a poor CNI (Church of North India) Christian family in a small village called Buromunda, in Balangir District, Odisha, India. My childhood was simple, yet marked by the unseen hand of God shaping my destiny.
A turning point came when the Lord performed a mighty miracle in my family — He healed my mother from a bleeding disease. This unforgettable act of mercy touched my heart deeply, and at the age of seventeen, I made a solemn decision to follow Jesus Christ for the rest of my life.
The Struggle Between Faith and the World
As time went by, my early passion faded, and I became entangled in worldly pleasures. Yet the love of God never gave up on me. The Lord, in His infinite grace, called me again and led me to study at a theological college in South India, even though I had completed only my 10th grade and spoke no English.
When I entered the Bible college, it felt impossible — surrounded by educated students, unable to understand or speak the language. I had no family support or finances, but God opened the way through a scholarship (work scholarship). Truly, where God guides, He provides!
The Miracle of Language and Anointing
One day, to my amazement, I stood preaching in English before others. It was a moment of divine wonder! I asked myself — How did this happen?
I realized it was the fruit of three simple acts of faith:
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Prayer – I cried out to God daily for the ability to speak English.
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The Word – I read the English Bible and Christian books faithfully, even when I did not understand.
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Practice – I practiced speaking every day despite mockery and discouragement.
After three months, the Holy Spirit’s anointing came powerfully upon me. My tongue was loosed, my fear was gone, and my heart overflowed with praise.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13
Glory to the Most High God! He turned my weakness into strength and my limitations into testimony.
Serving the Lord in His Vineyard
Upon completing my theological studies, the Lord graciously opened doors for me to serve in the same Bible College and Church where I had been trained. My spiritual mentors and leaders became pillars in my journey, shaping me for ministry. Every step reminded me of God’s faithfulness and unfailing love.
Called Back to Odisha for Kingdom Expansion
In June 2010, while in prayer, the Lord spoke clearly to my heart — to return to Odisha for the expansion of His Kingdom. Obediently, I stepped out in faith. Since then, God has used me in various ways to preach, teach, and serve His people across Odisha and beyond.
In 2012, the Lord fulfilled another precious promise by bringing into my life a godly and committed missionary life partner, Mrs. Epsiba Inbakumari, from Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. She has been a faithful companion in every season of ministry. Together, we are blessed with two wonderful children — Jedidiah (13) and Abigail (9).
The Birth of Shalom Faith Ministries
As we continued to pray and serve, the Lord placed a vision in our hearts to establish a ministry that would bring peace, hope, and the message of Christ to the unreached. In December 2013, by the grace of God, we registered a Religious and Charitable Trust called “Shalom Faith Trust.”
Under this trust, we founded Shalom Faith Ministries, through which we continue to serve the Lord — reaching villages, conducting prayer fellowships, supporting pastors, empowering believers, and extending the love of Jesus Christ to those in need.
“The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me.” – Psalm 138:8
To God Be All the Glory
Looking back, I stand amazed at how far the Lord has brought me — from a poor village boy to a servant in His vineyard. Every miracle, every challenge, and every victory is a testimony of God’s grace, faithfulness, and calling.
It is my heart’s desire that many may come to know Jesus, experience His love, and walk in the power of His Spirit.
May the peace (Shalom) of our Lord Jesus Christ rest upon you and your household!
Yours in His Shalom,
Servant of Jesus Surendra Kumbhar
Founder & Director,
Shalom Faith Ministries
Balangir, Odisha, India
