This article is originally published in Global Prayer Digest.

Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Romans 12:16, NIV.

The history of the Agarwal Banias is one of wealth and loftiness. They are believed to be descendants of Agrasena, a legendary Indian king who established an entire kingdom of traders. For their position in his lineage, they experience great favoritism with the law and money. The Agarwals are noted for often disobeying Hindu rules with no consequences. They may be Hindus, but they are usually not good Hindus. Throughout the generations, many Agarwal sects branched off into smaller groups.

The majority of Bania subgroups like the Agarwals see no need for the God of the Bible. Kingdom breakthroughs become especially difficult to come by in a country where the lower castes are associated with embracing the gospel, but the higher ones, like the Agarwal Bania, view it as being for those beneath them. However, there is at least one believer from this Bania community.

Pray that these prestigious people will be willing to listen to those from lower castes who have found that only Jesus satisfies our spiritual needs no matter how much status men give us. Pray for a humility among the Agarwal Banias that will open their hearts to understand that they need to knock, seek, and find the true Lord.—BO