The lack of Scripture access in one’s own language throughout Asia highlights a critical gap in spiritual nourishment that biblical figures like Solomon, Samuel, Zechariah, and Zephaniah can fill. Ensuring Scripture access in local tongues can empower individuals, fostering deeper relationships with the God’s instructions as exemplified by these four voices.
Samuel’s Prophetic Role: A Model for East Asia
In the Book of Judges, we encounter Gideon—a figure marked not only by his valour but also by his profound doubts and fears. His struggles echo with striking clarity in the modern-day spiritual landscape of East Asia, where societal pressures, political uncertainties, and a relentless quest for identity often leave individuals feeling adrift. Yet amidst this tumult, the angel’s declaration of Gideon as a “mighty hero” serves as a poignant reminder of the strength and purpose that can be found even in the thick of adversity.
The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, “Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!” – Judges 6:12, NLT
Solomon strengthens Indochina China with Songs & Sayings (and cakes with raisins)
Solomon addresses life’s cyclical nature in Ecclesiastes, reminding us that each phase serves a purpose. For the deaf and displaced in Indochina, without access to Scripture in their own language only deepens their sense of isolation. Yet, within the turmoil, the acknowledgement of seasons—of healing, rebuilding, and community—can inspire hope.
For everything there is a season,
a time for every activity under heaven. – Ecclesiastes 3:1, NLT
Zechariah’s Zeal & Zest for Southeast Asia
In the spirit of Zechariah, a prophet of rebirth, we see a vital connection to beleaguered communities in Southeast Asia. Amid social unrest and natural disasters, his call for hope and restoration resonates. Zechariah’s assurance of renewal reminds us that even in darkness, transformative healing and resilience can emerge.
“I will strengthen Judah and save Israel;
I will restore them because of my compassion.
It will be as though I had never rejected them,
for I am the Lord their God, who will hear their cries. – Zechariah 10:6, NLT
Zephaniah for the Righteous Remnants of South Asia
In Zephaniah, we find a prophetic voice that speaks of judgment tempered by hope for communities facing oppression, violence, and discrimination – to cling to the promise of God’s presence amidst their trials. Zephaniah’s themes of divine justice and restoration assure them that beyond their suffering lies a future filled with hope, resilience, and renewal, encouraging them to endure in faith.
On that day I will gather you together
and bring you home again.
I will give you a good name, a name of distinction,
among all the nations of the earth,
as I restore your fortunes before their very eyes.
I, the Lord, have spoken!” – Zephaniah 3:20, NLT
Let’s seize the moment to champion Scripture access for the remaining 1,103 languages of Asia still waiting for God’s Word in a language closest to their hearts. In a world rife with uncertainty and isolation, you can shift despair into strength and oppression into hope simply by giving a verse, or even a *chapter today.
(*Average number of verses in a chapter: 44)