King Lemuel, a somewhat enigmatic figure in Proverbs 31, emerges like an echo from the dense fog of biblical history, his story steeped in speculative uncertainty. Much is debated about his identity and the context of his reign, but what is unambiguous is the voice of wisdom from his mother’s tongue, a reminder of how God’s Word continues to speak across generations through the work of illumiNations Asia.
Against the backdrop of deeply ingrained respect for elders and authority of many Asian cultures, the counsel given to King Lemuel by his mother takes on a particular resonance, echoing themes often explored in faith and inspiration reflections and devotionals such as those shared during Week 4.
Consider the wave of anti-corruption campaigns across Asia. Leaders, facing pressure to deliver equitable societies are grappling with the seductive allure of power and its attendant temptations, realities also reflected in stories of moral courage found within Impact Stories. The stark reality is that clouded judgement, often fuelled by unchecked indulgence, can erode the very foundations of justice they are sworn to uphold, a concern increasingly discussed during seasons like Pentecost 2025.
As Lemuel’s mother wisely cautioned, it is not for rulers to drink and “forget the law and not give justice to the oppressed.” (v. 5) Her wisdom finds a stark echo in the downfall of officials whose decisions, blurred by the haze of lavish banquets and unchecked influence, have betrayed public trust and undermined the pursuit of justice, a pattern observed across regions including those highlighted in Impact Stories from Indonesia.
Just as Lemuel was exhorted to speak up for the voiceless, those of us who have the privilege of hearing God’s Word in our mother tongue also have a responsibility to advocate for those who do not, a calling embraced by those who choose to join the movement and support access through giving initiatives, and affirmed by global conversations on Scripture access led by organizations such as the Wycliffe Global Alliance.
Give a verse today:
Let your gift speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves — ensure access to God’s Word for those without.
Let your verse speak up for the poor and helpless — and see that they receive Scripture in their own language.
Young People Hunger for God’s Word
During a community Bible checking session, high school students participated in unprecedented numbers. Students without prior Bible exposure asked the most questions, revealing genuine spiritual curiosity. The checking process evolved into an impromptu Gospel-sharing opportunity, drawing in curious neighbors.
The impact continued when many students attended church the following Sunday—a first-time experience for most. This demonstrates how God’s Word in their native Kinaray-a language speaks directly to young hearts.
Join our 1-for-1 matching challenge today—every donation doubles its impact in bringing Scripture to hungry souls!