7 day plan

Around the world with the Bible

Day 1 of 7

NIV

2 Corinthians 12:8-10

“Three times I prayed to the Lord about this and asked him to take it away. But his answer was: “My grace is all you need, for my power is greatest when you are weak.” I am most happy, then, to be proud of my weaknesses, in order to feel the protection of Christ's power over me. I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and difficulties for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” – 2 Corinthians 12:8-10 (GNT)

Series Introduction

In this series, Simeon Lawson from the United Bible Societies takes us on a trip ‘around the world’ as we reflect on different Bible passages and moving testimonies. The common goal of all Bible Societies within the United Bible Societies Fellowship is of ensuring that ‘the Bible is for everyone’. With each day’s Scripture reflection, Simeon reflects on how the Bible has impacted lives in countries all over the world.

Reflection: Indonesia

In Indonesia, in North Central Timor,  a lady named Yuliana offered to sing the hymn “Take the Name of Jesus with You” by William Howard Doane, in the Dawan language, for a team distributing the New Translation Bible (Edition 2).  As she sang, Yuliana wept, her voice trembling with emotion.

The team from the Indonesian Bible Society gently asked Yuliana why she was crying. She shared that she was profoundly moved to receive the Bible, though it was not her first; she had first received a Bible from a pastor. Yuliana shared with the team that she had endured 20 years with an incurable illness. Despite these challenges, she had found solace in God’s word. The Bible the pastor gave her had been a profound comfort. Through God’s word, Yuliana discovered an identity and meaning to her life. She understood that she was a cherished creation of the Almighty and that she had been saved.

This testimony reminds us that God’s word has the transformative power to change lives, bring hope, and offer solace in adversity. The Bible can illuminate and inspire the heart of anyone, regardless of educational background or physical condition. God’s word is a true source of strength and comfort for every soul seeking it.

In what areas of your life do you feel weak or inadequate, and how can you intentionally seek God’s grace and strength in those moments? Consider ways you might share your struggles with others, just as Yuliana did, to encourage and uplift those around you.

Prayer:

Father, teach us to rely wholly on your grace, and to rejoice in our dependence on you. Fill us with the assurance that when we are weak, then we are truly strong through Christ who empowers us. May we always feel the protection of Christ’s power over us, guiding us and uplifting us in every circumstance.  We thank you for your unfailing love and grace that sustain us. Continue to work in us and through us for your glory.  Amen.

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