How do we impact lives for Christ? By our words? By our lives? In part, that is true. But though our words and actions may influence others, it is God’s Word that is “living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit …” (Hebrews 4:12)

Uncontainable Excitement

David and Shari Ogg, who serve in Papua New Guinea, saw this powerful truth demonstrated late last year. David and three Simbari men met with translation experts to do the final check of five New Testament books. How clear would the translation be for the Simbari people? How well would they comprehend? If there were concerns, they were soon to be dispelled.

“As they carefully read through each verse,” wrote Shari, “the Simbari helpers could hardly contain their excitement over hearing these passages for the first time in their own language. It has certainly pierced their hearts!”

Reigniting the Flame

Did you hear that? It pierced their hearts. Shari went on to say that, “one of the guys shared with us how he is so excited about ‘God’s Talk’ that he wants to go around sharing it with others even if it means facing opposition or death.”

Shari’s response says it all: “Wow! God’s Word is truly ‘living and powerful!’”

Testimonies like that reignite the flame during the long, tedious and challenging process of Bible translation. It’s not an easy task. But there is nothing greater than seeing uncontainable excitement in the lives of tribal people as they read God’s Word in their own language. Pray for David Ogg as he continues translating.