David*, a U.S. Army Soldier, picked up a camouflage Bible when he arrived at basic training. “It changed my outlook on Scripture, it showed me how personally the Word of God can be taken, and I’ve found ways to incorporate that into my everyday life,” he says. “It’s incredible how much meaning you can find in each Scripture when you look for it.” David was one of 592,453 Military members who received God’s Word in 2018 because of you. Now, he has more peace, joy, and contentment in facing each day’s challenges. We called David to thank him for his service and learn more about his faith journey. Here’s what he had to say.

Q: Why do you think reading the Bible is important?

Reading Scripture became one of the most rewarding experiences—especially when combined with prayer. When I searched for the meaning that God put into his Word, it opened my eyes. . . . It’s guaranteed that one verse will resonate with me. And that little bit of connection with God brightens up even the darkest time. It’s also why my Bible is littered with sticky notes!

Q: How does God speak to you through his Word?

Almost always, God finds some way to speak through Scripture to me. It’s an experience that has kept me enthusiastic and motivated in the year I’ve been in. Recently, I opened the Bible at a time when I was troubled with problems back home and past issues. I read Philippians 3:13–14: Of course, my friends, I really do not think that I have already won it; the one thing I do, however, is to forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead. So I run straight toward the goal in order to win the prize, which is God’s call through Christ Jesus to the life above. The euphoria and following peace I felt—both with where I am and where I’m going—was incredible. It’s not about being happy, it’s about being content with who I am and what I have to do. Personally, I believe if more people followed that to heart, more people would be happy in their careers and lives as a whole.

Q: Why do you think everyone should be able to access the Bible?

I think it’s an absolute need. Too many people take their faith for granted—it’s something they’re born into and they just accept it. But you can have a personal relationship with God if you take him, and what it means to be a Christian, to heart. Reading the Bible is the first step in doing that.

Q: Do you have a message for our partners?

Your generosity and kindness is incredibly impactful—especially for new Soldiers like myself. Access to Bibles, crosses, and church services are what helps young men and women start a spiritual journey. The stress and challenges that accompany military service have led so many people to reflect spiritually in a way I’ve never seen. And the men and women that take the effort to reach out and share it create an effect that stays with many Soldiers.

Q: How can we pray for you?

Please pray that I keep my motivation. I’m at a point where Scripture and God help me wake up every morning with a smile—and that’s something you don’t see too much. I never want to lose it! *David, whose name and identity remain undisclosed for privacy reasons, is an active duty Cavalry Scout in the U.S. Army.