Growing up in Central America, 13-year-old Javier* is keenly aware that he lives in one of the poorest countries in the world. He has often gone without meals, and even without water. He lives in a small house with his mother and two sisters. He never knew his father and recently lost his grandfather, who was like a father to him.

His country is a key drug trafficking center between South America and Mexico, offering a boy like Javier few opportunities to avoid gang violence or recruitment.

Javier was 7 years old when he first learned about Jesus. But he says, “I had no children’s Bible to understand better.” Thanks to caring friends, Javier was blessed with a children’s Bible that gives him hope.

It is easy to see why Javier’s favorite Bible verse is Matthew 24:35: “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away” (GNT). In the midst of such uncertainty, he says, “I think the Word of God is forever.” Through your generosity, Javier has an anchor for his soul amid the struggles of poverty, loss, and violence. He knows he is learning to be a better person as he finds refuge in Jesus.

The Bibles our partners help provide for children all over the world in their heart languages are giving them the hope and guidance they long for. Now, Javier finds peace and encouragement while reading his Bible, and he has also started sharing God’s love with others.

*Name changed for privacy