Over 1 billion people around the world still lack access to a complete Bible in their heart language. More than 1,800 languages still await the start of Bible translation. The good news is that with new technology and creative partnerships from the Every Tribe Every Nation alliance (ETEN), we have seen the hard work of Bible translation accelerated by 500%. Today we measure projects in years, not decades.

But what has not changed is the need of translators to rely on God for strength, patience and wisdom. Translators face wars, tsunamis, genocide, theft and faulty equipment, but continue to provide God’s Word in the hardest to reach places. Prayer support is essential during the years it takes to complete a new translation. Please match the courage, perseverance and faithfulness of our translation partners with your faithfulness in prayer. Join American Bible Society, and the entire Every Tribe Every Nation alliance, in prayer for all the translation work being completed.

American Bible Society has a bold vision to see all 1,800 of these languages opened for Scripture engagement in the next 10 years. It’s a vision utterly dependent on God. We need to pray intentionally for this essential work and for the translators, administrators, and church leaders who are responding to God’s call to bring his Word to the nations.

Recently, an ETEN partner wrote a model prayer to help us do so. Ask God to speak to you through this prayer poem:

God, your Word is more precious than all that I possess (Psalm 19:10)

Your Scripture gives light to my path and directs my steps (Psalm 119:105)

Through your will alone lives are transformed and minds made new (Romans 12:2)

So I now pray for all people that do not yet know you (1 Timothy 2:1-6)

For you’ve promised that your voice by every tribe and nation will be heard (Revelation 7:9)

So equip us by your breath to provide every heart language with your Word (2 Timothy 3:15-17)

Learn more about how God is working in Bible translation.