A shrinking church. Decreased Bible engagement. Continuing pandemic pressures. War in Ukraine. Political tensions. Social unrest. Climate issues. Economic strife.

While we faced a myriad of mounting pressures over the last year, the hope of God’s Word is needed more than ever. Turning to God’s Word in prayer brings certainty in the face of unknowns. With this hope in Christ, American Bible Society staff felt a need to rededicate ourselves, our ministry and our partner community to God’s work for his glory.

So, on July 5, 2022, the entire organization gathered to dedicate our Bible programs, partner community and staff needs afresh to God’s good purposes. During this day of prayer, we declared the goodness of God who is always at work amid shifting circumstances in our nation and world. In many ways, God seems to do his best work in and through his people when the times are darkest. This longing for God’s presence and for anchoring hope in chaotic times inspired our day of prayer theme taken from Isaiah 43:18-19 (CEV):

Forget what happened long ago!

Don’t think about the past.

I am creating something new.

There it is! Do you see it?

I have put roads in deserts,

streams in thirsty lands.

Prayers for Our Partner Community

Over 100 American Bible Society staff members gathered in-person and online to worship, give thanks, and offer specific prayers for program and partner needs, declaring this truth from Isaiah 43:18-19 over you – our partner community!

This passage tells us that God is a way-maker. He is a creator. He is a provider. He’s an innovator. An idea generator. And his plans lead us to the future we all envision this side of eternity. God’s work to bring about something new is renewing his people, even and especially in seasons of disruptive boil. And God calls us to watch as he creates something new in ways we may not expect. What glorious hope this gives us as we call upon him in prayer!

We also celebrated together the many miraculous undertakings over the last year that you helped come to fruition through your generous giving and prayers. While we see God’s hand already at work in many ways, our staff joined hearts and voices to pray that by God’s miracle-working power all the needs you face in these challenging times will be met. As we reflected on the nearly 500 heartfelt prayer requests we receive from our partner community each month, we wrote hand-written prayer letters and journaled our prayers for God’s faithfulness to sustain and keep you.

As the rich words of Isaiah 43:18-19 inspired our staff community, I pray this passage reminds you of God’s faithful love and miracle-working power. I pray it helps you to see his new provisions and good works – even in the unlikeliest ways both personally and vocationally.

My colleague Josh Kemmerer wrote this beautiful blessing for you, our partners in Bible ministry, during this special day of prayer. It echoes my prayers of thanksgiving for you today. Join me in receiving this prayer of blessing today, from the American Bible Society staff community to you.

Thank you for committing your investment to the Bible cause, God’s commission to his people to share the gospel with all tribes and all nations.

We at American Bible Society are united with you in this mission to be efficient and effective for God’s kingdom, and I pray that each of us never gives up on this sacred mission to bring others to the light and truth of God’s Word.

I pray for God to bless you and keep you in your walk with Christ.

In common worship, praise, and adoration of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.