In Pakistan, a new and profound challenge threatens not only the security and access to information but also the spiritual engagement of its citizens—particularly, the ability to freely access Scripture. In nations like Pakistan, where Christians often face severe persecution, obtaining Scripture can be a daunting endeavor. Governmental control over the internet and restricted access to certain sites are common tactics used to enforce these limitations. This type of censorship is identified as “Dictatorial Paranoia” by Open Doors International, a classification also applicable to countries like China and North Korea where surveillance is extensively employed to monitor and sometimes incriminate Christians.
Recent governmental actions in Pakistan, such as internet throttling and heightened surveillance, have impeded various aspects of daily life, impacting education, communication, and most critically, the dissemination of religious texts. Access to Scripture via traditional means is becoming increasingly difficult.
To address this need in nations across the world, our team has developed Digital Bibles stored on microSD cards, capable of holding hundreds of hours of Biblical teachings and resources essential for church-planters and the strengthening of their newly established congregations. These digital resources are indispensable in regions with limited or monitored internet access. Designed to be discreet, these microSD cards can be seamlessly inserted into a smartphone or tucked into the seam of a sleeve, facilitating secure transport and storage without drawing attention.
Our mission to stand with the persecuted church of Pakistan extends globally, reaching Pakistani communities from among the 625,570 Pakistanis in the United States (as per the 2021 census) to those laboring in the harsh environments of brick kilns within Pakistan itself. These workers often face cyclical poverty and exploitation, often enduring routine abuse. Our mission is focused on making Scripture accessible in one’s heart language to ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstance, can engage with the Word of God.
The transformative power of Scripture is evident through our partners in the field. For instance, a woman from the brick kilns, previously afflicted by demonic oppression, found freedom through Christ after receiving an audio Bible. Her newfound faith has turned her into a fervent evangelist within her community. Such conversions carry significant risks, especially for those from Muslim backgrounds, yet the courageous efforts of our field partners have facilitated thousands of baptisms in these challenging environments.
As the Pakistani government tightens its grip on internet access, we remain steadfast in our prayer that the people’s desire for God’s Word will intensify, and that they will be spiritually nourished. We invite you to join us in prayer for our Pakistani brothers and sisters, asking God to draw them closer to Him and ignite a deep-seated hunger for His Word.
Prayer for Pakistan Heavenly Father, we stand before you today to intercede for our Pakistani brothers and sisters. As the ultimate ruler over all nations, we trust you in the midst of the changes happening in Pakistan. We humbly ask that you call the people of Pakistan to Your presence. May a thirst for Your Word surge among them, and may we be instruments in fulfilling their spiritual need for the Bible. We pray, also, for the strength and safety of those who distribute Your Word. May Your Kingdom flourish in hearts and across this nation. In the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.
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