Sahel (MNN) — Delivering Christian literature to global communities often comes with challenges, and the Sahel region is no exception. But what makes this journey so difficult?
Helen Williams from World Missionary Press recalls the time local partners were delivering containers from Togo to Niger:
“They asked for prayer going through Burkina Faso because of the robbers and the unrest and the potential violence. They also had an army or police escort. So it is very, very dangerous there!”
Girl pushing a bicycle on a field in Burkina Faso (Photo courtesy of Murat Kahraman via Pexels)
Despite the dangers, Williams describes the workers as “terrific,” highlighting their joy and determination to bring literature to communities thirsting for the Good News and solid biblical teaching. “It’s a needy area,” she says, “but the Lord is meeting the need through His Word and His people.”
The threat of armed danger is not the only challenge these workers face. Unpredictable complications from some authorities also add to their burden. In one case, a government official failed to complete the necessary documents on time. In another, the government changed how they categorized the shipment upon arrival at the port, which altered both the paperwork and payment fees.
“It’s a difficult place right now, but all of these years, the Lord’s just always made a way, and He’s had faithful ones that are willing to stay with the work and ask for the literature,” says Williams.
Despite these challenges, local workers remain steadfast and unwavering in their call to share the Word with those in need. If anything, the obstacles only strengthen their resolve:
“They don’t give up, and they continue, and they know that it’s for souls, and they go, and they show the love of Christ and give the Word. And I believe the Lord’s going to honor that in bringing many in these nations to the Lord as a result of their faithfulness.”
Portrait of an elderly woman in Burkina Faso (Photo courtesy of Afrique Ayele-y via Pexels)
The World Missionary Press and local workers rely on prayers and practical support to continue sharing the Word. Pray that orders from global communities for Christian literature can be fulfilled. Pray also for the safety of the workers delivering the containers and for their faith to be strengthened by the abundant fruit of their labor.
Michelle adds, “I’m encouraged, and I believe that the Lord has a lot of things for World Missionary Press to do to support the work around the world, in so many places.” Visit their website here to learn more!
Header photo: Close-up of a World Map. Photo courtesy of Mart Production/Pexels.
