A Passion for God’s Word

The first Bible published in America was not written in English but in Algonquin. It was translated by John Eliot, who was born on this day in 1604. As a young man in his native England, Eliot felt the call of God to the ministry. In 1631 he left for America, where he developed a burden to reach Native Americans with the Gospel.

He became known as the “Apostle to the Indians” and began to preach to them in 1646, at first in English. As his journals detail, he had to overcome many obstacles.

One day he wrote, “The weather was cold and snowy. Was wet for the entire time but that is a small price to pay for the privilege of taking the Gospel to them.” Despite adversities, he was committed to reaching these people. Eliot once said, “Prayer and pains through faith in Christ Jesus will accomplish anything.”

One of his most difficult challenges was learning to speak and read Algonquin, considered to be one of the most difficult languages in the world. For 10 years, Eliot worked on translating the Bible, and in 1658 he completed a translation in their language. This translation was a central part of his effort to reach these people with the Gospel.

John Eliot had a clear sense of God’s calling on his life. With a deep burden for his mission, he stayed focused and determined, refusing to allow problems and obstacles to distract him.

In your life, are you focused on God’s call for you? Do you have a passion for God’s Word and a burden to reach people with the Gospel? Are you investing your life and resources in His Kingdom?

Right now, renew your commitment to serve God and seek first His Kingdom. Be a faithful servant of the resources you have been given. Stay focused on His call.