With a father who drank too much and a mom who was rarely at home, Matei felt lonely and abandoned. He tried hard to be accepted by his classmates at school, but nothing seemed to work.

His teacher knew that the comfort and hope Matei needed could only be found in the pages of the Bible. Thankfully, American Bible Society was there with a Bible-based children’s book.

This special book used songs, poems, games, activities, exercises, and recipes to introduce children to themes from the Bible—like friendship, trust, compassion and courage.

Through these biblical lessons, Matei’s teacher taught him how to be part of a team so he wouldn’t feel so alone. And she taught him that trusting God means believing that he takes care for us and always guides us. By applying these lessons, Matei gained the courage to join the school soccer team. Belonging to a team helped him overcome the overwhelming fear he experienced due to his father’s violent behavior.

Matei now understands the truth of Joshua 1:9: “Remember that I have commanded you to be determined and confident! Do not be afraid or discouraged, for I, the Lord your God, am with you wherever you go.”

According to the staff of the Interconfessional Bible Society in Romania, the children of Romania are thrilled to receive these Scriptures. “They opened the books and immediately started to read passages,” she said. “A big thank you for helping children grow in faith and learn about Jesus in an attractive and interactive way!”

Through the help of American Bible Society financial partners, Bible-based books are placed in the hands and hearts of children worldwide who hunger for God’s Word.