Don't wait for an invitation to share the Gospel; STEP IN. That's what David Gunderson, SIM missionary in Niger, did when he began reading the Bible in French to men outside his gate.

"It was cumbersome with a friend translating my French into Hausa. The men understand Hausa, but most speak Zarma as their mother tongue. Most also cannot read, so sometimes I was discouraged that it was not the best way to teach the Bible," relates David.

"Then someone told me about the availability of MP3 files in Zarma which I could download on a USB stick. For the equivalent of US$21, I bought an MP3 radio in the Niamey market. Now I just plug the USB stick into the radio and it plays Bible stories in Zarma. Since Niger is an oral culture, even those who can read would rather listen to a story than read it. Also, MP3 files are more resistant to this hot, dusty climate than CDs or cassettes. MP3 files are also simple to share. Nigeriens can even play them on their cell phones."

Don't be afraid to STEP ASIDE as David did when he found two Zarma believers who could lead the discussion after listening to the Bible story.

"Since I have limited Zarma, I sit among them, listening and praying for them to understand God's Word," David explains as he steps aside and lets others lead the study. "I can see the men are listening and considering the Bible's claims. I was most encouraged when I played the story of Moses, starting from his rescue by Pharaoh’s daughter in a basket boat until God led the Israelites out of Egypt. The men had never heard the story of Moses and wanted to hear the whole story a second time. They have never asked for a second hearing before. I pray that these seeds planted in them will result in many believing the truth."

It is courteous in African cultures to take time to SIT DOWN with others and enjoy a cup of hot tea.

"I serve Lipton hot tea during our time which they like since it is 'cold season' in Niger. Other friends know about this time on Monday nights and pray for us also," David said.

The Lipton brand of tea may be optional, but prayer for David and his ministry is not. Thank you for praying!