CHONGQING, China - Zhou Jun, a young hair stylist from Xiu Shan county, used to live a life of monotony and emptiness. Despite having a steady job, each day felt like an endless loop — wake up, work, return home, sleep, repeat. "I felt like my life was going nowhere," Zhou admitted. "There was a void I couldn’t fill, no matter what I tried."
In 2022, everything changed when a friend invited him to a local church service. Though sceptical, Zhou’s curiosity led him to attend. That decision marked the beginning of a remarkable transformation.
Discovering Faith
From his first visit, Zhou was struck by the warmth and sense of belonging in the church. The friendly smiles, uplifting hymns, and the message of love and redemption resonated deeply with him. He began attending regularly, and the teachings of Jesus Christ ignited something within him.
Later that year, Zhou committed his life to Christ. "It was like a heavy burden was lifted," he shared. "For the first time in my life, I felt peace and joy. My life finally has meaning."
Hunger for God’s Word
Zhou found comfort in church, but something was missing — he didn’t have a Bible. During worship services, he relied on communal Bibles but longed for a personal copy to guide him daily. Zhou prayed fervently, asking God to provide.
One Sunday in July, Zhou’s prayers were answered. The church distributed Bibles to members who didn’t have one. Holding his first Bible, Zhou was overwhelmed. "It felt like God Himself handed it to me," he said. "This isn’t just a book, it is God’s presence in my life."
Holding his first Bible, Zhou was overwhelmed. "It felt like God Himself handed it to me," he said. "This isn’t just a book, it is God’s presence in my life."
A Transformed Life
Zhou’s life took on a new rhythm. Each morning, he would spend 15-20 minutes reading and reflecting on Scripture, which gives him clarity and purpose. The changes seen in his life were undeniable: he became more punctual, disciplined, and radiated a newfound joy. His colleagues noticed the changes.
Reading the account of Christ’s suffering touched Zhou deeply. "Knowing Jesus endured such pain for us fills me with gratitude," he said. "It drives me to live a life that honours His sacrifice."
Sharing His Faith
Owning a Bible not only deepens Zhou’s faith but also empowers him to share it. He began inviting friends and clients to church, eager to share the peace and joy he has found. His transformation inspires those around him.
Zhou also expresses his faith through acts of kindness, like offering free haircuts to people in need. "Helping others is my way of reflecting God’s love," he explained.
"Without the Bible, I’d still be lost. But now, my life is guided by God’s Word."
A Future Full of Hope
Zhou’s once aimless life is now marked by purpose and hope. He volunteers at church, handles responsibilities like fire safety, and dreams of becoming a missionary. Reflecting on his journey, he remarked, "Without the Bible, I’d still be lost. But now, my life is guided by God’s Word."
Zhou’s story is indeed a testament to the transformative power of faith and the impact of receiving God’s Word. "The Bible changed my life," he said. "It gives me purpose, joy, and a relationship with God I never imagined possible."
Through Zhou’s journey and countless others who have received their personal copy of the Bible, we see the incredible ripple effect of God’s Word. A single Bible is far more than just printed pages — it is a source of hope, a guide for life, and a witness to the truth. It can turn emptiness into purpose, despair into joy, and confusion into clarity. Zhou’s story reminds us that every Bible placed into the hands of someone seeking God is a seed of change, capable of bearing fruit that transforms individuals, families, and entire communities. Your support of the Bible mission in China helps share this hope and truth with those in need, creating opportunities for lives to be changed and faith to flourish.
Story: May Ang
Photos: UBSCP
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