A few weeks ago I finished a biography of William Wilberforce entitled Hero For Humanity. This marvelous book by Kevin Belmonte tells the story of William Wilberforce and his journey of faith, particularly his efforts to abolish the British slave trade. If you are fan of biographies then you will enjoy this book. Wilberforce truly is a hero for humanity. His passionate faith was the stimulus for his life-long battle to see the slave trade abolished. He spent untold hours, monies, and energy toward that end. One of the most intriguing aspects of his life is that after his conversion to Christ he had suffered greatly through political turmoil that he contemplated retiring from public life. There is a hint that Wilberforce felt that he could do more good in full-time ministry than in politics. John Newton, the composer of Amazing Grace, was a personal friend of Wilberforce who wrote a letter to him encouraging him to stay the course.
Nor is it possible at present to calculate all the advantages that may result from your having a seat in the House at such a time as this. The example, and even the presence of a consistent character, may have a powerful, though unobserved, effect upon others. You are not only a representative for Yorkshire, you have the far greater honour of being a representative for the Lord, in a place where many know Him not, and an opportunity of showing them what are the genuine fruits of that religion which you are known to profess (p. 136).
You can check out the publishers website for more information on the book at http://www.navpress.com.
No comments:
Post a Comment