The Strength of My Heart

After arriving in America from England, Francis Asbury was thought by many to be “the best-known person” in the country. In fact, by 1815, he had transformed the nation with his zeal for God, and commitment to evangelism.

Author Wesley Duewel has described how one of the important strategies Francis developed for evangelism was “the camp meeting.” The first recorded interdenominational camp meeting in America was held at Cane Ridge in Kentucky in 1801. This was attended by as many as 30,000 people.

During this meeting, “hundreds fell prostrate under the mighty power of God.” Camp meetings like this sparked a “revival movement among the churches.” And by 1821, nearly a thousand camp meetings were being held each year among the Methodists alone.

Asbury tirelessly traveled the length of America on horseback, crossing the Allegheny Mountains sixty times.

Without shelter or home, he traveled on rocky paths, and muddy roads, often threatened by thieves. When plagued by nagging ailments, he continued to press on, even when he was hungry or ill.

Shortly before he died, Asbury paraphrased Psalm 73, writing that God “was the strength of my heart and my portion forever—Glory! Glory! Glory!” He had given his life to serve God, and as a result millions across that nation had been saved.

Today, think about your life. Is God the strength of your heart? Do you trust Him? What impact are you making on the world? What will be your legacy? Dedicate your time, talent, and treasure to God. Allow Him to use you to reach your friends, family, and the nations with the Gospel.