Zeal

“His disciples remembered that it was written, ‘Zeal for Your house will consume me.'” – John 2:17 NASB

“Let me burn out for God,” Henry Martyn wrote in his diary after arriving in India. But he did not always have this level of commitment.

Although raised in a Christian home, only gradually did he commit his life to Christ. As his commitment grew, he was moved by the example of missionary David Brainerd, became devoted to prayer, and desired to glorify God.

Inspired by William Carey’s pioneering missionary efforts in India, Martyn felt the call to go to that country. After ordination as an Anglican priest, he was named a chaplain to the East India Company and left for India in 1805.

He also looked for every opportunity to work in missions. Taking advantage of his brilliant mind, others encouraged him to work on Bible translations. He began translating the New Testament into Hindustani, Persian, and Arabic.

Increasingly, Martyn battled health problems. In 1812, hoping to find a solution, he embarked on a journey back to England but died along the way. He was 31 years old, but he truly had “burned out” for God.

His example reminds us of the words of the disciples as they looked at the life of Jesus. They realized that He did not compromise. He was sold out. His only priority was serving the Father.

Ask God to give you the zeal to serve Him, a passion for souls, and a commitment to reaching the world with the Gospel.

Reflection Question: Journal about your commitment to reaching the lost with the Gospel.