God Loves the Lost

Can one changed life change a nation? Adoniram Judson waited seven years for a single convert in Burma—where there are millions of believers today.

“You, being rooted and grounded in love, may … comprehend … the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:17–19).

By his own admission, Adoniram Judson had lived a “wild, reckless life.” Even though he was raised in a Christian home, he became a skeptic, strongly rejecting his faith. But, in just one night, everything changed for Judson (who was born in Massachusetts on this day in 1788).

While staying in an inn, he listened with concern to the cries of a man who lay dying in the room next door. The following morning, he heard that the man had indeed died, and he was shocked to learn that the man was his friend from college. Judson realized that his friend was lost forever. He realized that he, too, was lost, and as a result, he gave his life to Christ.

As he grew in his knowledge of the Lord, Judson became inspired by the love of Christ for the lost. This stirred him to become a missionary. In 1812, he sailed for the mission field, reaching Burma the following year, where he spent most of the rest of his life. He persevered through many trials, and it took seven years to see the first convert, but his faithfulness bore fruit: When he died, there were thousands of believers in the land. Today there are millions!

The world needs people like Adoniram Judson, who are filled with God’s love and committed to sharing that love. Ask the Lord to give you a burden for souls. Dedicate your time, talents, and treasures to serving His Kingdom.

Reflection Question: Learn the stories of some of the heroes who’ve done great things for God.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Adoniram Judson?

Adoniram Judson (born 1788) was an early American missionary to Burma. Once a skeptic, he came to Christ after the death of a college friend, and though it took seven years to see his first convert, his faithfulness helped lead to millions of believers there today.

What does Ephesians 3:17–19 teach about Christ’s love?

It prays that believers, rooted in love, would grasp the breadth, length, height, and depth of Christ’s love—a love that surpasses knowledge—and be filled with the fullness of God.