Impacting Lives

Inspiration MinistriesBy Inspiration Ministries2 Minutes

When he arrived in America in September 1891, Samuel Morris did not know anyone. He had made the perilous journey across the Atlantic from his native Africa, driven to grow in his faith and particularly to meet Pastor Stephen Merritt. On the day of his arrival, through miraculous circumstances, he met Merritt and told him, “I have just come from Africa to talk to you about the Holy Ghost!”

Although just 19, Samuel already had the right priorities. He had given up everything to grow closer to God. And that first night in America, he led 17 men to the Lord at a local prayer meeting.

Trusting totally in God, he enrolled in Taylor University in Fort Wayne, Indiana. His goal was to learn, but he actually became a teacher, making a dramatic impact on the university. Lives were transformed by his faith, his hunger for the Word, and his prayers (which he called “talking to my Father”).

On May 12, 1893, Samuel Morris died after contracting a severe cold. He was only 21. His life had been comparatively brief, yet he touched countless men and women for Christ. Inspired by his dream of returning to Africa, many students became missionaries. Others experienced life-changing transformation because of his influence.

Taylor University President Thaddeus Reade described Morris as “a divinely sent messenger of God…All who met him were impressed with his sublime, yet simple faith in God.”

The Bible describes how Stephen, another young man, died at a young age. Yet he left an example that changed the life of Saul of Tarsus. In your life, remember that God can use you. Hunger for His presence. Long to serve Him. Don’t be afraid.