From Scottish Mills to Divine Calling
David Livingstone was born in Blantyre, Scotland, on March 19, 1813, to humble beginnings. Working in a cotton mill from the age of ten, he faced hardship early on. Yet, his pursuit of education and a deep spiritual awakening at twenty set him on a path that would lead him far from Scotland. Inspired by a sermon and the words of Robert Moffat, Livingstone felt God's call to serve as a missionary. Originally intending to go to China, the Opium Wars redirected him to Africa, where his heart found its mission field.
Missionary Testimony from Africa Begins
Arriving in South Africa in 1841, Livingstone's work with the BaKwena people began. Over the years, he became not only a missionary but also an explorer and a passionate abolitionist. He believed that introducing Christianity and legitimate commerce to Africa would combat the horrors of the slave trade, which he called 'the open sore of the world.' His explorations included being the first European to see Victoria Falls and crossing the continent from east to west.
Faith Through Life-Threatening Challenges
Livingstone's faith was his constant companion. He survived a lion attack and faced numerous challenges, including the loss of supplies and witnessing the brutality of the slave trade. Yet, his conviction never wavered. He famously stated, 'I am a missionary, heart and soul. God had only one Son, and He was a missionary and a physician. A poor, poor imitation of Him I am, or wish to be.'
Divine Protection Through Prayer
In one instance, as threats of murder loomed, 39 people in Scotland prayed fervently, and 39 warriors surrounded his compound, mirroring the number of prayers - a testament to divine intervention. His encounter with Henry Morton Stanley in 1871, who greeted him with 'Dr. Livingstone, I presume?' marked a significant moment, as he had been lost to the outside world.
Livingstone's life was a testament to unwavering faith and dedication. He died on May 1, 1873, in Chitambo's Village, Zambia, found kneeling in prayer. His heart, left in Africa, symbolized his life's devotion. Livingstone's story is a powerful reminder of how Jesus can inspire and sustain a life wholly dedicated to His service.
