In 1909, Matthew Henson and Robert Peary persevered in blizzard like weather to reach the North Pole. Even though Henson’s role as an African American was played down for years, the National Geographic later awarded him the highest honor for exploration. To be successful, perseverance is needed in any endeavor. In Acts CH 20, the Apostle Paul describes how he persevered in sharing the Good News about Christ. He said, “You know that from the day I set foot in the province of Asia until now I have done the Lord’s work humbly and with many tears. I have endured the trials that came to me from plots of the Jews. I never shrank from telling you what you needed to hear, either publicly or in your homes.” “And now I am bound by the Spirit to go to Jerusalem. I don’t know what awaits me, except that the Holy Spirit tells me in city after city that jail and suffering lie ahead. But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus” telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.” Then and now perseverance pays off!
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
