In 1877, Benjamin Singleton assumed leadership of a group of newly freed African Americans. He led them to establish homelands in the state of Kansas, convinced that despite the gains under Reconstruction, the south would never accept Blacks as equals. So he envisioned and pioneered a community of settlers living in peace and prosperity away from racial discrimination and violence. He believed God would help him achieve it. Years ago, after God promised Abraham he would become the father of many nations, the patriarch wondered how God would pull this off since he had no children. From his limited perspective, it looked as if his servant would inherit his wealth. That is when God came to him in a vision, took him outside and said to him, “Look up into the sky and count the stars if you can. That’s how many descendants you will have!” We then read this in Genesis 15, “Abram believed the LORD and the LORD counted him as righteous because of his faith.” Today, God still invites all of us to turn from sin and self to exercise faith in Him and in His Son. This is the key to enjoying His favor.
Photo Credit: Kansas Historical Society
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
