To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. (1 Cor. 9:22)
SUSANNA WESLEY NEVER IMAGINED her role as a vulnerable mother would impact the world the way it did. Behind closed doors, the mother of John and Charles Wesley lived a challenging life. Married to a preacher who could not manage money, she gave birth to nineteen children, only ten of whom survived. Susanna and her husband argued incessantly. Even simple disagreements would cause her husband to leave her alone with the children for extended periods of time.
But Susanna had made a vow as a young woman to honor and serve God. As a mother of ten and working to survive in a troubled marriage, keeping her promise became increasingly difficult. One day she decided to carve out a secret place to pray, right where she stood. She threw her apron over her head and advised the children not to disturb her. Susanna remained devoted to the Lord despite the hardships life held.
Later, Susanna’s son John preached to millions and brought the spirit of revival wherever he went. Another son, Charles, wrote over six thousand hymns, many of which are still sung today. Living vulnerably matters, because with God we never know what hangs in the balance.
Serve right where you are with all your heart.
Susan Browning Schulz is a Bible teacher, wife, and mom of three grown children. She lives and plays on the Etowah River in Georgia and loves leading her small group.
