William Wilberforce's Abolitionist Tactics

Last night a brief preview of the movie "Amazing Grace" pulled my heart again toward the movie I have enjoyed seeing over and over again. The life of British Christian abolitionist William Wilberforce continues to inspire me anew every time I see it.

I draw these two conclusions from Wilberforce's life:

• We who are fighting slavery must NEVER GIVE UP. The battle may take a lifetime and it may extend beyond our lifetimes. Feelings of discouragement are inevitable, but we cannot give up. The cause of right will prevail, must prevail, if only we will continue no matter how dark the night.
• We must use many avenues, many strategies all at once. Wilberforce introduced legislation against slavery, but he did not do that alone. He educated people to the need, he gathered signatures, he collaborated with other abolitionists, he introduced other laws that undermined the profitability of slavery.

God give us strength to fight for those who cannot fight for themselves. May every person now in slave bondage know that he or she is a valued and deeply loved creation of God, made in His own image and therefore with great dignity.