On the Shoulders of GiantsSample

Words Make a Difference

Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. -Psalm 34:8

She was about seven in 1761 when enslavers shipped her from West Africa to Boston. The Wheatley family named her Phillis, kept her as a house slave, and educated her. She quickly learned English and was soon reading the Bible and writing poetry.

Phillis Wheatley penned poems that dealt with faith, death, race, and current events. In 1773, she became the first African American to have a book published. Phillis soon gained her freedom and continued as an outspoken abolitionist. Wheatley knew there was power in trusting God and wielded her pen to help others see His goodness.

One of Wheatley’s most famous poems is a tribute to how grateful she was for learning about God, even though it happened through the tragic circumstances of the Middle Passage.

It’s beautiful to see how Wheatley must have been influenced by reading Scripture, especially King David pouring out his heart in worship to the Lord throughout the psalms. King David also suffered his share of trials, including having to flee from King Saul and later his son Absalom.

Despite the heartache, fear, and obstacles King David experienced, he could still celebrate God’s goodness and declare that those who take refuge in Him are blessed.

Phillis Wheatley and King David remind us to praise God despite our circumstances. Our grace-filled words can point others to God and can empower, edify, and educate others for generations to come.

Nancy Gavilanes

How can we invite others to get to know God?

Heavenly Father, help us to tell others about the grace and freedom found in You.