An Inspiring Life - Harriet Newell

1793–1812

Harriet Newell is well known for what she didn’t get to do. She didn’t get to be the missionary she had hoped to be. In 1812, Harriet and her new husband, Samuel, set sail with Ann and Adoniram Judson for India and then for Burma. They were some of the first American missionaries.

Harriet’s short story is sad, but not surprising, given the times. When the Burmese government found out the group would be preaching Christianity, they ordered the missionaries to leave. A now-pregnant Harriet and her husband headed by ship to the Isle of France (Mauritius) in the Indian Ocean.

The trip was brutal. During those three months at sea, Harriet gave birth two days before her nineteenth birthday. The baby died a few days later. By the time the ship finally reached land, Harriet had contracted tuberculosis and doctors were unable to help her. By November 30, she, too, had died, leaving Samuel alone in a strange land. Harriet became known as the first American missionary martyr.

Right about now you’re probably wondering, Why am I being told this sad story? Where’s the inspiration?

From the age of thirteen, Harriet kept a journal. She also was a prolific letter writer. In 1814, her memoirs were published, including parts of her journals and letters. The book was so inspirational that for twenty-five years, a new edition was published almost annually. People loved to read about how Harriet’s faith guided her in the years leading up to her missionary adventure.

Providence now gives me an opportunity to go myself to the heathen. Shall I refuse the offer—shall I love the glittering toys of this dying world so well, that I cannot relinquish them for God? Forbid it heaven! Yes, I will go. However weak and unqualified I am, there is an all-sufficient Saviour ready to support me.

Some historical Christians seem larger than life—we could never hope to act with their courage, skill, or stamina—but not Harriet Newell. She faced a choice we all face in one way or another—to follow God’s leading or to play with the “glittering toys of this world”? The promise she clung to is ours as well. We may be “weak and unqualified,” but the Savior supports us, too.

My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.

2 Corinthians 12:9