Francis Asbury’s New Year Prayer (1780)

On January 1, 1780, Francis Asbury recorded a plea that has echoed through generations: “My God, keep me through the water and fire, and let me rather die than live to sin against thee!” Written in his journal during the Revolutionary War, the prayer captures a pastor’s fear of spiritual compromise more than physical danger. It is the language of consecration—asking God not merely for safety, but for holiness under pressure.

Asbury’s words recall Scripture’s call to steadfast endurance: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you… When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched” (Isaiah 43:2). Yet he goes further, confessing that life without obedience is no life at all. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9) expresses the hope beneath his severity: God keeps, cleanses, and restores those who cling to Him.

Revolutionary Hardship and the Itinerant Shepherd

In 1780 the American colonies were torn by conflict, suspicion, and scarcity. Travel could invite illness, robbery, or accusation of disloyalty. Asbury, an English-born Methodist leader, was pressed on all sides—often isolated, frequently unwelcome, and continually exposed. He persisted in preaching, organizing societies, and strengthening believers when churches were few and roads were rough.

His “water and fire” was not metaphor alone. River crossings, winter storms, hunger, and long stretches without trusted companions were common. The greater trial was loneliness and the temptation to soften conviction for comfort. His prayer reveals a shepherd’s aim: to guard his soul so he could guard the flock.

Courage as Holy Resolve

Asbury’s heroism was not bravado but obedience. He rode to bring the gospel to scattered settlements, urging repentance, faith, and practical godliness. He modeled the truth that love for God must include hatred of sin, and that perseverance is sustained by prayer.

His journal line stands as a summons for every believer beginning a new season: ask God not merely for easier days, but for a clean heart, a steady will, and the courage to endure anything rather than betray Christ.