Robert Murray M'Cheyne (R.M.M.) left a indelible mark on the church of Scotland and on the church through the world. Living during the first half of the 19th century, he endeavored to live his life completely consummed with the glory of His God. For R.M.M., there was no dissection between the spiritual and physical. Several lessons can be learned from this man of God.

First, I am amazed at his devotion to the study of the Word of God. From his memoirs, one can easily notice the breadth of the Bible that he covered in his sermons. He did not confine himself to the New Testament, nor to those passages which are familiar. R.M.M. profoundly believed in the truth of God's Word.
Second, his devotion to pastoral ministry is unparalleled. Often, he would visit several families each day during the week. He made it a point not to mettle in much everyday conversation and without hesitation, would often seek to turn the conversation to the spiritual in order to encourage or confront. He desired for others to know God in as real a way as he did.
Third, and quite possibly the most impacting lesson, was the mark that he left on the church of Scotland and on the world. The astounding fact is that he died at the young age of 29. In only his twenties, R.M.M. was held in high esteem by Scotish saint and sinner alike. His preaching, his commitment to holiness, and his evident love for the Lord impressed many Scots. Thousands flocked to his burial to mourn over the passing of a true man of God.
In an American Christianity today where most seminarians and aspiring ministerial students seek to impress others by their credentials, to change the church of its forms and labels and philosophies, and to solidify a reputation among the crowds, Robert Murray M'Cheyne stands as an incredible example to immulate. Simply put, we, as R.M.M., should be known not by ourselves, and our propositions, and ministerial ideologies, but by our God.