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Listen while you read: "To God Be The Glory"1 (Lyrics) |
During these days of crisis and uncertainty, the memories and experiences of the British people during the dark times of the Second World War come to mind. The nation faced a dangerous and seemingly unstoppable enemy army, as it marched across western Europe and nations fell before it. Many of the fears, conflicting information, opinions, and prejudices that we are feeling today echo those felt by the Britons in those desperate times.
I am reminded of Sir Winston Churchill's leadership and inspiration. Facing intense opposition by his own government, he resisted the pressure to capitulate and enter into peace negotiations with the German and Italian governments. Despite the incredible danger faced by private boat owners and fishermen, he motivated them to cross the English Channel and rescue 300,000 stranded British troops from the beaches of Dunkirk. He made the terrible decision to command the small garrison at Calais to hold off the German army, while the sea rescue went on. Churchill is often quoted as saying, "Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." His courage infected the people, and it turned the tide of the conflict.
Moses also urged the people of Israel (and us) to have courage.
Deuteronomy 31:6 – Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you. (ESV)
I have heard some definitions of courage: it is grace under pressure, fear that has said its prayers. Moses encouraged his people to keep their eyes on the Promised Land, because of the inheritance that God had offered them — even when it meant being somewhere that they had never been before. There was also new leadership; Joshua had been trained by Moses as his successor. Joshua had strong faith, was decisive, and was obedient to God.
Pray for our leaders today, that God will give them the faith and courage to lead our nations out and conquer any pandemic that threatens us. Be inspired by the courage and "V for Victory" of Churchill, and know that the same God is faithful and walks with us in our struggles. Victory is not won through force of arms, human abilities, or scientific strategies; it is from God Himself.
Prayer: Dearest Lord, as we struggle to be brave during times of crisis, may we devote ourselves to reading Your Word for Your wisdom and encouragement, to praying in faith for our leaders, and to an unwavering faith in You. Amen.
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Thank you.
Thanks for the good word, Shirley.
Thank you, Shirley. Great reminder especially the line, God walks with us in our struggles!
Thanks, Shirley for these encouraging words this morning! Helped me and surely will bless others through you.
Thank you for your devotion today. It is a great reminder to us to trust in God for Victory over all that troubles us.
Thank you, Shirley, for this powerful message. I am agreeing with you in prayer and may God lead us through this. Amen.
Dear Shirley,
Thanks again for another inspiring, timely, eloquent devotional.
Blessings and Joy.
Good afternoon Shirley,
Thanks very much for your reflection. It is good to remember the courageous leadership of W.C., and the British people.
Keep safe.
Dear Shirley:
Thank you so much for your inspiring words and deep faith. It’s at times like these I want to shout it from the rooftops that God is in charge! Praise the Lord!
May He bless you and keep you safe and healthy.
Good morning Shirley,
Good devotional this morning, as always, I noticed that you were inspired to burst into print on several occasions during these strange times. We should indeed pray for the leaders of the various countries that they make the right decisions.
Thank you for writing, I always appreciate your good words.
Blessings.
Good morning Shirley,
Thanks for submitting your writing this morning. It is very mindful that our leaders really need our prayers too, that they will follow the Lord’s way in making decisions to successfully get through the problems at this time. The Lord is the one in charge for sure and in His timing will bring us through this crisis. Our faith must remain strong each and every day as we await answer to prayers.
Blessings for your thoughtful writing.
(B.C.)
Dear Shirley,
Thank for your being bold, and brave, and above all trusting-in-our-Lord Devotional. Our Lord Jesus Himself gives us His example.
I pray that people will keep praying.
And I pray that God will give a break-through to those scientists who are trying to produce treatments and injections and cures for the Covid virus.
Praying in Jesus’ name. Amen
Keep writing.
I am old enough to remember all that and wartime restrictions here in Canada. There are many similarities.
And the same God is on the job.