Assurance

June 18

Theodore Roosevelt is noted for his flamboyant and adventuresome spirit. He was President of the United States at a time when his style of leadership was very effective. He is famous for one quote in particular, “Walk softly, but carry a big stick.” The point of his words was that a nation or an individual should be gentle but strong.

That is good advice yet today. Our sliver of time on life’s clock is moving away from the prosperity and blessing that we’ve enjoyed. We are economically weak. We are burdened with leaders who are lacking in moral and patriotic conviction. Above all, we are spiritually impaired because of a falling away from the truth of God that is the only authentic source of strength for any people.

When we see the result of our decline, we become disheartened, for the outcome of our falling away from a position of economic and political and moral strength portends of a bleak time for the generations that will follow ours. Yet, when we are well-nigh overcome with despair, when every reason for confidence seems to be gone, we reflect upon the Word of God which is our hope in every manner of adverse circumstance.

We contemplate the assurance David gives in Psalm 29:11 which says, “The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace.” The strength He gives transcends the frailty imposed upon us by passing time. The peace that He gives lifts our spirits even when the temporal aspects of our lives are weighted down with care. His presence and power are our hope in every situation we face.