BIBLICAL PROOF

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 2, Issue 235, 8 November 1940, Page 3

BIBLICAL PROOF

THE VALUE OF PRAYER SPIRITUAL DEFIANCE NEEDED The practicc of praying before embarking on any undertaking has proved its value to individuals and nations. The Bible is lull of such proofs, and countless men and women know from their own experience the help that comes from asking Cod's guidance, seeking to know and do His will. Highly welcome is President Roosevelt's call to the people of the United States for a day of prayer in connection with their present effort to fortify their heritage of freedom. 1 The human mind turns, too easily to iLs own petty planning. It begins too often with merely material measures. It forgets that defence is first of all spiritual and mental. Only by understanding the true nature of man shall we perceive the false nature of the attack, and only bj r divine guidance shall we put on the armour of spiritual and moral courage necessary to effective defence, Whatever other steps are required, defence begins with thinking, Even economic, diplomatic or military measures begin there. And thought which abides under the "shadow ofv the Almighty" will be neither hysterical or apathetic, will know right from wrong, will have the wisdom to design , and the resolution to carry through whatever measures may be necessary. Time after time this process is illustrated in the Bible. Individuals and peoples, seeking guidance and protection from God, have proved the divine power, have learned what steps they should take themselves. David, putting first things first, laid aside Saul's armour which he had not proved, and used with confidence weapons ordinarily scorned Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah prayed for help and wisdom in defending themselves against the Moabites and Ammonites, and their enemies destroyed one another. Elisha was directed how to turn back the hosts of the King of Syria; Sometimes the defenders were not required to light; sometimes, they were guided "as to the means to use. But always by beginning--with the preparedness of prayer, they found protection and peace.