“The Year Before Us"

White Ribbon, Volume 21, Issue 1, 1 February 1949, Page 2

“The Year Before Us"

Shadowed by the ghosts of dead hopes in regard to some alleviation of the Liquor Problem in New Zealand as * the climax to four years of expectation; and still suffering from the blow struck in the Licensing Act; we must turn our eyes to the future. Its tasks are awaiting us. W’e must face them. Were we to fail, who vould dream of undertaking them? Are we down-hearted ? Well, what do we mean exactly by 44 down-hearted ’ ? If we mean despairing, hopeless, defeated, then we are NOT down-hearted. If we mean that disappointment, sorrow, and indignation have their part in our feeling towards the legislation which went through the House in December, then wc must confess that we are suffering keenly in that way. What effect is it to have on us? Will it mean that some will fall away; or that some, hitherto full of hopeful, enthusiasm, will allow the canker of frustration to rob them of their joy in the great service? Will it, on the other hand, drive us to a fresh dedication to that service of God, Home, and Humanity? Let us look at this possibility. It is true, as history abundantly proves, that the strength of possible resistance can never be known till it is fully tested. It is when the prospect is darkest, and the danger most threatening, that the latent powers spring into new and strong activity It is then, too. that God manifests Himself in unexpected and overwhelming ways. The Bible contains instance after instance of 'this; and even in our own memory, this has been proved.

We have seen, in the legislation just carried out, the shameful spectacle of a pandering to the wealth and power of ar. Evil which has gained ground ai the expense of womanhood, youth, manhood, social purity, security from accident, morSl stability and spiritual development. The challenge is to us to w’ork as never before to prove that no failure on the part of our legislators to safeguard these most vital and precious things can stop the Hosts of God in their march to final victory. We can do no other than prepare for the next pitched battle, due to take place early in March, if not sooner. We should organise now. In places w’herc the Alliance is functioning, fo-operation should be offered; but independent action should not be delayed. The distribution of literature, obtainable from our own Department and from the Alliance can be proceeded with at any time. Such opportunities as are offered for publicity as A. and P. Shows, Flower Shows, etc. should be used. Voting people are showing interest in the fight; and the 44 Youth for Christ ” movement has, in some instances, offered very practical help. Our strongest weapon is one not available to the enemy. That is Prayer. No Union is too small or insignificant to organise meetings for special prayer. No one can estimate the power of such gatherings. Let us then 44 Be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might . . . putting on the whole armour of God and . . . praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit." Let no dismay overtake us, or any fear that Evil can finally overcome Good.