THE STRENGTH OF NATIONS

CYRUS COOPER

FRIENDSVILLE CURRENT, VOL. 13, NO. 11 (ELEVENTH MONTH, 1938.)


It is a familiar saying that, "the strength of a chain is no greater than its weakest link." So also the strength of a nation is measured by its homes, by its people, its true character is known by that of its men and women.

I would so like if I could, to give a word of encouragement to every body, in the need of seeking to be God's representatives, wherever they live; to be peacemakers, upon whom a blessing is pronounced by the Lord Jesus to his disciples.

The right atmosphere of the home is of great moment, for it affects the members and as the day is begun right, under the influence of His peaceable spirit, it tends to send forth help unto all they meet.

"The foundation of God standeth sure," having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his" [2 Timothy 2:19.] As this is true, we must believe he is ready to take care of them, and the influence of such would be felt, as they abide in Him and his words abide in them. He is near to them granting their requests, among which will be their prayers for the community in which they live and for the nation, that the people thereof may fear the Lord and give glory to His name.

It is very evident that Christ intended to be the influence of every home, for, "The Lord is no respecter of persons," [Acts 10:34; see also Romans 2:11 and Ephesians 6:9](1) for he told his disciples that in whatsoever house ye enter, first say peace be to this house; and if the Son of peace is there, your peace will he upon it. There he counseled them to remain, for it would be safe. What an honor, what a blessing.

A good beginning is not necessarily a right continuing, but it is a great help and brings down the blessings of the Almighty upon such. We all know we must seek afresh every morning the heavenly Manna, must look unto the Lord for his counsel and direction and this is best found as we have the practice every morning of reading in that good book, the Holy Bible, where we find the record of many that have lived before, and then as we wait upon Him, He will seal instruction upon our minds, reminding us of His blessed will, and cause us to begin afresh each day, in his fear and counsel.

"For the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and to depart from iniquity is understanding.''

It is undoubtedly true, that a country made up of such people, homes, would bring down His blessings and preservation, or where there is one such, would be of untold benefit, for it is written, "One shall chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight."(2)

1. 1.See also Deuteronomy 1:17, 16:19; 2 Chronicles 19:17; Proverbs 24:23, 28:21; James 2:9, and 1 Peter 1:17. -pds

2. 2.... Probably either Deuteronomy 32:30 or Joshua 23:10. -pds.