THERE ARE THINGS in life that keep us in permanent wakes—they echo our past and emphasize the present.
They tell us what we have done well—and where we have done poorly, we become afraid.
In the 1930s, many Americans faced a grim existence—family savings were gone, and no one could deny the dark realities of the day.
"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself," said Franklin Roosevelt.
While he noted the difficult days ahead, he promised to return the courage the people reposed in him.
He understood that what they were going through was deeper than they could imagine.
He also reminded them that the hard days would be worth the cost if they learnt something.
The question is, what are you learning today? What are these difficult times teaching you?
Tell the Truth
IF YOU'RE IN LEADERSHIP, you must learn to steer the people in the direction to go and tell them the truth.
God delights in honest people—and lying lips are disgusting to Him. (Proverbs 12:22)
When the Ammonites and Moabites came against Judah, Jehoshaphat called for a fast. And all the people stood before the Lord. (2 Chronicles 20:13)
Roosevelt's inaugural speech reflected his concern for the future. However, he asked the Lord to protect them and guide him in the days to come.
News is Important
IT'S SELFISH to suppress the news. When leaders do this, they erode their credibility.
Learn to speak to people's experience and show empathy. It pulls everyone together.
When people realize that their leader cares about their well being, they are delighted.
"We must learn to regard people less in the light of what they do or omit to do, and more in the light of what they suffer" – Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
Dignity is vital
EVERYONE'S dignity matters to God. When leaders give people direction, they lighten their burden.
Extending assistance to someone in need makes you human.
Franklin Roosevelt read the mood of the people when he dedicated the nation to the policy of the good neighbour—where the neighbour respects himself and the rights of others.
When people brought a woman accused of adultery to Jesus, they continued to demand for an answer.
And he said, "All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!" (John 8:7)
When they heard this, each one of them left. And Jesus told her to go and sin no more—every life matter to Him.
Sacrifice for others
EVERYONE IN JUDAH gave up their food to fast. They trusted God for a great outcome. (2 Chronicles 20:13)
Have you given up your food lately?
Roosevelt told his fellow Americans that their true destiny is not to be ministered to but to treat themselves to their fellow men.
He taught them how to give up certain things to keep others safe.
The Good Samaritan gave up his money and time to save a stranger. (Luke 10:25-37)
And Jesus gave his life to save the world. (John 3:16)
Give Hope
THE DAY after the people of Judah met with the Lord, Jehoshaphat said to them, "Believe in the Lord your God, and you shall be established. Believe in his servants, the prophets, and you shall prosper." (2 Chronicles 20:20)
He gave them hope.
BRINGING IT TOGETHER
IF YOU'RE worried, you are not alone.
David said, "Why are you so downcast oh my soul? Put your hope in God." (Psalm 42:5)
To be strengthened, you have to look inwards. And if you're going to be saved, you must look upwards.