Lessons from World War II

In the two world wars during the first half of the 20^th century a staggering 95 million lives were lost.  It’s staggering to think that if it hadn’t been for the crucial role of the Church and those in national leadership at that time in European history, the outcome may have been very different. 

The inspiring leadership of Winston Churchill and the grace of God saved us from Britain being under Fascist rule, possibly speaking German, Parliament abolished, the Monarchy disbanded, nil Jewish citizens living among us, compulsory infanticide and euthanasia commonplace.

In a few weeks’ time we’ll be commemorating the ending of the Second World War, the end of Hitler’s regime and the end of death camps such as Auschwitz.  Dark days indeed, but even in the midst of the suffering and loss, God was at work.  Christians were actively involved all over Europe, living out their faith, and many courageously helping Jewish people and others who were at risk.

What we are reminded of less often by documentaries and history books, is that King George VI and Parliament called National Days of Prayer seven times during the war years; three within the first twelve months.  In many ways this resulted in God’s deliverance of our nation.  There were also the intercessors.  Rees Howells, for example, interceded throughout the second World War, and received remarkable revelation and insight from the Lord for what to pray, when and for whom.  He also knew certain specific things ahead of time from the Lord about what would take place, and was able to stand in the gap in prayer.

In today’s secular climate, it’s highly unlikely that our politicians would call the nation to prayer in the way George VI did, or that the nation would respond, if they were to.  Nevertheless, we’re exhorted to ‘pray in the spirit at all times and on every occasion, stay alert and be persistent in your prayers (Ephesians 6:18).’ 

We’ll never know to what extent the course of the war rested with those calling out to the Lord.  It’s certainly an essential prerequisite for the days ahead.

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