Week 27 Day 4

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Don’t Be Discouraged

Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.

Romans 15:2

May I from every act abstain,

That hurts or gives another pain:

Still may I feel my heart inclin’d

To be the friend of all mankind.

The Civil War was a confusing time. Not only was the country at war, but it was at war with itself. Relationships were strained between families and friends. Finances were tight, even nonexistent, for most people. There was much loneliness and despair as disease and death spread throughout the country. Nevertheless, Lincoln calmly told the citizens of the Union, “Let nothing discourage or baffle you.” He told them to be clear-minded, not to be disoriented, but to stay focused on the absolute rightness of what they were doing. There are times in life when things do seem confused, when everything that was familiar and in order suddenly becomes disorderly. At times like these, look to the One who is good and true, then heed Lincoln’s advice and don’t be baffled.