Bravery Required

With full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body. – Philippians 1:20

According to a popular legend, John Hancock signed his name on the Declaration of Independence largely and distinctly so King George could read it without his glasses. While that may not be true, it is factual that one of America’s most ardent patriots put his life on the line with that signature.

On May 24, 1775, Hancock was named as the presiding officer over the Second Continental Congress, which was meeting in Philadelphia to discuss the military threat posed by the British. A little more than a year later, Hancock became the first representative to sign the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, a document which maintained that the thirteen American states were free of British rule. He left a sizable signature which started the modern-day idea of leaving a “John Hancock” on paperwork. However, if the revolution was lost or he was caught, Hancock would have been hanged by the British.

Yet Hancock said, “Principally and first of all, I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it: and my body I recommend to the earth. Nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mercy and power of God.”

As the culture becomes darker, you will make choices that are not popular. But as you pray and read God’s Word, listen closely to His voice. The Holy Spirit will give you wisdom and courage to follow His plan. And remember that is priceless. Pray also that the nation’s leaders today will have the courage to make righteous decisions as the Founders did.