A Striking Poster From WWII

At a time when there is an increasing focus on rearmament in the face of hostile states and developing threats, we’ve discovered a WWII poster that called UK citizens to an even more important task: moral and spiritual rearmament.

The words were written by businessman Richard Haile in 1940, who had been inspired by others’ calls to moral rearmament and then felt God telling him to write a message to 20 million people on the subject. He initially distributed the message around his local housing estate, but it captured others’ attention – it went on to be printed in one format or another by 350 mayors and civic authorities around the country, enabling the 20 million people to be reached.

While our government invests in the latest military kit, let’s pray our nation would also look to the past – to God’s deliverances when we humbled ourselves before Him, and to the “ancient paths” of God’s ways where we’ll find the only true rest and security.

Poster transcript - "How to play your part"

"Forget yourself in helping your neighbours. In days of tension this casts out your own fears and worries. Help them to carry out all instructions about air-raids, evacuation, rationing and waste.

Keep the moral standards of the nation high. Don’t weaken the home front by trying to wangle something for yourself on the quiet. Make a break with all the personal indulgence, selfishness and private wars which undermine national morale and unity. Everybody has his part to play in the moral re-armament of the nation.

Be a rumour-stopper. Those who love their country sacrifice the luxury of being the ones to pass on “the news.” Any patriot shoots a rumour dead on sight. Face the facts, but don’t exaggerate them. Prepare to meet them instead. Faith, confidence and cheerfulness are as contagious as fear, depression and grumbling.

The secret of steadiness and inner strength is to listen to God and do what He says. God speaks directly to the heart of every man and woman who is prepared to listen and obey. Write down the thoughts He gives you. His voice can be heard wherever you are — in the home, in the factory, in the air-raid shelter, in the first-aid post.

Forearm yourself by listening to God first thing every morning. This provides a clear plan for each day and the power to work with other people in complete unity. In a time of listening God takes away fear and fortifies against uncertainty, hardship or bereavement; He gives foresight and cool judgment; He offers limitless reserves of energy and initiative.

A British General who has fought through two wars said this:

“Telephone wires may be cut, wireless stations be destroyed, but no bombardment can stop messages from God coming through if we are willing to receive them. To listen to God and obey Him is the highest form of national service for everybody everywhere.”

PIN THIS UP IN YOUR HOME, OFFICE OR SHELTER"

Download a printable version of the poster here.