Stories of Faith and Courage From Civil War OfficersSample

# If His Will Be Otherwise? GENERAL WILLCOX had a loving and caring mother. He often shared his innermost thoughts with her, knowing she would pray for him. In the following letter to her, Willcox makes a profound statement about God’s will for his life. Fredericksburg, Dec. 16, 1862 My darling Mother, The cannonading has begun. It is probable that I shall be engaged today in a very bloody battle. I hope God will shield me from harm, but if His will be otherwise, I can meekly submit. I can only convey to you my trust which you have taught me and to crave your blessing, ‘Thanking you for all your great love and care and asking your pardon for all my faults. With love to Eben and all my sisters and their families, I remain Your devoted son, Orlando. General Willcox was ready to accept the will of God even if it meant being injured or dying in battle. He had prepared himself for whatever happened in his life and said that he was ready to “meekly submit.” Paul the apostle spoke of adverse circumstances and learned to be content with God no matter what happened. His life was hid in Christ in spite of difficulties. He suffered shipwreck, imprisonment, hunger, persecution, and had a physical problem he called “a thorn in the flesh.” This problem (which scholars think was poor eyesight) plagued him throughout his ministry. Yet he said in Philippians 4:11–13, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” God’s ways are higher than our way of thinking. If we had it our way, we would never experience problems or suffer trials. If we go through life expecting our Christian walk to be free of trials, we will spend most of our time disappointed. Paul wisely submitted to God’s will no matter the circumstances. He made a choice to be content in both the good times and the bad. Are you struggling with a problem in your life that will not go away? Try yielding your will to God’s will. In His perfect timing, He will either deliver you or give you the strength to endure.