It is the morning of April 6, 1917. The headlines proclaim the United States has declared war on Germany. Most people are reeling with concern – but one man begins humming a tune.

Balaam said to Balak, “Stand here beside your burnt offering, while I meet the Lord over there.”

Numbers 23:15

George M. Cohan, actor, singer, dancer, songwriter, playwright and Broadway producer responsible for hundreds of songs including “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” “Give My Regards to Broadway,” and “I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy,” began composing a song in his mind. By the afternoon, the anthem for World War I was written, the classic song “Over There.”

In 1936, Cohan was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for writing the words: So prepare, say a prayer / Send the word, send the word to beware / We’ll be over there, we’re coming over / And we won’t come back till it’s over – over there. Cohan wrote about America’s determination to do whatever it would take to win liberty for the oppressed.

As a believer in Christ, you are enlisted in God’s army. Your orders are to stand beside your nation in prayer while God completes His plan to conquer death and darkness. Hold your position today with courage and determination. In His timing, God will win the war and take His people into a glorious eternity…over there.

Recommended Reading: Luke 21:9-19