Some speeches are better than others. One U.S. president gave a speech that was considered so pathetic by members of the press that they didn’t even bother to report what was said. “We pass over the silly remarks of the President,” wrote the reporter for a Pennsylvania newspaper. “For the credit of the nation we are willing that the veil of oblivion shall be dropped over them, and they shall be no more repeated or thought of.”

And you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.

Mark 13:13

The president who was the subject of this attack was named Abraham Lincoln. The speech in question was the Gettysburg Address. Though revered as perhaps our greatest leader, it’s easy to forget that Lincoln was despised by many in his day.

Popularity is not important. Perseverance is. Your biblical beliefs are sure to draw opposition and scorn…maybe even hatred. Jesus knows all about that, and He will make things right in His time. For now, continue in God’s will and endure. As you pray for your senators and representatives today, ask the Lord to give them the courage and conviction to choose godly principle over popularity, lest a “veil of oblivion” descend upon America.

Recommended Reading: Romans 5:1-11