The War Begins Here

Fort Sumter, Charleston, South Carolina

Click on this SoundCloud link to listen to an audio recording of today's blog.

Technically the American Civil War didn't end at Fort Sumter but it did begin here. The federal government built Fort Sumter following the War of 1812. Though the work of building the stronghold began in Charleston Harbor in 1829, the fort wasn't completed until 1860. Then on April 12, 1861 the first shots of the Civil War were fired on Fort Sumter.

Most of the damage you see in this picture was the product of relentless Union attempts to recapture the fort beginning in 1863. From the first shots fired on her until the end, it is estimated that over seven million tons of ammunition fell on Fort Sumter. On February 17, 1865 the North succeeded in recapturing the fort. Less than two months later Confederate General Lee surrendered the Army of North Virginia at Appomattox.  

Much of life feels like the constant barrage of Fort Sumter. 

"I fall asleep in peace the moment I lie down because you alone, O LORD, enable me to live securely."  Psalm 4:8 God's Word to the Nations

Many of you reading this blog wish that what the psalmist proclaimed would be your reality. When your head hits the pillow it is only the beginning of the barrage of thoughts, emotions and physical anguish in the timeless darkness of night.

From his conception in Mary's womb to his ascension at the right hand of the Father, Jesus took the bombardment of hell for you. You see, the psalmist could sleep not because of his efforts but because of his God who made him live securely.  

The rest that God gives us this side of the grave is only a small picture of the rest we will have with him when he fulfills his promise to bring his bride home on the day of resurrection.

Until then, may you find rest from beginning to end in the one who won the battle for you.

Join the conversation on our Facebook group: Praying With the Eyes

You can listen to the Praying With the Eyes broadcast on The iB Network Internet radio station every Sunday at 8:00 & 11:30 am, as well as, 1:00 & 8:00 pm MDT (www.ibnetwork.us). You can also listen to the show using the Tunin app on your mobile device.  

(Click on picture to enlarge.)

Text and Photographs ©Copyright 2012-2015 Douglas P. Brauner.  ARR.