THE WAR CRY/XXXXXXX XX, 2012
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weak, mean spirit in which this divine war of ours is
carried on. We are not behind other sections of the
great army of God. We are abreast them. But that is
not saying very much, and I cannot allow that we
should measure ourselves by ourselves. Where are we
for daring and self�sacrifice alongside these men who
so freely spill their blood on desert sands, who refuse
to be beaten, and who are still waiting to obey com-
mands which may carry them on to certain death?
We must go again to the altar. God shall have sol-
diers who will outstrip in bravery and endurance and
sacrifice in this war of life all who fight in any other
cause and under any other flag.
4.
We must have enthusiasm.
Whatever was the feeling
in a country initially towards this war, eventually there
is enthusiastic determination to carry it on to victory.
The command has gone forth that the general is to
secure this result, and the country will give all the men
and money and materials in order to gain this end.
That is the style. When will it become to this with
The Salvation Army? How we poor warriors--those of
us who are willing to fight--have to stay our hand from
the battle to beg the bread of those who are laying
down their lives in this war. There must be better days
for us. There must be a time when, instead of everlast-
ing chiding and condemning the little earnestness there
is in the hearts of those who stand in the front rank, we
shall be pushed forward with the cheers and entreaties
of those in the rear; and the ringing command will be
sounded out on our rears, "Onward! All needed sup-
plies shall be forthcoming. Order all that you need.
Trouble yourselves only with the best measures needed
to carry you on to victory!"
5.
T
his will mean success.
Whatever comes between all
nations seek ultimate victory--such victory as comes
out of the bloody business of human war. Very unsat-
isfactory and unremunerative as a rule. But such mea-
sures as I have noticed will mean that glorious success
to our banners which means always blessing without
sorrow or tears.
Hold on, my comrades! Take fresh hold. Let us
review the reasons for our conflict. We fight not for
one man, not for one garrison. We fight for the deliv-
erance of the whole world. The destiny of millions,
nay, I verily believe of hundreds of millions , is hang-
ing in the balance--depending to an awful extent on
the enthusiastic, skillful, and self�sacrificing, conduct
and maintenance of this war.
Oh, let us throw ourselves back upon our God. Let
us imitate Him. Let us go back to the example of our
great Commander�in�Chief. Let us consider how and
for what He fought and follow Him. You know, my
comrades, whither that following will lead you. You
sing about it--Will you follow Him? God help you!
This article by General William Booth, Founder of The Salvation
Army, was originally published in 1885.
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