Today we remember the Battle of Britain. It was a turning point in WW2. If the RAF hadn’t held off the Luftwaffe, Hitler would likely have moved on with Operation Sea lion land invasion of the British Isles. Who’s to say what would have happened then? Britons would have been devastated and the move to halt Hitler’s advance and rise to power would have been severely affected. It was one of the most important victories of the Second World War and a major contribution to the defeat of the Germans. It changed war forever as it demonstrated the significance of air power and technology.
Even though it was recognised by many that God was protecting our country answering prayers of deliverance, after the war saw the start of the decline in Church attendance. Sadly, once life becomes easier and we feel less threatened, we become complacent and don’t see the need for God.
I love the sentiments of two verses of this hymn written by Richard Bewes, based on Psalm 46 and set to the Dambusters March.
God is our strength and refuge,
Our present help in trouble;
And we therefore will not fear,
Though the earth should change!
Though mountains shake and tremble,
Though swirling floods are raging,
God the Lord of Hosts is with us evermore!
Come, see the works of Our Maker,
Learn of His deeds all-powerful:
Wars will cease across the world
When He shatters the spear!
Be still and know Your Creator,
Uplift Him in the nations –
God the Lord of Hosts is with us evermore!