A Letter to the PM for the battles ahead



Dear Mrs. Theresa May,

This is a brief note, which I shall also publish on my website.

Many people will realise how profound the increase in personal pressure on you has become as result of the considerable change of tone in the Brexit negotiations. Prominent amongst the considerations must be the length and scale of the challenges ahead.

We will be praying for you often, for wisdom, skill, resolve and humility to Him Who knows better than all.

There are two short scripture passages your predecessors have found helpful. Both designed for just such times. The first was read at Lady Thatcher’s funeral, and must I think have meant much to her to enable a clear and calm focus in the midst of adversity.

The second, has been if anything a more helpful formula for the battlefield, not least because of its calming and deepening assurance, as Lord Shaftesbury and William Wilberforce proved many times, dependent as they were on the Master they loved and followed. I have found it of great comfort when feeling pounded like steel on an anvil by trying circumstances.

‘Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world,
against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints’ Ephes. 6.10-18


‘Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.
Let your moderation [wise reasonableness] be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
Be careful [tensely anxious] for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.’ Phil.4.4-7


May the Almighty God Who daily rules in the midst of human affairs save, bless and keep you and yours,
Yours sincerely,

Charles Soper

(5/05/17)