August 4, 2026
— Kingston de Gruché (biographer) · Source: Doctor Apricot of "Heaven-Below": The Story of the Hangchow Medical Mission (C.M.S.) (London: Marshall Brothers, 1910), ch. II
Philippians 4:6-7, 13 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ... I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
When Dr. Main first arrived in Hangzhou, the hospital was primitive, funds were scarce, and his wife was worn down by the work. He was not crushed by these difficulties: he urged his wife to "cheer up," did what he could by writing to ask for funds, and then "spread out" the letter before the Lord. This echoes the Epistle to the Philippians: true trust is not standing idly by, but doing our best in the Lord's strength while entrusting the outcome entirely to Him. When we turn our worries into prayer, the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep our hearts and minds. Through the Lord who strengthens us, we can not only face challenges with composure, but also live a vibrant and hopeful life with joy amid the storms of daily life.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for being the strong support in my life. Grant me the wisdom of faith, so that I may no longer be troubled by my current anxieties; grant me faithfulness and zeal to do my utmost in the position You have entrusted to me. Lord, when storms come, protect my heart and mind, grant me joy and peace, and enable me to face challenges with an optimistic and open-minded attitude. Through Jesus Christ, who gives me strength, I firmly believe that I can face all things and manifest Your love and glory in this world. I pray in the holy name of Jesus Christ, Amen!