The King’s Speech

The people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land where death casts its shadow a light has dawned."
—Matthew 4:16

His father, who had courageously led England through World War I, passed away a year ago. His older brother had abdicated the throne, choosing heart over kingdom. George VI, the younger brother, the reluctant leader, was now king, facing a Second World War, a kingdom in need of leadership and inspiration in the face of daunting challenges. George VI had a huge personal challenge, as he stammered so badly he dreaded public speaking, struggling to make himself understood.

His wife, later known as the greatly beloved Queen Mother, encouraged him to engage the help of a speech therapist to overcome his impediment. Exercise sessions, breath control, enunciation all resulted in a remarkable gift that helped lead the kingdom of England through their darkest days.

But the lesson was more than learning to overcome his challenges; it was about trust.


First, trust in the support and counsel of his spouse who encouraged him, helped him practice and supported him every step of the way. Secondly, trust in his speech coach who helped him go to places and spaces in his life that made success possible.

Long before the movie of the same title, which I look forward to seeing soon, I heard stories from my late grandfather who flew George VI’s father, King George V, on a sortie over the North Sea during World War I. My grandfather told me of the challenges they faced in the "war to end all wars" and how this young king stood tall in his father's shoes.

Hanging over my grandfather’s kitchen table was a poem excerpt from George VI’s Christmas address of 1939. Its message for the people of England in those challenging days is as applicable now as it was then. Simply entitled The Man at the Gate.

I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year,

"Give me light that I may tread safely into the unknown."

And he replied,

"Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God.

That shall be to you better than the light and safer than the known way!"

So I went forth and finding the hand of God

Trod gladly into the night.

Every day you have the challenge and privilege of helping people find hope in the midst of their challenging moments. Share this story; invite them to find the hand of God!