Abraham Lincoln's Daily Treasure: Moments of Faith with America's Favorite President—Devotional Readings with Insights of Wisdom and Courage from US President Abraham Lincoln

by Thomas Freiling

Mr. Roland Diller, who was one of Abraham Lincoln’s neighbors in Springfield, Illinois, tells the following story: “I was called to the door one day by the cries of children in the street, and there was Mr. Lincoln, striding by with two of his boys, both of whom were wailing aloud. ‘Why, Mr. Lincoln, what’s the matter with the boys?’ I asked. ‘Just what’s the matter with the whole world,’ Lincoln replied. ‘I’ve got three walnuts, and each wants two.’” Abraham Lincoln knew that most conflicts, however complex they might seem, really come down to one thing: greed. When we grow up, it’s not walnuts we’re concerned about. It’s bigger houses, promotions, and new cars. But the principles are the same. When you focus on giving, not getting, you find yourself a much happier and more content person.

Simple. Insightful.

Judge Joseph Gillespie was a friend of Abraham Lincoln and went to Springfield to see him shortly before Lincoln’s departure for the presidential inauguration. “It was,” said Judge Gillespie, “Lincoln’s Gethsemane. He feared he was not the man for the great position and the great events that confronted him. Untried in national affairs, unversed in international diplomacy, unacquainted with the men who were foremost in the politics of the nation, he groaned when he saw the inevitable War of the Rebellion coming on. It was in humility of spirit that he told me he believed that the American people had made a mistake in selecting him.” It is almost unbelievable that a man as capable as Lincoln would feel so inadequate. It is a testament to his humility and his ability to see the hugeness of the task at hand. While many other politicians would have jumped at the chance to be president, Lincoln knew the hugeness of the task was bigger than any one man. The next time you’re looking for someone to help you with a big task, try those who tell you they’re not so sure they can help.

Where are the men and women of humility?