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A commemorative casebound edition of Beyond the Odds – Providence in Britain’s Wars of the 20th Century has been released to mark the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, when the Allied Forces launched a simultaneous invasion of five Normandy beaches, in what was to be the largest combined naval, air and land military operation in history. It was the turning point in the Allies’ war against Germany in World War II – then in its fifth year – and would lead to the liberation of France and north-west Europe from Nazi occupation.   

Despite meticulous planning there was no certainty of victory. The chances of the weather and the tide being favourable toward the combined operation of ground, sea and air forces on 6th June 1944 were 50:1 against.

“The invasion of Europe on D-Day signified more than a battle. Upon its outcome rested the hopes and anxieties of millions, giving the battle a moral significance…” (p.395)

Prayer encompassed D-Day. Commanders saw the hand of God in circumstances surrounding the invasion. Rees Howells, founder and director of the Bible College of Wales, had a particular calling for himself and the College to pray concertedly for the nation. 

Field Marshall Montgomery’s message to be read out to all troops before the invasion included the following:

To us is given the honour of striking a blow for freedom which will live in history; and in the better days that lie ahead men will speak with pride in our doings. We have a great and righteous cause.

Let us pray that “The Lord mighty in battle” will go forth with our armies, and that His special providence will aid us in the struggle.  

Chapter 8 of Beyond the Odds, The Road to Victory 1943-1944, is a gripping and detailed account of the preparation, execution and outcome of the D-Day invasion. Other chapters consider further evidence of God’s favourable hand in Britain’s conflicts of the 20th century. The book includes a chapter on ‘Churchill’s Christianity’ and another on the ‘The Siege of Malta’.

Despite the terrible suffering in the wars, even at this distance in time, we have lessons to learn and much to be thankful for. We hope that this 80th Anniversary of D-Day edition of Beyond the Odds – Providence in Britain’s Wars of the 20th Century reminds you that our God is a prayer answering God and inspires you to fervent prayer once again for our nation.

To order your copy of this commemorative edition, please send an e-mail to info@wilberforcepublications.co.uk including a contact telephone number.