00 Pastor's Evening Visit
The Pastor’s Evening Visit by James Smith
"Your Father—who sees in secret." Matthew 6:6
Can anyone hide himself from the Lord in secret places?
Can I, under any circumstances, escape His notice?
Impossible!
The eye of God has been fixed upon me every second of this day; it is now at this moment fixed fully upon me. But it is
He sees my needs—and my woes.
He sees every secret working of my foes—and will save me from them.
He sees every secret influence which is likely to injure me—and will prevent it.
He sees . . .
the secret workings of my heart,
my hidden thoughts,
my unuttered desires,
my soul conflicts,
my private temptations.
But He sees also mysecret sins!
Every evil thought,
every improper action,
every unfitting word—
passes under His eye!
Solemn consideration this!
May it make me cautious. May it preserve me. . .
from yielding to temptation,
from nourishing sinful thoughts, and
from acting inconsistent with my profession.
My heavenly Father sees me!
He sees me at this moment!
He sees me every moment!
He sees my most secret motives, thoughts, and purposes!
He who thus sees me—hates every sin with an infinite hatred!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ He was infinitely happy and glorious without us!
"Christ, who loved us!"Romans 8:37
No condition can possibly be more dreary—than to feel that no one loves or cares for us!
There is something peculiarly sweet and pleasant—in being the object of another’s love. Even the love of a poor child is sweet. But to be loved by one who is most wealthy, most exalted in station, and most honorable in character—must be peculiarly delightful!
How, then, should we rejoice; how happy should we be—who are loved by the Lord Jesus! Especially when we consider:
on the one hand:
how despicable,
how poor,
how worthless, and
how unlovely WE are!
And, on the other hand:
how glorious,
how wealthy,
how worthy,
how lovely JESUS is!
To be loved by Jesus—is to be preferred before the possession of a world!
Think of . . .
the glory of His person,
the vastness of His possessions,
the number of His angelic attendants,
the unlimited sovereignty which He exercises,
and the excellent character He bears!
Also bear in mind—that He knew what loving us wouldcostHim—how He would be treated by us and by others—for our sakes!
Yet He fixed His love upon US!
He loved US—just because He would!
He passed by others more dignified in nature, more exalted in station—but He chose US!
He did not, could not, NEED us—for
Yet He loved us!
He still loves us!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Like autumn leaves—we wither and fall!"Isaiah 64:6
What a contrast between an unchangeable God—and a sinner withering like a leaf! Yet, this is a true picture of us—and of all temporal things.
We began to look green and bright not long ago—and in a little time
"How short is life—and how full of trouble! Like a flower—we blossom for a moment—and then wither!" Job 14:1-2. Humbling consideration! But it may be rendered very useful. Let us endeavor to profit by it.
Shall we soon wither and die? Then let us not be overly concerned by anything that occurs here below. Let us set our affections on things above, and lay up for ourselves treasures in heaven. Let us live by faith on Jesus, walk with God, and aim principally to please Him in all that we do. Let us also watch against a worldly spirit, and pass the time of our sojourning here on earth, in fear.
We shall soon find that . . .
health gives place to sickness;
strength gives place to weakness;
youth gives place to old age!
The dying bed, the coffin, and the grave—are just before us!
Let us therefore make our calling and our election sure.
Let us cultivate close and filial fellowship with God.
Let us dig deep and lay our foundation upon the Rock.
Brethren, the time is short! Eternity with all its glories is just before us!
"Like autumn leaves—we wither and fall!"Isaiah 64:6
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"The Lord disciplines those He loves, and He punishes everyone He accepts as a son. Endure hardship as discipline;God is treating you as sons! For what son is not disciplined by his father?" Hebrews 12:6-7
Christian! God is treating you as His own dear children . . .
in what He bestows—and in what He withholds;
in what you enjoy—and in what you suffer!
Our God has made you His children by adopting you into His family, and new-creating you by His Holy Spirit. He always . . .
looks upon you as His children,
loves you as His children,
treats you as His children!
He will not GIVE you—what will harm you!
He will not PUT you—where you will be in danger!
He corrects you as His child, not in wrath—but in mercy.
You are at present ’under training’; you are being educated for eternity. The ’lessons’ you have to learn—are for your benefit.
Every loss,
every cross,
every disappointment,
every pain—
is necessary!
Do you really believe this?
Do you recognize the hand of God in everything that befalls you?
Can you say with Job, "The Lord GAVE"—health, wealth, children, friends;
"and the Lord has TAKEN AWAY—blessed be the name of the Lord!"
Can you say with Eli, "It is the Lord—let Him do what He thinks best!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Fear not, little flock!" Luke 12:32
The Savior’s flock is small.
It exists in the harsh desert.
Enemies surround it.
His lambs, especially, are timid.
But He says, "Fear not, little flock!"
You are your Shepherd’s care!
You are His property!
You are His delight!
He is always present with you!
He is omnipotent to defend you!
Every perfection of His divine nature is employed for you!
He has never lost one of His charge yet—and He never will!
It was said of Him by the prophet, "He will feed His flock like a shepherd.
He gathers His sheep to His fold.
He feeds them in good pasture.
He restores them when they wander.
His CARE of them is incessant!
His LOVE to them passes knowledge!
The PROVISION He has made for them is suitable and abundant.
Beloved, let us know our Shepherd.
Let us listen to His voice.
Let us keep close to His side.
Let us feed and rest among His sheep.
Let us exercise confidence in His kindness and care.
Let us banish our fears, for why should we be alarmed?
Let us cast all our concerns and cares—upon the good Shepherd!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"I thought: Surely I shall die in my nest!" Job 29:18
Job’s nest was very comfortable—and appeared to be very secure. It was on high—and not to be easily reached. He knew that death could reach it—but he thought that nothing else would disturb it.
His conduct was consistent,
his conscience was quiet;
God was his Father, and
providence was his friend.
"I thought: Surely I shall die in my nest!"
But, alas! Suddenly a ’storm’ arose—
No earthly nest is out of danger. Temporal comforts are only lent to us. The higher the tree in which we build—the more exposed to the whirlwind and the storm!
Here on earth—we have no continuing city. In one moment—our fine nest may be devastated! Let us therefore endeavor to leave our matters fully with the Lord—and learn to be content with His appointments.
We must die. But when, and where, and how—should be left with the Lord.
Five minutes after death—it will matter very little whether we died on a bed of down, in a luxurious mansion, surrounded by kind friends—OR as a poor diseased beggar, dying alone in squalor!
Present comforts may all leave us, and our soft nest may be scattered to the winds—but nothing can disturb our salvation and future glory!
"These all died in faith—and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth!" Hebrews 11:13
"They were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a heavenly city for them!" Hebrews 11:16
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest is my Beloved. I delight to sit in His shade, and
The Lord Jesus is incomparably lovely!
His personal excellencies baffle the powers of description!
Every beautiful figure which nature can furnish—is employed to set Him forth; but a spiritual perception is necessary to discern and delight in Him.
Here He is compared to the apple tree amidst the trees of the forest, as affording refreshing shade and delicious food.
"His fruit was sweet to my taste!"
His fruit includes . . .
the promises He has made,
the pardons He bestows,
the reconciliation He has effected,
the peace He imparts,
the fellowship He has with His people,
the assurances of His love,
the joys of the Holy Spirit,
the hope of eternal life,
access into God’s presence, and
the precious foretastes of glory which He gives.
These are sweet, incomparably sweet, to every spiritual mind!
Sheltered from storms,
protected from foes,
preserved from the sultry sun,
and fed with fruits of salvation,
the believer is happy—and his Savior is precious to his soul.
And while the fruits of Jesus are sweet to him—sin is bitter! He has no relish for . . .
the follies,
the vain amusements, and
the sinful pleasures of the world!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
The Lord always humbles—before He exalts.
He strips us—before He clothes us with the best robe.
He empties us—before He fills us with His grace.
We must be clothed in sack cloth—before we are raised to sit with the princes of His people.
It is the weak—whom He strengthens.
It is the poor—whom He supplies.
It is the condemned—whom He justifies.
It is the homeless—whom He receives.
It is the totally unworthy—whom He crowns with glory!
We must lie low—if we would rise high.
We must be nothing—if we would inherit all things.
We must be quite empty—if we would be filled with all the fullness of God.
He "gives grace unto the humble."
Joseph must lie in the dungeon—before he is seated in the royal palace.
David must be hunted like the partridge upon the mountains—before he is raised to fill the throne of Israel.
Paul must be a poor blind sinner—before he becomes the great apostle.
This is God’s plan.
The godly, who are now accounted the "the scum of the earth, the refuse of the world"—are destined to shine as the sun in the kingdom of their Father! 1 Corinthians 4:13
Beloved, the lower you descend in humility—the higher you will rise in glory!
The deeper your penitence—the sweeter your joys!
"God resists the proud—but gives grace unto the humble."
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
Such is the effect of real conversion to God.
The unconverted man may weep when his iniquity is found out—for he dreads the shame and punishment of his sin.
But only the sincere believer will mourn—because he has sinned against a God of love, and broken a law that is holy, just and good. He will mourn over the sin that dwells in him—which no one knows but himself; as well as for the iniquity that is discovered by his fellow men. He daily mourns—because he daily sins.
Yet he is not unhappy. He knows that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanses him from all sin. He knows that he is accepted in Christ, his Beloved. Yet these things make him mourn. "They will look on Me, the One they have pierced—and they will mourn for Him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for Him as one grieves for a firstborn son!" Zechariah 12:10
The greater his confidence in God;
the sweeter his enjoyment of a Savior’s love;
the closer he walks with God—
the more he mourns for his iniquity.
Beloved, do you mourn for your iniquity?
Has there been any sorrow for sin working in your heart today?
You daily sin;
you should daily mourn for your iniquity;
you must daily flee to the fountain opened to cleanse you from sin and impurity.
"They will moan like doves—weeping for their sins!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"In all your ways acknowledge Him—and
Are you in perplexity?
Are you at a loss which way to take—or what to do?
Does providence baffle all your schemes, and leave you in confusion and trouble?
The Lord is teaching you the lesson which He taught his prophet Jeremiah, who said, "I know, O LORD, that a man’s life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps!"
You must go to the Lord for wisdom—as well as for grace.
You must look to Him for direction—as well as salvation.
He has marked out your path—but you cannot see His lines. Go to Him in childlike simplicity and ask Him to throw light upon it—and then it will be all plain.
Seek His direction—before every movement.
Beseech Him to go with you—in every enterprise.
"In all your ways acknowledge Him—and He shall direct your paths!"
His eye is upon you for good.
His ear is open to your prayer. He will be very gracious unto you—at the voice of your cry. When He hears you—He will answer you.
Consult His Word,
seek His blessing,
honor His love,
keep His company,
aim at His glory—
and He shall direct your paths.
He will always direct you aright!
"In all your ways acknowledge Him—and
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it ’Ebenezer’, saying, Thus far has the LORD helped us!" 1 Samuel 7:12
As creatures—we are exposed, weak and foolish—and thus require help.
As Christians—we are . . .
surrounded by snares,
opposed by enemies,
timid and fearful, and
easily turned aside
—and thus require help.
We have received help—divine help in every time of need!
It was through divine assistance, that we were able . . .
to overcome unbelief and evil habits;
to break away from our old friends;
to take up our cross and bear it after Jesus;
to stand our ground amidst storms of temptation;
to persevere in the straight and narrow way.
Having obtained help from God—we continue to this day.
Let us then set up
Its source was divine—it came from above.
The supply has been . . .
sufficient,
well-timed, and
exactly suited to the circumstances.
What should be the result?
Praise—hearty, grateful, constant praise.
Prayer—fervent, faithful, frequent prayer for help in future.
Patience—waiting in quiet expectation for divine assistance.
Testimony—God is faithful.
Here I raise my Ebenezer,
Hither by Your help I’ve come;
And I hope, by Your good pleasure,
Safely to arrive at home!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Who is this coming up from the wilderness—leaning upon her Beloved?" Song of Solomon 8:5
Jesus is the object of a believer’s love.
To him—the world is a wilderness.
Heaven is his Father’s house—and his home.
He is passing through the wilderness in company with Jesus.
He is represented as the brideleaningon her Beloved.
This is indicative of weakness in herself—and confidence in her Beloved.
He is her strength—as well as her guide.
He is her support—as well as the object of her affection.
She leans on Him—as well as converses with Him.
He supports her—as well as comforts her.
Believer, keep close to your Savior’s side! Never leave Him while in this waste howling wilderness. Lean on Him!
His strong arm is put forth to support your weak frame.
He will bear you up. He will lead you on.
The more you lean on Him—the more you will love Him!
The more you love Him—the closer you will cleave to Him!
Yield to His guidance,
trust in His love,
lean on His power,
walk by His side.
In His company—you are safe!
In communion with Him—you will be happy! Like the two disciples of old, your heart will be warmed, and you will be at the end of your journey before you are aware of it!
He is always at your side—so lean hard!
"Who is this coming up from the wilderness—leaning upon her Beloved?" Song of Solomon 8:5
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"He will sit like a refiner of silver, watching closely as the dross is burned away. He will purify the Levites, refining them like gold or silver." Malachi 3:3
God’s people are His precious metal.
Afflictions are His furnace.
Purification is His design.
He therefore puts them into the furnace—and He keeps them there until His end is accomplished.
But He Himself superintends the whole refining process! He . . .
regulates the heat,
watches the operation of it,
and sits waiting for the fulfillment of His design.
He will not be disappointed, for if one affliction does not produce the desired end—another shall!
Beloved, perhaps you have wondered why one trial has followed another in your experience. The reason is this—the dross was not yet removed!
Your sorest trials—are among your choicest mercies, because they are intended to purify you!
Do not think that you are left alone in your sorrows—your Lord sits closely by, as your refiner! He intently watches the purification process—and
There shall not be one furnace more than is necessary, nor shall you continue in suffering one moment more than is needful. Your Savior, who died for your sins—is your Refiner! He sits by the furnace during the whole process of refining! He is preparing you for glory!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
So spoke the angel, announcing the birth of the Lord Jesus; and the prediction is fulfilled. He is great, and His greatness is unsearchable! He is great:
in the dignity of His nature,
in the depth of His humiliation,
in the glory of His righteousness,
in the merit of His blood,
in the provisions of His gospel,
in the salvation of His converts,
in the extent of His kingdom,
in the tenderness of His sympathy,
in the variety of His offices,
in the grandeur of His works,
in the estimation of His people,
in the conquest of His foes, and
in the punishment of His inveterate enemies!
His greatness is stamped upon . . .
every promise He has made,
every pardon He grants,
every blessing He gives,
and every victory He gains!
Believer, your Savior is great. Therefore He . . .
saves great sinners,
confers great grace,
bears with great offenders,
treats with great kindness, and
will confer on us great glory!
His greatness shall fill . . .
His people with everlasting joy, and
His foes with never ending woe!
He shall be great on earth, in heaven, and in hell!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
Our state by nature—was truly a low estate. We had . . .
no liberty—being the slaves of Satan;
no ability—being dead in trespasses and sins;
no honor—being allied only to traitors and rebels;
no real pleasure—being tossed about by desires and disappointments;
no prospects—except eternal woe;
no profitable employment—for the fruit of our toil was death.
Our nature was fearfully depraved;
our condition was truly deplorable;
our destiny was most alarming!
"BUT because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ, even when we were dead in transgressions; it is by grace you have been saved!" Ephesians 2:4-5
"He remembered us in our low estate—and freed us from our enemies!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"He has abolished death!" 2 Timothy 1:10
DEATH is our foe!
It is an implacable enemy!
It has slain millions!
It has robbed . . .
kingdoms of their deliverers,
churches of their ornaments,
families of their supports, and
individuals of their heart’s beloved.
"The king of terrors!"
It is a foe that might fill us with fear, and keep us in constant alarm. But we have a Friend—a Friend who is infinitely great, and incomparably good. He . . .
knew us thoroughly,
loved us infinitely,
pitied us tenderly,
engaged for us heartily,
came to deliver us cheerfully,
suffered for us indescribably,
and conquered our foe completely!
He has abolished death! That is:
He changed its nature: it is now quiet sleep!
He changed its office: it is not an executioner—but a waiting servant!
He changed its work: it is now only to take down the prison, and let the prisoner escape!
He changed its end: it was truly fearful; it is now divinely glorious!
Reader, are you prepared for this foe?
Reader, do you know this Friend?
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
This is the opinion formed of Jesus—by all who really know Him. There is nothing lovely—but it is in Jesus, and it is in Him in full perfection. He is the object of admiration and adoration, to all who are taught by the Holy Spirit.
His person as God-man is altogether lovely—for He possesses every grace that can adorn humanity, and all the glories of infinite deity.
His character is altogether lovely—for He is infinitely wise, dignified, condescending, and kind.
Indeed there is nothing in Christ but what is lovely—and there is nothing lovely but it may be found in Him.
The testimony borne by the spouse will apply . . .
to His offices, as Prophet, Priest and King;
to His government, universal and particular;
to His design in all His dealings with us—even to purify, elevate, and honor us.
Reader, do you know Him?
Reader, do you admire Him?
Reader, do you love Him?
The more you know Him—the more you will love Him!
The more you love Him—the more happy you will be!
"Yes! He is altogether lovely! This is my Beloved, this my Friend!" Song of Solomon 5:16
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
The Holy Spirit is a divine person, equal with the Father and the Son—in power, majesty, and glory.
Without His agency—salvation is impossible.
He quickens us—when dead in trespasses and sins.
He teaches us—when ignorant and bewildered.
He sanctifies us—when polluted and depraved.
He comforts us—when depressed and cast down.
He helps us in prayer, against temptation, and out of many difficulties.
His power produces our graces, quickens them when dull, and keeps them alive.
He witnesses to our adoption, and seals us unto the day of redemption.
We are His workmanship—and His temple.
He is our teacher, comforter, and inward intercessor.
His power alone can . . .
make the gospel effectual,
subdue the corruptions of our hearts, and
conform us to the likeness of the Lord Jesus.
Our obligation to Him is great,
our dependence upon Him is constant,
and our love to Him should be fervent.
The Holy Spirit . . .
convinces us of sin,
unfolds the glories of Jesus to us,
works faith in our hearts,
leads us to the fountain of His blood,
clothes us in His perfect righteousness,
unites us to His person, and
teaches us to live upon Him.
The great thing we need in the church, and in our hearts—is to experience the power of the Spirit of God!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
The more clearly the Lord manifests Himself to us, and the more He works in us by His Spirit—the deeper will be our humility and self-abhorrence. Self-admirers are utter strangers to close and holy fellowship with God.
Nothing reveals to us the true state of human nature, like nearness to God. Men may speculate, and reason, and boast of their pretended goodness—so long as they are at a distance from God. But no sooner do they come into His presence, than their supposed loveliness is turned into corruption! They not only SEE that they are vile—but they FEEL it!
Job had boasted, and contended with God; but as soon as God came near to him—his views and feelings underwent an entire change, and he cried out, "I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear; but now my eye sees You. Therefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes!"
Never does grace appear so glorious, or Christ so precious—as when we sink before God in self-loathing and self-abhorrence!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Will a man rob God?" Malachi 3:8
This is a very solemn question, for to attempt it must be very daring! But who can plead not guilty?
He charges us with the crime: He says, "
We have robbed Him of His time: time which He claims, and which should be devoted to Him.
We have robbed Him of property: what He has entrusted and lent to us—we have claimed as our own. What was given us for others—we have squandered or hoarded for self.
We have robbed Him of the heart: this we have given to others, to idols! They have been loved, trusted, adored, and feared—before Him.
We have robbed Him of our talents: using them for the gratification and aggrandizement of ourselves.
What can we say to such conduct?
Is it not ungrateful—for He is our Father?
Is it not daring audacity—for He could crush us with a look?
Let us reflect upon our characters: "Robbers of God!"
Let us . . .
confess our crimes,
obtain a pardon,
change our course, and
render unto God the things that are God’s.
O for honesty of heart and consistency of life!
"Will a man rob God?"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"All the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing; He does according to His will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth. No one can restrain His HAND!" Daniel 4:35
The ’hand of God’ is His providence.
God’s providence is His wisdom and power in operation for the accomplishment of His will.
No one can possibly frustrate His designs.
Nothing can throw confusion into His plans.
He steadily pursues His object,
easily accomplishes His purpose,
and performs all His good pleasure.
All His saints are in His hand—therefore they are safe.
His hand is at work for them—therefore they shall not be injured.
He always works in accordance with His Word.
His predictions must all come to pass.
His promises must all be fulfilled.
His people must all be safe.
Beloved, the hand of God is lifted up to defend you; therefore you are safe.
His hand is opened to supply you; therefore you shall not lack.
His hand is beneath you; therefore you shall not fall.
Trust in Jesus, in His wisdom and power. Exercise faith in His providence; it is at work for your welfare.
His hand will . . .
crush or convert your foes,
protect you and supply your needs,
guide you through the desert,
and lift you up forever in glory!
Look from circumstances—to the hand that guides and overrules them! It is your Father’s hand—and
He is at work for you, and "all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing; He does according to His will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth. No one can restrain His hand!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Peter followed Him afar off." Matthew 26:58
And have not we done so too? Once we thought that nothing could cool our love, dampen our ardor, or turn our feet aside; but we have long since discovered our weakness!
For Peter there was some excuse—in the circumstances in which his Master was placed; for us there is none.
Faith brings us near to Jesus—and love keeps us near.
Unbelief is the cause of our slow pace, and declining in His ways. Let us carefully guard against UNBELIEF. It . . .
poisons our comforts,
falsifies our profession,
dampens our zeal,
hinders our communion,
thrusts us to a distance from Jesus,
and alienates our souls from His ways.
Let us encourage and feed our FAITH. It will . . .
strengthen our hearts,
quicken our pace,
endear our Savior,
fortify our minds, and
keep us near to our beloved Lord.
Reader, are you following the Lord fully, closely?
Or, are you like Peter—afar off?
If you are, beware! You know to what evil, this conduct led to in him!
"The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter!
Then Peter went outside and wept bitterly!" Luke 22:61-62
Get close to Jesus—and keep close. Let . . .
your thoughts gather round Him,
your affections fix upon Him,
and your hope center in Him.
Cleave to the Savior—as the child to its parent!
Cleave to Jesus—as the limpet to the rock!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Noah walked with God!" Genesis 6:9
Noah was reconciled to God.
He was intimate with God.
He listened to the voice of God.
He chose the way of God.
He approved of the designs of God.
Noah’s God—was his Friend:
with Him, he could converse,
to Him, he could look for counsel,
from Him, he often received favors.
Noah’s God—was his Companion: he walked with Him, realizing that He was near, loving His presence, and improving by His society.
He did not sit with the Lord on His throne,
nor stand with Him in His sanctuary—but
he WALKED with Him in His way.
He made progress. He was diligent—as well as devout.
The presence of God was . . .
his happiness,
his security, and
his honor.
This privilege may be ours. It is, if we are really believers in the Lord Jesus. Our God is with us! He is with us as . . .
our Father,
our Friend, and
our Companion.
We walk with Him.
We converse with Him.
We receive from Him.
Beloved, do you walk with God?
Have you been walking with God today?
Does the thought of God’s presence with you, give you joy? Does it soothe, and animate, and sanctify your heart?
Retire to rest rejoicing in the fact, "God is with me, as my Father and my omnipotent Friend!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"He will beour guide—even unto death!" Psalm 48:14
What a precious assurance is this!
Our God is our guide!
He led us out of the world at first,
directed us to the cross, and
conducted us into the path of holiness.
He has led us through all our past difficulties and trials; He leads us by the hand at present, and He will never give up His charge, for He will be our guide even unto death. He will . . .
choose our way;
lead us in the paths of righteousness;
kindly converse with us along the road;
point out the snares and dangers in our path;
keep us by His power through faith unto salvation,
and will patiently bear with us unto the end!
He may . . .
hide His face,
refuse communion,
withhold comforts,
smite us for our follies, and
teach us our dependence on Himself by painful experience;
but He will never forsake us—or give us up!
He will not only lead us to the heavenly kingdom—but put us in possession of it! This He has promised—and He will faithfully perform it.
Beloved, it is our Father’s good pleasure to give us the kingdom! He will guide us now—and by and by receive us to glory!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"You have known my soul in adversities!" Psalm 31:7
Prosperity makes friends—but adversity tries them.
Many will visit and smile upon us—when the sun shines.
Few will venture out to do us good—in the wintry or stormy day!
David had been in adversity; he had been forsaken and neglected by his friends—but not by his God! His God . . .
knew him,
and visited him,
and cared for him,
and sympathized with him,
and supplied him,
and at length delivered him.
This honor have all His saints! We have been in adversity, we have passed through a wilderness; but our God has . . .
led us,
and fed us,
and preserved us,
and brought us out into a wealthy place.
We can witness for Him in reference to the past; and we ought calmly, quietly, and confidently to trust Him for the future. He has pledged His Word that He will deliver us in six troubles, and that in seven no evil shall touch us; and He who has promised is faithful.
He is emphatically,
In our greatest trials—He will manifest His richest grace!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
By our conduct—we often reflect badly upon the Lord; treating Him with neglect and disrespect, preferring creatures or worldly things before Him! He speaks of this conduct—as if it went to His heart! He says to us, "O My people, what have I done to you?And how have I wearied you? Testify against Me!"
Have you neglected the prayer closet?
Have you slighted the means of grace?
Have you laid your Bible aside and left it unopened?
Have you withdrawn your thoughts and your affections from God—and given them to the world?
Why is this?
What reason have you for doing so?
The Lord asks you WHY? Testify against Me!
He says, "Have you any charges against Me? Bring them forward! Have I treated you unkindly? Have I been false to My Word? Have I acted in any way unfitting My character? Tell Me—why do you treat Me with neglect? Why do you prefer My enemy, the world, to Me? Tell out your reasons, let Me know all; anything but this shyness, this distance, this indifference!"
O believer! Are you not guilty? Have you not wounded your God? Have you not grieved His Holy Spirit? Return to your injured Lord. Go, fall at His feet, confess your sins, beg His pardon, be reconciled, and embosomed in His love!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"They say to God: Depart from us—for we do not desire the knowledge of Your ways!" Job 21:14
The ungodly say so.
They wish there was no God!
But as there is a God—they wish Him to keep at a distance from them.
This is not your case beloved. It was once. It would have been your dreadful condition right now—but for sovereign grace! You now desire the presence of God—this is the effect of His love. You have seen something of His glory, in the person of Jesus Christ. You have tasted that He is gracious. You are reconciled to Him, and are at peace with Him. You have nothing to fear from Him, therefore you desire that He would come unto you, and manifest Himself to your soul.
You do not say, "Depart from me," but, "my soul thirsts for God, for the living God! When shall I come and appear before God?"
Those who now say unto God, "Depart from us!" will one day hear Him say, "Away with you, you cursed ones, into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his demons!"
But you who now desire His presence, will hear Him invite you, saying, "Come, you who are blessed by My Father—inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Yet I will rejoice in the LORD!" Habakkuk 3:18
This was a wise determination.
Everything around us, and everything within us may change—but the Lord changes not.
Our light may give place to darkness,
our peace may give place to hostility,
our health may give place to sickness,
our plenty may give place to poverty,
our ease may give place to suffering, and
our friendships may give place to loneliness,
but
We may rise above circumstances!
For God is immutably the same!
We may rejoice that though much is lost, we have more that we can never lose.
But if we would emulate the prophet Habakkuk—we be sure of our title to all the promises of God’s Word. We must know . . .
that our sins are pardoned,
that we are at peace with God,
that He is our best and faithful Friend.
Then we may rejoice in Him at all times, for . . .
His fullness—is our fortune,
His power—is our defense,
His love—is our solace,
His promises—are our security,
His throne—is our place of safety,
and His presence—is our heaven!
Everything in God has a tendency to make us happy; and everything that is done by God will promote our everlasting welfare. We may well say,
"Even though the fig trees have no blossoms,
and there are no grapes on the vine;
even though the olive crop fails,
and the fields lie empty and barren;
even though the flocks die in the fields,
and the cattle barns are empty
—yet I will rejoice in the LORD!
I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
Jonah quarreled with his God. And who has not? We may not speak as plainly as he did—but we have been in the same temper, and manifested the same morose spirit.
Very few are well satisfied with the Lord’s plans.
Fewer still are always pleased with the Lord’s works.
How many quarrel with His sovereignty! What hard things have been spoken against it!
How many complain of His providence, and think it unwise, unkind, and almost unjust!
Beloved, we are often angry with God!
This temper shows itself . . .
in fretfulness,
in complaining,
in sullen gloom.
"Is it right for you to be angry?"
Angry with your Father . . .
whose wisdom is infinite,
whose love is as constant as the day, and
who constantly showers His blessings upon you!
Angry with your God, who has . . .
pardoned all your heinous sins,
provided for your innumerable needs,
blessed you with countless spiritual blessings!
Surely it is a sin, a grievous sin, not to be pleased . . .
with all He does,
with all He has provided,
and with all He requires.
"Is it right for you to be angry?"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"I would seek unto God!" Job 5:8
This is sound advice. It is much better than . . .
seeking unto men, or
poring over troubles, or
indulging a gloomy imagination, or
giving way to fears.
If I was in perplexity—I would seek unto God for wisdom.
If I was in sorrow—I would seek unto God for comfort.
If I was in weakness—I would seek unto God for strength.
If I was under guilt—I would seek unto God for pardon.
If I was in a severe conflict—I would seek unto God for victory.
If I was in doubt and fear—I would seek unto God for confidence and a sense of His favor.
If I was harassed by Satan—I would seek unto almighty God for protection.
If I was afraid of falling—I would seek unto God to uphold me with His omnipotent arm.
If I was alarmed at death—I would seek for His presence to comfort me.
Whatever you need—seek it from God!
Whatever you fear—carry it to God!
Whatever troubles you—lay it before God!
You cannot seek unto Him in vain, or without profit!
"I would seek unto God!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Who heals all your diseases." Psalm 103:3
The Lord is the great Physician. He is especially the healer of the soul.
The patient is a believer.
The cause of all disease and suffering is sin.
The seat of the malady is in the heart.
The nature of the malady is most loathsome and afflictive.
It affects . . .
the memory,
the affections,
the conscience,
the will,
yes the whole man! "Your whole head is injured, your whole heart afflicted. You are sick from head to foot—covered with bruises, welts, and infected wounds!" Isaiah 1:5-6
We are all the subjects of this disease. We all suffer from it!
No one can heal us—but the Lord Jesus. He is the great Physician; to Him we may repair and be restored to health. To encourage you to do so, look at His qualifications:
He is infinitely wise, tender and skillful.
His experience is without a parallel.
The remedies He employs are . . .
His precious blood,
His holy Word, and
His blessed Spirit.
The mode of application is by . . .
afflictions,
bereavements,
convictions, and
divine energy.
He never failed in any case—all of His patients are completely cured!
David’s was a bad case—but he could say, "He heals all my diseases!"
Sinner—you are sick, mortally sick! Go to Jesus!
Backslider—you are dreadfully sick! Go to Jesus!
Believer, are you not desiring perfect health? Then go to Jesus and plead, "Lord, if You will—You can make me whole!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
The Lord’s people often get into a very uncomfortable state, and sometimes they continue in that state for a long season. But there is always some cause for it—and we should seek to know what that cause is, that it may be removed. It is not easy to give an answer to the inquiry, for it must depend on the character of the inquirer.
To one the Lord would say, "I will comfort you—when you humble yourself before Me, cordially approve of My method of salvation, and submit to My righteousness."
To another the Lord would say, "I will comfort you—when you frankly confess your sin, seek pardon through the blood of Christ, and engage to walk according to My Word."
To another the Lord would say, "I will comfort you—when you break off that unscriptural relationship, come out from the world, and separate yourself unto Me."
To another the Lord would say, "I will comfort you—when you stop seeking comfort from selfish motives, and aim at, and endeavor to promote My glory."
To another the Lord would say, "I will comfort you—when you leave the bed of sloth, stir up yourself to take hold on Me, and seek to minister to others."
To another the Lord would say, "I will comfort you—when you enter upon that self-denying duty, and mortify the flesh with its affections and lusts."
In a word, God will comfort you—as soon as comfort will secure His glory, and your good!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Fear not, O worm Jacob, O little Israel—for I Myself will help you—declares the LORD, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel." Isaiah 41:14
However mean and despicable we may appear in the eyes of others, however weak and feeble we may feel in ourselves, still our God says, "Fear not!" Though but a worm—yet if a praying Jacob—we need not fear, we should not fear! Our God forbids it because . . .
it injures our souls,
encourages our enemies,
dispirits our friends, and
dishonors His glorious name!
How precious, unspeakably precious, these "Fear nots!" are! How thickly they are strewed through the divine Word!
But WHY should we fear? The Lord expressly tells us that,
"The race is not to the swift,
or the battle to the strong,
nor does food come to the wise,
or wealth to the brilliant,
or favor to the learned."
Ecclesiastes 9:11
Are we believers in Jesus? Then we should not fear, for our God is our Friend—and His care . . .
extends over all time,
embraces every event,
supplies every need,
anticipates every emergency,
comprehends every believer;
and shall everlastingly secure the safety and happiness of
His strength is almighty,
His wisdom is omniscient,
His love is unequaled, and
His resources are unbounded!
Therefore, "Fear not, O worm Jacob!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
What an unspeakable blessing is this! Let us very seriously consider it today!
"CHRIST died"—
Jehovah’s only begotten Son,
the fountain of being and blessedness,
the center and source of all excellence and glory!
HE died!
"Christ died"—
as our almighty Friend,
who stood up for us in covenant,
who stooped for us from heaven to earth,
whose love was stronger than death!
HE died!
"Christ died FOR US"—the objects of His love—and His Father’s choice;
though we were base;
though we were ungodly;
though we were without strength;
though we were rebellious;
though we were His enemies!
Christ died FOR US,
as the Surety for the debtors He had undertaken to set free,
as the Redeemer for captives He was pledged to deliver,
as the Husband for His beloved but fallen bride,
as the Shepherd for the flock entrusted to His care!
Christ died FOR US—
to redeem us from death and hell,
to raise us to eternal life,
to restore us to friendship with God,
to fit us for His holy service, and that we might be crowned with eternal glory!
Christ bore our sins upon the tree,
To seek and save the lost He came,
There was He doomed—to set us free,
From death and everlasting shame;
The captive flock from hell was freed
And ransomed when their Shepherd bled!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
The conduct of Jesus towards us is the perfection of kindness;
but our conduct toward Him is often just the reverse!
How often we treat Him with neglect!
Instead of prayer being a delightful privilege—it is often an irksome task.
How often we violate His positive precepts, or
omit to perform known and acknowledged duties.
How often we . . .
doubt His love,
distrust His Word and
complain of His dealings!
How often we nourish the flesh—which He has directed us to mortify!
How often we prefer the world—which He has commanded us to forsake!
How often we yield to Satan—whom He has exhorted us to resist!
Well may our cheeks burn with shame, and our bosoms fill with confusion, if the question is put to us, in reference to much of our conduct toward our kind and gracious Redeemer: "Is this your kindness to your friend?"
His kindness to us is astonishing—and
our unkindness toward Him is equally so!
Let us seek afresh, the tokens of His forgiving love, and in future when about to yield to temptation, or give way to any sin—put the question to our consciences, "Is this your kindness to your friend?"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"We know that we are of God." 1 John 5:19
What an honor! What a comfort is this!
We were rebels against Him;
we are now His willing servants!
We were His avowed enemies;
we are now His chosen friends!
We were the children of wrath;
we are now His beloved children!
We know that we are of God . . .
by faith in His Word,
by love to His saints,
by sympathy with Himself,
by the grief we feel when we sin,
by our pleasure in obeying His will,
by the contrast there is between us and the world . . .
in our principles,
in our pleasures,
in our pursuits.
What we are, as distinguished from others—is of God.
Being thus distinguished, we are peculiarly . . .
the Lord’s property,
the Lord’s treasure,
the Lord’s portion,
the Lord’s delight!
We are the Lord’s! The grace that made us so—must be free and infinite!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"The joy of the Lord is your strength." Nehemiah 8:10
Fear and sorrow naturally weakens us;
but faith and joy give us strength!
Joy is the cordial of the soul:
it quickens,
it enlivens,
it emboldens,
and makes us strong.
Our heavenly Father is called the blessed, or the happy God. He is also the happy-making God. He loves to see His people happy; therefore, as the God of all comfort—He has made great provision for our happiness.
There are wells of salvation—and we should draw from them with joy.
There is an inexhaustible fullness in Jesus—and from that fullness we should receive—for every need, for every duty, for every trial. We cannot apply to it too often; we cannot go to it for too much!
Hear our beloved Lord, "Ask, and receive—that your joy may be full."
It is only as we live . . .
out of self,
upon Jesus,
above the world,
in the region of God’s free grace,
that we can be happy.
The happy Christian is the strong Christian; and it is the strong Christian who . . .
brings much glory to God,
much credit to His cause, and
does much good in the world.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"A people near unto Him." Psalm 148:14
Jesus took our nature, and became one with us—thus He is near unto us. He gives us His Holy Spirit, brings us into union with Himself—and we are near to Him. This is our highest honor—and an unfailing source of happiness and peace.
We are near unto Him, in point of relation—being His children.
We are near unto Him, in point of affection—being loved with an everlasting love.
We are near unto Him, in point of union—being members of His body.
We are near unto Him, in point of fellowship—walking with Him as a man walks with his friend.
We are near unto Him, in point of attention—being the objects of His daily, hourly, tender care.
We shall soon be near unto Him, in point of locality—when our mansion is prepared, for we shall depart to be with Christ, which is far better!
We are near to Him though poor, when deeply tried!
And if ever nearer one time than another—we shall be nearest to Him in death.
If we are near unto Him—then He will . . .
sympathize with us in all our sorrows;
assist us in all our trials;
protect us in all our dangers;
hold fellowship with us in all our lonely hours;
provide for us in all seasons of necessity;
and certainly bring us to glory!
Let us realize this fact daily: we are
And am I near to God,
His friend, His child, His care?
O may I walk with Him in love,
By faith and fervent prayer!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"You have tried me." Psalm 17:3
The Lord tries the righteous. Trials reveal, prove, and brighten his character. Every trial . . .
is necessary for our good;
is ordained by eternal love; and
is continued just as long as requisite—but not one moment longer.
Every saint needs trials—and every saint is tried.
If the Lord intends to make us holy—
"I have tried you in the furnace of affliction!" Isaiah 48:10.
Every time we pray for holiness—we pray for trials!
Trials . . .
enhance the value of the promises,
endear the throne of grace,
render the ordinances profitable, and
make the Savior exceedingly precious!
In trials we . . .
learn to read our own hearts,
see the insufficiency of the world,
humble ourselves before our God, and
look with a longing eye to our glorious eternity.
The tried Christian is likely to be a stable Christian. Very few who walk in a smooth path are either remarkably spiritual, extensively useful, or very happy. Trials, like the frosts of winter, prepare our hearts to receive the good seed of the Word—and then we bring forth fruit with patience.
"When He has tried me—I will come forth as gold!" Job 23:10
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"My soul cleaves unto the dust!" Psalm 119:25
How common is this complaint of the true Christian!
What is the world? DUST!
comparatively worthless,
beneath an immortal soul,
unsuitable to a child of God. Yet . . .
our thoughts are filled with them,
our affections are entangled by them, and
our graces are weakened through them.
Worldlings are at home in the DUST—they appear to be satisfied with it!
But the Christian, when he cleaves to it most—is not at home, and cannot be satisfied with it. This is a mercy.
My soul, rouse yourself from your lethargy; arise and shake off the dust of the world—and put on your beautiful garments! It is beneath your dignity to lie there in the dust! Treat the things of time as they deserve!
Heaven is your home!
Holiness is your element!
The King of kings is your husband!
Glory is your eternal portion!
Earth is but a wilderness through which you have to pass; a lodging-place for a few days. "Arise and depart—for this is not your rest, because it is polluted!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"My counsel shall stand, and I will do all that I please!" Isaiah 46:10
The counsel of man is often weak and unwise—his knowledge being imperfect, and his mind disordered.
But the counsel of the Lord is the effect of infinite wisdom, and is sustained by omnipotent power!
Men’s purposes are often formed under evil influences, or when the mind is confused and perplexed.
But the purposes of God were formed in the calm and quiet of the eternal mind, under the influence of justice, grace, holiness, truth, and love!
Men’s counsels are often frustrated
—but God’s purposes never can be!
Men’s purposes are frequently defeated.
But our God "works all things after the counsel of His own will."
His counsel includes all that is essential to our eternal welfare.
His purposes embrace all the events of this transitory life.
Therefore we ought not to be much affected by anything which takes place around us. There may be confusion, conflict, injustice, oppression, cruelty; but our God, who has His way in the whirlwind and in the storm, says, "My counsel shall stand, and I will do all that I please!"
Remember, beloved, our God is at work always and everywhere. "He does according to his will"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Whom the Lord loves—He chastens; and punishes every son whom He receives." Hebrews 12:6
Every believer is beloved of his God—yet every believer is chastened by Him.
Chastisement is a proof of divine love.
We are but children—and need it.
We are His children—and therefore receive it.
Some are chastened by losses,
some by sickness,
some by the failure of their favorite schemes,
some by domestic trials,
some by the conduct of friends.
but we are all chastened by the same hand!
We are not all corrected in the same way—but we are all corrected by the same wise, holy, and loving Father!
Some suffer most in mind—others in body.
Some are tried most in their circumstances—others more in their relationships.
But let us never forget that every correction flows from divine love; every stroke is given in kindness!
If it goes to our hearts—it comes from our heavenly Father’s heart!
He does not afflict willingly, nor grieve us without purpose.
Our follies call for strokes—and our sins for rebukes!
Let us therefore humble ourselves under our Father’s hand. Let us not question His love to us, because we are so tried. Neither let us think the discipline unnecessary, and so despise His chastening.
"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." Hebrews 12:11
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Who is a God like You—who pardons the sins His people! You cannot stay angry with Your people forever, because You delight in showing mercy.
God’s anger has been provoked by our sins; the effects of His displeasure have been felt—but He will not stay angry with His people forever!
Though our sin has made us miserable—His mercy shall make us happy!
He will have compassion upon us, because of the benevolence of His nature, in accordance with His Word, to our comfort and salvation. He is "full of compassion, plenteous in mercy, ready to forgive!" These are His own words, and they contain enough, if we did but believe them . . .
to banish our fears,
to conquer our doubts, and
to fill us with joy and peace!
We have wandered—but He will have compassion!
The wandering sheep shall be restored!
The prodigal shall be received with music and dancing.
He will have compassion on His people—let your fears and sins be ever so numerous!
He will have compassion on His people—for . .
He has promised,
His nature prompts Him to it,
He has done so in innumerable instances,
and His heart overflows with mercy!
As soon as ever He . . .
sees that you feel your sinfulness,
hears you confess your follies,
finds you broken down in contrition at His throne
—He will have compassion on you,
trample your sins under His feet, and
throw them into the depths of the ocean!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved MUCH!" Luke 7:47
She had been a great sinner!
Convinced of her sin . . .
she sought the Savior,
applied for pardon, and
she found mercy!
Deeply affected with the love of Christ, and the manner in which He displayed it—her soul glowed with love to Him in return. She not only loved Him—but she loved Him MUCH! And therefore she could endure scorn, contempt, and persecution, in order to enjoy His presence and listen to His Word.
Her love could not beconfinedin her heart—it sought to show itself; she therefore . . .
brought the alabaster box of precious ointment,
washed His feet with her tears,
wiped them with the hair of her head, and
anointed them with the expensive ointment.
Here is an example for us!
We also are great sinners; Jesus has kindly received us and pardoned our sins; His love to us—is as great as it was to this woman! But is our love to Him—equal to hers? I fear not.
But why? Because . . .
our conviction of sin is not as clear,
our views of our unworthiness are not as vivid,
our apprehensions of danger are not as painful, or
our sense of pardoning mercy is not as deep!
We cannot force ourselves to love. But we can direct our thoughts to Jesus, and seek for the Holy Spirit to shed abroad His love in our hearts.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"My meditation of Him shall be sweet!" Psalm 104:34
To meditate is to think closely, seriously, and for some time upon one subject. If the subject is spiritual—the exercise is peculiarly profitable. If the mind is spiritual—meditation on Jesus will be sweet. Let us think of Him . . .
frequently,
intently, and
seriously.
Let us meditate on . . .
the glory of His person,
the riches of His grace,
the strength of His love,
the tenderness of His sympathy,
the power of His arm,
the merit of His blood,
the magnificence of His righteousness,
the completeness of His conquest,
the splendor of His ascension,
the prevalence of His intercession,
the exalted station He fills in heaven,
His constant care of His people on earth,
what He gives to them,
what He requires of them, and
the eternal glory which He will soon give them!
Let us go over in meditation all that regards . . .
His person,
His office,
His work,
His kingdom,
His humiliation,
His exaltation, and
His character.
Such meditations will be sweet!
Let us see Him . . .
in nature,
in providence,
and in grace.
Such views of Him will cheer, strengthen, and spiritualize us!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
Repentance implies thought—serious thought in reference to the conduct and state of the heart.
Repentance proceeds from conviction—deep and solemn conviction of our sin and sinfulness in the sight of God.
Repentance proves concern—a concern to escape danger, obtain pardon, and enjoy peace.
Repentance includes sorrow—enlightened, hearty, and abiding sorrow, that we have grieved the Lord, dishonored His cause, and slighted His mercy.
Repentance always leads to reformation. There may be some degree of reformation without repentance—but there can be no repentance without reformation.
Let us think upon our ways, reflect on the dishonor we have done the Savior, be concerned to enjoy anew the tokens of His forgiving love, mourn over our follies and faults, and begin again to do our first works.
Look to Jesus, wait upon God, search His holy Word, and abstain from the very appearance of evil—as we did at first. What love, what zeal, what caution, what carefulness, what entire consecration to God—we manifested then! Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the Lord. Jesus charges us with dishonoring Him—but He also says, "Repent and do the things you did at first!"
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"
The unbeliever is naturally restless; he is removed from his natural foundation, and the wandering of the desire keeps him in constant agitation. To him, Jesus says, "Come unto Me—and I will give you rest."
The believer has accepted this invitation, and has found rest. But he is often led away by temptations, worldly cares, and unbelief; and then he becomes restless again.
Beloved, you are directed to rest—not in your circumstances, attainments, or enjoyments—but to rest in the Lord.
Rest in the will of God—for whatever He wills is for your good, your highest good. "This is the will of God—even your sanctification."
Rest in the love of God—and often meditate on the words of Jesus on this point, "You have loved them—as you have loved Me!"
Rest in the mercy of God—from which flows endless streams of blessings for your supply.
Rest in the Word of God—for it is true, immutable, and pledges Him to do good unto you.
Rest in the relation your God fills to you! He is your divine Father—kind, powerful, wise, and ever present.
Rest in the Lord as He is manifested in Jesus—working all things after the counsel of His own will, and directing all things for your good and His glory!
Rest in the Lord—and be happy!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"The Lord is at hand!" Philippians 4:5
Jesus is coming!
WHEN He will come—is uncertain, therefore we should always be ready. If we realized the certainty and nearness of the Lord’s coming—we would not be as ensnared by the world as we too often are. Our love would be withdrawn from present things—and we would be daily laying up treasures in heaven for ourselves.
Jesus will come . . .
to close the present world system,
to judge the people,
to be glorified in His saints, and
to reward every one according to his works.
The Lord is at hand! Purposeful thinking on this fact . . .
would preserve us from temptation,
would prevent our backsliding, and
would deepen our seriousness and spirituality.
The Lord is at hand! Therefore we should . . .
expect Him,
prepare for Him, and
be found waiting, looking and longing for His appearing.
When Jesus comes, He will . . .
complete our salvation,
destroy all our foes,
conform us to His own lovely image,
and introduce us to glory!
When Jesus comes—His people will be made completely happy! Sighs, groans, and cries—will be exchanged for eternal pleasures, songs, and triumphant hallelujahs!
Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Show Your marvelous loving-kindness." Psalm 17:7
He has already shown it—by taking us into the nearest, sweetest, and most profitable relation to Himself!
What love, to call a worm—His dear child!
What love, to call a sinful and polluted worm—His beloved bride!
Loving-kindness, is love in the most attractive form; love acting in the kindest manner; or, love robed in tenderness and benevolence.
To show marvelous loving-kindness, is to bestow distinguished favors, such as reason or custom could not warrant us to expect; favors which only a God of love could bestow! Yet such favors we may ask in faith—and expect!
Beloved, never forget—our God rejoices and He delights to give us good things!
If we were but humble, simple-minded, living in the daily exercise of faith—
We have not—but it is because we ask not, or because we ask in an improper spirit, or with an unfitting design—that we may consume it upon our lusts!
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"They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the Word of their testimony!" Revelation 12:11
What a formidable representation of SATAN, the context gives us. He is called "the great dragon—that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, who deceives the whole world!"
His power is great—and his cruelty is greater!
His cunning is deep—and his designs are dreadful!
He hates the Savior—and he hates all who love Him!
He attempts to destroy—but
He is dreadful as a roaring lion; but he is more likely to harm us—when he comes slyly, and quietly—as a deceitful serpent!
He is always most dangerous—when he assumes the garb of an angel of light, for then we are apt to mistake him!
Every Christian overcomes him—though they were so weak! They conquer him—but not by reason, or argument, or eloquence—but by the blood of the Lamb, and the Word of their testimony. To that blood they looked—when he tempted them to despair; by that Word they walked—when he tried to draw them aside. The blood was their plea, the ground of their hope, and the subject of their rejoicing; the Word was their shield, their solace, and their rule. "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the Word of their testimony!"
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