04 An Earnest Exhortation
An Earnest Exhortation "O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man who trusts in him." Psalms 34:8 The Lord is good to all, and his tender mercies are over all his works. His goodness . . .
appears in nature,
is displayed in providence, and
shines forth in all its glory, in the salvation of sinners. His nature is most amiable and glorious. Holiness, or purity — is the leading feature of his character. He hates whatever is impure or unjust. He always does what is right. But he frequently gives, what no sinner could reasonably expect. He pardons offenders. He freely forgives the greatest sinners, when they plead before him the name of hir beloved Son. He confers grace on the most unworthy. He gives grace to all who seek it:
Grace to sanctify their natures.
Grace to comfort their hearts.
Grace to fit them for his presence and glory forever. His love makes every one happy who knows and enjoys it. It is so great — so tender — so constant. If we know that God loves us, we know that he will withhold no good thing from us. He has already given his Son to die for our sins. He has promised his Holy Spirit unto those who ask him. He will give grace to all who apply for it. He has given us his holy and faithful word — and whatever we ask of him in faith, we shall receive. "The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and he knows those who trust in him." His goodness is unsearchable. He is good in himself. He is good to the unthankful and the unholy. He is especially good to the soul that seeks him. Do not doubt his goodness. Do not question the truth of his word. Do not fear to draw near unto him. Do not think that he will reject you, or refuse to show mercy unto you. But, "Taste and see that the Lord is good." As you try whether things are pleasant or disagreeable, by tasting with the mouth; so try if the Lord is not good, by putting his word to the test with your soul.
Real religion gives the sweetest comfort — it is true happiness.
It is sweeter than the sweetest music;
more delightful than the most lovely landscape;
more pleasant than the most amiable company;
more ennobling than the most dignified titles;
more beneficial than the most excellent food;
and more profitable than the greatest wealth.
It is profitable to all things, having the promise of all good things in the life which now is; and of inconceivable glory in that which is to come. And what is true religion? It comprises . . .
the knowledge of God in Christ,
union to God through Christ,
fellowship with God by Christ, and
obedience to God like Christ.
Or, it is to know, possess, enjoy, and obey God. Just that which you are invited to possess, "O taste and see that the Lord is good." Seek to know him: By reading his word. By meditating on Jesus. By calling upon his name. "Acquaint now yourself with him and be at peace, for thereby shall good come unto you." Receive from him. He will give unto you. He will give you his richest, choicest blessings. If you feel your need. If you really desire to possess. If you plead the name of Jesus. If you ask with earnestness and sincerity. If you believe his word of promise, in which he pledges himself to give the favors you ask. He will certainly grant you whatever you ask.
Every sin he will pardon.
Every grace he will bestow.
Every good thing he will confer. The invitation now given us is hearty and sincere; it is warranted by God’s character and word; it flows from a deep experience of God’s goodness, and from love to your soul. Your encouragement to taste and see that the Lord is good, is great, for, "Blessed is every one who trusts in him." They are blessed with the most costly blessings. They are placed in the most favorable circumstances. They are truly happy, for the mercy of God surrounds them, as it is written, "Many sorrows shall be to the wicked; but he who trusts in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about." Psalms 32:10.
They are really fruitful, for, "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." Jeremiah 17:7-8.
They enjoy solid peace, as the Prophet says, "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you; because he trusts in you." Isaiah 26:3. God’s goodness to him is astonishing, it supplies all his present needs, and provides for all his future necessities; hence the Psalmist exclaims, "O how great is your goodness, which you have laid up for those who fear you; which you have wrought for those who trust in you before the sons of men." Psalms 31:19.
They are safe in time, and will enjoy safety throughout eternity. "Those who trust in the Lord shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be moved — but abides forever. As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the Lord is round about his people from henceforth even forever." Psalms 125:1-2. "The fear of man brings a snare: but whoever puts his trust in the Lord shall be safe." Proverbs 29:25. My dear friend, you are invited to enjoy this happiness. "O taste and see that the Lord is good." This will . . .
prevent many painful disappointments;
secure to you all real good;
preserve you from Hell at last.
Prove then, by experience, that the Lord is good, and ready to forgive. Go to him now. Go at once. Go this moment. Delay not,
lest darkness come upon you;
lest your heart grow hard;
lest death overtake you.
You may now be blessed. You may now be saved. Let nothing keep you from the Savior. Listen not to Satan, he will deceive you. Yield not to fear, it will undo you. God is waiting to be gracious. The invitation is sent to you in love. There is no obstacle in your way but unbelief. Nothing can keep you from the enjoyments of mercy — but your own heart!