August 23

"Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father."—Matthew 10:32.

I ASK grace to confess my Master: frank and open confession will ratify and deepen my own piety. When I tell forth the truth that is in me, that truth becomes clearer, more vivid, more noble and wondrous and regal, to my own mind. When I avow and defend my Lord, He assumes larger proportions in my thoughts, He is dearer and more precious to my heart. It is best for myself to be outspoken and brave. It is a great means of safety. It is a mighty instrument of growth.

I ask grace to confess my Master: unfaltering and fearless confession will move and conquer others. Let me sound out my convictions as with trumpet tones. Let me fight against sin and give no quarter. Let me make my boast of Jesus, impugn my Saviour whoso list. Some will scorn and hate me for it. Some will mock and ridicule. But some will be touched, melted, gained, as they never would be by silence and acquiescence. This is how the kingdom of righteousness and peace and joy goes from strength to strength.

I ask grace to confess my Master: decided and courageous confession rejoices Him and wins His approbation. What does He say?—Him will I also confess before My Father which is in heaven. How overflowing the recompense, how royal the reward, for my poor words and deeds! To have Jesus speak well of me—shall I not go through fire and water if this be the goal? Shall I not make light of obstacles, and laugh at impossibilities, and ride dauntless up to every Dark Tower?

So I will not hide His love within my heart.

R