December 31

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?"—Romans 8:35.

THE seasons change; the time is shortened; the end draws near. All the more, I rejoice in and repeat St. Paul's victorious challenge—Who shall separate me from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus my Lord?

Perhaps He will loosen His hand-grasp of me in the Valley of the Shadow, and when I go through the flood on foot; other friends, tried and well-beloved, are compelled to do so. Nay, death cannot separate me.

Perhaps my moods that vary from day to day, and my constantly recurring temptations, and my never-ending needs, will weary out His vast patience at length. Nay, life cannot separate me.

Perhaps the spirits of darkness with their craft will snatch me from His keeping. Or else the sons of light with their nobler service will withdraw His regard from me. It is impossible. Angels and principalities and powers cannot separate me.

Perhaps the demands I make on Him, and will continue to make to my latest hour, must limit His kindness and revoke His promises. It is a vain fear. Things present and things to come cannot separate me.

Perhaps my foolish exaltations of myself and my faithless despondencies will send Him, disappointed, wearied, despairing, from my side. I need not be afraid. Height and depth cannot separate me.

Is there anything, then, in heaven or earth or hell, that will remove Him from me, and will banish me from His presence and grace? No, no, there is not any creature. God's love in Jesus Christ is always watchful and always sufficient. It is the same yesterday and to-day and for ever.