July 18

PART II. — Hebrews 2:10.

CHRIST as the captain of salvation is possessed of every possible attribute for effecting his glorious achievements. His knowledge and skill are unbounded. He knows all connected with the adversaries of his people; their malignity, number, power, and all their movements are ever before him, — he knows how to frustrate their schemes, how to subvert their machinations, and how to render totally harmless all their attacks. His knowledge is so unerring, and so universal, that he cannot be mistaken, surprised, or discomfited. His courage is unexampled. The stoutest hearts have sometimes trembled, — the bravest have sometimes feared. Jesus never knew what the fear of man, or devils was. Knowing all things from the beginning, — knowing the united power of his foes, "He sitteth in the heavens and laughs at his enemies, he holdeth them in derision." His power is illimitable. No created intelligence can rightly understand the thunder of his power, — he can do every thing, which it is not inconsistent for him to do. All things are upheld by the astounding arm of his power, — he is the omnipotent and invincible Jehovah of hosts. His resources are infinite. Those engaged on his side can never want any good thing. He opens his wide and liberal hands, and supplies the wants of every living thing. The soldiers of the cross he furnishes with food and raiment, and he teaches them how to fight, his strength is made perfect in their weakness, and he makes them more than conquerors over all their enemies. As the captain of salvation he is ever present with his troops to lead them onwards, and to protect, and bless them. And as the captain of salvation, he will conduct the immortal hosts of conquering redeemed spirits to realms of eternal glory. And to all who overcome under his banners, he will give to sit down with him on his throne, as he overcame and sat down on his Father's throne.

"Courage." your Captain cries, Who all your toil foreknew, Toil ye shall, yet all despise — I have o'ercome for you."