August 18

For they drank of that spiritual rock that followed them; and that rock was Christ.—1 Corinthians 10:4.

No sooner had Moses smitten the rock, than the crystal stream burst forth, and the people were at once supplied with the fluid of life. Jesus by his atoning sacrifice has in like manner obtained the waters of salvation for a dying world. Let us compare the supplies in a few particulars. The supply from the rock was supernatural;—there was no natural connexion between the means and the end. Redemption in all its ages, from its being purposed in eternity, to being consummated in glory is altogether divine. Not any part of it is identified with what is human, but all of it is stamped with the impress of the finger of God. The supply was abundant;—not a few drops, but a flowing stream, enough for all the people. Such are salvation's streams, there is no limitation, they are as copious as our world's circumference, and they are amply sufficient for every creature. O yes, all are invited to come to the waters, and to take an abundance of them freely without money, and without price. Then the supply was lasting;—it never failed them—they had it from day to day, in all their journeys it followed them, and never ceased, until it was superseded by the milk and honey of the promised land. The supplies of grace also are abiding,—we may possess them now, and possess them always, and possess them until the streams of grace are lost in the ocean of boundless blessedness, at God's right hand, where there are pleasures for ever more. Are we participating of these refreshing, soul delighting streams? Have we humbly and earnestly come to Jesus, from whom only these supplies are to be obtained? He now through the medium of his gospel invites us to come unto him and drink, and the water which he imparts shall be within us as a well of water springing up unto eternal life.

"'Whoever will,' O gracious word!

May of this stream partake;

Come thirsty souls, and bless the Lord,

And drink for Jesu's sake."