December 18

PART II.—Colossians 3:11.

As Christ is all, and in all, in the creation of worlds, he also is so, in the arrangements of Providence in the government of all things. For, "by him all things consist." (Colossians 1:17.) "He upholdeth all things by the word of his power." (Hebrews 1:3.) He has all power, both in heaven and on earth, and all government is placed in his hands, for, "He is Lord of all." He is the "Blessed and holy Potentate, King of kings, and Lord of lords." Hence we are directed to look unto him as the great Being whose universal energy, sustains the universe, and whose omnific influence controuls all events. At his bidding, the seraph flies to execute all his pleasures, and in his hand is the life of every living thing. In his hands are the reins of universal authority, a sceptre which he sways over all worlds. O yes! it is a delightful thought to the christian, that Jesus is the universal ruler of all nations, and that nothing can possible happen without his direct appointment or permission. That as he once silenced the roaring waves on the Galilean lake, so he now sitteth on high, doing according to his righteous will, among the armies of heaven, and the inhabitants of earth: that his way is in the whirlwind, and the storm, and in the clouds are the dust of his feet. The consideration of Christ's authoritative connection with all the events of Providence, will tend greatly to fortify our minds in times of trouble and sorrow, and to reconcile us to the crosses and afflictions of life. Whom would we choose but Jesus, to select our inheritance for us, and to direct our ways? If our Redeemer manages all our concerns, then will they be wisely and affectionately regulated. The dreary desert shall yield us all necessary supplies at his commands, and the storms of life shall be quiet at his bidding. Life and health, sickness and death, are at his disposal, all our affairs are in his hands, and we may be firmly persuaded, that whatsoever we commit to him, is committed to our faithful Creator.