May 29
The Christian's Prospect and Duty
The Christian's Daily Treasury"Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent, that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless." - 2 Peter 3:14.
It has been well observed, that human life would be one stagnant lake, unless promise heaved up its waters, and bid them roll towards some ideal shore, which it represents as sparkling with beauty and delight. How glorious are the hopes which the Gospel inspires! Contemplate
THE CHRISTIAN'S FUTURE PROSPECTS. See
The glories it unfolds. "Such things," that is, the dissolution of nature, the day of the Lord, new heavens and a new earth. These things shall be preceded by the universal spread of the Gospel, the downfall of Antichrist, and the subversion of every system opposed to Christianity.
The ground on which it rests; ver. 13. "According to his promise." In cherishing such anticipations, we are not deluded by fancy—we rest the telescope of faith on the word of promise, and command an extensive prospect of things that must shortly be brought near to us.
The feelings with which it should be viewed. Many motives should induce us to look for such things; as we desire to be freed from sin, released from trouble, have our graces perfected, and be in possession of eternal happiness. There must be the look of faith, hope, joy, desire, patience, and love.
THE CHRISTIAN'S PRESENT DUTY. It may be summed up in one word, diligence. Note
The objects to which it should be directed. The possession of peace is one; we cannot be found of God in peace, till we are found in Christ as our Saviour. The perfection of holiness is the other; this cannot be attained here. The good ground of the heart is in cultivation, but it is not free from weeds; the gold of grace is mixed with the dross of sin: but when grace is perfected in glory, believers shall be blameless.
The manner in which it is to be performed. This diligence is to be applied to the observance of appointed means and ordinances, and to the cultivation of spiritual gifts and graces. Let me thus be constantly dwelling on the sides of eternity.