March 25

"How great is his goodness!"—Zechariah 9:17.

THERE is a greatness and grandeur in all the perfections of God; but his goodness makes his whole character amiable and lovely. Let us notice

THE SCENES OF GOD'S GOODNESS. When do we behold it?

When we gaze on the cross. The Almighty furnished many evidences of it in the remarkable interpositions of his providence with regard to the Israelites; but these are not to be compared with the wonderful display of that goodness in the Gospel. Here, in the cross, his majesty is overpowered by his mercy, and his grandeur is softened down by his goodness.

When we look into our hearts. Believers, when they draw the contrast between their past and present condition: when they think of the new heart God has given them, and the holy desires he has planted within them, have reason to exclaim, "How great is his goodness!"

When we come to the temple. Here his goodness is made known, and his mercy is displayed. It is seen in the provisions of the Gospel, so suitable in their nature, and so abundant in their quantity.

When we think of heaven. What happiness is in reserve for God's children above, after they have done and suffered his will below! Look beyond the scenes and circumstances, sufferings and sorrows of time, to the joys and triumphs of eternity — and when you think of the flowing river, the shining pavement, the golden harps, and the never-fading crowns, can you forbear exclaiming, "How great is his goodness!"

THE FEELINGS WITH WHICH IT SHOULD BE CONTEMPLATED. It should be with wonder and astonishment, joy and triumph, love and ardor, gratitude and praise. The unbeliever, as well as the Christian, may adopt the language, "How great is his goodness!" in sparing the lives of those who are rebelling against him, and treating his ordinances with contempt.

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