Bread Corn Is Bruised
God carefully selects and disciplines those who are to be of much use to Him, providing a way to escape temptation and trusting in His faithfulness and tenderness.
A.B. Simpson emphasizes the careful and loving discipline God applies to those He intends to use for His purposes, comparing it to a farmer's meticulous process of separating wheat kernels. He reassures believers that God's oversight is tender and purposeful, ensuring that trials are not overwhelming but rather serve to purify and prepare them. Simpson encourages trust in God's plan and timing, reminding us that He knows our limitations and provides a way to endure temptations. The sermon calls for a perspective shift, urging listeners not to envy others but to appreciate the growth and blessings that come from their own experiences. Ultimately, it is a message of hope and assurance in God's faithful guidance.
Text
The farmer does not gather timothy and bluegrass and break it with a heavy machine. But he takes severe measures to separate the kernals of wheat. So God takes great pains with those who are to be of much use to Him. There is a nature in them that needs this discipline. Do not wonder at God's wise, discriminating care that will fit them to be food for the multitude. God knows the way He is taking, and there is infinite tenderness in the oversight He gives. He is watching the furnace you are in; He will not allow the heat to become too intense. He wants it great enough to purify and then it will be withdrawn.
He knows our frame.
He will not let any temptation take us but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it (1 Corinthians 10:13). Do you believe in this disciplining love of the Heavenly Husbandman? Are you trusting Him with the leading and government of your life? Do not permit yourself to envy or be disturbed by the people around you! Some day you will be glad for the training and blessing they have brought you.
Sermon Outline
- God's Careful Selection
- God's Tenderness and Oversight
- God's Faithfulness in Temptation
- Trust in God's Disciplining Love
- Believing in God's Heavenly Husbandman
- Trusting Him with life's leading and government
Key Quotes
“God knows the way He is taking, and there is infinite tenderness in the oversight He gives.” — A.B. Simpson
“He will not allow the heat to become too intense. He wants it great enough to purify and then it will be withdrawn.” — A.B. Simpson
“God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it (1 Corinthians 10:13)” — A.B. Simpson
Application Points
- Trust in God's disciplining love and faithfulness in all circumstances.
- Seek God's guidance and provision to escape or overcome temptation.
- Look for God's tender oversight and faithfulness in the midst of trials and difficulties.