Letters: Mrs. Manson (1)
The sermon emphasizes the importance of waiting on God, trusting in His plan, and having faith in His love, even in the midst of inactivity or self-denial.
Andrew Bonar writes to Mrs. Manson, expressing gratitude for her letter and sharing thoughts on the nature of ministerial work. He encourages Mr. Manson to find contentment in waiting on the Lord, emphasizing that even in inactivity, one can serve God. Bonar reminds them that God's love should be judged by His eternal gift rather than by fluctuating feelings. He draws a parallel between Mr. Manson's situation and historical figures like Wycliffe and Luther, suggesting that there is purpose in their current circumstances. Bonar concludes with a light-hearted note about Mr. Manson's lack of communication and requests prayer for their ministry.
Text
GLASGOW, 17th March 1858.
MY DEAR MRS. MANSON,--Thanks for writing me, for in truth I was meditating to write you (i.e. your husband and you=one), but could not make out whereabouts you were at this time. I am glad you are to be near Crieff ; we may see you now and then. But I will be afraid to say much to Mr. Manson about ministerial work, lest thereby I sadden him,--only he is one who can say, 'It is the Lord,' and so be as content to sit still as to labour--
'They also serve who only stand and wait.'
Indeed this is by far the most self-denying work, and so may be found the most glorifying to God. I cannot but hope, too, that the Master has some work for Mr. Manson. Tell him that Wycliffe, when forbidden by the bishop to preach for a season, set the more eagerly to his translation, and remind him that Southwood may become a Wartburg, and he a Luther!
As for yourself, no doubt your change of life, the very removal of former cares, and the kind of vacation-state you are in, will cause your soul at times to feel as if under a cloudy sky. But you well know to judge of God's love only by His Unspeakable Gift,--a gift irrevocably given, and given to you,--never by frames and states and feelings and your own thoughts. When Mr. Manson came back to you on the day of the eclipse, did he report that the sun was changed? No, he reported that his light had been intercepted for a few minutes, and that never were men more fully alive to the inexhaustible and unchangeable lustre of that globe of light, than when for a moment deprived of its actual presence.
Your husband is somewhat lazy, he has not written me this long time. I think I will make that an excuse for saying no more at present, so good-bye for this time. Pray for us.--Yours truly in the Lord,
ANDREW A. BONAR.
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Waiting on God
- The Value of Ministerial Work
- The Importance of Faith in God's Love
- God's love is not measured by our feelings or thoughts
- It is a gift that is irrevocably given and unchanging
Key Quotes
“''They also serve who only stand and wait.''” — Andrew Bonar
“Tell him that Wycliffe, when forbidden by the bishop to preach for a season, set the more eagerly to his translation, and remind him that Southwood may become a Wartburg, and he a Luther!” — Andrew Bonar
Application Points
- Practically applying the principle of waiting on God requires self-denial and trust in His plan.
- Faith in God's love is not measured by our feelings or thoughts, but by His irrevocable gift.
- Even in inactivity, one can still serve God and find contentment in His plan.