The sermon emphasizes the assurance of God's help and presence in our lives, encouraging faithfulness and gratitude amidst struggles.
Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the assurance of God's presence and help in times of weakness and struggle, encouraging believers to trust in His will and find rest in Christ. She emphasizes the importance of starting with faithfulness in small things, expecting God to provide more light and strength as we journey with Him. Tileston highlights the significance of recognizing God's loving kindness in every aspect of our lives, from the good intentions to the temptations we resist, as evidence of His care and concern for us.
Text
Let not your hearts faint; fear not, and do not tremble.
DEUTERONOMY 20:3
THOU wilt be near me, Father, when I fail,
For Thou hast called me now to be Thy son,
And when the foe within me may assail,
Help me to say in Christ, "Thy will be done;"
This ever calms, this ever gives me rest;
There is no fight in which I may not stand,
When Christ doth dwell supreme within my breast,
And Thou uphold'st me with Thy mighty hand.
JONES VERY
THOU must begin low, and be glad of a little light to travel with, and be faithful thereunto; and in faithfulness expect additions of light, and so much power as may help thee to rub on. And though thou may be long weak and little and ready to perish; yet the Father will help thee, and cause His life to shoot up in thee. Thankfully receive the smallest visitation that comes from Him to thy soul; for there is life and peace in it, and death and perplexity in turning from it.
ISAAC PENINGTON
All the evil we do not commit, all the temptations to which we do not consent or which never visit us; all our holy thoughts and good intentions, all our longings after that which is right,--are so many witnesses of His loving kindness towards us. How could He help you thus unless He cared for you?
CHARLES DE CONDREN
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Introduction to God's help - Understanding fear and trembling - Scriptural foundation from Deuteronomy
- II points: - The importance of faithfulness - Receiving God's light and power - The journey from weakness to strength
- III points: - Recognizing God's loving kindness - The significance of holy thoughts and intentions - Living in gratitude for God's help
- IV points: - The role of Christ in our struggles - Embracing God's will - Finding rest in God's presence
Key Quotes
“Let not your hearts faint; fear not, and do not tremble.” — Mary Wilder Tileston
“Thankfully receive the smallest visitation that comes from Him to thy soul; for there is life and peace in it.” — Mary Wilder Tileston
“All our holy thoughts and good intentions, all our longings after that which is right,--are so many witnesses of His loving kindness towards us.” — Mary Wilder Tileston
Application Points
- Stay faithful in small tasks, as this opens the door for greater guidance from God.
- Recognize and appreciate the small ways God supports you in your daily life.
- Surrender your fears to Christ, allowing His presence to bring you peace and strength.
