Gems from March 2022
And He was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake Him, and say unto Him, Master, carest Thou not that we perish? Mark 4:38
The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love, He will joy over thee with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
We know that the disciples need not have been afraid, they need not have disturbed our Lord's rest; but something I had never thought of before came to me, as I pictured that tossing boat and those frightened men and the resting Lord. Do we never do just what they did? He is resting in His love, in the silence of love. Do not we, His lovers, sometimes break into the sweetness of that silence with a fear, a cry that is almost "carest Thou not?"
No one paragraph, even in our Bible, shows life as whole. There are other aspects, I know, but this, which is perhaps the very innermost-the heart of the heart of love-is something we are meant to look at often, and far more, to live.
There is silence which can be only met by silence. Silence is not a gap to be filled. It is the greatest of all preparations, and the climax of all adoration.
"Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from Him cometh my salvation. My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from Him." Psalm 62:1,5) .
Let the storm beat as it will outside; within, let there be peace, so that undisturbed He may rest in His love. ("He will renew thee with His love". Are they not dear words? "He will rest in His love." "He will renew thee with His love." Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael
N.J. Hiebert - 8771
We know that the disciples need not have been afraid, they need not have disturbed our Lord's rest; but something I had never thought of before came to me, as I pictured that tossing boat and those frightened men and the resting Lord. Do we never do just what they did? He is resting in His love, in the silence of love. Do not we, His lovers, sometimes break into the sweetness of that silence with a fear, a cry that is almost "carest Thou not?"
No one paragraph, even in our Bible, shows life as whole. There are other aspects, I know, but this, which is perhaps the very innermost-the heart of the heart of love-is something we are meant to look at often, and far more, to live.
There is silence which can be only met by silence. Silence is not a gap to be filled. It is the greatest of all preparations, and the climax of all adoration.
"Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from Him cometh my salvation. My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from Him." Psalm 62:1,5) .
Let the storm beat as it will outside; within, let there be peace, so that undisturbed He may rest in His love. ("He will renew thee with His love". Are they not dear words? "He will rest in His love." "He will renew thee with His love." Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael
N.J. Hiebert - 8771
March 1
I will arise and go to my father...and he arose, and came to his father... But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him...and fell on his neck and kissed him. Father I have sinned...But the father said...let us eat and be merry: for this my son...was lost and is found. Luke 15:18-24
Years ago, while visiting a Canadian friend's home in Florida, we heard the sound of a big eighteen-wheeler coming by the window. His wife's brother in law was bringing a load of hay from Canada for horses in Florida. He would soon be returning to the province of Ontario with crates of oranges for an Ottawa grocery chain.
Seeing my interest in his big red truck, the driver said "Jump in." I told him about this being a first for me, to climb high in such a monster, never having been that close to the roaring sound of such a powerful vehicle.
Then my trucker friend told me, "It's good to see you this close. You know driving this rig mile after mile, it gets quite tiring and lonely, especially after the sun goes down." He was quiet for a moment. Then he said, "I hear you in the dark of night as I travel down the highways often listening to the Hour of Decision. I can hardly see the road after you sing songs like 'Lord, I'm Coming Home.' " His voice broke as we continued to talk about it. Then we prayed together, and I knew that a new name had been written down in Glory. It happened to my new friend from Canada, behind the steering wheel of his truck, parked in the back yard of his sister's Florida home.
Everyone longs for the comfort and security of a loving home. The trucker from Canada longed for a special home--one that would be his forever. It's a home all of us long for, even though some are not yet aware of of it. George Beverly Shea
I've wandered far away from God, now I'm coming home;
The paths of sin too long I've trod, Lord, I'm coming home.
I've wasted many precious years, now I'm coming home ;
I now repent wth bitter tears, Lord, I'm coming home.
I'm tired of sin and straying, Lord, now I'm coming home;
I'll trust Thy love, believe Thy word, Lord I'm coming home.
My soul is sick, my heart is sore, now I'm coming home;
My strength renew, my hope restore, Lord, I'm coming home. W. J. Patrick
N.J. Hiebert - 8772
Years ago, while visiting a Canadian friend's home in Florida, we heard the sound of a big eighteen-wheeler coming by the window. His wife's brother in law was bringing a load of hay from Canada for horses in Florida. He would soon be returning to the province of Ontario with crates of oranges for an Ottawa grocery chain.
Seeing my interest in his big red truck, the driver said "Jump in." I told him about this being a first for me, to climb high in such a monster, never having been that close to the roaring sound of such a powerful vehicle.
Then my trucker friend told me, "It's good to see you this close. You know driving this rig mile after mile, it gets quite tiring and lonely, especially after the sun goes down." He was quiet for a moment. Then he said, "I hear you in the dark of night as I travel down the highways often listening to the Hour of Decision. I can hardly see the road after you sing songs like 'Lord, I'm Coming Home.' " His voice broke as we continued to talk about it. Then we prayed together, and I knew that a new name had been written down in Glory. It happened to my new friend from Canada, behind the steering wheel of his truck, parked in the back yard of his sister's Florida home.
Everyone longs for the comfort and security of a loving home. The trucker from Canada longed for a special home--one that would be his forever. It's a home all of us long for, even though some are not yet aware of of it. George Beverly Shea
I've wandered far away from God, now I'm coming home;
The paths of sin too long I've trod, Lord, I'm coming home.
I've wasted many precious years, now I'm coming home ;
I now repent wth bitter tears, Lord, I'm coming home.
I'm tired of sin and straying, Lord, now I'm coming home;
I'll trust Thy love, believe Thy word, Lord I'm coming home.
My soul is sick, my heart is sore, now I'm coming home;
My strength renew, my hope restore, Lord, I'm coming home. W. J. Patrick
N.J. Hiebert - 8772
March 2
This book...shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night. Joshua 1:8
Go to God by prayer for a key to unlock the mysteries of His word. It is not the plodding but the praying soul, that will get this treasure of scripture knowledge. God often brings a truth to the Christian's hand as a return of prayer, which He had long hunted for in vain with much labour and study: "There is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets" (Daniel 2:28); and where does He reveal the secrets of His word but at the throne of grace?
"From the first day," saith the angel, "that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words". (Daniel 10:12) And what was this heavenly messenger's errand to Daniel but to open more fully the Scripture to him? as appears by verse 14 compared with verse 21. This holy man had got some knowledge by his study in the word, and this sets him to praying, and prayer fetched an angel from heaven to give him more light.
- "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee." Psalm 119:11. It was not the Bible in his hand to read it, not the word of his tongue to speak of it; but the hiding it in his heart, that he found effectual against sin.
- "Quench not the Spirit, despise not prophesyings" (1 Thessalonians 5:19,20) They are coupled together; he that despises one loses both. If the scholar is too proud to learn of the usher (guide), he is unworthy to be taught by the master.
- "They shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables" (2 Timothy 4:3,4). Satan commonly stops the ear from hearing sound doctrine, before he opens it to embrace corrupt doctrine. William Gurnall
N.J. Hiebert - 8773
Go to God by prayer for a key to unlock the mysteries of His word. It is not the plodding but the praying soul, that will get this treasure of scripture knowledge. God often brings a truth to the Christian's hand as a return of prayer, which He had long hunted for in vain with much labour and study: "There is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets" (Daniel 2:28); and where does He reveal the secrets of His word but at the throne of grace?
"From the first day," saith the angel, "that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words". (Daniel 10:12) And what was this heavenly messenger's errand to Daniel but to open more fully the Scripture to him? as appears by verse 14 compared with verse 21. This holy man had got some knowledge by his study in the word, and this sets him to praying, and prayer fetched an angel from heaven to give him more light.
- "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee." Psalm 119:11. It was not the Bible in his hand to read it, not the word of his tongue to speak of it; but the hiding it in his heart, that he found effectual against sin.
- "Quench not the Spirit, despise not prophesyings" (1 Thessalonians 5:19,20) They are coupled together; he that despises one loses both. If the scholar is too proud to learn of the usher (guide), he is unworthy to be taught by the master.
- "They shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables" (2 Timothy 4:3,4). Satan commonly stops the ear from hearing sound doctrine, before he opens it to embrace corrupt doctrine. William Gurnall
N.J. Hiebert - 8773
March 3
LONELINESS
I watch, and am as a sparrow alone upon the housetop. Psalm 102:7
Loneliness is a very unpleasant feeling. Many who have lost loved ones know the emotion, the feeling, even many years after their loss. Such feelings were well understood by the Lord as He too passed through a deep sense of loneliness. In the latter part of Matthew the Lord foretells His coming rejection and crucifixion. He speaks of Judas's betrayal; He tells His disciples they will all forsake Him, and mentions Peter's threefold denial.
In the garden the Lord separates from His disciples to pray. Even though three are invited to follow closer, they are unable to watch with Him as sleep overcomes them, and they are not at the Lord's side either as He prays to His Father. The Lord is alone. Soon afterward, the multitude comes to take Him, and His disciples flee. During all His appearances before the authorities, He has no one at His side. He was rejected by the people, whom He had served so wonderfully--"Crucify Him, crucify Him" was their clamour: "We will not have this Man to reign over us." Those who loved Him, who stood by the cross, stood afar off.
What loneliness He felt. The Psalms very vividly describe the thoughts of His heart: "I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none." (Psalm 69:20) "Lover and friend hast thou put far from Me." (Psalm 88:18) "I am like a pelican of the wilderness...and am as a sparrow alone on the housetop." (Psalm 102:6,7)
Then the climax, the last three hours on the cross, when darkness enshrouded Him and the heart-rending cry echoed forth, "My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46) Yes, there are times when we are lonely and it hurts, yet there is no loneliness or sorrow comparable to His. But in all our sorrow we have One to whom we can go, One who gives comfort and support in times of deepest need, because He understands. Albert Blok
N.J. Hiebert - 8774
I watch, and am as a sparrow alone upon the housetop. Psalm 102:7
Loneliness is a very unpleasant feeling. Many who have lost loved ones know the emotion, the feeling, even many years after their loss. Such feelings were well understood by the Lord as He too passed through a deep sense of loneliness. In the latter part of Matthew the Lord foretells His coming rejection and crucifixion. He speaks of Judas's betrayal; He tells His disciples they will all forsake Him, and mentions Peter's threefold denial.
In the garden the Lord separates from His disciples to pray. Even though three are invited to follow closer, they are unable to watch with Him as sleep overcomes them, and they are not at the Lord's side either as He prays to His Father. The Lord is alone. Soon afterward, the multitude comes to take Him, and His disciples flee. During all His appearances before the authorities, He has no one at His side. He was rejected by the people, whom He had served so wonderfully--"Crucify Him, crucify Him" was their clamour: "We will not have this Man to reign over us." Those who loved Him, who stood by the cross, stood afar off.
What loneliness He felt. The Psalms very vividly describe the thoughts of His heart: "I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none." (Psalm 69:20) "Lover and friend hast thou put far from Me." (Psalm 88:18) "I am like a pelican of the wilderness...and am as a sparrow alone on the housetop." (Psalm 102:6,7)
Then the climax, the last three hours on the cross, when darkness enshrouded Him and the heart-rending cry echoed forth, "My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46) Yes, there are times when we are lonely and it hurts, yet there is no loneliness or sorrow comparable to His. But in all our sorrow we have One to whom we can go, One who gives comfort and support in times of deepest need, because He understands. Albert Blok
N.J. Hiebert - 8774
March 4
To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Timothy1:2
The Apostle can address Timothy as his "beloved son (child)." What a comfort that in a day of ruin there are those to whom we can unreservedly express our affection, and to whom in all confidence we can unburden our hearts. Two leading characteristics in Timothy drew forth the love and confidence of Paul.
First, he was mindful of his tears; secondly, he remembered his unfeigned faith. The tears of Timothy proved that he was a man of spiritual depth and affection who felt the low and broken condition of the Christian profession: his unfeigned faith proved that he was able to rise above all the evil in obedience to, and confidence in, God.
Timothy may indeed have been of a timid nature and in danger of being overwhelmed by the evil that was coming into the church; as he was marked by tears and faith, the Apostle was was encouraged to instruct and exhort him knowing that he had qualities which would enable him to answer to his appeal. Nor is it otherwise today.
The instructions of this touching Epistle will find little response unless there are the tears that tell of a tender heart that can mourn over the sorrows of God's people, and the faith that can take God's path of separation in the midst of the ruin.
Paul delighted to remember in his prayers this man of tears and faith. What a cheer to any saint, broken hearted by the condition of God's people, to know that there are devoted and faithful saints by whom he is remembered in prayer. Faithfulness in a day of desertion binds hearts together in the bonds of divine love. 2 Timothy - Expository Outline - Hamilton Smith
N.J. Hiebert - 8775
The Apostle can address Timothy as his "beloved son (child)." What a comfort that in a day of ruin there are those to whom we can unreservedly express our affection, and to whom in all confidence we can unburden our hearts. Two leading characteristics in Timothy drew forth the love and confidence of Paul.
First, he was mindful of his tears; secondly, he remembered his unfeigned faith. The tears of Timothy proved that he was a man of spiritual depth and affection who felt the low and broken condition of the Christian profession: his unfeigned faith proved that he was able to rise above all the evil in obedience to, and confidence in, God.
Timothy may indeed have been of a timid nature and in danger of being overwhelmed by the evil that was coming into the church; as he was marked by tears and faith, the Apostle was was encouraged to instruct and exhort him knowing that he had qualities which would enable him to answer to his appeal. Nor is it otherwise today.
The instructions of this touching Epistle will find little response unless there are the tears that tell of a tender heart that can mourn over the sorrows of God's people, and the faith that can take God's path of separation in the midst of the ruin.
Paul delighted to remember in his prayers this man of tears and faith. What a cheer to any saint, broken hearted by the condition of God's people, to know that there are devoted and faithful saints by whom he is remembered in prayer. Faithfulness in a day of desertion binds hearts together in the bonds of divine love. 2 Timothy - Expository Outline - Hamilton Smith
N.J. Hiebert - 8775
March 5
WHEREFORE DIDST THOU DOUBT?
Neither be ye of doubtful mind. Luke 12:29
We are to believe without doubting. "Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not..." Matthew 21:21 "I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting." (1 Timothy 2:8) Obey without doubting. (Acts 11:12).So much of our faith, our praying, our obedience, comes to naught because it is clogged with doubt, diluted with unbelief. Doubt puts the brakes on, takes all the assurance out of our hearts, makes us wavering disciples, driven by the wind and tossed. (James 1:6)
When our Lord appeared after His resurrection, some believed but some doubted and one feels that chill in many a gathering of Christians. In questionable matters, "And he that doubteth is (condemned) if he eat" (Romans 14:23) and the underground principle is "whatsoever is not of faith is sin". We believe or we doubt and if both are mixed let us earnestly pray, "Lord, I believe; help Thou mine unbelief." (Mark 9:24) To the extent we are believing, we are not doubting and, if we are doubting, to that extent we are not believing. Beware of a doubtful mind. All the Days - Vance Havner
Ere you left your room this morning. Did you think to pray? In the name of Christ, our Saviour, did you ask for loving favour, as a shield today?
When you met with great temptation, did you think to pray? By His dying love and merit did you trust the Holy Spirit as your guide and stay?
When your heart was filled with anger, did you think to pray? Did you plead for grace, my brother, that you might forgive another who has crossed your way?
Oh, how praying rests the weary! Prayer will change the night to day; so when life seems dark and dreary, don't forget to pray. (Mary Kidder - 1820 to 1905)
N.J. Hiebert - 8776
Neither be ye of doubtful mind. Luke 12:29
We are to believe without doubting. "Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not..." Matthew 21:21 "I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting." (1 Timothy 2:8) Obey without doubting. (Acts 11:12).So much of our faith, our praying, our obedience, comes to naught because it is clogged with doubt, diluted with unbelief. Doubt puts the brakes on, takes all the assurance out of our hearts, makes us wavering disciples, driven by the wind and tossed. (James 1:6)
When our Lord appeared after His resurrection, some believed but some doubted and one feels that chill in many a gathering of Christians. In questionable matters, "And he that doubteth is (condemned) if he eat" (Romans 14:23) and the underground principle is "whatsoever is not of faith is sin". We believe or we doubt and if both are mixed let us earnestly pray, "Lord, I believe; help Thou mine unbelief." (Mark 9:24) To the extent we are believing, we are not doubting and, if we are doubting, to that extent we are not believing. Beware of a doubtful mind. All the Days - Vance Havner
Ere you left your room this morning. Did you think to pray? In the name of Christ, our Saviour, did you ask for loving favour, as a shield today?
When you met with great temptation, did you think to pray? By His dying love and merit did you trust the Holy Spirit as your guide and stay?
When your heart was filled with anger, did you think to pray? Did you plead for grace, my brother, that you might forgive another who has crossed your way?
Oh, how praying rests the weary! Prayer will change the night to day; so when life seems dark and dreary, don't forget to pray. (Mary Kidder - 1820 to 1905)
N.J. Hiebert - 8776
March 6
Be ye reconciled to God. 2 Corinthians 5:20
Reconciliation is one of the great spiritual blessings imparted to us by God, on the basis of our acceptance of the Lord Jesus as our personal Saviour. It speaks of bringing two opposing forces together in harmony - on the one hand, the unchanging will of God, and on the other, our own wills which are naturally inclined to oppose His will. This was only possible through Christ.
1. An Act of God - If reconciliation depended upon us to any degree, it could never happen. The wonder is that it was all up to God who came out to us in love, giving His only Son to be the perfect sacrifice for sins. And it was by His Spirit that we actually took notice, listened and accepted the message. (Isaiah 1:18). Salvation is entirely His work.
2. Knowing, Compared to Believing - It is one thing to know that Jesus came to earth, died and rose again, and quite another to actually believe that it was for me, and effective in me, for eternity. (John 17:3). fruit of our reconciliation.
3. Believing Leads to Telling - There are some believers who keep their experience to themselves, and thereby deprive other needy souls of hearing the good news of salvation. (Mark 16:15).
4. Ultimate Reconciliation - to be face to face with our blessed Lord and Saviour is anticipated day by day. Then we will be carried to the Father's home to dwell there forever. Since reconciled means "brought together", our promised future will be its complete fulfillment. (1 Thessalonians 4:17).
Past - The moment we were saved, we were reconciled forever.
Present - For all of our Christian life we are being reconciled, in manner of life, to our Saviour's.
Future - Finally, when we are with the Lord in glory, we will be reconciled in body as well as in soul and spirit. Lorne Perry
N.J. Hiebert - 8777
Reconciliation is one of the great spiritual blessings imparted to us by God, on the basis of our acceptance of the Lord Jesus as our personal Saviour. It speaks of bringing two opposing forces together in harmony - on the one hand, the unchanging will of God, and on the other, our own wills which are naturally inclined to oppose His will. This was only possible through Christ.
1. An Act of God - If reconciliation depended upon us to any degree, it could never happen. The wonder is that it was all up to God who came out to us in love, giving His only Son to be the perfect sacrifice for sins. And it was by His Spirit that we actually took notice, listened and accepted the message. (Isaiah 1:18). Salvation is entirely His work.
2. Knowing, Compared to Believing - It is one thing to know that Jesus came to earth, died and rose again, and quite another to actually believe that it was for me, and effective in me, for eternity. (John 17:3). fruit of our reconciliation.
3. Believing Leads to Telling - There are some believers who keep their experience to themselves, and thereby deprive other needy souls of hearing the good news of salvation. (Mark 16:15).
4. Ultimate Reconciliation - to be face to face with our blessed Lord and Saviour is anticipated day by day. Then we will be carried to the Father's home to dwell there forever. Since reconciled means "brought together", our promised future will be its complete fulfillment. (1 Thessalonians 4:17).
Past - The moment we were saved, we were reconciled forever.
Present - For all of our Christian life we are being reconciled, in manner of life, to our Saviour's.
Future - Finally, when we are with the Lord in glory, we will be reconciled in body as well as in soul and spirit. Lorne Perry
N.J. Hiebert - 8777
March 7
Then drew near unto Him all the publicans and sinners for to hear Him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This Man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. Luke 15:1-2.
When publicans sat down to eat with the Lord, the scribes and Pharisees found fault: "Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners? and Jesus answering said unto them, they that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance." (Luke 5:30-32) The Lord replied the physician seeks the sick rather than those who thought they needed Him not. (Luke 5:27-32).
The "gospel" according to the Pharisees--"This man receiveth sinners and eateth with them"--was spoken when "publicans and sinners drew near to hear Him" (Luke 15:1-24). Then our Lord spoke those inimitable parables of the lost things and their finding. The ways of the Lord were always ways of grace and truth. He never sought the approbation of men. In a proud world among a proud people, the Son of God walked a path of unprecedented lowliness and grace.
When the impotent man was healed at the pool of Bethesda (John 5), the Jews interrogated the happy, healed man carrying his bed home on his back, "What man is that which said unto thee, Take up thy bed and walk?" (John 5:12). The man did not even know His name! It says, "Jesus had conveyed Himself away, a multitude being in that place" (John 5:13). How unlike the ways of men who crave all the publicity which exploits will bring to them.
God had said of old, "My ways are not your ways" (Isaiah 55:8). It was true of the Lord Jesus; the ways of men were not His ways. Men thought little of God in heaven or of what would be pleasing to Him. This was everything to Christ our Lord. He did everything that pleased the Father. The Father's Name, the Father's kingdom, and the Father's will were the great dominating motives of the life of our Lord. He cared for nothing else. Leonard Sheldrake
When publicans sat down to eat with the Lord, the scribes and Pharisees found fault: "Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners? and Jesus answering said unto them, they that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance." (Luke 5:30-32) The Lord replied the physician seeks the sick rather than those who thought they needed Him not. (Luke 5:27-32).
The "gospel" according to the Pharisees--"This man receiveth sinners and eateth with them"--was spoken when "publicans and sinners drew near to hear Him" (Luke 15:1-24). Then our Lord spoke those inimitable parables of the lost things and their finding. The ways of the Lord were always ways of grace and truth. He never sought the approbation of men. In a proud world among a proud people, the Son of God walked a path of unprecedented lowliness and grace.
When the impotent man was healed at the pool of Bethesda (John 5), the Jews interrogated the happy, healed man carrying his bed home on his back, "What man is that which said unto thee, Take up thy bed and walk?" (John 5:12). The man did not even know His name! It says, "Jesus had conveyed Himself away, a multitude being in that place" (John 5:13). How unlike the ways of men who crave all the publicity which exploits will bring to them.
God had said of old, "My ways are not your ways" (Isaiah 55:8). It was true of the Lord Jesus; the ways of men were not His ways. Men thought little of God in heaven or of what would be pleasing to Him. This was everything to Christ our Lord. He did everything that pleased the Father. The Father's Name, the Father's kingdom, and the Father's will were the great dominating motives of the life of our Lord. He cared for nothing else. Leonard Sheldrake
N.J. Hiebert - 8778
March 8
"BE MUCH IN PRAYER"
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; and for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make know the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
Ephesians 6:18-20.
Be much in prayer, in this dark hour, for great are Satan's wiles; Far worse than persecuting power are his seductive smiles.
And error comes in such disguise--smooth-tongued and circumspect-- That none but truth-enlightened eyes the monster can detect!
And fair profession, hand in hand with evil, stalks abroad But to deceive. O! who can stand, save those who trust in God?
Be much in prayer for labouring ones, who in the Master's name, And with the Master's message, run His mercy to proclaim.
The harvest's great, the workmen few, and naught of time to spare; Iniquity increases too--remember this in prayer.
I commend you to God, and to the word of His grace. Acts 20:32
Christian Treasury - June 1988
N.J. Hiebert - 8779
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; and for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make know the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.
Ephesians 6:18-20.
Be much in prayer, in this dark hour, for great are Satan's wiles; Far worse than persecuting power are his seductive smiles.
And error comes in such disguise--smooth-tongued and circumspect-- That none but truth-enlightened eyes the monster can detect!
And fair profession, hand in hand with evil, stalks abroad But to deceive. O! who can stand, save those who trust in God?
Be much in prayer for labouring ones, who in the Master's name, And with the Master's message, run His mercy to proclaim.
The harvest's great, the workmen few, and naught of time to spare; Iniquity increases too--remember this in prayer.
I commend you to God, and to the word of His grace. Acts 20:32
Christian Treasury - June 1988
N.J. Hiebert - 8779
March 9
Jonah prayed unto the Lord his God out of the fish's belly. Jonah 2:1
Even when the the shipmaster wakened Jonah out of his sleep, and told him to call on his God, Jonah, made no attempt to pray. He was fleeing from the presence of Jehovah, and that is no time to pray unto Him. He even made a frank confession of his sin to the whole ship's company, (Jonah 1:9) but still he did not pray.
We have noted that solemn scene on deck, as the seamen reluctantly took up Jonah, and cast him forth into the sea. (1:15). It is amazing that even as Jonah was about to die, he apparently made not the slightest attempt to come to God in prayer, though surely there had been a beginning of the restoration of of his soul. It often takes some time to bring about full restoration.
Do not think that Jonah was any worse that we are today. The story before us is only an illustration of how very far from God, even a saint and a prophet, one who has been used of God to do His work, may get. Even the sight of death itself did not break down the barrier that Jonah's sin and pride had raised between God and his heart. True, the barrier was all on his part, but he would not humble himself to turn to God and cry for mercy.
How wonderful are the ways of God. What the storm, the raging waves, what even death itself, could not accomplish, God now brought about by his own ways. Alone in the belly of the fish, amidst that awful darkness, and that deathly silence, utterly without hope of deliverance by the hand of man--"Jonah prayed unto the Lord his God out of the fish's belly." (2:1)
This is the way Jonah described that moment. Worse, far worse to Jonah, than a few short moment under the stormy waves, and then death; were those long hours, three days and three nights (Psalm 116:3-4) "in the belly of Sheol." The proud, rebellious spirit bowed at last, and Jonah prayed.
Jonah - G. C. Willis
N.J. Hiebert - 8780
Even when the the shipmaster wakened Jonah out of his sleep, and told him to call on his God, Jonah, made no attempt to pray. He was fleeing from the presence of Jehovah, and that is no time to pray unto Him. He even made a frank confession of his sin to the whole ship's company, (Jonah 1:9) but still he did not pray.
We have noted that solemn scene on deck, as the seamen reluctantly took up Jonah, and cast him forth into the sea. (1:15). It is amazing that even as Jonah was about to die, he apparently made not the slightest attempt to come to God in prayer, though surely there had been a beginning of the restoration of of his soul. It often takes some time to bring about full restoration.
Do not think that Jonah was any worse that we are today. The story before us is only an illustration of how very far from God, even a saint and a prophet, one who has been used of God to do His work, may get. Even the sight of death itself did not break down the barrier that Jonah's sin and pride had raised between God and his heart. True, the barrier was all on his part, but he would not humble himself to turn to God and cry for mercy.
How wonderful are the ways of God. What the storm, the raging waves, what even death itself, could not accomplish, God now brought about by his own ways. Alone in the belly of the fish, amidst that awful darkness, and that deathly silence, utterly without hope of deliverance by the hand of man--"Jonah prayed unto the Lord his God out of the fish's belly." (2:1)
This is the way Jonah described that moment. Worse, far worse to Jonah, than a few short moment under the stormy waves, and then death; were those long hours, three days and three nights (Psalm 116:3-4) "in the belly of Sheol." The proud, rebellious spirit bowed at last, and Jonah prayed.
Jonah - G. C. Willis
N.J. Hiebert - 8780
March 10
THE INCARNATION OF THE SON OF GOD
And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary...thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call His name JESUS...the Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall over shadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. Luke 1:30-35
When the fulness of time had come, that is the appointed time, the Son of God appeared on earth in the form of man. The Word which was in the beginning, the Word that was with the Father, the Word that was God, the Word by whom all things were made, that Word was made flesh and dwelt on earth. He who subsisted in the form of God, emptied Himself and took upon Himself the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.
The incarnation is a deep mystery, the depths of which human reason can never fathom. "No man knoweth the Son, but the Father." (Matthew 11:27). We must approach it in the spirit of deep reverence. In Luke 1, we have the record of the divine announcement of the incarnation as it was made to the virgin, who had found favour in the sight of God. Was there ever such a message given to Gabriel before? Great as the revelation was which he was commissioned to carry to praying Daniel, (Daniel 9:21) the communication to the virgin Mary here is far greater. A. C. Gaebelein
Thou wast "the image," in man's lowly guise, of the invisible to mortal eyes;
Come from His bosom, from the heavens above, we see in Thee incarnate, "God is love."
Thy lips the Father's name to us reveal; what burning power in all Thy words we feel,
When to our raptured hearts we hear Thee tell the heavenly glories which Thou know'st so well.
No curse of law, in Thee was sovereign grace, and now what glory in Thine unveiled face!
Thou didst attract the wretched and the weak, Thy joy the wand'rers and the lost to seek.
N.J. Hiebert - 8781
And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary...thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call His name JESUS...the Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall over shadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. Luke 1:30-35
When the fulness of time had come, that is the appointed time, the Son of God appeared on earth in the form of man. The Word which was in the beginning, the Word that was with the Father, the Word that was God, the Word by whom all things were made, that Word was made flesh and dwelt on earth. He who subsisted in the form of God, emptied Himself and took upon Himself the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.
The incarnation is a deep mystery, the depths of which human reason can never fathom. "No man knoweth the Son, but the Father." (Matthew 11:27). We must approach it in the spirit of deep reverence. In Luke 1, we have the record of the divine announcement of the incarnation as it was made to the virgin, who had found favour in the sight of God. Was there ever such a message given to Gabriel before? Great as the revelation was which he was commissioned to carry to praying Daniel, (Daniel 9:21) the communication to the virgin Mary here is far greater. A. C. Gaebelein
Thou wast "the image," in man's lowly guise, of the invisible to mortal eyes;
Come from His bosom, from the heavens above, we see in Thee incarnate, "God is love."
Thy lips the Father's name to us reveal; what burning power in all Thy words we feel,
When to our raptured hearts we hear Thee tell the heavenly glories which Thou know'st so well.
No curse of law, in Thee was sovereign grace, and now what glory in Thine unveiled face!
Thou didst attract the wretched and the weak, Thy joy the wand'rers and the lost to seek.
N.J. Hiebert - 8781
March 11
Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Mark 16:15
Just after the end of WW II some dear Christians were preaching the gospel on the streets of downtown Ottawa, Canada. A young man dressed in a military uniform stopped to listen. After the preaching had ended, some spoke to him and found that he was a dear and warmhearted believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, just returned from combat in Europe. He had served as a chaplain near the front lines, seeking to comfort soldiers brought in to the field hospital, who had been wounded in battle.
The army chaplain recounted a most heart warming incident that took place during heavy fighting. He began by mentioning that before going into combat, he had been trained when dealing with wounded soldiers, to find out "what faith" each was of so that he could "more effectively" be a comfort to them.
One night, at the height of the battle, a seriously wounded soldier was carried into the field hospital. The chaplain immediately made his way to the young soldier's cot and leaning over, asked his standard question; "What church do you attend?" There was silence for a moment and then a whispered response; "I'm of Paul's persuasion".
This puzzled the chaplain very much for he had never heard of such a church group before. "This must be of some new denomination" he thought to himself. Turning to others in the ward, he asked if anyone there had ever heard of a church named "Paul's Persuasion" and if so, could they tell him anything about its beliefs. But no one in the ward had ever heard of such a church.
Leaning back over the wounded soldier, he again asked him to try and describe the church or denomination to which he belonged. In a weak but steady whisper the wounded young man replied: "...I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:38,39).
May we too be thus "persuaded"--"...I know Whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is abe to keep that which I have committed unto Him..." (2 Timothy 1:12). The Christian Shepherd - 2005
N.J. Hiebert - 8782
Just after the end of WW II some dear Christians were preaching the gospel on the streets of downtown Ottawa, Canada. A young man dressed in a military uniform stopped to listen. After the preaching had ended, some spoke to him and found that he was a dear and warmhearted believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, just returned from combat in Europe. He had served as a chaplain near the front lines, seeking to comfort soldiers brought in to the field hospital, who had been wounded in battle.
The army chaplain recounted a most heart warming incident that took place during heavy fighting. He began by mentioning that before going into combat, he had been trained when dealing with wounded soldiers, to find out "what faith" each was of so that he could "more effectively" be a comfort to them.
One night, at the height of the battle, a seriously wounded soldier was carried into the field hospital. The chaplain immediately made his way to the young soldier's cot and leaning over, asked his standard question; "What church do you attend?" There was silence for a moment and then a whispered response; "I'm of Paul's persuasion".
This puzzled the chaplain very much for he had never heard of such a church group before. "This must be of some new denomination" he thought to himself. Turning to others in the ward, he asked if anyone there had ever heard of a church named "Paul's Persuasion" and if so, could they tell him anything about its beliefs. But no one in the ward had ever heard of such a church.
Leaning back over the wounded soldier, he again asked him to try and describe the church or denomination to which he belonged. In a weak but steady whisper the wounded young man replied: "...I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:38,39).
May we too be thus "persuaded"--"...I know Whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is abe to keep that which I have committed unto Him..." (2 Timothy 1:12). The Christian Shepherd - 2005
N.J. Hiebert - 8782
March 12
A MIND AT PERFECT PEACE
Bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5
Are there any tyrants more harassing than our own thoughts? Control of deeds and words seems a small thing in comparison; but have we not been apt to fancy that we really cannot help our thoughts? Instead of our dominating them, they have dominated us; and we have not expected nor even thought it possible, to be set free from the manifold tyranny of vain thoughts, and still less of wandering thoughts.
Yet, all the time, here has been God's Word about this hopeless, helpless matter only where has been our faith? It is very strong language that the inspiring Spirit uses here--not "thoughts" in general but definitely, and with no room for distressing exceptions, "every thought." Must it not be glorious rest to have every thought of day and night brought into sweet, quiet, complete captivity to Jesus, entirely "obedient to the faith," to His holy and loving influence, to His beautiful and perfect law?
We should not have dared to hope or dream of such a rest to our souls; we should not have guessed it included in that promise to those who take the yoke of Christ upon them; and if we could find one text stating that it was not any part of God's infinitely gracious purpose for us, we should only say, "Of course, for it stands to reason it could not be!"
Not yet thou knowest what I do within thine own weak breast
To mold thee to My image true, and fit thee for My rest.
But yield thee to My loving skill; the veiled work of grace,
From day to day progressing still, it is not thine to trace.
(Opened Treasures - Frances Ridley Havergal)
N.J. Hiebert - 8783
Bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5
Are there any tyrants more harassing than our own thoughts? Control of deeds and words seems a small thing in comparison; but have we not been apt to fancy that we really cannot help our thoughts? Instead of our dominating them, they have dominated us; and we have not expected nor even thought it possible, to be set free from the manifold tyranny of vain thoughts, and still less of wandering thoughts.
Yet, all the time, here has been God's Word about this hopeless, helpless matter only where has been our faith? It is very strong language that the inspiring Spirit uses here--not "thoughts" in general but definitely, and with no room for distressing exceptions, "every thought." Must it not be glorious rest to have every thought of day and night brought into sweet, quiet, complete captivity to Jesus, entirely "obedient to the faith," to His holy and loving influence, to His beautiful and perfect law?
We should not have dared to hope or dream of such a rest to our souls; we should not have guessed it included in that promise to those who take the yoke of Christ upon them; and if we could find one text stating that it was not any part of God's infinitely gracious purpose for us, we should only say, "Of course, for it stands to reason it could not be!"
Not yet thou knowest what I do within thine own weak breast
To mold thee to My image true, and fit thee for My rest.
But yield thee to My loving skill; the veiled work of grace,
From day to day progressing still, it is not thine to trace.
(Opened Treasures - Frances Ridley Havergal)
N.J. Hiebert - 8783
March 13
What shall I do to inherit eternal life?...Sell all that thou hast, and distribute to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven." Luke 18:18,23
In the cathedral at Freiburg there was a wonderful organ. One day a man entered and asked the custodian if he might play upon the great instrument. The old keeper finally granted permission, grudgingly. The stranger sat down and slowly began to play. The attention of the old sexton was arrested; he dropped into a seat and listened spellbound; soon tears coursed down his wrinkled face. He had never head such music before.
The stranger arose to go, and the custodian followed him silently to the door. Finally he managed to ask, "Who are you?" The visitor answered simply, "I am Mendelssohn." And all that the old man could do was to throw up his hands and cry, "And to think I almost refused to let you play the organ!" Every man is the custodian of the organ of his soul. What pitiful discords we make when we try to play our own instruments unaided, try to live our own lives by our own strength. Everywhere worn faces, weary hearts, broken spirits tell the story; the custodian cannot play his own organ.
But One who is greater than Mendelssohn asks to sit at the keyboard of your heart. He will bring forth music from it that you never dreamed could be there--melody instead of melancholy, hallelujahs instead of heartaches. Not only will it thrill you but others will be drawn to hear for they will perceive that you have quit playing and that the Master plays instead.
Down in the human heart, crushed by the tempter,
Feelings lie buried that grace can restore; touched by a loving heart,
Wakened by kindness, chords that are broken will vibrate once more.
Doubly true is that when His heart and hand take us in charge! I think of the rich young man who came to Jesus. What a magnificent keyboard of possibilities he carried! But he chose to be his own musician and went away sorrowful "for he had great possessions." But of what use is an organ if it cannot be played, and of what use is a life abounding in promise if we deny Him who alone can make anything of it?
Jesus is passing by. Through the ages He has been bringing heavenly harmony from even the most unsightly organs. Who else could have made anything of Simon Peter? What a harsh instrument was Saul of Tarsus! Think of Augustine, the slave of lust; what an unpromising prospect was Moody, the shoe salesman; what melody could be expected of Gipsy Smith?
Mind you, we never were meant to be the organists of our souls. We cannot play but we are the custodians; we can let Jesus play or refuse Him. All the trouble in human lives begins when the custodian tries to be organist. The playing is God's part; the permission is ours.
In Tune With Heaven - Vance Havner - August 23,1936
N.J. Hiebert - 8784
In the cathedral at Freiburg there was a wonderful organ. One day a man entered and asked the custodian if he might play upon the great instrument. The old keeper finally granted permission, grudgingly. The stranger sat down and slowly began to play. The attention of the old sexton was arrested; he dropped into a seat and listened spellbound; soon tears coursed down his wrinkled face. He had never head such music before.
The stranger arose to go, and the custodian followed him silently to the door. Finally he managed to ask, "Who are you?" The visitor answered simply, "I am Mendelssohn." And all that the old man could do was to throw up his hands and cry, "And to think I almost refused to let you play the organ!" Every man is the custodian of the organ of his soul. What pitiful discords we make when we try to play our own instruments unaided, try to live our own lives by our own strength. Everywhere worn faces, weary hearts, broken spirits tell the story; the custodian cannot play his own organ.
But One who is greater than Mendelssohn asks to sit at the keyboard of your heart. He will bring forth music from it that you never dreamed could be there--melody instead of melancholy, hallelujahs instead of heartaches. Not only will it thrill you but others will be drawn to hear for they will perceive that you have quit playing and that the Master plays instead.
Down in the human heart, crushed by the tempter,
Feelings lie buried that grace can restore; touched by a loving heart,
Wakened by kindness, chords that are broken will vibrate once more.
Doubly true is that when His heart and hand take us in charge! I think of the rich young man who came to Jesus. What a magnificent keyboard of possibilities he carried! But he chose to be his own musician and went away sorrowful "for he had great possessions." But of what use is an organ if it cannot be played, and of what use is a life abounding in promise if we deny Him who alone can make anything of it?
Jesus is passing by. Through the ages He has been bringing heavenly harmony from even the most unsightly organs. Who else could have made anything of Simon Peter? What a harsh instrument was Saul of Tarsus! Think of Augustine, the slave of lust; what an unpromising prospect was Moody, the shoe salesman; what melody could be expected of Gipsy Smith?
Mind you, we never were meant to be the organists of our souls. We cannot play but we are the custodians; we can let Jesus play or refuse Him. All the trouble in human lives begins when the custodian tries to be organist. The playing is God's part; the permission is ours.
In Tune With Heaven - Vance Havner - August 23,1936
N.J. Hiebert - 8784
March 14
And David rose up early in the morning...and went, as Jesse had commanded him... (1 Samuel 17:20)
He comes into the camp, where his brothers accuse his confidence in God and his faith, of being pride and naughtiness of heart (v.28). We too can ever expect the same treatment ourselves in following the simple path of faith. Our relatives can no more understand our motives than the Lord's brothers could understand His.
David answers Eliab: "What have I now done?" "Was it not laid upon me"? (v.29). What had he done to deserve being insulted? Did he not have a reason for going down to his brothers, when the God of Israel was daily being insulted by the enemy?
David asks "what shall be done to the man that killeth this Philistine, and taketh away the reproach from Israel?" (v.26). He learns that "the king will enrich him with great riches, and will give him his daughter, and make his father's house free in Israel." (v.25).
But it is not to obtain this reward that he enters the campaign; it is for God, for Israel's deliverance, to make the Lord known in all the earth, and that all the congregation should know how the Lord saves (vv.46-47). Doubtless his victory gives him, like Christ, great riches, a bride, and the liberation of his father's house, but this the result rather than the purpose of his work.
David announces to Saul what he is going to accomplish (v.32). The king, who can think of nothing but human methods, wants to provide him with his own armour; but David cannot go with weapons belonging to the flesh, and he has never even tried them. He wants no other weapons than those a shepherd uses to defend or regather his sheep. As for us, the Word is that weapon that faith alone can use; it overthrows Satan. Human labour can have no part in such a conflict. (2 Samuel - H. L. Rossier)
N.J. Hiebert - 8785
He comes into the camp, where his brothers accuse his confidence in God and his faith, of being pride and naughtiness of heart (v.28). We too can ever expect the same treatment ourselves in following the simple path of faith. Our relatives can no more understand our motives than the Lord's brothers could understand His.
David answers Eliab: "What have I now done?" "Was it not laid upon me"? (v.29). What had he done to deserve being insulted? Did he not have a reason for going down to his brothers, when the God of Israel was daily being insulted by the enemy?
David asks "what shall be done to the man that killeth this Philistine, and taketh away the reproach from Israel?" (v.26). He learns that "the king will enrich him with great riches, and will give him his daughter, and make his father's house free in Israel." (v.25).
But it is not to obtain this reward that he enters the campaign; it is for God, for Israel's deliverance, to make the Lord known in all the earth, and that all the congregation should know how the Lord saves (vv.46-47). Doubtless his victory gives him, like Christ, great riches, a bride, and the liberation of his father's house, but this the result rather than the purpose of his work.
David announces to Saul what he is going to accomplish (v.32). The king, who can think of nothing but human methods, wants to provide him with his own armour; but David cannot go with weapons belonging to the flesh, and he has never even tried them. He wants no other weapons than those a shepherd uses to defend or regather his sheep. As for us, the Word is that weapon that faith alone can use; it overthrows Satan. Human labour can have no part in such a conflict. (2 Samuel - H. L. Rossier)
N.J. Hiebert - 8785
March 15
And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them...and there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep...and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead. And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him. Acts 20:7-10
What is before us now is the "break of day." (Acts 20:11). This is the Christian's to-morrow. "The Morning Star" (Revelation 2:28) illumines the sky, and we wait for our departure. Paul "talked a long while even till break of day, so he departed." And so the church will depart. As Paul departed just before the day dawned, so it will be with the Church. All true members of the Body of Christ will depart at dawn, before God's final judgments overtake this world, and in order that the saints may appear with their Lord when He comes to reign.
"And they brought the young man alive and were not a little comforted." (Acts 20:12). Why should it tell us this except it be for our own comfort? As Paul says with reference to his doctrine of the Coming: "Wherefore comfort one another with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4:18). Eternal youth will characterize the Church, as Him, whose bride and companion she will be and of whom it is written: "Thou hast the dew of thy youth." (Psalm 110:3). As sharers of His life, no mark of age, or sorrow or change will ever be upon us.
The midnight darkness will be over; the storm and stress of the Church's pilgrim journey will be ended, and the "break of day" (Song of Solomon 2:17) for her will be that which finally will be ushered in. "Let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober." (1 Thessalonians 5:6). We are not of the night nor of darkness, and at the break of day we shall depart. This is the period for which we wait. The Church's pilgrim journey is almost over; her sad history is almost ended; "let us lift up our heads for our redemption draweth nigh. (Luke 21:28) Break of Day - Russell Elliott
N.J. Hiebert - 8786
What is before us now is the "break of day." (Acts 20:11). This is the Christian's to-morrow. "The Morning Star" (Revelation 2:28) illumines the sky, and we wait for our departure. Paul "talked a long while even till break of day, so he departed." And so the church will depart. As Paul departed just before the day dawned, so it will be with the Church. All true members of the Body of Christ will depart at dawn, before God's final judgments overtake this world, and in order that the saints may appear with their Lord when He comes to reign.
"And they brought the young man alive and were not a little comforted." (Acts 20:12). Why should it tell us this except it be for our own comfort? As Paul says with reference to his doctrine of the Coming: "Wherefore comfort one another with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4:18). Eternal youth will characterize the Church, as Him, whose bride and companion she will be and of whom it is written: "Thou hast the dew of thy youth." (Psalm 110:3). As sharers of His life, no mark of age, or sorrow or change will ever be upon us.
The midnight darkness will be over; the storm and stress of the Church's pilgrim journey will be ended, and the "break of day" (Song of Solomon 2:17) for her will be that which finally will be ushered in. "Let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober." (1 Thessalonians 5:6). We are not of the night nor of darkness, and at the break of day we shall depart. This is the period for which we wait. The Church's pilgrim journey is almost over; her sad history is almost ended; "let us lift up our heads for our redemption draweth nigh. (Luke 21:28) Break of Day - Russell Elliott
N.J. Hiebert - 8786
March 16
For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving. . . .
1 Timothy 4:4-7
The Apostle has set before us certain dangers against which the Spirit expressly warns us. Timothy was to put the brethren in remembrance of these things, and so doing would prove himself to be a good servant of Jesus Christ nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine with which he was fully acquainted. The seducing spirits, of which the Holy Spirit speaks, sought to exalt man with a sense of religious importance and sanctity. The true servant seeks to exalt Christ by ministering the truth.
To be a good servant of Jesus Christ, it is not enough to know the truth, and hold the truth; we need to be nourished by the truth, and, in practise, to follow up fully the truth. Our own souls must be fed if we are to feed others. We must be nourished, not simply in the words of teachers, however true, but "with the words of the faith" which convey to us "the good teaching" of Christianity and, if followed up, will produce a practical effect in our lives, preserving us from the evils of the later times. (v.6)
Having exhorted us to follow the truth, the Apostle warns us to refuse all that which is outside "the words of faith" (v.6). The imaginations of men will always tend to profanity and foolishness which the Apostle characterises with contempt as "old wives' fables" (v.7). Our great "exercise" should be to be found walking in piety.
The good servant will exercise himself unto piety that he may be "meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work." (2 Timothy 2:21). We may, at times, like the Corinthian saints, be very active in service, and boast in our gifts, and like them be very unspiritual through not exercising ourselves unto piety.
(Piety is that individual confidence in God that takes up every circumstance of life in relation to God) 1 Timothy - Hamilton Smith
N.J. Hiebert - 8787
The Apostle has set before us certain dangers against which the Spirit expressly warns us. Timothy was to put the brethren in remembrance of these things, and so doing would prove himself to be a good servant of Jesus Christ nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine with which he was fully acquainted. The seducing spirits, of which the Holy Spirit speaks, sought to exalt man with a sense of religious importance and sanctity. The true servant seeks to exalt Christ by ministering the truth.
To be a good servant of Jesus Christ, it is not enough to know the truth, and hold the truth; we need to be nourished by the truth, and, in practise, to follow up fully the truth. Our own souls must be fed if we are to feed others. We must be nourished, not simply in the words of teachers, however true, but "with the words of the faith" which convey to us "the good teaching" of Christianity and, if followed up, will produce a practical effect in our lives, preserving us from the evils of the later times. (v.6)
Having exhorted us to follow the truth, the Apostle warns us to refuse all that which is outside "the words of faith" (v.6). The imaginations of men will always tend to profanity and foolishness which the Apostle characterises with contempt as "old wives' fables" (v.7). Our great "exercise" should be to be found walking in piety.
The good servant will exercise himself unto piety that he may be "meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work." (2 Timothy 2:21). We may, at times, like the Corinthian saints, be very active in service, and boast in our gifts, and like them be very unspiritual through not exercising ourselves unto piety.
(Piety is that individual confidence in God that takes up every circumstance of life in relation to God) 1 Timothy - Hamilton Smith
N.J. Hiebert - 8787
March 17
I know it is so of a truth: but how should man be just with God? If He will contend with Him, he cannot answer him one of a thousand. He is wise in heart, and mighty in strength: who hath hardened himself against Him, and hath prospered? Which removeth the mountains, and they know not: which over-turneth them in His anger.
Job 9:2-5
We would ask ourselves the question: How is it possible that God's power works for salvation, that His good news goes out to all and is received in faith by repentant sinners without distinction of race, position or status? In Romans 1:16 and the following verses, Paul mentions that in his message of the good news God's righteousness is revealed and applied.
Later on we find how this is possible (Romans 3:21-31), namely, on the basis of the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus accomplished once and for all. These passages answer Job's question of how man can be righteous with God (Job 9:2). They also explain that this declaration of righteousness, which was impossible under the old covenant, is now made possible and makes us acceptable and precious to God.
What is the basis for this message? "For He hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in HIm." (2 Corinthians 5:21). Blessed effect of His sacrifice, praise God!
A. E. Bouter
The perfect righteousness of God is witnessed in the Saviour's blood; 'Tis in the cross of Christ we trace His righteousness, yet wondrous grace.
The sinner who believes is free, can say, "The Saviour died for me:" Can point to the atoning blood, and say, "This made my peace with God."
A. Midlane
N.J. Hiebert - 8788
We would ask ourselves the question: How is it possible that God's power works for salvation, that His good news goes out to all and is received in faith by repentant sinners without distinction of race, position or status? In Romans 1:16 and the following verses, Paul mentions that in his message of the good news God's righteousness is revealed and applied.
Later on we find how this is possible (Romans 3:21-31), namely, on the basis of the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus accomplished once and for all. These passages answer Job's question of how man can be righteous with God (Job 9:2). They also explain that this declaration of righteousness, which was impossible under the old covenant, is now made possible and makes us acceptable and precious to God.
What is the basis for this message? "For He hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in HIm." (2 Corinthians 5:21). Blessed effect of His sacrifice, praise God!
A. E. Bouter
The perfect righteousness of God is witnessed in the Saviour's blood; 'Tis in the cross of Christ we trace His righteousness, yet wondrous grace.
The sinner who believes is free, can say, "The Saviour died for me:" Can point to the atoning blood, and say, "This made my peace with God."
A. Midlane
N.J. Hiebert - 8788
March 18
Charity suffereth long...rejoiceth not in iniquity.
1 Corinthians 13:4,6.
The apostle here unfolds love's true character. The first eight qualities of love show that love leads to the entire renunciation of self with its impatience, lack of consideration, jealousy, aggressiveness, self-importance, lack of courteousness, selfishness, and quarrelsomeness.
1. Love has long patience. The flesh is ever impatient, but love can suffer long and wait God's time. Fleshly endurance is soon exhausted; love does not wear out.
2. Love is kind. The flesh, even if it waits, will often do so in a fretful and resentful spirit; but love, while waiting, can retain a kindly spirit of consideration for others.
3. Love is not emulous of others. The flesh ever seeks a place above others, and is jealous of favour or position bestowed on others rather than self. Love can delight without a thought of envy in honours bestowed upon another.
4. Love is not insolent and rash. The flesh is aggressive, rashly pushing itself into prominence. Love is not self-assertive, but rather retiring and reticent.
5. Love is not puffed up. The flesh is often vain and filled with self-importance. Love takes the lowly place in service to others.
6. Love does not behave in an unseemly manner. The flesh, even upper class flesh, can be rude and unmannerly. Love will lead the highest by birth, as well as the lowest, to be courteous.
7. Love does not seek what is its own. The flesh is ever selfish and seeks its own interest. Love is unselfish and disinterested, seeking the good of others.
8. Love is not quickly provoked. The flesh is ever touchy and quick to take offence and resent insults. Love is slow to anger and not easily provoked. Love, indeed, can be provoked, for we are warned that it is possible to provoke the Lord, but the Lord is slow to anger, He is not quickly provoked. H. Smith.
N.J. Hiebert - 8789
The apostle here unfolds love's true character. The first eight qualities of love show that love leads to the entire renunciation of self with its impatience, lack of consideration, jealousy, aggressiveness, self-importance, lack of courteousness, selfishness, and quarrelsomeness.
1. Love has long patience. The flesh is ever impatient, but love can suffer long and wait God's time. Fleshly endurance is soon exhausted; love does not wear out.
2. Love is kind. The flesh, even if it waits, will often do so in a fretful and resentful spirit; but love, while waiting, can retain a kindly spirit of consideration for others.
3. Love is not emulous of others. The flesh ever seeks a place above others, and is jealous of favour or position bestowed on others rather than self. Love can delight without a thought of envy in honours bestowed upon another.
4. Love is not insolent and rash. The flesh is aggressive, rashly pushing itself into prominence. Love is not self-assertive, but rather retiring and reticent.
5. Love is not puffed up. The flesh is often vain and filled with self-importance. Love takes the lowly place in service to others.
6. Love does not behave in an unseemly manner. The flesh, even upper class flesh, can be rude and unmannerly. Love will lead the highest by birth, as well as the lowest, to be courteous.
7. Love does not seek what is its own. The flesh is ever selfish and seeks its own interest. Love is unselfish and disinterested, seeking the good of others.
8. Love is not quickly provoked. The flesh is ever touchy and quick to take offence and resent insults. Love is slow to anger and not easily provoked. Love, indeed, can be provoked, for we are warned that it is possible to provoke the Lord, but the Lord is slow to anger, He is not quickly provoked. H. Smith.
N.J. Hiebert - 8789
March 19
And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told Him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught. Mark 6:30.
Surely we could not do better than follow the example of the apostles in this respect. How much we should learn if we did so, and how gently He would remind us of many a failure to present the truth, or if we presented it correctly, how much we have failed to preach it in the power of the Spirit.
But we have to do with One who loves us, and this gives us confidence in telling Him everything. It is even so in human relationships, for when we are assured of one another's love we do not hesitate to tell everything. Much more should it be so when we speak to the Lord.
If we would wash another's feet aright our motive, like that of Jesus, must spring from love. "Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that His hour was come that He should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved His own which were in the world, He loved them unto the end." (John 13:1).
The measure of our love indicates the measure of our usefulness. As the apostle teaches us--we may spend the whole of our substance in philanthropic work, and yet without love it is of no avail.
"Knowledge puffeth up, but love edifieth." (1 Corinthians 8:1) I have noticed in small meetings, when love is strongly developed in the Christians, they grow, though there is no gifted teacher among them.
"And whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. (Luke 10:35). Spend anything you like on a child of God, and He will undertake to repay you.
Love to Christ is the mainspring of holiness. (Edward Dennett)
N.J. Hiebert - 8790
Surely we could not do better than follow the example of the apostles in this respect. How much we should learn if we did so, and how gently He would remind us of many a failure to present the truth, or if we presented it correctly, how much we have failed to preach it in the power of the Spirit.
But we have to do with One who loves us, and this gives us confidence in telling Him everything. It is even so in human relationships, for when we are assured of one another's love we do not hesitate to tell everything. Much more should it be so when we speak to the Lord.
If we would wash another's feet aright our motive, like that of Jesus, must spring from love. "Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that His hour was come that He should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved His own which were in the world, He loved them unto the end." (John 13:1).
The measure of our love indicates the measure of our usefulness. As the apostle teaches us--we may spend the whole of our substance in philanthropic work, and yet without love it is of no avail.
"Knowledge puffeth up, but love edifieth." (1 Corinthians 8:1) I have noticed in small meetings, when love is strongly developed in the Christians, they grow, though there is no gifted teacher among them.
"And whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. (Luke 10:35). Spend anything you like on a child of God, and He will undertake to repay you.
Love to Christ is the mainspring of holiness. (Edward Dennett)
N.J. Hiebert - 8790
March 20
Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church...he killed James...he proceeded further to take Peter also...and when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him. Acts 12:1- 4
Whose man are you? Face this question honestly. A thousand times better is it to be "the prisoner of Jesus Christ," (Ephesians 3:1) as our beloved Peter was here, than be apparently a free man, and yet all the while be the prisoner of Satan; lust, passion, and sin forming, not two, but countless unseen chains, that bind the soul in a veritable condemned cell--the world--and ensure the execution of its final judgment at the hand of God.
But the prayer of faith on earth, had moved the hand of God on high, and the time was now come for Him to step in, and do His will. No sentry said, "Ho! who goes there?" as the angel of the Lord entered the cell of the soundly sleeping Peter and "a light shined in the prison." (Acts 12:7)." God always brings in light. "In Him is no darkness at all," (1 John 1:5) is the character of His nature. I presume Peter's two keepers slept too, for they saw not the light, nor heard the voice, "Arise up quickly," which the now awakened Peter heeds, for he had been aroused by the angel's touch, ere he "raised him up." (v.7)
It would appear that as Peter obeys the call to rise, "his chains fell off from his hands." (v.7) No turnkey or smith's tool effects this. When God sets Himself to unlock man's fetters, how noiseless, rapid, and effectual is the work; and even the clanking chains, as they fall on the floor, arouse not the insensible keepers.
"Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals," (v.8) is the next command. There is no undue hurry; all is orderly. Peter obeys, and then hears, "Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me." (v.8) Thinking he "saw a vision," (v.9) and not knowing "that it was true which was done by the angel," he nevertheless accompanies him. The first and second guard are safely passed without interruption, and then "they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city, which opened to them of his own accord; and they went out and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him" (v.10). "He came to the house of Mary...where many were gathered together praying. (v.12). W.T.P Wolston
N.J. Hiebert - 8791
Whose man are you? Face this question honestly. A thousand times better is it to be "the prisoner of Jesus Christ," (Ephesians 3:1) as our beloved Peter was here, than be apparently a free man, and yet all the while be the prisoner of Satan; lust, passion, and sin forming, not two, but countless unseen chains, that bind the soul in a veritable condemned cell--the world--and ensure the execution of its final judgment at the hand of God.
But the prayer of faith on earth, had moved the hand of God on high, and the time was now come for Him to step in, and do His will. No sentry said, "Ho! who goes there?" as the angel of the Lord entered the cell of the soundly sleeping Peter and "a light shined in the prison." (Acts 12:7)." God always brings in light. "In Him is no darkness at all," (1 John 1:5) is the character of His nature. I presume Peter's two keepers slept too, for they saw not the light, nor heard the voice, "Arise up quickly," which the now awakened Peter heeds, for he had been aroused by the angel's touch, ere he "raised him up." (v.7)
It would appear that as Peter obeys the call to rise, "his chains fell off from his hands." (v.7) No turnkey or smith's tool effects this. When God sets Himself to unlock man's fetters, how noiseless, rapid, and effectual is the work; and even the clanking chains, as they fall on the floor, arouse not the insensible keepers.
"Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals," (v.8) is the next command. There is no undue hurry; all is orderly. Peter obeys, and then hears, "Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me." (v.8) Thinking he "saw a vision," (v.9) and not knowing "that it was true which was done by the angel," he nevertheless accompanies him. The first and second guard are safely passed without interruption, and then "they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city, which opened to them of his own accord; and they went out and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him" (v.10). "He came to the house of Mary...where many were gathered together praying. (v.12). W.T.P Wolston
N.J. Hiebert - 8791
March 21
Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. 1 Corinthians 3:13
The sins and iniquity of the Christian can never be brought into judgment. (Hebrews10:17) Christ has already borne their judgment on the cross, and put them all away forever by the sacrifice of Himself. There will be no second judgment of the believer's sins.
But this trial of the quality of our works should not be thought of with fear and dread, but as one of our greatest privileges; because then shall be fulfilled that precious word. "But then shall I know even as also I am known."
God is light and God is love. He is all love--all light for His children. But His love will have them in the light as He is Himself. This will be perfect blessedness; because we shall then be in the perfect light as well as the perfect love of God. "God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all." (1 John 1:5) Our new, our divine nature loves the light--delights in it. The least darkness would be an insupportable burden.
To be in the light, is to be manifested, for light makes manifest. Nothing can be concealed there. And we would not, blessed be His name, have one moment of our history with His tender, gracious dealings towards us, left in the dark. The heart shrinks from the very thought, notwithstanding all our weakness.
"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that everyone may receive the things done in His body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad." (2 Corinthians 5:10) When the whole course of my life is manifested in the perfect light of God--of God in Christ. "Then shall I know even as also I am known." (1 Corinthians 13:12) My judgment of all that was good and bad in that life, will be according to the perfect judgment of God. Andrew Miller
N.J. Hiebert - 8792
The sins and iniquity of the Christian can never be brought into judgment. (Hebrews10:17) Christ has already borne their judgment on the cross, and put them all away forever by the sacrifice of Himself. There will be no second judgment of the believer's sins.
But this trial of the quality of our works should not be thought of with fear and dread, but as one of our greatest privileges; because then shall be fulfilled that precious word. "But then shall I know even as also I am known."
God is light and God is love. He is all love--all light for His children. But His love will have them in the light as He is Himself. This will be perfect blessedness; because we shall then be in the perfect light as well as the perfect love of God. "God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all." (1 John 1:5) Our new, our divine nature loves the light--delights in it. The least darkness would be an insupportable burden.
To be in the light, is to be manifested, for light makes manifest. Nothing can be concealed there. And we would not, blessed be His name, have one moment of our history with His tender, gracious dealings towards us, left in the dark. The heart shrinks from the very thought, notwithstanding all our weakness.
"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that everyone may receive the things done in His body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad." (2 Corinthians 5:10) When the whole course of my life is manifested in the perfect light of God--of God in Christ. "Then shall I know even as also I am known." (1 Corinthians 13:12) My judgment of all that was good and bad in that life, will be according to the perfect judgment of God. Andrew Miller
N.J. Hiebert - 8792
March 22
"Why standest Thou afar off, O Lord?" (Psalm 10:1)
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1)
But He permits trouble to pursue us, as though He were indifferent to its overwhelming pressure, that we may be brought to the end of ourselves, and led to discover the treasure of darkness, (Isaiah 45:3) the unmeasurable gains of tribulation (Romans 5:3-5).
We may be sure that He who permits the suffering is with us in it. It may be that we shall see Him only when the trial is passing; but we must dare to believe that He never leaves the crucible.
Our eyes are holden; and we cannot behold Him whom our soul loveth. It is dark--the bandages blind us so that we cannot see the form of our High Priest; but He is there, deeply touched. Let us not rely on feeling, but on faith in His unswerving fidelity; and though we see Him not, let us talk to Him.
Directly we begin to speak to Jesus, as being literally present, though His presence is veiled, there comes an answering voice which shows that He is in the shadow, keeping watch upon His own.
Your Father is as near when you journey through the dark tunnel (Psalm 23:4) as when under the open heaven! Selected
"What though the path be all unknown?
What though the way be drear?
Its shades I traverse not alone
When steps of Thine are near."
N.J. Hiebert - 8793
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1)
But He permits trouble to pursue us, as though He were indifferent to its overwhelming pressure, that we may be brought to the end of ourselves, and led to discover the treasure of darkness, (Isaiah 45:3) the unmeasurable gains of tribulation (Romans 5:3-5).
We may be sure that He who permits the suffering is with us in it. It may be that we shall see Him only when the trial is passing; but we must dare to believe that He never leaves the crucible.
Our eyes are holden; and we cannot behold Him whom our soul loveth. It is dark--the bandages blind us so that we cannot see the form of our High Priest; but He is there, deeply touched. Let us not rely on feeling, but on faith in His unswerving fidelity; and though we see Him not, let us talk to Him.
Directly we begin to speak to Jesus, as being literally present, though His presence is veiled, there comes an answering voice which shows that He is in the shadow, keeping watch upon His own.
Your Father is as near when you journey through the dark tunnel (Psalm 23:4) as when under the open heaven! Selected
"What though the path be all unknown?
What though the way be drear?
Its shades I traverse not alone
When steps of Thine are near."
N.J. Hiebert - 8793
March 23
But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto him....And the dove came in to him in the evening; and, lo, in her mouth was an olive leaf." (Genesis 8:9-11)
God knows just when to withhold from us any visible sign of encouragement, and when to grant us such a sign. How good it is that we may trust Him anyway! When all visible evidences that He is remembering us are are withheld, that is best; He wants us to realize that His Word, His promise of remembrance, is more substantial and dependable than any evidence of our senses.
When He sends the visible evidence, that is well also; we appreciate it all the more after we have trusted Him without it. Those who are readiest to trust God without other evidence than His Word always receive the greatest number of visible evidences of love. C. G. Trumbull
Believing Him; if storm-clouds gather darkly 'round,
And even if the heaven seem brass, without a sound?
He hears each prayer and even notes the sparrow's fall.
And praising Him; when sorrow, grief, and pain are near,
And even when we lose the thing that seems most dear?
Our loss is gain. Praise Him; in Him we have our ALL.
Our hand in His; e'en though the path seems long and drear
We scarcely see a step ahead, and almost fear?
He guides aright. He has it thus to keep us near.
And satisfied; when every path is blocked and bare,
And worldly things are gone and dead which were so fair?
Believe and rest and trust in Him, He comes to stay.
Delays are not refusals; many a prayer is registered, and underneath it the words: "My time is not yet come." God has a set time as well as a set purpose, and He who orders the bounds of our habitation orders also the time of our deliverance. Selected
N.J. Hiebert - 8794
God knows just when to withhold from us any visible sign of encouragement, and when to grant us such a sign. How good it is that we may trust Him anyway! When all visible evidences that He is remembering us are are withheld, that is best; He wants us to realize that His Word, His promise of remembrance, is more substantial and dependable than any evidence of our senses.
When He sends the visible evidence, that is well also; we appreciate it all the more after we have trusted Him without it. Those who are readiest to trust God without other evidence than His Word always receive the greatest number of visible evidences of love. C. G. Trumbull
Believing Him; if storm-clouds gather darkly 'round,
And even if the heaven seem brass, without a sound?
He hears each prayer and even notes the sparrow's fall.
And praising Him; when sorrow, grief, and pain are near,
And even when we lose the thing that seems most dear?
Our loss is gain. Praise Him; in Him we have our ALL.
Our hand in His; e'en though the path seems long and drear
We scarcely see a step ahead, and almost fear?
He guides aright. He has it thus to keep us near.
And satisfied; when every path is blocked and bare,
And worldly things are gone and dead which were so fair?
Believe and rest and trust in Him, He comes to stay.
Delays are not refusals; many a prayer is registered, and underneath it the words: "My time is not yet come." God has a set time as well as a set purpose, and He who orders the bounds of our habitation orders also the time of our deliverance. Selected
N.J. Hiebert - 8794
March 24
Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: He is risen; He is not here. Mark 16:6
The resurrection of our Lord is the fundamental fact of our faith. If it is not true, Christianity is a stream without a source, an effect without a cause. While no one saw the Saviour rise, no event of history is better attested. Among the familiar proofs are the empty tomb, and the appearance of Jesus to His followers.
Of the circumstances attending this supreme event, different ones are related by each gospel writer, and with a variety of detail. Mark gives a vivid picture of the women who visit the place of burial and find that the body of Jesus is gone. Their errand is one of love but also of unbelief; the Master promised to rise on the third day; but now, early on that Sunday morning, they are approaching the tomb, expecting to anoint His dead body. They are anxious as well as sorrowful, wondering how the stone may be removed to give them access to the sepulchre.
As is often the experience in life, they find that the dreaded difficulty disappears before it is encountered; "they saw that the stone was rolled away. (v.4) As they enter, they find that the sepulchre is empty; yet not empty, for an angel is present to give the astonishing explanation: Be not amazed "He is risen; "He is not here." (v.6) There is no other explanation of that empty tomb. The supposition that the body has been stolen, or that Jesus never really had died, or that the disciples imagined he had risen, or that they invented the falsehood of a resurrection--no one of these can be accepted except by prejudiced skepticism or childish credulity.
Knowledge, however, involves responsibility. Those who know of a risen Christ must be His witnesses. "But go your way, tell His disciples and Peter that He goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see Him, as He said unto you." (v.7).
Gospel of Mark - Charles R. Erdman
"Christ died for our sins...He was buried...He rose again the third day...He was seen by Cephas, then of the twelve...was seen of above five hundred at once." (1 Corinthians 15:3-6)
N.J. Hiebert - 8795
The resurrection of our Lord is the fundamental fact of our faith. If it is not true, Christianity is a stream without a source, an effect without a cause. While no one saw the Saviour rise, no event of history is better attested. Among the familiar proofs are the empty tomb, and the appearance of Jesus to His followers.
Of the circumstances attending this supreme event, different ones are related by each gospel writer, and with a variety of detail. Mark gives a vivid picture of the women who visit the place of burial and find that the body of Jesus is gone. Their errand is one of love but also of unbelief; the Master promised to rise on the third day; but now, early on that Sunday morning, they are approaching the tomb, expecting to anoint His dead body. They are anxious as well as sorrowful, wondering how the stone may be removed to give them access to the sepulchre.
As is often the experience in life, they find that the dreaded difficulty disappears before it is encountered; "they saw that the stone was rolled away. (v.4) As they enter, they find that the sepulchre is empty; yet not empty, for an angel is present to give the astonishing explanation: Be not amazed "He is risen; "He is not here." (v.6) There is no other explanation of that empty tomb. The supposition that the body has been stolen, or that Jesus never really had died, or that the disciples imagined he had risen, or that they invented the falsehood of a resurrection--no one of these can be accepted except by prejudiced skepticism or childish credulity.
Knowledge, however, involves responsibility. Those who know of a risen Christ must be His witnesses. "But go your way, tell His disciples and Peter that He goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see Him, as He said unto you." (v.7).
Gospel of Mark - Charles R. Erdman
"Christ died for our sins...He was buried...He rose again the third day...He was seen by Cephas, then of the twelve...was seen of above five hundred at once." (1 Corinthians 15:3-6)
N.J. Hiebert - 8795
March 25
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Corinthians 7:1.
I have been sent some beautiful Caladium flowers. When this flower first opens it is hot inside (its temperature has been taken, - 104 F), but as it grows to perfection this excitement of heat passes. The perfect flower is normal.
In the spiritual world, too, there can be heat and excitement. The ferment of an old truth newly apprehended (for there is no such thing as a new truth) may very easily cause it. The devil delights to have it so, and it is easy to see why. If we become interested in ourselves and occupied in taking our own temperatures, so to speak, then that truth which should bring blessing will either slip out of sight or be put out of focus.
Our Lord said (Luke 12:27), "Consider the (Caladiums) how they grow: they toil not, they spin not." God lays His cool hand upon them and perfects them. Think of that word in 2 Corinthians 7:1: perfecting holiness. There is a crisis of new birth, then -- if the Lord has His way unhindered -- a quiet growth and perfecting, which may take the form of a series of crises. But always it is an inwardly quiet thing.
Just before Paul wrote about perfecting holiness he wrote about common life (2 Corinthians 6:3-10). Isn't this a wonderful word for us? "Giving no offence in anything, that the ministry be not blamed: but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience. . . . "
I am glad patience comes first. But read it all.
Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael.
N.J. Hiebert - 8796
I have been sent some beautiful Caladium flowers. When this flower first opens it is hot inside (its temperature has been taken, - 104 F), but as it grows to perfection this excitement of heat passes. The perfect flower is normal.
In the spiritual world, too, there can be heat and excitement. The ferment of an old truth newly apprehended (for there is no such thing as a new truth) may very easily cause it. The devil delights to have it so, and it is easy to see why. If we become interested in ourselves and occupied in taking our own temperatures, so to speak, then that truth which should bring blessing will either slip out of sight or be put out of focus.
Our Lord said (Luke 12:27), "Consider the (Caladiums) how they grow: they toil not, they spin not." God lays His cool hand upon them and perfects them. Think of that word in 2 Corinthians 7:1: perfecting holiness. There is a crisis of new birth, then -- if the Lord has His way unhindered -- a quiet growth and perfecting, which may take the form of a series of crises. But always it is an inwardly quiet thing.
Just before Paul wrote about perfecting holiness he wrote about common life (2 Corinthians 6:3-10). Isn't this a wonderful word for us? "Giving no offence in anything, that the ministry be not blamed: but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience. . . . "
I am glad patience comes first. But read it all.
Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael.
N.J. Hiebert - 8796
March 26
Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12
When an ardent hiker heads for the high country, he keeps his eyes fastened on the far ridges and shining summit. He stimulates himself and steels his resolve to reach the top by focusing his attention on the ultimate goal.
If he has a travelling companion, a hiking partner, he will also give him much of his thought, time, and interest. By doing this, the obstacles and hardships and strain of the climb are scarcely noticed. The tough, rough spots are taken in stride without undue stress or strain. His eyes and interest are not centered on the immediate problems along the path, but on reaching the mountaintop.
It is precisely the same in our walk with God. Where is your focal point of interest? Are you completely preoccupied with the petty pressures and problems of the immediate moment? Are you so taken up with self-interest that you can't see the shining heights of God's purposes and plan for the world? Is your gaze only on the ground of your grinding, grumbling grievances, or does God Himself fill your view?
Learn to refocus your attention on Christ. Make Him your confidante. Keep Him always in view. Set your will deliberately to see Him; then press on toward the destination of the high country and lofty life to which He has called you. Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller
N.J. Hiebert - 8797
When an ardent hiker heads for the high country, he keeps his eyes fastened on the far ridges and shining summit. He stimulates himself and steels his resolve to reach the top by focusing his attention on the ultimate goal.
If he has a travelling companion, a hiking partner, he will also give him much of his thought, time, and interest. By doing this, the obstacles and hardships and strain of the climb are scarcely noticed. The tough, rough spots are taken in stride without undue stress or strain. His eyes and interest are not centered on the immediate problems along the path, but on reaching the mountaintop.
It is precisely the same in our walk with God. Where is your focal point of interest? Are you completely preoccupied with the petty pressures and problems of the immediate moment? Are you so taken up with self-interest that you can't see the shining heights of God's purposes and plan for the world? Is your gaze only on the ground of your grinding, grumbling grievances, or does God Himself fill your view?
Learn to refocus your attention on Christ. Make Him your confidante. Keep Him always in view. Set your will deliberately to see Him; then press on toward the destination of the high country and lofty life to which He has called you. Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller
N.J. Hiebert - 8797
March 27
For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:9
Consider the boyhood of James A. Garfield, 20th President of the USA (Born November 19,1831, Assassinated, September 19, 1881).
His widowed mother, with a splendid independence of spirit, would not go to live with her kin after her husband's death. Although she had a little brood of children to care for and to bring up, and her ideals for their education were high, she stayed on the little farm, and those youngsters did a man's part for the family.
James had always wanted to go to sea, and the nearest thing he could do in that line was to get a job as driver on a canal boat. One cold night he was suddenly thrown into the canal by accident. He could not swim. It was midnight. Nobody heard his cries for help. He managed to get his hands on a rope which was attached to the boat but as he pulled on it to draw himself aboard, the rope kept coming toward him in his hands, and it appeared as if he would not be able to save himself.
At the very desperate peak of his need the rope tightened and held. It had kinked and caught in a crevice, and he drew himself aboard. There he sat in the midnight alone in his wet clothes doing some serious thinking, and the net result of that thinking was that he felt in his heart that he had been saved, as he believed, by God for the sake of his mother and for something better than "canalling" as he put it. So he went home, and as he looked in the window he saw his mother praying.
She was praying for him! That was the beginning of his pursuit of a higher education. When he entered school he had six cents in his pocket, and at the first church service he attended after he entered school he placed the six cents in the collection box and made up his mind he would see what he could do absolutely on his own.
He obtained board and lodging with mending for $1.061/4 cents per week. Notice the quarter of a cent. There is a world of meaning in that fraction. Those were simple days. Motives were simple, purposes were simple, principles were simple, and goals were clear.
If the Weaver of our life's pattern chooses another plan than the one we thought to use, is He not wiser than we? Mountain Trailways for Youth
N.J. Hiebert - 8798
Consider the boyhood of James A. Garfield, 20th President of the USA (Born November 19,1831, Assassinated, September 19, 1881).
His widowed mother, with a splendid independence of spirit, would not go to live with her kin after her husband's death. Although she had a little brood of children to care for and to bring up, and her ideals for their education were high, she stayed on the little farm, and those youngsters did a man's part for the family.
James had always wanted to go to sea, and the nearest thing he could do in that line was to get a job as driver on a canal boat. One cold night he was suddenly thrown into the canal by accident. He could not swim. It was midnight. Nobody heard his cries for help. He managed to get his hands on a rope which was attached to the boat but as he pulled on it to draw himself aboard, the rope kept coming toward him in his hands, and it appeared as if he would not be able to save himself.
At the very desperate peak of his need the rope tightened and held. It had kinked and caught in a crevice, and he drew himself aboard. There he sat in the midnight alone in his wet clothes doing some serious thinking, and the net result of that thinking was that he felt in his heart that he had been saved, as he believed, by God for the sake of his mother and for something better than "canalling" as he put it. So he went home, and as he looked in the window he saw his mother praying.
She was praying for him! That was the beginning of his pursuit of a higher education. When he entered school he had six cents in his pocket, and at the first church service he attended after he entered school he placed the six cents in the collection box and made up his mind he would see what he could do absolutely on his own.
He obtained board and lodging with mending for $1.061/4 cents per week. Notice the quarter of a cent. There is a world of meaning in that fraction. Those were simple days. Motives were simple, purposes were simple, principles were simple, and goals were clear.
If the Weaver of our life's pattern chooses another plan than the one we thought to use, is He not wiser than we? Mountain Trailways for Youth
N.J. Hiebert - 8798
March 28
He is despised and rejected of men; a Man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief . . ." Isiah 53:3
Our Lord is the leader of this company. He was a Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief. He was tempted in all points as we are. Nobody ever walked through so dark a Valley and He walked it by Himself. We can never suffer as He suffered, die as He died. He has been through the Valley and we need fear no evil for He walks it with us.
So cheer up, my fellow traveler, wending your way through dangers, toils, and snares you will meet a host of kindred souls. You have joined the bereaved at the price of heartache and tears.
But, best of all, as with the Hebrew children in the fiery furnace, there is Someone else in the fire; you are in the company of the supreme Sufferer who drank the bitter cup to the dregs. Your grief is but a passing twinge compared to the agony of His soul.
When I preach about these things, I can see some faces light up among the congregation. The Spirit blows on the coals and they glow. Others merely look on uncomprehending. They do not know and there is no way to share with them. They have not been through the Valley.
The Valley is not endless, it will not stretch on forever. Ira D. Sankey, the great gospel singer, went blind in his later years. When a friend visited Him, Sankey sat down at his organ and sang with that voice that had blessed so many:
There'll be no dark valley when Jesus comes
To gather His love ones home.
Vance Havner
He that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Hebrews 10:37
Even so, Lord Jesus. Revelation 22:20
N.J. Hiebert - 8799
Our Lord is the leader of this company. He was a Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief. He was tempted in all points as we are. Nobody ever walked through so dark a Valley and He walked it by Himself. We can never suffer as He suffered, die as He died. He has been through the Valley and we need fear no evil for He walks it with us.
So cheer up, my fellow traveler, wending your way through dangers, toils, and snares you will meet a host of kindred souls. You have joined the bereaved at the price of heartache and tears.
But, best of all, as with the Hebrew children in the fiery furnace, there is Someone else in the fire; you are in the company of the supreme Sufferer who drank the bitter cup to the dregs. Your grief is but a passing twinge compared to the agony of His soul.
When I preach about these things, I can see some faces light up among the congregation. The Spirit blows on the coals and they glow. Others merely look on uncomprehending. They do not know and there is no way to share with them. They have not been through the Valley.
The Valley is not endless, it will not stretch on forever. Ira D. Sankey, the great gospel singer, went blind in his later years. When a friend visited Him, Sankey sat down at his organ and sang with that voice that had blessed so many:
There'll be no dark valley when Jesus comes
To gather His love ones home.
Vance Havner
He that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Hebrews 10:37
Even so, Lord Jesus. Revelation 22:20
N.J. Hiebert - 8799
March 29
He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour. Proverbs 21:21
To steadily pursue righteousness and loving kindness, exemplifying both in the walk and ways, this is the sure road to what all men desire--life and honour. They are linked together by uprightness. The empty glory of this world, the applause of the carnally-minded, are worth little after all.
But to be honoured by God, and by those who love Him,--this abides forever. He delights to bestow His blessing upon those who esteem His Word and yield obedience to His truth. For the truth was not given to be a source of intellectual enjoyment alone, though it is that; but that it might be manifested in the life, as it was to the full in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Coupled with moral integrity He would have that gentle loving- kindness which commends the truth to those who might, by severity on the part of its adherents, be driven therefrom. When grace and truth thus together control the being, life, righteousness, and honour must be the happy result.
Notes on Proverbs - H.A. Ironside
Love divine, all praise excelling, joy of heaven to earth come down! Bless us with Thy rich indwelling, all Thy faithful mercies crown! Saviour, Thee we'd still be blessing, serve Thee here, as soon above. Praise Thee, Saviour, without ceasing, glory in Thy dying love.
First-fruits of Thy new creation, faithful, holy, may we be, Joyful in Thy full salvation, more and more conformed to Thee! Changed from glory into glory, till in heaven we take our place, Then to worship and adore Thee, lost in wonder, love, and praise!
Charles Wesley
N.J. Hiebert - 8800
To steadily pursue righteousness and loving kindness, exemplifying both in the walk and ways, this is the sure road to what all men desire--life and honour. They are linked together by uprightness. The empty glory of this world, the applause of the carnally-minded, are worth little after all.
But to be honoured by God, and by those who love Him,--this abides forever. He delights to bestow His blessing upon those who esteem His Word and yield obedience to His truth. For the truth was not given to be a source of intellectual enjoyment alone, though it is that; but that it might be manifested in the life, as it was to the full in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Coupled with moral integrity He would have that gentle loving- kindness which commends the truth to those who might, by severity on the part of its adherents, be driven therefrom. When grace and truth thus together control the being, life, righteousness, and honour must be the happy result.
Notes on Proverbs - H.A. Ironside
Love divine, all praise excelling, joy of heaven to earth come down! Bless us with Thy rich indwelling, all Thy faithful mercies crown! Saviour, Thee we'd still be blessing, serve Thee here, as soon above. Praise Thee, Saviour, without ceasing, glory in Thy dying love.
First-fruits of Thy new creation, faithful, holy, may we be, Joyful in Thy full salvation, more and more conformed to Thee! Changed from glory into glory, till in heaven we take our place, Then to worship and adore Thee, lost in wonder, love, and praise!
Charles Wesley
N.J. Hiebert - 8800
March 30
The lips of the wise disperse knowledge.
Proverbs 15:7
How well I recollect this disappointment to myself, again and again, when a mere child! In those early seeking days I never could understand why, sometimes, a good man whom I heard preach or speak as if he loved Christ very much, talked about all sorts of other things when we came back from church or missionary meeting.
I did so wish he would have talked about the Saviour, whom I wanted, but had not found. It would have been so much more interesting even to the apparently thoughtless and merry little girl.
How could he help it, I wondered, if he cared for me, a "Pearl of Great Price" (Matthew 13:46), as I was sure I should care for it if I only could find it! And, oh, why didn't they ever talk to me about it, instead of about my lessons or their little girls at home?
They did not know how their conversation was observed and compared with their sermon or speech, and how a hungry little soul went empty away from the supper-table. Kept for the Master's Use - Frances Ridley Havergal
Tell it again! tell it again!
Salvation's story repeat o'er and o'er
Till none can say of the children of men,
"Nobody ever has told me before".
Mrs. M. B. C. Slade
N.J. Hiebert - 8801
How well I recollect this disappointment to myself, again and again, when a mere child! In those early seeking days I never could understand why, sometimes, a good man whom I heard preach or speak as if he loved Christ very much, talked about all sorts of other things when we came back from church or missionary meeting.
I did so wish he would have talked about the Saviour, whom I wanted, but had not found. It would have been so much more interesting even to the apparently thoughtless and merry little girl.
How could he help it, I wondered, if he cared for me, a "Pearl of Great Price" (Matthew 13:46), as I was sure I should care for it if I only could find it! And, oh, why didn't they ever talk to me about it, instead of about my lessons or their little girls at home?
They did not know how their conversation was observed and compared with their sermon or speech, and how a hungry little soul went empty away from the supper-table. Kept for the Master's Use - Frances Ridley Havergal
Tell it again! tell it again!
Salvation's story repeat o'er and o'er
Till none can say of the children of men,
"Nobody ever has told me before".
Mrs. M. B. C. Slade
N.J. Hiebert - 8801
March 31
He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that He might fill all things. Ephesians 4:10
No fact of Scripture is more wonderful that this--there is a risen Man in the glory of God. It is the appropriate sequel to the wonder of God having been manifested in flesh. (1 Timothy 3:16)
We are also well within the mark when we say that no fact of Scripture is verified with such abundant care as this. In 1 Corinthians 15:3,4 the apostle Paul rehearses the gospel which he preached. The death of Christ for our sins and His burial are simply stated, for there was no need to verify these facts since they were beyond dispute and acknowledged by all.
He passes to the third fact of the gospel, "That He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures" and in support of this he adduces a host of witnesses. The resurrection of Christ had not the same publicity and was not carried out with spectacular effect as was His death. Nevertheless, it is the very keystone of the whole arch of divine truth, as 1 Corinthians 15:13-19 shows. How necessary then for the apostle to start by showing that the resurrection of Christ is a fact beyond dispute.
And that risen Man is in glory!--a truly astounding fact! The Old Testament view of things is stated concisely in "The heaven, even the heavens are the Lord's: but the earth hath He given to the children of men." (Psalm 115:16) The earth was emphatically man's sphere as he was originally created, and there was the place of his dominion.
The New Testament view, consequent upon the exaltation of Christ, is very different and vastly enlarged. The Lord Jesus is today a Man in glory. God has "set Him down at His right hand in the heavenlies...and has put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the head over all things..." (Ephesians 1:20-23), a portion in contrast to our verse in the psalm above. F. B. Hole
N.J. Hiebert - 8802
No fact of Scripture is more wonderful that this--there is a risen Man in the glory of God. It is the appropriate sequel to the wonder of God having been manifested in flesh. (1 Timothy 3:16)
We are also well within the mark when we say that no fact of Scripture is verified with such abundant care as this. In 1 Corinthians 15:3,4 the apostle Paul rehearses the gospel which he preached. The death of Christ for our sins and His burial are simply stated, for there was no need to verify these facts since they were beyond dispute and acknowledged by all.
He passes to the third fact of the gospel, "That He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures" and in support of this he adduces a host of witnesses. The resurrection of Christ had not the same publicity and was not carried out with spectacular effect as was His death. Nevertheless, it is the very keystone of the whole arch of divine truth, as 1 Corinthians 15:13-19 shows. How necessary then for the apostle to start by showing that the resurrection of Christ is a fact beyond dispute.
And that risen Man is in glory!--a truly astounding fact! The Old Testament view of things is stated concisely in "The heaven, even the heavens are the Lord's: but the earth hath He given to the children of men." (Psalm 115:16) The earth was emphatically man's sphere as he was originally created, and there was the place of his dominion.
The New Testament view, consequent upon the exaltation of Christ, is very different and vastly enlarged. The Lord Jesus is today a Man in glory. God has "set Him down at His right hand in the heavenlies...and has put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the head over all things..." (Ephesians 1:20-23), a portion in contrast to our verse in the psalm above. F. B. Hole
N.J. Hiebert - 8802
April 1
Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37:5
Faith is a condition of salvation and being a condition it must be our act. Saving faith is a choice and we are responsible for our actual choices. Many people pray for faith and quote Ephesians 2:8, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: and conclude that faith is the gift of God." Instead of asking God for faith, it is their duty to believe.
When people say they cannot believe they utter a libel against God. A man in an enquiry room said to D. L. Moody, "I have no faith, I can't believe." Mr Moody said to him, "Who can't you believe? The man replied several times that he couldn't believe, Mr. Moody each time, asking, "Who?" Finally the man replied, "I can't believe myself." "Well," said Mr. Moody, "I don't want you to. Make yourself out a liar, but make God true."
Believe then for all God has promised. We cannot well go outside the promises of God. Prayer is pleading the promises. Faith is claiming them. There must be a "Thus saith the Lord," either expressed or implied for all we ask, and everything that God has promised is His will for us.
When your retire at night, you do not worry all night lest the bed break down. Neither do you hold on to something for fear of falling. Very little rest would you find in that way. No! you simply trust yourself to the bed and just rest.
Thus we should trust ourselves wholly to Jesus, and "Ceased from our own works." (Hebrews 4:10) We that believe do enter into rest. Why? Because someone else is going to do for us. God requires us to yield and trust in Him and His word. Trust for all you need. Trust with all your heart. Trust all the time. Streams in the Desert
`
N. J. Hiebert - 8803
Faith is a condition of salvation and being a condition it must be our act. Saving faith is a choice and we are responsible for our actual choices. Many people pray for faith and quote Ephesians 2:8, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: and conclude that faith is the gift of God." Instead of asking God for faith, it is their duty to believe.
When people say they cannot believe they utter a libel against God. A man in an enquiry room said to D. L. Moody, "I have no faith, I can't believe." Mr Moody said to him, "Who can't you believe? The man replied several times that he couldn't believe, Mr. Moody each time, asking, "Who?" Finally the man replied, "I can't believe myself." "Well," said Mr. Moody, "I don't want you to. Make yourself out a liar, but make God true."
Believe then for all God has promised. We cannot well go outside the promises of God. Prayer is pleading the promises. Faith is claiming them. There must be a "Thus saith the Lord," either expressed or implied for all we ask, and everything that God has promised is His will for us.
When your retire at night, you do not worry all night lest the bed break down. Neither do you hold on to something for fear of falling. Very little rest would you find in that way. No! you simply trust yourself to the bed and just rest.
Thus we should trust ourselves wholly to Jesus, and "Ceased from our own works." (Hebrews 4:10) We that believe do enter into rest. Why? Because someone else is going to do for us. God requires us to yield and trust in Him and His word. Trust for all you need. Trust with all your heart. Trust all the time. Streams in the Desert
`
N. J. Hiebert - 8803
April 2
"Jesus saith unto him (John) . . . Follow thou me." John 21:22
Friends, He is a wonderful Lord you and I are called to follow. The Lord give you grace to follow Him. Who will start? But to find Him is one thing; to follow Him is another. You learn what it is to become "a living stone" (1 Peter 2:5) as you come in contact with Christ, and learn to follow Him when He eclipses everything else in your soul's vision. Possibly you say, If I were in different circumstances I would follow Christ. No, you would not. Your circumstances are the best if only you knew it.
You know what reins are for; you know what they are to the horse. They keep the creature in order, and so do your circumstances. They keep you in order. If the banks are broken down, out comes the river, and spoils everything. If the reins break, what happens? There is generally a smash. Do you see?
Do not you be troubled about your circumstances. You will find that the Lord will sustain you in any circumstances, and even make them the channels of His grace. Cleave to the Lord, and be devoted to the Lord. Give Him the right place in your heart here, and He will sustain you. "FOLLOW THOU ME" (John 21:22) would seem to be His last word to Peter. Has it no voice for you and me? Seekers for Light - Dr. W. T. P. Wolston, MD
I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back. Though none go with me, by grace I'll follow, no turning back, no turning back. The world behind me, and Christ before me, no turning back, No turning back. O take this old world but give me Jesus, I'll not go back, I'll not go back.
Sadhu Sundar Singh
N.J. Hiebert - 8804
Friends, He is a wonderful Lord you and I are called to follow. The Lord give you grace to follow Him. Who will start? But to find Him is one thing; to follow Him is another. You learn what it is to become "a living stone" (1 Peter 2:5) as you come in contact with Christ, and learn to follow Him when He eclipses everything else in your soul's vision. Possibly you say, If I were in different circumstances I would follow Christ. No, you would not. Your circumstances are the best if only you knew it.
You know what reins are for; you know what they are to the horse. They keep the creature in order, and so do your circumstances. They keep you in order. If the banks are broken down, out comes the river, and spoils everything. If the reins break, what happens? There is generally a smash. Do you see?
Do not you be troubled about your circumstances. You will find that the Lord will sustain you in any circumstances, and even make them the channels of His grace. Cleave to the Lord, and be devoted to the Lord. Give Him the right place in your heart here, and He will sustain you. "FOLLOW THOU ME" (John 21:22) would seem to be His last word to Peter. Has it no voice for you and me? Seekers for Light - Dr. W. T. P. Wolston, MD
I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back. Though none go with me, by grace I'll follow, no turning back, no turning back. The world behind me, and Christ before me, no turning back, No turning back. O take this old world but give me Jesus, I'll not go back, I'll not go back.
Sadhu Sundar Singh
N.J. Hiebert - 8804
April 3
HE GOES BEFORE YOU
My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. John 10:27
He goes before you, O my heart! Fear not to follow where He leads; He knows the strength each task demands, He knows the grace each trial needs. He's just a little farther on along the dark and lonely way, His bleeding footprints you may trace, He goes before you all the day.
He goes before you, O my heart! through deepest depth, o'er highest height; He knows where lurks the ambushed foe and what the battles you must fight; He sees the pitfalls you will meet, the place where you may faint or fall; The weariness, the pain, the tears, He goes before, He knows it all.
He goes before you, O my heart! He does not ask that you shall bear A single pang He has not borne, a single grief He does not share; He beckons on through toil and woe, through storm or calm or tempest blast. And you shall see Him as He said, for He shall lead you home at last.
He goes before you, O my heart! still follow on through gain or loss, And for the joy that's set before, despised the shame, endured the cross. The path your faltering steps must take is one His nail-pierced feet have trod; Through Garden, Mount and riven Tomb He went before you He is God.
Flint's Best-Loved Poems
N.J. Hiebert - 8805
My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. John 10:27
He goes before you, O my heart! Fear not to follow where He leads; He knows the strength each task demands, He knows the grace each trial needs. He's just a little farther on along the dark and lonely way, His bleeding footprints you may trace, He goes before you all the day.
He goes before you, O my heart! through deepest depth, o'er highest height; He knows where lurks the ambushed foe and what the battles you must fight; He sees the pitfalls you will meet, the place where you may faint or fall; The weariness, the pain, the tears, He goes before, He knows it all.
He goes before you, O my heart! He does not ask that you shall bear A single pang He has not borne, a single grief He does not share; He beckons on through toil and woe, through storm or calm or tempest blast. And you shall see Him as He said, for He shall lead you home at last.
He goes before you, O my heart! still follow on through gain or loss, And for the joy that's set before, despised the shame, endured the cross. The path your faltering steps must take is one His nail-pierced feet have trod; Through Garden, Mount and riven Tomb He went before you He is God.
Flint's Best-Loved Poems
N.J. Hiebert - 8805
April 4
posted by soundwords at
March 01, 2022
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