Gems from August 2022
Seeing then that we have a great High priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. Hebrews 4:14
Now, what is the Christ of verse 14? A Christ crucified? No, Christ glorified. You are made partakers of Christ in the kingdom if you hold fast by Christ crucified. Holding to a crucified Christ is my title to the rest of a glorified Christ.
Two things contest this with you--sin and unbelief. Do you not recognize these two enemies as you pass along? Shall I continue in sin? Am I to give place to one wrong thought? I may be overtaken, but am I to treat them other than as enemies? Then unbelief is an action of the soul towards God. You and I do not know what saintly character is--what it is to be between Egypt and Canaan--if we are not aware that those two things stand out to withstand our passage every day.
Christ glorified--rest glorious. He has us out of "Egypt". The exhortation attaches to a people out of "Egypt". We have passed the blood sprinkled lintel. The glorious Canaan is before us. The gospel not only of the blood of Christ, but of the glory of Christ. It took one form in the ear of the Israelites and it takes another form to us; but to them, as to us, rest was preached. The blessed Creator provided Himself a rest after creation. He promised Himself a rest in Canaan after bringing them through the wilderness.
Adam disturbed His creation-rest. Israel disturbed His Canaan-rest. Is He, therefore, disappointed in His rest? No; He has found it in Christ when man in every way had disappointed Him. Christ is the One who has worked out that rest, and who holds it now, and it remains with Him both for God, and for His saints. Musings on Hebrews - J. G. Bellett
N.J. Hiebert - 8924
August 1
I have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth Thee. Job 42:5
Job was a good man already. He feared God and eschewed [shunned] evil, and God called him "My servant Job" and said of him, "There is none like him in the earth." (Job 1:8)
Job had heard and had believed. That is good enough to start with. "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God" (Romans 10:17). Moreover, Job had lived an exemplary life. But, like many who have come that far, he needed to see God, not in a vision or manifestation to the senses but in a personal, overwhelming, humbling, pride-shattering consciousness of the very presence of God Himself.
Through the ages, such an experience, though wide and diverse in its patterns, has marked the men God has used most. Too many have heard and believed and lived but have not seen. God brings us to where we can say, "I have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth Thee" (Job 42:5)
Faith is a very simple thing, tho' little understood;
It frees the soul from death's dread sting, by resting on the blood.
It looks not on the things around, nor on the things within;
It takes its flight to scenes above, beyond the sphere of sin.
It sees upon the the throne of God a victim that was slain;
It rests its all on His shed blood, and says, "I'm born again."
Faith is not what we see or feel; It is a simple trust
In what the God of love has said of Jesus as the Just. Asa Hull
Day by Day with Vance Havner
N.J. Hiebert - 8925
Job was a good man already. He feared God and eschewed [shunned] evil, and God called him "My servant Job" and said of him, "There is none like him in the earth." (Job 1:8)
Job had heard and had believed. That is good enough to start with. "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God" (Romans 10:17). Moreover, Job had lived an exemplary life. But, like many who have come that far, he needed to see God, not in a vision or manifestation to the senses but in a personal, overwhelming, humbling, pride-shattering consciousness of the very presence of God Himself.
Through the ages, such an experience, though wide and diverse in its patterns, has marked the men God has used most. Too many have heard and believed and lived but have not seen. God brings us to where we can say, "I have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth Thee" (Job 42:5)
Faith is a very simple thing, tho' little understood;
It frees the soul from death's dread sting, by resting on the blood.
It looks not on the things around, nor on the things within;
It takes its flight to scenes above, beyond the sphere of sin.
It sees upon the the throne of God a victim that was slain;
It rests its all on His shed blood, and says, "I'm born again."
Faith is not what we see or feel; It is a simple trust
In what the God of love has said of Jesus as the Just. Asa Hull
Day by Day with Vance Havner
N.J. Hiebert - 8925
August 2
BEING USABLE
"If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work.
"If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work.
2 Timothy 2:21
Have we any prayer like "Use me, O Lord," in the Bible? We have it in hymns; I expect we have often prayed to be used. But as I looked through my Bible for an answer to this strange question, I could not find any such prayer anywhere.
The word in 2 Timothy 2:21 simply says that if the vessel be clean it will be ready for the Master to use; and in Isaiah 6, the "Send me" was in answer to the question,"Who will go?"
It is at least interesting and suggestive to find many other verbs occurring in prayer--Teach me, lead me, bless me, and so on--and not this verb which we would naturally expect. Is it that there is no need for it?
If the vessel be clean and ready to hand, the Master will use it. It is not necessary that it should ask Him to do so. The Captain will use the soldier if he be prepared for use; words of beseeching on the soldier's part are not required. The one thing that matters is that we should be usable.
Each day brings us, like a new gift, a quite new opportunity. Our precious handful of days may be partly or almost wholly spent, but God does not, as earthly masters often do, pay off a worker saying, "You are no use to me now"; He gives us each day a new chance.
Thou Givest...They Gather - Amy Carmichael
N.J. Hiebert - 8926
Have we any prayer like "Use me, O Lord," in the Bible? We have it in hymns; I expect we have often prayed to be used. But as I looked through my Bible for an answer to this strange question, I could not find any such prayer anywhere.
The word in 2 Timothy 2:21 simply says that if the vessel be clean it will be ready for the Master to use; and in Isaiah 6, the "Send me" was in answer to the question,"Who will go?"
It is at least interesting and suggestive to find many other verbs occurring in prayer--Teach me, lead me, bless me, and so on--and not this verb which we would naturally expect. Is it that there is no need for it?
If the vessel be clean and ready to hand, the Master will use it. It is not necessary that it should ask Him to do so. The Captain will use the soldier if he be prepared for use; words of beseeching on the soldier's part are not required. The one thing that matters is that we should be usable.
Each day brings us, like a new gift, a quite new opportunity. Our precious handful of days may be partly or almost wholly spent, but God does not, as earthly masters often do, pay off a worker saying, "You are no use to me now"; He gives us each day a new chance.
Thou Givest...They Gather - Amy Carmichael
N.J. Hiebert - 8926
August 3
A brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? Philemon 16
Though we are to pray for all saints, yet some call for a more special remembrance at our hands: for instance, those that are near to us by bond of nature as well as of grace. (Philemon 16) You are to pray particularly for those that are in distress: whoever you forget, remember these: this is a fit season for love.
A friend for adversity is as proper as fire for for a winter's day: Job's friends chose the right time to visit him, but took not the right course of improving their visit: had they spent the time in praying for him which they did in hot disputes with him, they would have profited him, and pleased God more.
Prayer and Thanksgiving. Prayer is a means to dispose the heart to praise. When David begins a psalm with prayer, he commonly ends it with praise. That Spirit which leads a soul out of itself to God for supply, will direct to the same God with His praise. We do not borrow money of one man and return it to another.
If God has been your strength, surely you will make Him your song. The thief comes not to thank a man for what he steals out of his yard. Mercies ill got are commonly as ill spent, because they are not sanctified, and so become fuel to feed lusts.
As, a necessary ingredient in all our prayers: "...with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." (Philippians 4:6). This spice must be in all our offerings. He that prays for a mercy he wants, and is not thankful for mercies received, may seem mindful of himself, but is forgetful of God, and so takes the wrong course. God will not put His mercies into a torn purse; and such is an unthankful heart. Christian in Complete Armour - William Gurnall 1617-1679
N.J. Hiebert - 8927
Though we are to pray for all saints, yet some call for a more special remembrance at our hands: for instance, those that are near to us by bond of nature as well as of grace. (Philemon 16) You are to pray particularly for those that are in distress: whoever you forget, remember these: this is a fit season for love.
A friend for adversity is as proper as fire for for a winter's day: Job's friends chose the right time to visit him, but took not the right course of improving their visit: had they spent the time in praying for him which they did in hot disputes with him, they would have profited him, and pleased God more.
Prayer and Thanksgiving. Prayer is a means to dispose the heart to praise. When David begins a psalm with prayer, he commonly ends it with praise. That Spirit which leads a soul out of itself to God for supply, will direct to the same God with His praise. We do not borrow money of one man and return it to another.
If God has been your strength, surely you will make Him your song. The thief comes not to thank a man for what he steals out of his yard. Mercies ill got are commonly as ill spent, because they are not sanctified, and so become fuel to feed lusts.
As, a necessary ingredient in all our prayers: "...with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." (Philippians 4:6). This spice must be in all our offerings. He that prays for a mercy he wants, and is not thankful for mercies received, may seem mindful of himself, but is forgetful of God, and so takes the wrong course. God will not put His mercies into a torn purse; and such is an unthankful heart. Christian in Complete Armour - William Gurnall 1617-1679
N.J. Hiebert - 8927
August 4
Jesus said unto him, verily I say unto thee, today shalt thou be with Me in paradise...When Jesus had cried with a loud voice, He said, "Father, into Thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, He gave up the ghost. Luke 23:43,46
Jesus, the sinless Son of Man, was hanging on the cross between two guilty criminals. Those who passed by wagged their heads and said, "He saved others; Himself He cannot save" (Matthew 27:42) This reminds us of the words of the prophet Jeremiah, "Is it nothing to you, all ye that pass by? behold, and see if there be any sorrow like unto My sorrow, which is done unto Me, wherewith the Lord hath afflicted Me in the day of His fierce anger." Lamentations 1:12.
The two thieves had witnessed the silent suffering of Jesus, and they had heard Him pray, "Father, forgive them." (Luke 23:34) One thief turned in faith to the Saviour, acknowledging his guilt and and claiming that forgiveness. We are not told his name; indeed, he represents all who believe. One moment he feared eternal separation from God, and the next moment he received the promise to be with the Saviour "today." This newborn man now becomes a gospel preacher to the other thief on the cross, and this story still preaches to you today. Have you come to the Saviour? Come right now, for you may not have a tomorrow!
Luke records these last words of Jesus, as He cried with a loud voice, "Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit." The very first words of Jesus are also recorded in (Luke 2:49) after Jesus was found in the temple and said to His mother, "Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business."
Jesus was about His Father's business from first to last. He went about doing good, healing the sick, and opening the eyes of the blind. In every circumstance, even in the garden of Gethsemane, He submitted in perfect obedience to the Father's will. With all our hearts, we agree with the centurion who saw what happened on that cross and glorified God, saying, "Certainly this was a righteous Man!
(Luke 23:47) Jacob Redekop
N.J. Hiebert - 8928
Jesus, the sinless Son of Man, was hanging on the cross between two guilty criminals. Those who passed by wagged their heads and said, "He saved others; Himself He cannot save" (Matthew 27:42) This reminds us of the words of the prophet Jeremiah, "Is it nothing to you, all ye that pass by? behold, and see if there be any sorrow like unto My sorrow, which is done unto Me, wherewith the Lord hath afflicted Me in the day of His fierce anger." Lamentations 1:12.
The two thieves had witnessed the silent suffering of Jesus, and they had heard Him pray, "Father, forgive them." (Luke 23:34) One thief turned in faith to the Saviour, acknowledging his guilt and and claiming that forgiveness. We are not told his name; indeed, he represents all who believe. One moment he feared eternal separation from God, and the next moment he received the promise to be with the Saviour "today." This newborn man now becomes a gospel preacher to the other thief on the cross, and this story still preaches to you today. Have you come to the Saviour? Come right now, for you may not have a tomorrow!
Luke records these last words of Jesus, as He cried with a loud voice, "Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit." The very first words of Jesus are also recorded in (Luke 2:49) after Jesus was found in the temple and said to His mother, "Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business."
Jesus was about His Father's business from first to last. He went about doing good, healing the sick, and opening the eyes of the blind. In every circumstance, even in the garden of Gethsemane, He submitted in perfect obedience to the Father's will. With all our hearts, we agree with the centurion who saw what happened on that cross and glorified God, saying, "Certainly this was a righteous Man!
(Luke 23:47) Jacob Redekop
N.J. Hiebert - 8928
August 5
"I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: . . ."
Luke 22:32
Christian, take good care of thy faith, for recollect, that faith is the only means whereby thou canst obtain blessings. Prayer cannot draw down answers from God's throne except it be the earnest prayer of the man who believes.
Faith is the telegraphic wire which links earth to Heaven, on which God's messages of love fly so fast that before we call, He answers, and while we are yet speaking, He hears us. (Isaiah 65:24) But if that telegraphic wire of faith be snapped, how can we obtain the promise?
Am I in trouble? I can obtain help for trouble by faith. Am I beaten about by the enemy? My soul on that dear Refuge leans by faith.
But take faith away, then in vain I call to God. There is no other road between my soul and heaven. Blockade the road, ahow can I communicate with the Lord? Faith links me wit Divinity. Faith clothes me with the power of Jehovah. Faith insures every attribute of God in my defence. It helps me to defy the hosts of hell. It makes me march triumphant over the necks of my enemies. But without faith how can I receive anything from the Lord?
Oh then, Christian, watch well thy faith. "If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth." Mark 9:23 C.H. Spurgeon
"Faith, mighty faith, the promise sees, and looks to that alone,
Laughs at impossibilities, and cries, 'It shall be done!' "
Queen Victoria said, "We are not interested in the possibilities of defeat. They do not exist!"
N.J. Hiebert - 8929
Christian, take good care of thy faith, for recollect, that faith is the only means whereby thou canst obtain blessings. Prayer cannot draw down answers from God's throne except it be the earnest prayer of the man who believes.
Faith is the telegraphic wire which links earth to Heaven, on which God's messages of love fly so fast that before we call, He answers, and while we are yet speaking, He hears us. (Isaiah 65:24) But if that telegraphic wire of faith be snapped, how can we obtain the promise?
Am I in trouble? I can obtain help for trouble by faith. Am I beaten about by the enemy? My soul on that dear Refuge leans by faith.
But take faith away, then in vain I call to God. There is no other road between my soul and heaven. Blockade the road, ahow can I communicate with the Lord? Faith links me wit Divinity. Faith clothes me with the power of Jehovah. Faith insures every attribute of God in my defence. It helps me to defy the hosts of hell. It makes me march triumphant over the necks of my enemies. But without faith how can I receive anything from the Lord?
Oh then, Christian, watch well thy faith. "If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth." Mark 9:23 C.H. Spurgeon
"Faith, mighty faith, the promise sees, and looks to that alone,
Laughs at impossibilities, and cries, 'It shall be done!' "
Queen Victoria said, "We are not interested in the possibilities of defeat. They do not exist!"
N.J. Hiebert - 8929
August 6
I am the true vine, and My Father is the husbandman. Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away; and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. John 15:1-2
Sunshine is essential. Without it the branches bear "--nothing but leaves"--leaves in perfusion, but leaves only. It is not enough for us to be connected by a living faith to Jesus: we must hold fellowship with Him, sunning ourselves in His smile communing with Him, and surrendered to His companionship; so only can we hope to bear something more than the leaves.
But though the branches need sunshine, they must also have the darkness. During the night it is said to rest: it does not grow; but it recuperates itself and prepares for the putting forth of fresh energy. And this may suggest why sometimes after periods of much activity the great Husbandman draws down the blinds and plunges us into the black night of sorrow, or solitude.
The fruitfulness, of the branches largely depends on the care with which it is pruned. There is no tree pruned so mercilessly and incessantly, first with a sharp knife, and then with scissors. The Lord has many such implements. There is the golden pruning knife of His Word by which He would prune us if we would let Him (John 15:3), so escaping the iron pruning knife of affliction.
Our Lord uses the knife, with its sharp clean strokes, which cut deep into our nature, and leaves scars which it will take years to heal, or even to conceal. And there are also scissors in His hand--cross events, daily circumstances which appear contrary to each other, but which nevertheless work together in the end for good.
What a comfort it is that the Vine-dresser leaves the pruning to no apprentice hand! No hand but the most skilled may handle the knife. "My Father is the Husbandman." F. B. Meyer
N.J. Hiebert - 8930
Sunshine is essential. Without it the branches bear "--nothing but leaves"--leaves in perfusion, but leaves only. It is not enough for us to be connected by a living faith to Jesus: we must hold fellowship with Him, sunning ourselves in His smile communing with Him, and surrendered to His companionship; so only can we hope to bear something more than the leaves.
But though the branches need sunshine, they must also have the darkness. During the night it is said to rest: it does not grow; but it recuperates itself and prepares for the putting forth of fresh energy. And this may suggest why sometimes after periods of much activity the great Husbandman draws down the blinds and plunges us into the black night of sorrow, or solitude.
The fruitfulness, of the branches largely depends on the care with which it is pruned. There is no tree pruned so mercilessly and incessantly, first with a sharp knife, and then with scissors. The Lord has many such implements. There is the golden pruning knife of His Word by which He would prune us if we would let Him (John 15:3), so escaping the iron pruning knife of affliction.
Our Lord uses the knife, with its sharp clean strokes, which cut deep into our nature, and leaves scars which it will take years to heal, or even to conceal. And there are also scissors in His hand--cross events, daily circumstances which appear contrary to each other, but which nevertheless work together in the end for good.
What a comfort it is that the Vine-dresser leaves the pruning to no apprentice hand! No hand but the most skilled may handle the knife. "My Father is the Husbandman." F. B. Meyer
N.J. Hiebert - 8930
August 7
He that is not with Me is against Me; and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad.
Matthew 12:30
Make sure that you are not just for Christ but first of all with Him; your life hid with Christ in God. Without Him, you can do nothing. Then, when death comes, you depart to be with Him. "For me to live is Christ and to die is gain ...with Christ which is far better." Philippians 1:21,23.
When He returns, all sleep in Jesus He will bring with Him. "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord...shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air...for the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the arch angel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord." (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). "With them--With Him!"
Our Lord said to the penitent thief, "Today shalt thou be with Me in paradise." (Luke 23:43) Blessed with-ness! Make sure of it here and hereafter!
All The Days - Vance Havner.
N.J. Hiebert - 8931
Make sure that you are not just for Christ but first of all with Him; your life hid with Christ in God. Without Him, you can do nothing. Then, when death comes, you depart to be with Him. "For me to live is Christ and to die is gain ...with Christ which is far better." Philippians 1:21,23.
When He returns, all sleep in Jesus He will bring with Him. "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord...shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air...for the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the arch angel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord." (1 Thessalonians 4:14-17). "With them--With Him!"
Our Lord said to the penitent thief, "Today shalt thou be with Me in paradise." (Luke 23:43) Blessed with-ness! Make sure of it here and hereafter!
All The Days - Vance Havner.
N.J. Hiebert - 8931
August 8
FOR OUR CHILDREN
For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of Him: therefore also I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the Lord. And he worshipped the Lord.
For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of Him: therefore also I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the Lord. And he worshipped the Lord.
1 Samuel 1:27,28
FATHER, hear us, we are praying,
Hear the words our hearts are saying,
We are praying for our children.
Keep them from the powers of evil,
From the secret, hidden peril,
From the whirlpool that would suck them,
From the treacherous quicksand, pluck them.
From the worldling's hollow gladness
From the sting of faithless sadness
Holy Father, save our children.
Through life's troubled waters steer them,
Through life's bitter battle cheer them,
Father, Father, be Thou near them.
Read the language of our longing,
Read the wordless pleadings thronging,
Holy Father, for our children.
And wherever they may bide,
Lead them Home at evertide.
Amy Carmichael
N.J. Hiebert - 8932
FATHER, hear us, we are praying,
Hear the words our hearts are saying,
We are praying for our children.
Keep them from the powers of evil,
From the secret, hidden peril,
From the whirlpool that would suck them,
From the treacherous quicksand, pluck them.
From the worldling's hollow gladness
From the sting of faithless sadness
Holy Father, save our children.
Through life's troubled waters steer them,
Through life's bitter battle cheer them,
Father, Father, be Thou near them.
Read the language of our longing,
Read the wordless pleadings thronging,
Holy Father, for our children.
And wherever they may bide,
Lead them Home at evertide.
Amy Carmichael
N.J. Hiebert - 8932
August 9
PROPHESIES AND THEIR FULFILMENT
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
2 Timothy 3:16,17
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved moved by the Holy Ghost. 2 Peter 1:21
The great bulk of the prophecies of the Old Testament refer to the coming of the Son of God into this world as Man in order to be the Redeemer. They refer to His Person as God and Man, the place and manner of His birth, the wonder of His life, and above all His death and its sacrificial meaning and His glorious resurrection.
- He was born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). Fulfilment Luke 2:4-6.
- He was to be born of a virgin. Isaiah 7:14 Fulfilment Matthew 1:125.
- He was to be sold for thirty pieces of silver. Zechariah 11:12
Fulfilment Matthew 26:14-15.
This money was to be cast to the potter. It was to be silver and thirty pieces, and thrown down in the house of the Lord. Fulfilment Matthew 27:3-10).
-His hands and feet were to be pierced. Psalm 22:16 Fulfilment John 20:24-29.
- His side was to be pierced. Zechariah 12:10 Fulfilment John 19:34-37.
- His garments were to be divided among the soldiers, who crucified Him, and for His vesture they were to cast lots. Psalm 22:18. Fulfilment John 19:23,24.
- They were to give Him gall and vinegar as He hung on the cross. Psalm 69:21. Fulfilment. Matthew 27:34.
- He was to be buried in a rich man's tomb. Isaiah 53:9. Fulfilment Matthew 27:57.
Why I Believe the Bible - A. J. Pollock
N.J. Hiebert - 8933
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
2 Timothy 3:16,17
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved moved by the Holy Ghost. 2 Peter 1:21
The great bulk of the prophecies of the Old Testament refer to the coming of the Son of God into this world as Man in order to be the Redeemer. They refer to His Person as God and Man, the place and manner of His birth, the wonder of His life, and above all His death and its sacrificial meaning and His glorious resurrection.
- He was born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). Fulfilment Luke 2:4-6.
- He was to be born of a virgin. Isaiah 7:14 Fulfilment Matthew 1:125.
- He was to be sold for thirty pieces of silver. Zechariah 11:12
Fulfilment Matthew 26:14-15.
This money was to be cast to the potter. It was to be silver and thirty pieces, and thrown down in the house of the Lord. Fulfilment Matthew 27:3-10).
-His hands and feet were to be pierced. Psalm 22:16 Fulfilment John 20:24-29.
- His side was to be pierced. Zechariah 12:10 Fulfilment John 19:34-37.
- His garments were to be divided among the soldiers, who crucified Him, and for His vesture they were to cast lots. Psalm 22:18. Fulfilment John 19:23,24.
- They were to give Him gall and vinegar as He hung on the cross. Psalm 69:21. Fulfilment. Matthew 27:34.
- He was to be buried in a rich man's tomb. Isaiah 53:9. Fulfilment Matthew 27:57.
Why I Believe the Bible - A. J. Pollock
N.J. Hiebert - 8933
August 10
The Lord is far from the wicked: but He heareth the prayer of the righteous. Proverbs 15:29
The lawless have no title to expect anything from the Lord; He makes no pledge to heed their cry. When the day of their distress comes they find none on whom to call. Of old, when idolatrous Israel turned to Him in their troubles, He refused to be entreated of them and referred them to the gods they had served, in order that they might realize what it meat to have turned the back upon Him.
But He has pledged Himself to hear the prayer of the righteous; and with Him to "hear" is to answer. The man who delights himself in God when all is bright will find him a Friend nigh at hand when darkness enshrouds the soul. But let him not forget that it is written, "If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." (John 15:7).
H. A. Ironside - Notes on Proverbs
Abide with me: fast falls the even tide; the darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide:
When other helpers fail, and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me!
Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day; Earth's joys grow dim, its glories pass away;
Change and decay in all around I see; O Thou who changes not, abide with me!
I need Thy presence every passing hour: What but Thy grace can foil the tempter's pow'r? Who like Thyself my guide and stay can be? Thro'cloud and sunshine, O abide with me!
Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes; Shine thro' the gloom, and point me to the skies: Heav'n's morning breaks, and earth's vain shadows flee--In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me! H. F. Lyte
N.J. Hiebert - 8934
The lawless have no title to expect anything from the Lord; He makes no pledge to heed their cry. When the day of their distress comes they find none on whom to call. Of old, when idolatrous Israel turned to Him in their troubles, He refused to be entreated of them and referred them to the gods they had served, in order that they might realize what it meat to have turned the back upon Him.
But He has pledged Himself to hear the prayer of the righteous; and with Him to "hear" is to answer. The man who delights himself in God when all is bright will find him a Friend nigh at hand when darkness enshrouds the soul. But let him not forget that it is written, "If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." (John 15:7).
H. A. Ironside - Notes on Proverbs
Abide with me: fast falls the even tide; the darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide:
When other helpers fail, and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me!
Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day; Earth's joys grow dim, its glories pass away;
Change and decay in all around I see; O Thou who changes not, abide with me!
I need Thy presence every passing hour: What but Thy grace can foil the tempter's pow'r? Who like Thyself my guide and stay can be? Thro'cloud and sunshine, O abide with me!
Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes; Shine thro' the gloom, and point me to the skies: Heav'n's morning breaks, and earth's vain shadows flee--In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me! H. F. Lyte
N.J. Hiebert - 8934
August 11
When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, He said, IT IS FINISHED: and He bowed His head, and gave up the Ghost. John 19:30
"Tis finished," Jesus said, My Lord on Calvary bled,
Conscience may not condemn, white are my sins once red,
I now can enter in where foes can never tread,
Through Christ our living head.
Hark! God's beloved Son
Cried, "Finished!" all is done.
Oh! Praise and never cease
The glory of His grace.
Grace, matchless grace, so free:
He won the victory.
Hallelujah! 'tis done.
"Tis finished!"--Hark the strain, we're cleansed from every strain,
By blood we're sanctified, made holy, without blame,
Tell! Tell it! far and wide; Praise! Praise! His glorious Name,
JESUS, who for us died.
"Tis finished!" Jesus cried, and from His wounded side,
The blood and water flowed. Now God is satisfied.
No more of God afraid, by faith I'm justified.
Christ is my righteousness.
Complete in Him we stand, all Death and Hell demand
Is fully satisfied. And now at God's right hand
Our risen Saviour pleads, For us He intercedes,
For us He ever lives.
(I. Lo - Translated from Chinese by Dorothy Dear)
N.J. Hiebert - 8935
"Tis finished," Jesus said, My Lord on Calvary bled,
Conscience may not condemn, white are my sins once red,
I now can enter in where foes can never tread,
Through Christ our living head.
Hark! God's beloved Son
Cried, "Finished!" all is done.
Oh! Praise and never cease
The glory of His grace.
Grace, matchless grace, so free:
He won the victory.
Hallelujah! 'tis done.
"Tis finished!"--Hark the strain, we're cleansed from every strain,
By blood we're sanctified, made holy, without blame,
Tell! Tell it! far and wide; Praise! Praise! His glorious Name,
JESUS, who for us died.
"Tis finished!" Jesus cried, and from His wounded side,
The blood and water flowed. Now God is satisfied.
No more of God afraid, by faith I'm justified.
Christ is my righteousness.
Complete in Him we stand, all Death and Hell demand
Is fully satisfied. And now at God's right hand
Our risen Saviour pleads, For us He intercedes,
For us He ever lives.
(I. Lo - Translated from Chinese by Dorothy Dear)
N.J. Hiebert - 8935
August 12
THE PROMISE OF THE FATHER
"He shall glorify Me: for He shall received of Mine, and shall show it unto you. John 16:14
Blest, Thy Spirit's touch well known, to the heart's oft silent strings;
Wakening them to Thee alone, while my spirit of Thee sings.
Bright the vision He doth bring, of Thyself before my sight;
Fit eclipse of everything, every earthly joy or light.
Whether for walk, conflict, testimony or worship, our only and all-sufficient power is in the Holy Ghost. The maintenance of constant dependence is a necessary condition of continued spiritual power.
There are many of the Lord's people who have learned in a measure their weakness, but who know nothing of the source of power as provided in the Holy Spirit; There are others who believe in the provision, but who have scarcely any skill in drawing upon it for use; there are others again who act even in the christian life as if everything depended upon themselves.
It must not be forgotten that power does not act independently of our spiritual condition. The Holy Spirit dwells within, so that our bodies are His temples. If we are careless, not watchful, if we seek our pleasure in the world, rather than in Christ, let us not for one moment suppose that He will condescend to use us as vessels of His power...
But, on the other hand, if the eye be single, and a single eye sees nothing but Christ, if He is the object of our lives, the Holy Spirit then ungrieved will sustain us in every position in which we are placed, and bring us victoriously out of the very conflict through which we may pass. Let us not rest until we know practically something of being channels for the manifestation of divine power even in this world. Footprints for Pilgrims - Edward Dennett
N.J. Hiebert - 8936
"He shall glorify Me: for He shall received of Mine, and shall show it unto you. John 16:14
Blest, Thy Spirit's touch well known, to the heart's oft silent strings;
Wakening them to Thee alone, while my spirit of Thee sings.
Bright the vision He doth bring, of Thyself before my sight;
Fit eclipse of everything, every earthly joy or light.
Whether for walk, conflict, testimony or worship, our only and all-sufficient power is in the Holy Ghost. The maintenance of constant dependence is a necessary condition of continued spiritual power.
There are many of the Lord's people who have learned in a measure their weakness, but who know nothing of the source of power as provided in the Holy Spirit; There are others who believe in the provision, but who have scarcely any skill in drawing upon it for use; there are others again who act even in the christian life as if everything depended upon themselves.
It must not be forgotten that power does not act independently of our spiritual condition. The Holy Spirit dwells within, so that our bodies are His temples. If we are careless, not watchful, if we seek our pleasure in the world, rather than in Christ, let us not for one moment suppose that He will condescend to use us as vessels of His power...
But, on the other hand, if the eye be single, and a single eye sees nothing but Christ, if He is the object of our lives, the Holy Spirit then ungrieved will sustain us in every position in which we are placed, and bring us victoriously out of the very conflict through which we may pass. Let us not rest until we know practically something of being channels for the manifestation of divine power even in this world. Footprints for Pilgrims - Edward Dennett
N.J. Hiebert - 8936
August 13
Wist ye not that I must be about My Father's business...and He went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them... Luke 2:49,51.
Luke reminds us He "was subject unto [Mary and Jospeh]". This was another way of loveliness in Him as a child of twelve years. After the episode in the temple, and His gentle reproof, "Know ye not that I must be about My Father's business?" it is recorded that He went down with Joseph and Mary, "and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them". He declared that God was His Father, and that His business was all important to Him, but nevertheless recognized His earthly relationship and was subject to Joseph and Mary. That subjection of His own voluntary will was lovely in Him.
Joseph and Mary had the manifest token that He fully comprehended His Sonship of God and His exalted mission, but that did not change His moral perfection as subject to those whose care God had entrusted Him. This one incident when He was twelve years of age is on record to reveal the consistent moral perfection of our Lord as He grew up in the family of Joseph the carpenter.
When our Lord was "sitting in the midst of the doctors" (Luke 2:46) in the temple, He again like charity, did not behave Himself unseemly (1 Corinthians 13:5). He was "hearing them, and asking them questions." It does not say, He was teaching them or answering their questions. He did not pose as a teacher, though there dwelt in Him "all the treasures of wisdom knowledge" (Colossians 2:3) "All that heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers."
He was the true speaker of Psalm 119:99, "I have more understanding than all my teachers: for Thy testimonies are my meditation." All His life, Isaiah 50:4 was true of Him: "He wakeneth morning by morning, He wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned." Thus, His childhood and youth were passed in quiet, loving fellowship with God, hearing His voice and responding to His love. A Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake
N.J. Hiebert - 8937
Luke reminds us He "was subject unto [Mary and Jospeh]". This was another way of loveliness in Him as a child of twelve years. After the episode in the temple, and His gentle reproof, "Know ye not that I must be about My Father's business?" it is recorded that He went down with Joseph and Mary, "and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them". He declared that God was His Father, and that His business was all important to Him, but nevertheless recognized His earthly relationship and was subject to Joseph and Mary. That subjection of His own voluntary will was lovely in Him.
Joseph and Mary had the manifest token that He fully comprehended His Sonship of God and His exalted mission, but that did not change His moral perfection as subject to those whose care God had entrusted Him. This one incident when He was twelve years of age is on record to reveal the consistent moral perfection of our Lord as He grew up in the family of Joseph the carpenter.
When our Lord was "sitting in the midst of the doctors" (Luke 2:46) in the temple, He again like charity, did not behave Himself unseemly (1 Corinthians 13:5). He was "hearing them, and asking them questions." It does not say, He was teaching them or answering their questions. He did not pose as a teacher, though there dwelt in Him "all the treasures of wisdom knowledge" (Colossians 2:3) "All that heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers."
He was the true speaker of Psalm 119:99, "I have more understanding than all my teachers: for Thy testimonies are my meditation." All His life, Isaiah 50:4 was true of Him: "He wakeneth morning by morning, He wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned." Thus, His childhood and youth were passed in quiet, loving fellowship with God, hearing His voice and responding to His love. A Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake
N.J. Hiebert - 8937
August 14
Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Psalm 85:10
Lord, while our souls in faith repose upon Thy precious blood,
PEACE like an even river flows, and MERCY, like a flood.
In this very impressive imagery, writer Mary Bowley contrasts Peace and Mercy, suggesting these thoughts and scriptures to my soul:
Mercy had to come first because without it, there could be no gift of settled peace for people like us. And that depended upon Christ dying to finally settle the sin question. The flood image suggests destructive force; example: Genesis 9:11 "And I will establish my covenant with you, neither shall all flesh be cut off any more by the waters of a flood." This was God's mercy at work. Sinners had to be destroyed, but in His mercy, He made provision for one righteous family to rise above the waters.
Besides, everyone around was invited into the ark, but they all mocked and refused. This surely reminds us of Christ's work at the cross to finally end the power of sin; but at what a cost! The measure of that flood of judgment upon Him as sin-bearer may be feebly gathered from the stupendous quantity of water that was needed to cover the whole earth in Noah's day. "Thy mercy endureth forever." Psalm 136:1
After the Lord rose from the dead, offered the good news of salvation, and then ascended bodily to heaven, Peace like a river could immediately flow to all who believe. A river suggests a calm, steady flow and unlimited abundance from which all the redeemed can draw for drinking, cleansing and comfort. Such a flow also suggests a destination; which for all believers is eternity with our Lord in glory. (Isaiah 66:12) says "For thus sayeth the Lord, Behold I will extend Peace to her like a river." The prophet here was speaking of Israel's future, but we believers can take it for ourselves. The Lord said, "My peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you. (John 12:27) Lorne Perry
N.J. Hiebert - 8938
Lord, while our souls in faith repose upon Thy precious blood,
PEACE like an even river flows, and MERCY, like a flood.
In this very impressive imagery, writer Mary Bowley contrasts Peace and Mercy, suggesting these thoughts and scriptures to my soul:
Mercy had to come first because without it, there could be no gift of settled peace for people like us. And that depended upon Christ dying to finally settle the sin question. The flood image suggests destructive force; example: Genesis 9:11 "And I will establish my covenant with you, neither shall all flesh be cut off any more by the waters of a flood." This was God's mercy at work. Sinners had to be destroyed, but in His mercy, He made provision for one righteous family to rise above the waters.
Besides, everyone around was invited into the ark, but they all mocked and refused. This surely reminds us of Christ's work at the cross to finally end the power of sin; but at what a cost! The measure of that flood of judgment upon Him as sin-bearer may be feebly gathered from the stupendous quantity of water that was needed to cover the whole earth in Noah's day. "Thy mercy endureth forever." Psalm 136:1
After the Lord rose from the dead, offered the good news of salvation, and then ascended bodily to heaven, Peace like a river could immediately flow to all who believe. A river suggests a calm, steady flow and unlimited abundance from which all the redeemed can draw for drinking, cleansing and comfort. Such a flow also suggests a destination; which for all believers is eternity with our Lord in glory. (Isaiah 66:12) says "For thus sayeth the Lord, Behold I will extend Peace to her like a river." The prophet here was speaking of Israel's future, but we believers can take it for ourselves. The Lord said, "My peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you. (John 12:27) Lorne Perry
N.J. Hiebert - 8938
August 15
- Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny Me thrice...he went out, and wept bitterly Matthew 26:75
- He saith unto him the third time...lovest thou Me? Peter...saith unto Him, Lord...Thou knowest that I love Thee...Jesus saith unto him, Feed My sheep.
- He saith unto him the third time...lovest thou Me? Peter...saith unto Him, Lord...Thou knowest that I love Thee...Jesus saith unto him, Feed My sheep.
John 21:17.
-And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32
The following story is told regarding an incident that took place December 30, 1879 in Menlo Park, New Jersey. For countless hours over a long period of time, Thomas Edison had toiled in his laboratory over his latest invention--a common item today that is taken for granted throughout the world. Over those long dreary hours in Edison's lab there had been many failures and discouragements but the time arrived when the great inventor had finally achieved success. He created the world's first glass electric light bulb.
After that long time of labour and failures, Mr. Edison now held in his hands a small, fragile glass globe that emitted a steady glow of light. The next day, December 31, 1879, Mr. Edison intended to unveil to the world the first electric light bulb. Work in his lab was over and his assistants were busily cleaning and straightening everything in preparation for the morrow's planned demonstration. As he reached for a part of the display, Mr Edison very carefully handed the fragile glass bulb to one of his assistants.
Much to everyone's dismay, the assistant allowed the glass bulb to slip out of his hands and fall on the floor where it shattered to into tiny pieces. The poor assistant was speechless, aghast at what he had just done. Mr Edison, however, did not demand he leave his laboratory never to return. Instead he quietly asked who would be willing to stay to help make a duplicate. No one left. Toiling all through the long night, blowing glass and diligently working to recreate the light bulb, the exhausted group finished in time for the presentation the next day.
As he readied the presentation Mr. Edison handed the precious globe to the very assistant who had dropped the first one. Another assistant asked how Mr. Edison could trust him. The great inventor replied that he knew of no one on the face of the earth who would hold and handle that precious bulb with greater care. The Christian Shepherd - Doug Nicolet
N.J. Hiebert - 8939
-And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32
The following story is told regarding an incident that took place December 30, 1879 in Menlo Park, New Jersey. For countless hours over a long period of time, Thomas Edison had toiled in his laboratory over his latest invention--a common item today that is taken for granted throughout the world. Over those long dreary hours in Edison's lab there had been many failures and discouragements but the time arrived when the great inventor had finally achieved success. He created the world's first glass electric light bulb.
After that long time of labour and failures, Mr. Edison now held in his hands a small, fragile glass globe that emitted a steady glow of light. The next day, December 31, 1879, Mr. Edison intended to unveil to the world the first electric light bulb. Work in his lab was over and his assistants were busily cleaning and straightening everything in preparation for the morrow's planned demonstration. As he reached for a part of the display, Mr Edison very carefully handed the fragile glass bulb to one of his assistants.
Much to everyone's dismay, the assistant allowed the glass bulb to slip out of his hands and fall on the floor where it shattered to into tiny pieces. The poor assistant was speechless, aghast at what he had just done. Mr Edison, however, did not demand he leave his laboratory never to return. Instead he quietly asked who would be willing to stay to help make a duplicate. No one left. Toiling all through the long night, blowing glass and diligently working to recreate the light bulb, the exhausted group finished in time for the presentation the next day.
As he readied the presentation Mr. Edison handed the precious globe to the very assistant who had dropped the first one. Another assistant asked how Mr. Edison could trust him. The great inventor replied that he knew of no one on the face of the earth who would hold and handle that precious bulb with greater care. The Christian Shepherd - Doug Nicolet
N.J. Hiebert - 8939
August 16
And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man...wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the Lord, to do evil in His sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife... 2 Samuel 12 7,9.
Nathan speaks but one phrase, "Thou art the man," to convict David. David too says but one thing in God's presence: "I have sinned against the Lord." When a soul has seen this it has taken a tremendous step forward. When a Christian has fallen and God has exposed his sin we habitually find the confession of his fault: "I have sinned." but what difference does that make when this sin has already been brought to light? David says: "I have sinned against Jehovah," not: I have sinned against Uriah or against Uriah's wife.
Our sins against others may be forgiven by those whom we have offended; we may make amends in a certain measure for the sins we commit against ourselves, but what can we say when we have sinned against the Lord? One says: "I have sinned," for he is ashamed of his sin because men see it; but it is quite another thing when one is convicted that the thing he has done is evil in the sight of the Lord.
Having produced this through conviction of sin, God does not keep his poor guilty servant waiting. Again He speaks but one sentence to him: "Jehovah has also put away thy sin." He does not say: Jehovah will, but rather "has put away thy sin." He had dealt with his servant's sin beforehand; He had made provision so that the sin was put away from David and so that it no longer came up before God. That is what we find at the cross of Christ.
Then Nathan tells David: "Thou: shalt not die. Howbeit, because by this deed thou has given great occasion to the enemies of Jehovah to blaspheme, even the child that is born to thee shall certainly die. And Nathan departed to his house." (vv. 13-15) Such is the consequence that the world draw from our faults. 2 Samuel - H. L. Rossier
N.J. Hiebert - 8941
Nathan speaks but one phrase, "Thou art the man," to convict David. David too says but one thing in God's presence: "I have sinned against the Lord." When a soul has seen this it has taken a tremendous step forward. When a Christian has fallen and God has exposed his sin we habitually find the confession of his fault: "I have sinned." but what difference does that make when this sin has already been brought to light? David says: "I have sinned against Jehovah," not: I have sinned against Uriah or against Uriah's wife.
Our sins against others may be forgiven by those whom we have offended; we may make amends in a certain measure for the sins we commit against ourselves, but what can we say when we have sinned against the Lord? One says: "I have sinned," for he is ashamed of his sin because men see it; but it is quite another thing when one is convicted that the thing he has done is evil in the sight of the Lord.
Having produced this through conviction of sin, God does not keep his poor guilty servant waiting. Again He speaks but one sentence to him: "Jehovah has also put away thy sin." He does not say: Jehovah will, but rather "has put away thy sin." He had dealt with his servant's sin beforehand; He had made provision so that the sin was put away from David and so that it no longer came up before God. That is what we find at the cross of Christ.
Then Nathan tells David: "Thou: shalt not die. Howbeit, because by this deed thou has given great occasion to the enemies of Jehovah to blaspheme, even the child that is born to thee shall certainly die. And Nathan departed to his house." (vv. 13-15) Such is the consequence that the world draw from our faults. 2 Samuel - H. L. Rossier
N.J. Hiebert - 8941
August 17
TRUST, WORK and WATCH
Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
Matthew 6:34
(Each day hath enough trouble of its own.)
Trust today and leave tomorrow; each day has enough of care; Therefore, whatsoe'er thy burden, God will give thee strength to bear. He is Faithful! Cast on Him thine every care.
Work today, and leave tomorrow; all around there's urgent need; All around there's sin and sorrow; broadcast, daily sow the seed. He is faithful! He shall bless thy work indeed.
Watch today, and leave the morrow; for tomorrow may not come; For today thy loving Saviour, may appear to take thee home. He is faithful! Look for Him, the coming One. William Sloan
N.J. Hiebert - 8942
(Each day hath enough trouble of its own.)
Trust today and leave tomorrow; each day has enough of care; Therefore, whatsoe'er thy burden, God will give thee strength to bear. He is Faithful! Cast on Him thine every care.
Work today, and leave tomorrow; all around there's urgent need; All around there's sin and sorrow; broadcast, daily sow the seed. He is faithful! He shall bless thy work indeed.
Watch today, and leave the morrow; for tomorrow may not come; For today thy loving Saviour, may appear to take thee home. He is faithful! Look for Him, the coming One. William Sloan
N.J. Hiebert - 8942
August 18
For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till He come.
1 Corinthians 11:26
Several perspectives are emphasized in this lovely passage on the Lord's supper. Our hearts should be occupied with each. In this verse, we are to look backward to the cross and see our Saviour giving His life for us.
Secondly, we are to look forward and anticipate His return, when we will not need the emblems anymore, but will see Him, be with Him, and be like Him.
Again, we are to look upward to our great High Priest who is ever able to take our spiritual sacrifices and make them acceptable to God.
Finally, we are to look inward. "let a man examine himself" (v 28), and then come with a pure heart to this holy feast.
Harold G. Smith
On Calvary's brow my Saviour died,
'Twas there my Lord was crucified:
'Twas on the cross He bled for me,
And purchased there my pardon free.
W. M. K Darwood
N.J. Hiebert - 8943
Several perspectives are emphasized in this lovely passage on the Lord's supper. Our hearts should be occupied with each. In this verse, we are to look backward to the cross and see our Saviour giving His life for us.
Secondly, we are to look forward and anticipate His return, when we will not need the emblems anymore, but will see Him, be with Him, and be like Him.
Again, we are to look upward to our great High Priest who is ever able to take our spiritual sacrifices and make them acceptable to God.
Finally, we are to look inward. "let a man examine himself" (v 28), and then come with a pure heart to this holy feast.
Harold G. Smith
On Calvary's brow my Saviour died,
'Twas there my Lord was crucified:
'Twas on the cross He bled for me,
And purchased there my pardon free.
W. M. K Darwood
N.J. Hiebert - 8943
August 19
FRUIT OF THE LAND
How long are ye slack to possess the land which the Lord God of your fathers giveth you? Joshua 18:3.
We ought not stand on Jordan's stormy banks casting a wishful eye to Canaan's fair and happy land, where our possessions lie. "Dwelling in Beulah Land" (Isaiah 62:4) is possible here and now. Living in Canaan may be a fact today.
It is also a fight, the fight of faith, as we follow our Joshua, the Captain of our salvation and "possess our possessions."
And there will be fruit. It is today, said the spies. "It floweth with milk and honey; and this is the fruit of it." (Numbers 13:27). "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22,23).
Alas, so many are still in the wilderness, longing for garlic instead of grace, melons instead of manna! The best advertisement of the land is the fruit of it. Where are your milk and honey? Men will believe the fact when from the fight you bring the fruit. Day by Day with Vance Havner
N.J. Hiebert - 8944
How long are ye slack to possess the land which the Lord God of your fathers giveth you? Joshua 18:3.
We ought not stand on Jordan's stormy banks casting a wishful eye to Canaan's fair and happy land, where our possessions lie. "Dwelling in Beulah Land" (Isaiah 62:4) is possible here and now. Living in Canaan may be a fact today.
It is also a fight, the fight of faith, as we follow our Joshua, the Captain of our salvation and "possess our possessions."
And there will be fruit. It is today, said the spies. "It floweth with milk and honey; and this is the fruit of it." (Numbers 13:27). "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22,23).
Alas, so many are still in the wilderness, longing for garlic instead of grace, melons instead of manna! The best advertisement of the land is the fruit of it. Where are your milk and honey? Men will believe the fact when from the fight you bring the fruit. Day by Day with Vance Havner
N.J. Hiebert - 8944
August 20
Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better. Ecclesiastes 7:3
Every person and every nation must take lessons in God's school of adversity. We can say, "Blessed is night, for it reveals to us the stars." In the same way we can say, "Blessed is sorrow, for it reveals God's comfort."
The floods washed away home and mill, all the poor man had in the world. But as he stood on the scene of his loss, after the water had subsided, broken-hearted and discouraged, he saw something shining in the bank which the waters had washed bare.
"It looks like gold," he said. It was gold. The flood which had beggared him made him rich. So it is ofttimes in life. H. C. Trumbull
N. J. Hiebert - 8945
Every person and every nation must take lessons in God's school of adversity. We can say, "Blessed is night, for it reveals to us the stars." In the same way we can say, "Blessed is sorrow, for it reveals God's comfort."
The floods washed away home and mill, all the poor man had in the world. But as he stood on the scene of his loss, after the water had subsided, broken-hearted and discouraged, he saw something shining in the bank which the waters had washed bare.
"It looks like gold," he said. It was gold. The flood which had beggared him made him rich. So it is ofttimes in life. H. C. Trumbull
N. J. Hiebert - 8945
August 21
DELIVERANCE FROM WORRY
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6,7
This should make an end of all worry and anxiety. We may possess a divine carelessness. Be careful for nothing. Have no anxiety. Why should we worry or be anxious? Worry is the child of unbelief.
Anxiety can never stay if the eyes of the heart behold the Man in Glory and faith realizes that all is in the hands of One "who doeth all things well." (Matthew 7:37) Worry and anxiety accuse Him.
Martha did that when she was encumbered with much service and then said to Him, "Doest Thou not care?" (Luke 10:40). Each time we give way to anxiety, we act as if He did not care. But He does; and He would have us rest in faith and and commit all to Himself. The Work of Christ - A. C. Gaebelein
Simply trusting every day, trusting through a stormy way;
Even when my faith is small, trusting Jesus, that is all.
Brightly doth His spirit shine into this poor heart of mine;
While He leads I cannot fall; trusting Jesus, that is all.
Singing if my way is clear; praying if the path be drear;
If in danger, for Him call; trusting Jesus, that is all.
Trusting Him while life shall last, trusting Him till earth be past;
Till within the jasper wall: trusting Jesus that is all. E. Page
N.J. Hiebert - 8946
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6,7
This should make an end of all worry and anxiety. We may possess a divine carelessness. Be careful for nothing. Have no anxiety. Why should we worry or be anxious? Worry is the child of unbelief.
Anxiety can never stay if the eyes of the heart behold the Man in Glory and faith realizes that all is in the hands of One "who doeth all things well." (Matthew 7:37) Worry and anxiety accuse Him.
Martha did that when she was encumbered with much service and then said to Him, "Doest Thou not care?" (Luke 10:40). Each time we give way to anxiety, we act as if He did not care. But He does; and He would have us rest in faith and and commit all to Himself. The Work of Christ - A. C. Gaebelein
Simply trusting every day, trusting through a stormy way;
Even when my faith is small, trusting Jesus, that is all.
Brightly doth His spirit shine into this poor heart of mine;
While He leads I cannot fall; trusting Jesus, that is all.
Singing if my way is clear; praying if the path be drear;
If in danger, for Him call; trusting Jesus, that is all.
Trusting Him while life shall last, trusting Him till earth be past;
Till within the jasper wall: trusting Jesus that is all. E. Page
N.J. Hiebert - 8946
August 22
In the Lord put I my trust: how say ye to my soul, Flee as a bird to your mountain? Psalm 11:1
People who study and understand birds know they fly much higher when migrating than when in local flight. They concluded that migrating birds take wing higher than the others for three reasons:
- They get a boundless view and more easily find their points of direction.
-They are out of the flight path of birds of prey and clear of obstacles.
-Their flight is accelerated due to the greater purification of the atmosphere.
The higher the child of God soars the more clearly discernible is God's flight plan. The soul cannot find escape from the attacks of satanic forces, when doubting God's promises. Neither does it find refuge by prostrating itself face downward. Depressing thoughts give no relief to the mind, nor does doubting God's love when the storm clouds envelope.
It is true that one defeated, cast-down person can inoculate a whole group at work, at school, in the community, with the gloom of despair. Attitudes are catching.
The sweetest songs of David were born in the storms of his life. The shepherd boy was called "the sweet psalmist of Israel" (2 Samuel 3:1). Out from the fury of the storm rose loud notes of praise to his God on high. The result is two beautiful and melodious Psalms - 23 and 91. These Psalms have comforted people of all generations. How much the world would have lost without those comforting words from the struggling heart of David. Streams in the Desert
N.J. Hiebert - 8947
People who study and understand birds know they fly much higher when migrating than when in local flight. They concluded that migrating birds take wing higher than the others for three reasons:
- They get a boundless view and more easily find their points of direction.
-They are out of the flight path of birds of prey and clear of obstacles.
-Their flight is accelerated due to the greater purification of the atmosphere.
The higher the child of God soars the more clearly discernible is God's flight plan. The soul cannot find escape from the attacks of satanic forces, when doubting God's promises. Neither does it find refuge by prostrating itself face downward. Depressing thoughts give no relief to the mind, nor does doubting God's love when the storm clouds envelope.
It is true that one defeated, cast-down person can inoculate a whole group at work, at school, in the community, with the gloom of despair. Attitudes are catching.
The sweetest songs of David were born in the storms of his life. The shepherd boy was called "the sweet psalmist of Israel" (2 Samuel 3:1). Out from the fury of the storm rose loud notes of praise to his God on high. The result is two beautiful and melodious Psalms - 23 and 91. These Psalms have comforted people of all generations. How much the world would have lost without those comforting words from the struggling heart of David. Streams in the Desert
N.J. Hiebert - 8947
August 23
I sleep but my heart waketh. Song of Solomon 5:2
By far the greater proportion of Christians are more occupied with themselves, and their changeable feelings, than with the word of God.
This is the fruitful source of endless troubles and perplexities of the soul. How often it happens in the history of some Christians that when they experience a change of feeling in themselves, they hastily conclude that Christ Himself is not now what He once was to them.
They judge the Lord by their own feelings, in place of believing in Him according to His own word. This is looking to self in place of Christ, and being governed by feelings in place of the unchangeable truth of God.
Song of Solomon - Andrew Miller
Have I an object, Lord, below which would divide my heart with Thee; Which would divert its even flow in answer to Thy constancy? Oh teach me quickly to return, and cause my heart afresh to burn.
Have I a hope, however dear, which would defer Thy coming, Lord! Which would detain my spirit here (Where not can lasting joy afford)? From It, my Saviour, set me free, to look, and long, and wait for Thee.
Be Thou the object bright and fair to fill and satisfy the heart; My hope to meet Thee in the air, and nevermore from Thee to part: That I may undistracted be to follow, serve, and wait for Thee. G. W. Frazer
N.J. Hiebert - 8948
By far the greater proportion of Christians are more occupied with themselves, and their changeable feelings, than with the word of God.
This is the fruitful source of endless troubles and perplexities of the soul. How often it happens in the history of some Christians that when they experience a change of feeling in themselves, they hastily conclude that Christ Himself is not now what He once was to them.
They judge the Lord by their own feelings, in place of believing in Him according to His own word. This is looking to self in place of Christ, and being governed by feelings in place of the unchangeable truth of God.
Song of Solomon - Andrew Miller
Have I an object, Lord, below which would divide my heart with Thee; Which would divert its even flow in answer to Thy constancy? Oh teach me quickly to return, and cause my heart afresh to burn.
Have I a hope, however dear, which would defer Thy coming, Lord! Which would detain my spirit here (Where not can lasting joy afford)? From It, my Saviour, set me free, to look, and long, and wait for Thee.
Be Thou the object bright and fair to fill and satisfy the heart; My hope to meet Thee in the air, and nevermore from Thee to part: That I may undistracted be to follow, serve, and wait for Thee. G. W. Frazer
N.J. Hiebert - 8948
August 24
SAVIOUR OR JUDGE?
If thou forebear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain . . . doth not He that pondereth the heart consider it? . . . and shall not He render to every man according to his works? Proverbs 24:11-12
- When one has even a glimmer of the tremendous difference between having Christ and being
- without Christ;
- when one gets but one shuddering glimpse of what eternity is,
- and what it must mean, as well as what it may mean, without Christ:
- when one gets but a flash of realization of the tremendous fact that all these neighbours of ours, rich and poor alike, will have to spend that eternity either with Him or without Him
- it is hard, very hard indeed to understand how a man or a woman can believe these things at all, and make no effort for anything beyond the temporal elevation of those around, sometimes not even beyond their amusements!
"People must have entertainment," they urge. I do not find that "must" in the Bible, but I do find, "We must all stand before the judgment seat of Christ." (Romans 14:10) and if you have any sort of belief in that, how can you care to use those lips of yours, which might be a fountain of life to the dying souls before you, merely to entertain them. As you sow, so you reap.
Will you not sow that song? Will you not drop that word
Till the coldest heart be stirred from their slumber deep and long?
Then your harvest shall abound with rejoicing full and grand,
Where the heavenly summer-songs resound,
And the fruits of faithful work are found, in the glorious Holy Land.
Opened Treasures - Frances R. Havergal
N.J. Hiebert - 8949
If thou forebear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain . . . doth not He that pondereth the heart consider it? . . . and shall not He render to every man according to his works? Proverbs 24:11-12
- When one has even a glimmer of the tremendous difference between having Christ and being
- without Christ;
- when one gets but one shuddering glimpse of what eternity is,
- and what it must mean, as well as what it may mean, without Christ:
- when one gets but a flash of realization of the tremendous fact that all these neighbours of ours, rich and poor alike, will have to spend that eternity either with Him or without Him
- it is hard, very hard indeed to understand how a man or a woman can believe these things at all, and make no effort for anything beyond the temporal elevation of those around, sometimes not even beyond their amusements!
"People must have entertainment," they urge. I do not find that "must" in the Bible, but I do find, "We must all stand before the judgment seat of Christ." (Romans 14:10) and if you have any sort of belief in that, how can you care to use those lips of yours, which might be a fountain of life to the dying souls before you, merely to entertain them. As you sow, so you reap.
Will you not sow that song? Will you not drop that word
Till the coldest heart be stirred from their slumber deep and long?
Then your harvest shall abound with rejoicing full and grand,
Where the heavenly summer-songs resound,
And the fruits of faithful work are found, in the glorious Holy Land.
Opened Treasures - Frances R. Havergal
N.J. Hiebert - 8949
August 25
Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which My Father hath given Me, shall I not drink it? John 18:11
And He went a little further, and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me: nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt. Matthew 26:39
This cup was a symbol of the wrath of God. Christ drank the undiluted wrath of a Holy God against sin, that we might drink the cup of remembrance of His death. As we drink of it today, may our hearts be full of what He did to bring us into His presence. Duncan Maxwell
O Christ, what burdens bowed Thy head! our load was laid on Thee; Thou stoodest in the sinner's stead--to bear all ill for me. A victim lead, Thy blood was shed; now there's no load for me.
Death and the curse were in our cup--O Christ, 'twas full for Thee! But Thou has drained the last dark drop, 'tis empty now for me. That bitter cup--love drank it up; left but the love for me.
Jehovah lifted up His rod--O Christ, it fell on Thee!
Thou wast forsaken of Thy God; no distance now for me.
Thy blood beneath that rod has flowed: Thy bruising healeth me.
The tempest's awful voice was heard. O Christ it broke on Thee; Thy open bosom was my ward; it bore the storm for me. Thy form was scarred, Thy visage marred; now cloudless peace for me.
For me, Lord Jesus, Thou has died, and I have died in Thee; Thou'rt risen: my bands are all untied; and now Thou livest in Me. The Father's face of radiant grace shines now in light on me. Mrs. Cousins
N.J. Hiebert - 8950
And He went a little further, and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me: nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt. Matthew 26:39
This cup was a symbol of the wrath of God. Christ drank the undiluted wrath of a Holy God against sin, that we might drink the cup of remembrance of His death. As we drink of it today, may our hearts be full of what He did to bring us into His presence. Duncan Maxwell
O Christ, what burdens bowed Thy head! our load was laid on Thee; Thou stoodest in the sinner's stead--to bear all ill for me. A victim lead, Thy blood was shed; now there's no load for me.
Death and the curse were in our cup--O Christ, 'twas full for Thee! But Thou has drained the last dark drop, 'tis empty now for me. That bitter cup--love drank it up; left but the love for me.
Jehovah lifted up His rod--O Christ, it fell on Thee!
Thou wast forsaken of Thy God; no distance now for me.
Thy blood beneath that rod has flowed: Thy bruising healeth me.
The tempest's awful voice was heard. O Christ it broke on Thee; Thy open bosom was my ward; it bore the storm for me. Thy form was scarred, Thy visage marred; now cloudless peace for me.
For me, Lord Jesus, Thou has died, and I have died in Thee; Thou'rt risen: my bands are all untied; and now Thou livest in Me. The Father's face of radiant grace shines now in light on me. Mrs. Cousins
N.J. Hiebert - 8950
August 26
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Philippians 2:3-4 (not each having-the-eye-on the (interests) of themselves, but each on the (interests) of others also). "But in lowly-mindedness esteeming one another more excellent than themselves."
The word "But" is a strong word, drawing our earnest attention to the very great contrast between lowly-mindedness and party-spirit or vain-glory.
The words "one another" are really in the plural, but I do not know how this can be said in English, to make it clearer that it is. We have already noticed how much we get about our mind, or minding; and in the word "Lowly-mindedness." we find this again. In Ephesians 4:2 we find exactly the same word as one of the bonds which bind the saints together. There it is inked with "meekness."
Years ago I was walking with Mr. Willie Crossly, when suddenly he asked: "Christopher, What is the difference between lowliness (or, lowly-mindedness) and meekness?" I had to reply, "I don't know, Mr. Crossly." He said, I will tell you. Lowly-mindedness will never give offence. Meekness will never take offence." Oh, that we each had more of these two qualities! How much strife and contention would be avoided! Sacrifices of Joy - G. Christopher Willis
N.J. Hiebert - 8951
The word "But" is a strong word, drawing our earnest attention to the very great contrast between lowly-mindedness and party-spirit or vain-glory.
The words "one another" are really in the plural, but I do not know how this can be said in English, to make it clearer that it is. We have already noticed how much we get about our mind, or minding; and in the word "Lowly-mindedness." we find this again. In Ephesians 4:2 we find exactly the same word as one of the bonds which bind the saints together. There it is inked with "meekness."
Years ago I was walking with Mr. Willie Crossly, when suddenly he asked: "Christopher, What is the difference between lowliness (or, lowly-mindedness) and meekness?" I had to reply, "I don't know, Mr. Crossly." He said, I will tell you. Lowly-mindedness will never give offence. Meekness will never take offence." Oh, that we each had more of these two qualities! How much strife and contention would be avoided! Sacrifices of Joy - G. Christopher Willis
N.J. Hiebert - 8951
August 27
Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Luke 10:19
Sometimes we do not feel in the least like treading down scorpions and serpents and all the power of the enemy. Perhaps we are allowed to feel our nothingness, so that we may in the depths of our heart understand those other words "Without Me ye can do nothing." (John 15:5)
I think there was something of this in our Lord Jesus' mind, when He told the story of one who had nothing to set before his friend--not a crumb--and it was midnight. When we do not feel victorious and have nothing to give to others, it is in truth "midnight" in our soul, "the dark night of the soul", old writers called it.
But we have a God to Whom we can go at any minute, the weakest minute, the darkest minute, "at midnight". "Be Thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: Thou hast given commandment to save me; for Thou art my Rock and my Fortress." (Psalm 71:3)
And if it be victory over the power of the enemy in our own hearts that we need, He will give us not just crumbs, but loaves-- "He will rise and give him as many as he needeth." (Luke 11:5-8) Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael
N.J. Hiebert - 8952
Sometimes we do not feel in the least like treading down scorpions and serpents and all the power of the enemy. Perhaps we are allowed to feel our nothingness, so that we may in the depths of our heart understand those other words "Without Me ye can do nothing." (John 15:5)
I think there was something of this in our Lord Jesus' mind, when He told the story of one who had nothing to set before his friend--not a crumb--and it was midnight. When we do not feel victorious and have nothing to give to others, it is in truth "midnight" in our soul, "the dark night of the soul", old writers called it.
But we have a God to Whom we can go at any minute, the weakest minute, the darkest minute, "at midnight". "Be Thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: Thou hast given commandment to save me; for Thou art my Rock and my Fortress." (Psalm 71:3)
And if it be victory over the power of the enemy in our own hearts that we need, He will give us not just crumbs, but loaves-- "He will rise and give him as many as he needeth." (Luke 11:5-8) Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael
N.J. Hiebert - 8952
August 28
THE CLEAR EYE OF FAITH
And as He went out of Jericho with His disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus sat by the highway side begging. And when he heard it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, and say, Jesus, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.
And as He went out of Jericho with His disciples and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus sat by the highway side begging. And when he heard it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, and say, Jesus, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.
Mark 10:46,47
It is lovely to trace the faith displayed by Bartimaeus. The crowd dismissively informs the blind, destitute beggar that Jesus of Nazareth is passing by. To most, that is all Jesus ever was: a certain man from a geographic location at a specific point in time. To Bartimaeus, those facts are useless. A man from Nazareth, compassionate as he might ever be, could do nothing for him. But Jesus the Son of David, the long-awaited Messiah, God's divine Servant--that is who blind Bartimaeus sees with the clear eye of faith.
He is persistent despite the crowd's attempt to silence him. Society considers it perfectly acceptable to tag along behind Jesus, but the crowd is embarrassed when somebody desperately calls on Him as Saviour. However, the call of faith pierces the noise and reaches the heart of the Lord. He will never pass by anyone who is grasping towards Him (Acts 17:27).
Many who hear the Lord's invitation try to maintain some symbol of dignity as they approach Him. But all that Bartimaeus possessed was a beggar's cloak; and really, despite our self-importance, not one of us has anything more than that. Yet Bartimaeus casts even that robe aside. "Lord" he says, addressing the Lord both reverently and fervently, "I want to see."
He might have asked for power or wealth, but what would those do for him? He was not ashamed to acknowledge the true depth of his need. The prayer of faith is met by the grace of the Lord Jesus, Who heals both physically and spiritually. Thus transformed, Bartimaeus makes the Lord's pathway his own, and he follows Jesus on the road. Stephen Campbell
N.J. Hiebert - 8953
It is lovely to trace the faith displayed by Bartimaeus. The crowd dismissively informs the blind, destitute beggar that Jesus of Nazareth is passing by. To most, that is all Jesus ever was: a certain man from a geographic location at a specific point in time. To Bartimaeus, those facts are useless. A man from Nazareth, compassionate as he might ever be, could do nothing for him. But Jesus the Son of David, the long-awaited Messiah, God's divine Servant--that is who blind Bartimaeus sees with the clear eye of faith.
He is persistent despite the crowd's attempt to silence him. Society considers it perfectly acceptable to tag along behind Jesus, but the crowd is embarrassed when somebody desperately calls on Him as Saviour. However, the call of faith pierces the noise and reaches the heart of the Lord. He will never pass by anyone who is grasping towards Him (Acts 17:27).
Many who hear the Lord's invitation try to maintain some symbol of dignity as they approach Him. But all that Bartimaeus possessed was a beggar's cloak; and really, despite our self-importance, not one of us has anything more than that. Yet Bartimaeus casts even that robe aside. "Lord" he says, addressing the Lord both reverently and fervently, "I want to see."
He might have asked for power or wealth, but what would those do for him? He was not ashamed to acknowledge the true depth of his need. The prayer of faith is met by the grace of the Lord Jesus, Who heals both physically and spiritually. Thus transformed, Bartimaeus makes the Lord's pathway his own, and he follows Jesus on the road. Stephen Campbell
N.J. Hiebert - 8953
August 29
But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal's wife, saying, behold, David sent messengers out of the wilderness to salute our master; and he railed on them. But the men were very good unto us, and we were not hurt, neither missed we anything, as long as we were conversant with them...They were a wall unto us both by night and day, all the while we were with them keeping the sheep. 1 Samuel 25:14-16
Before having received this teaching from the mouth of godly Abigail (1 Samuel 25:30-31), David had girded on his sword and had ordered his companions to do the same. He was getting ahead of the moment for vengeance; the hour of judgment had not yet struck; it would come through the means of One greater than David. Of Him it is said: "Gird Thy sword upon Thy thigh, O Mighty One with Thy glory and Thy majesty." (Psalm 45:3) but as long as David was a stranger in his inheritance it was still the time of grace.
Abigail's faith understood this. This weak woman, knowing what was appropriate to grace, becomes God's instrument to keep the greatest of His servants, the very anointed of the Lord Himself, from evil. Only one Man--Grace in person, the grace of God which has appeared to all men--being infallible, never needed to be reminded of the feelings that befit the position that He had taken here on earth. We can all learn in Abigail's school. One rarely finds a more disinterested affection based on the perfections her faith was discerning in David.
She hastens to prepare everything that her husband had refused to David. Oh that souls who have heard that evil is decided against them might do the same. This is faith. There is no other resource but to go to meet him who is going to judge. And when Abigail saw David, she hasted and lighted off the donkey, and fell before David on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and fell at his feet, and said, upon me, let this iniquity be!" (vv.23-24) 1 Samuel - H. L. Rossier
N.J. Hiebert - 8954
Before having received this teaching from the mouth of godly Abigail (1 Samuel 25:30-31), David had girded on his sword and had ordered his companions to do the same. He was getting ahead of the moment for vengeance; the hour of judgment had not yet struck; it would come through the means of One greater than David. Of Him it is said: "Gird Thy sword upon Thy thigh, O Mighty One with Thy glory and Thy majesty." (Psalm 45:3) but as long as David was a stranger in his inheritance it was still the time of grace.
Abigail's faith understood this. This weak woman, knowing what was appropriate to grace, becomes God's instrument to keep the greatest of His servants, the very anointed of the Lord Himself, from evil. Only one Man--Grace in person, the grace of God which has appeared to all men--being infallible, never needed to be reminded of the feelings that befit the position that He had taken here on earth. We can all learn in Abigail's school. One rarely finds a more disinterested affection based on the perfections her faith was discerning in David.
She hastens to prepare everything that her husband had refused to David. Oh that souls who have heard that evil is decided against them might do the same. This is faith. There is no other resource but to go to meet him who is going to judge. And when Abigail saw David, she hasted and lighted off the donkey, and fell before David on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and fell at his feet, and said, upon me, let this iniquity be!" (vv.23-24) 1 Samuel - H. L. Rossier
N.J. Hiebert - 8954
August 30
GOING TO GOD
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive. Ephesians 4:14
We live in a busy, bustling world. Our society is the product of a clamorous culture. Life is noisy. It is often rude, increasingly crude. Enormous pressures of a hundred sorts exert a profound impact upon us.
The tensions of our technology have been transmitted to our lifestyle. We are, for the most part, people driven by enormous desires, aroused by insatiable appetites; tantalized by tempting tastes; inflamed by passing pursuits and passions.
So we rush to and fro. We are people on the go. And amid all the mayhem God calls to us softly, persistently, patiently, and says: "Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." (Psalm 46:10) Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller
N.J. Hiebert - 8955
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive. Ephesians 4:14
We live in a busy, bustling world. Our society is the product of a clamorous culture. Life is noisy. It is often rude, increasingly crude. Enormous pressures of a hundred sorts exert a profound impact upon us.
The tensions of our technology have been transmitted to our lifestyle. We are, for the most part, people driven by enormous desires, aroused by insatiable appetites; tantalized by tempting tastes; inflamed by passing pursuits and passions.
So we rush to and fro. We are people on the go. And amid all the mayhem God calls to us softly, persistently, patiently, and says: "Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth." (Psalm 46:10) Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller
N.J. Hiebert - 8955
August 31
And thou shalt remember all the way which the Lord thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart.
Deuteronomy 8:2
The wilderness life tends to bring out a great deal of the evil that is in our hearts. We begin our Christian careers with the joy of deliverance, but it is as we go on from stage to stage of our desert course that we become acquainted with self. But we are not to suppose that as we grow in self-knowledge our joy must decline. Quite the opposite! For then our joy would depend on ignorance of self, whereas it really depends on our knowledge of God.
As the believer goes onward, he learns that sin is a reality; that divine grace is a reality; that salvation is a reality--a deep, personal reality; and that the advocacy of Christ is a reality. In a word, he learns the depth, the fullness, the power, the application of God's gracious resources.
As Moses said to Israel (vv. 3-4) "He humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, [not that you might be driven to despair, but that He might feed] thee with manna...Thy clothing grew not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years."
"Thou shalt remember!" What a touching and beautiful appeal! Remember forty years of evidence of what was in the heart of God toward His redeemed people whom He clothed, fed, and cared for in a vast and howling wilderness. What a noble and soul satisfying display of the fullness of divine resources!
How is it possible that, with the history of Israel's desert wandering lying open before us, we could ever harbour a single doubt or fear! Oh! that our hearts may be more completely emptied of self and more completely filled with Christ. This alone brings true holiness and true happiness. C. H. Mackintosh
N.J. Hiebert - 8956
The wilderness life tends to bring out a great deal of the evil that is in our hearts. We begin our Christian careers with the joy of deliverance, but it is as we go on from stage to stage of our desert course that we become acquainted with self. But we are not to suppose that as we grow in self-knowledge our joy must decline. Quite the opposite! For then our joy would depend on ignorance of self, whereas it really depends on our knowledge of God.
As the believer goes onward, he learns that sin is a reality; that divine grace is a reality; that salvation is a reality--a deep, personal reality; and that the advocacy of Christ is a reality. In a word, he learns the depth, the fullness, the power, the application of God's gracious resources.
As Moses said to Israel (vv. 3-4) "He humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, [not that you might be driven to despair, but that He might feed] thee with manna...Thy clothing grew not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years."
"Thou shalt remember!" What a touching and beautiful appeal! Remember forty years of evidence of what was in the heart of God toward His redeemed people whom He clothed, fed, and cared for in a vast and howling wilderness. What a noble and soul satisfying display of the fullness of divine resources!
How is it possible that, with the history of Israel's desert wandering lying open before us, we could ever harbour a single doubt or fear! Oh! that our hearts may be more completely emptied of self and more completely filled with Christ. This alone brings true holiness and true happiness. C. H. Mackintosh
N.J. Hiebert - 8956
September 1
But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. Galatians 4:4-5
What an exciting thought-- "When the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son." For centuries, which grew darker and darker, the faithful people of God waited for the promised Messiah who would reign, according to Isaiah 9:6, "Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."
Isaiah goes on to say that "of the increase of His government and of peace there shall be no end." "He will reign with judgment and with righteousness, from henceforth even forever." But when would He come? When would be this "fullness of the time"? It is not too difficult for us today to identify with the desire and longing expressed in the prophecies of the Old Testament that speak of a Redeemer who would come to deliver His people from the oppression and trouble all around them.
We too live in similar times. While there are a few bright spots of hope, they are quickly overshadowed by the vast amounts of selfishness, misery, strife, despair, and destruction all around us. But there is one great difference between then and now. "The fullness of the time" has come! And all who believe "God sent His Son".
The millennial time is yet to come when our Lord will reign physically over this earth in the manner described by Isaiah and the other prophets. But the time is here and now for each one of us to receive the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, the peace which shall guard our hearts and our thoughts by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). We can enjoy Him now if we recognize and own Him as the One sent to redeem us from our sins.
L.J. Ondrejack
N.J. Hiebert - 8957
What an exciting thought-- "When the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son." For centuries, which grew darker and darker, the faithful people of God waited for the promised Messiah who would reign, according to Isaiah 9:6, "Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."
Isaiah goes on to say that "of the increase of His government and of peace there shall be no end." "He will reign with judgment and with righteousness, from henceforth even forever." But when would He come? When would be this "fullness of the time"? It is not too difficult for us today to identify with the desire and longing expressed in the prophecies of the Old Testament that speak of a Redeemer who would come to deliver His people from the oppression and trouble all around them.
We too live in similar times. While there are a few bright spots of hope, they are quickly overshadowed by the vast amounts of selfishness, misery, strife, despair, and destruction all around us. But there is one great difference between then and now. "The fullness of the time" has come! And all who believe "God sent His Son".
The millennial time is yet to come when our Lord will reign physically over this earth in the manner described by Isaiah and the other prophets. But the time is here and now for each one of us to receive the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, the peace which shall guard our hearts and our thoughts by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). We can enjoy Him now if we recognize and own Him as the One sent to redeem us from our sins.
L.J. Ondrejack
N.J. Hiebert - 8957
September 2
For the builders, every one had his sword girded by his side, and so builded. Nehemiah 4:18
An evangelist came for a week's work. "Please will you lend me a Bible?" he asked.
"Haven't you brought your own?"
"No, I thought I could borrow one."
Compare that with Nehemiah's builders. "Every one had his sword girded by his side." It must have been rather in the way, dangling from his sash or belt, but he knew better than to go to work without his sword.
Our sword, of course, is a spiritual thing; it is the word of God, as Ephesians 6:17 tells us. Let us never go anywhere without it. Whatever we don't take, let us take that.
Now for today, and the foes of today, here is a great word: Psalm 144:1 "Blessed be the Lord my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight.
He will teach us how to use our sword today.
Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael.
N.J. Hiebert - 8958
An evangelist came for a week's work. "Please will you lend me a Bible?" he asked.
"Haven't you brought your own?"
"No, I thought I could borrow one."
Compare that with Nehemiah's builders. "Every one had his sword girded by his side." It must have been rather in the way, dangling from his sash or belt, but he knew better than to go to work without his sword.
Our sword, of course, is a spiritual thing; it is the word of God, as Ephesians 6:17 tells us. Let us never go anywhere without it. Whatever we don't take, let us take that.
Now for today, and the foes of today, here is a great word: Psalm 144:1 "Blessed be the Lord my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight.
He will teach us how to use our sword today.
Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael.
N.J. Hiebert - 8958
September 3
THE IMPOTENCE OF WORLDLY WISDOM
Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? Hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? 1 Corinthians 1:20
The Apostle Paul, writing to the Corinthians, has a great deal to say about the impotence of human wisdom in relation to spiritual things, and this is a lesson that we also need to heed. We must not put priority upon intellectual ability when dealing with spiritual matters.
"But as it is written, eye hath not seen, nor ear heard neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him. But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God." (1 Corinthians 2: 9-10).
The Spirit-led man has the unique capacity to understand spiritual things that are beyond the capability of the greatest intellects. Undoubtedly, Daniel was a man of superior intellect, but he was at pains to show that the answers he received did not come from his own skill but from the God of heaven.
DANIEL - Godly Living in a Hostile World - William Burnett.
N.J. Hiebert - 8959
Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? Hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? 1 Corinthians 1:20
The Apostle Paul, writing to the Corinthians, has a great deal to say about the impotence of human wisdom in relation to spiritual things, and this is a lesson that we also need to heed. We must not put priority upon intellectual ability when dealing with spiritual matters.
"But as it is written, eye hath not seen, nor ear heard neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him. But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God." (1 Corinthians 2: 9-10).
The Spirit-led man has the unique capacity to understand spiritual things that are beyond the capability of the greatest intellects. Undoubtedly, Daniel was a man of superior intellect, but he was at pains to show that the answers he received did not come from his own skill but from the God of heaven.
DANIEL - Godly Living in a Hostile World - William Burnett.
N.J. Hiebert - 8959
posted by soundwords at
August 01, 2022
|
0 Comments
